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Kodo Millet

03 Nov 2024

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Kodo millet is a staple food for many tribal and economically weaker sections in India. It is one of the 'hardiest crops, drought tolerant with high yield potential and excellent storage properties,' according to researchers

Background on Kodo Millet:

Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum), also known as Kodra or Varagu, is a hardy, drought-tolerant crop widely grown in India, especially in Madhya Pradesh.
It is a staple food for many tribal and economically weaker sections of India and is used to make various dishes like idli, dosa, and rotis.
Kodo millet is valued for its high yield, nutritional benefits (rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants), and storage properties.

Incident in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve:

10 elephants from a herd of 13 died over three days in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
The cause of death was suspected to be mycotoxins associated with kodo millet, particularly Cyclopiazonic Acid (CPA), which is toxic to animals.

Historical Cases of Kodo Poisoning:

The first human cases of kodo poisoning were reported in 1922 in the Indian Medical Gazette.
Animals, including elephants, have also been affected by kodo millet consumption, with documented deaths as early as 1983.
Cyclopiazonic Acid (CPA), a mycotoxin, was identified as the cause of kodo poisoning in the 1980s.

Why Does Kodo Millet Become Poisonous?

Kodo millet is grown in dry and semi-arid regions and is vulnerable to fungal infections, particularly Ergot fungus, which produces CPA.
When the crop encounters rainfall during maturing and harvesting, fungal infection can lead to "poisoned kodo," known locally as 'Matawna Kodoo' or 'Matona Kodo'.
The mycotoxins in the infected millet are stable and resistant to standard food processing techniques.

Impact of Mycotoxins on Animals:

Symptoms of poisoning: Vomiting, giddiness, unconsciousness, rapid pulse, cold extremities, limb tremors.
Nervous and cardiovascular systems are primarily affected, causing liver dysfunction, heart damage, and gastrointestinal issues.
In severe cases, consumption of infected kodo millet can cause death due to cardiovascular collapse and organ failure.
Similar symptoms of depression and loss of mobility were observed in animal studies, including in mice.

Solution to Kodo Toxicity:

Biocontrol agents (organisms that fight harmful pathogens) can help reduce fungal growth and mycotoxin production in kodo millet.
Good agricultural practices: Sorting, proper storage in airtight containers, and avoiding moisture exposure during threshing can minimize contamination.
Post-harvest management: Removing infected grains is crucial to preventing the spread of the disease.

Detection of Mycotoxins in Kodo Millet:

Challenges: Mycotoxins are often undetectable by sight, and traditional methods like chromatography are time-consuming.
Rapid detection tools: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), lateral flow assays (LFAs), and biosensors offer faster, on-site methods for detecting mycotoxins in kodo millet.

Centre for Science and Environment

03 Nov 2024

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Centre for Science and Environment release a report on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Plastic Packaging

Key Findings:

EPR Guidelines (2022) were a step towards enforcing the "polluter pays" principle, but the system faces significant issues in its implementation and registration processes.
Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) report, released on October 29, 2024, highlights gaps in the EPR system for plastic packaging and suggests corrective actions.

EPR Guidelines Overview:

Issued by: Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Objective: Hold producers, importers, brand owners (PIBOs), and plastic waste processors (PWPs) responsible for managing plastic packaging waste.
Key Requirements:
- PIBOs must register on a centralized portal and set targets for collection, recycling, and reuse of plastic packaging.
- Registration involves compliance with targets on end-of-life recycling and recycled content usage.

Problems Identified in the Current EPR System:

Low Registration and Enrollment:
- 41,577 registrations on the EPR portal, but a significant discrepancy in the type of stakeholders registered.
- 83% of registered entities are importers, 11% are producers, and only 6% are brand owners.
- Producers contribute 65% of the plastic packaging in the market but have low registration.
Absence of Key Polluters:
- Manufacturers of virgin plastics are notably absent from the portal, despite being required to register.
Fraudulent Practices:
- 700,000 fake certificates were generated by plastic recyclers, far exceeding the actual certificate generation capacity.
- The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) found that such fraudulent activities are undermining the integrity of the system.
- For example, end-of-life co-processing units (e.g., cement plants) claimed to have processed 335.4 million tonnes per annum of plastic waste, while their actual capacity is just 11.4 million tonnes per annum.
Underreporting and Mismanagement:
- Despite 23.9 million tonnes of plastic packaging being introduced into the market, the CPCB’s estimation of plastic waste generation (4.1 MT annually) is underestimated.
Lack of Stakeholder Representation:
- Urban local bodies and informal waste collectors—key contributors to plastic waste management—are not included in the EPR framework, which limits their incentives and support.

Recommendations for Improvement:

Incorporate the Informal Sector:
- Recognize informal waste collectors and waste management agencies in the EPR framework to improve traceability and ensure better waste management.
Eliminate Fraudulent Practices:
- Strict actions need to be taken against fraudulent recyclers and fake certificate issuers to restore credibility to the EPR system.
Establish Fair Pricing for EPR Certificates:
- Undertake baseline cost studies to determine the true costs of plastic waste management, ensuring fair pricing for recycling certificates and preventing undervaluation.
Standardize Packaging:
- Focus on product standardization to ensure that packaging materials are uniform and easily recyclable.
Strengthen Monitoring:
- Improve oversight on the registration process and ensure that all polluters (producers, importers, brand owners) comply with the system’s guidelines.

EPR and Plastic Waste Management: Context and Importance

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach where the responsibility of managing the entire lifecycle of plastic products (from production to disposal) lies with the producer.
It is an essential part of India’s Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016), which mandate the recycling and proper disposal of plastic packaging waste.

Key Elements of EPR:

Producer Accountability: Producers are responsible for the take-back, recycling, and final disposal of plastic packaging.
Waste Minimization: Encourages reducing waste at the source by promoting sustainable packaging designs.
Lifecycle Approach: Considers the entire lifecycle of the product, focusing on sustainability from production to disposal.
Polluter Pays Principle: Ensures that the cost of waste management is borne by those responsible for generating the waste.

National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2024-2030

03 Nov 2024

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The updated NBSAP was released by India at the 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Overview of the NBSAP (2024-30):

Title:Updated National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plan: A Roadmap for Conservation of India’s Biodiversity.
Objective: To provide a comprehensive roadmap for biodiversity conservation, aligning with global frameworks like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Key Features of the Updated NBSAP:

Alignment with Global Frameworks:
- The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) adopted in 2022 aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.
- India’s updated NBSAP aligns with KMGBF’s goals, focusing on biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource use, and ensuring fair benefit-sharing.
23 National Biodiversity Targets:
- The targets are focused on three key themes:
  - Reducing threats to biodiversity
  - Ensuring sustainable use of biodiversity
  - Enhancing tools for biodiversity implementation
Key Domains of Focus:
- Area-based conservation: Protecting ecosystems and habitats.
- Ecosystem resilience: Enhancing the ability of ecosystems to withstand environmental stressors.
- Recovery and conservation of threatened species.
- Conservation of agrobiodiversity: Ensuring the sustainability of agricultural biodiversity.
- Sustainable management of biodiversity.
- Enabling tools and solutions: Including financial and technical support for implementation.
Financial Plan and Expenditure:
- Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER) estimated an average annual expenditure of Rs 32,20,713 crore (FY 2017-2022) for biodiversity conservation.
- Future funding requirements (FY 2024-2030) estimated at Rs 81,664.88 crore annually at the central government level.
- Biodiversity Finance Plan suggests financing solutions, including public finance, corporate social responsibility (CSR), Ecological Fiscal Transfer (EFT), and Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanisms.
Capacity Building:
- The NBSAP stresses the need for capacity building across various levels—national, state, and local.
- Focus on skills acquisition for biodiversity management and enhancing knowledge to implement conservation strategies.

Implementation Framework:

Multi-Level Governance:
- At the national level, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) will oversee implementation with involvement from 22 other ministries.
- State-level: Involves State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils.
- Local level: Community-driven efforts through Biodiversity Management Committees.
BIOFIN and Resource Mobilization:
- India is recognized as a leading country in the implementation of the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN).
- Encouragement for private entrepreneurs, businesses, and international donors to invest in biodiversity through innovative financial instruments like:
  - Green Bonds
  - Green Funds
  - Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES)
Incentives for Financial Solutions:
- India aims to explore funding from corporate social responsibility (CSR), ecological fiscal transfers, and access and benefit sharing mechanisms to meet the financial needs for biodiversity conservation.

Challenges and Strategies:

Challenges India Faces:
- Habitat fragmentation
- Pollution
- Illegal wildlife trade
- Adverse effects of climate change
Strategic Responses:
- The updated NBSAP provides strategies to address these challenges, ensuring comprehensive conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

First in the World Challenge

03 Nov 2024

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ICMR announces ‘First in the World Challenge’ to encourage scientists to find innovative ideas to tackle health issues.

Key Highlights:

Objective:
- Encourage bold, out-of-the-box ideas for solving difficult health problems.
- Aim to foster novel and groundbreaking biomedical innovations (vaccines, drugs, diagnostics, interventions, etc.).
- Target projects that are “first of their kind” and have never been tried or tested globally.
Key Features of the Initiative:
- Focus on Groundbreaking Innovations:
  - Emphasis on high-risk, high-reward ideas with potential for significant global health impact.
  - Excludes proposals aiming for incremental knowledge or process innovation.
- Scope of Research:
  - Breakthroughs in biomedical and health technologies such as:
    - Vaccines
    - Drugs/Therapeutics
    - Diagnostics
    - Interventions
Funding & Support:
- Provides funding for projects at various stages, from proof-of-concept to prototype development and final product.
- Support for projects that have the potential to lead to “first-of-its-kind” biomedical innovations.
Application Process:
- Open to individual researchers or teams (from single or multiple institutions).
- Teams must designate a Principal Investigator responsible for the project’s technical, administrative, and financial aspects.
Selection Criteria:
- A selection committee will be formed with:
  - Experts, innovators, policymakers, and distinguished scientists with an outstanding research record.
  - Proposals evaluated based on originality, impact potential, and innovation.

About the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

History:Founded in 1911 as the Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA), renamed ICMR in 1949.
Role & Mandate:
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
- Formulates, coordinates, and promotes biomedical research in India.
- Focus on improving public health and addressing national health challenges.
Vision:“Translating Research into Action for Improving the Health of the Population.”

Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB)

03 Nov 2024

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The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate change has constituted a team to enquire into the death of ten elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh. The team is conducting an independent enquiry in the matter.

Incident Overview:
- Ten elephants found dead in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, between October 29-31, 2024.
- Preliminary cause of death suspected to be poisoning; final cause pending postmortem and toxicological analysis.
Government Actions:
- Union Government:
  - The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) has set up a team to conduct an independent investigation into the deaths.
- Madhya Pradesh Government:
  - Constituted a five-member State-level inquiry committee, headed by the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF, Wildlife).
  - Committee includes members from civil society, scientists, and veterinarians.
  - The State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) is conducting field investigations, combing surrounding areas for further clues.
- Other Involved Authorities:
  - The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Chief Wildlife Warden of Madhya Pradesh are directly supervising the inquiry in Bandhavgarh.
  - Senior officials from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) have visited the site for discussions and investigation.

About Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB):

Mandate:
- Combats organized wildlife crime through intelligence gathering and coordination with enforcement agencies.
- Develops wildlife crime data and assists in prosecutions.
- Provides capacity building for wildlife crime enforcement agencies.
Operations & Initiatives:
- Conducts operations like SAVE KURMA, THUNDERBIRD, WILDNET, and more to counter wildlife crimes.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Headquarters: New Delhi.

PARAKH RashtriyaSarvekshan 2024

02 Nov 2024

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The National Achievement Survey (NAS), a nationwide survey meant to assess students’ learning progress, will be held on December 4 this year under a new name – PARAKH RashtriyaSarvekshan 2024. This year’s assessment involves a few changes from the last round in 2021.

Overview of PARAKH RashtriyaSarvekshan 2024:

New Name: The National Achievement Survey (NAS) is now rebranded as the PARAKH RashtriyaSarvekshan 2024.
Date: The survey will be held on December 4, 2024.
Purpose: To assess students’ learning achievements across India.
Organizing Bodies: Spearheaded by NCERT and CBSE.

What Does the Survey Assess?

Assessment Focus: Evaluates students’ learning outcomes in various subjects.
Survey Methodology: Uses multiple-choice questions to assess a sample of students.
Target Groups: Students from government, government-aided, and private schools across every district in India.

History of NAS and PARAKH:

NAS History: Conducted every three years since 2001 to capture learning progress.
Involvement of Classes:
- 2001-2014: Included Classes 3, 5, and 8.
- 2014-15: Class 10 was introduced.
- 2017 and 2021: Covered Classes 3, 5, 8, and 10.
Report Cards: Provides national, state, and district-level performance data.

Changes in 2024 Survey (PARAKH RashtriyaSarvekshan):

Targeted Classes:
- Class 3 (End of foundational stage)
- Class 6 (End of preparatory stage)
- Class 9 (End of middle stage)
Exclusion of Class 10: Unlike previous years, Class 10 students are not part of this year's assessment.
Subjects Assessed:
- Class 3 & 6: Language, Mathematics, and The World Around Us (Concepts of Science, Social Science, and Environmental Education).
- Class 9: Language, Mathematics, Science, and Social Science.

Alignment with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:

NEP Structure: Aligns with the NEP 2020 framework, categorizing educational stages:
- Class 1-2: Foundational stage
- Class 3-5: Preparatory stage
- Class 6-8: Middle stage
- Class 9-12: Secondary stage
The shift to Class 6 and 9 for this year’s survey matches the NEP's stage-wise educational framework.

Key Differences in 2024 Assessment:

Survey Scale: In 2024, 75,565 schools and 22.9 lakh students from 782 districts will participate.
2021 Assessment Data:
- The 2021 survey revealed a drop in learning outcomes post-COVID-19.
- Class 3 students showed a performance below the national average in all states.
- Class 5: Only Punjab and Rajasthan had scores above the national average.

PARAKH's Role:

PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) was established in 2023 as the National Assessment Centre to oversee such achievement surveys.
Mandate: One of PARAKH’s primary roles is to organize national surveys like the PARAKH RashtriyaSarvekshan.

Significance of the Survey:

Data Utilization: The survey helps in shaping educational policies based on real-time data on student learning levels.
Competency-Based Assessment: This year’s survey is focused on competency-based assessments, aligning with the goals of NEP 2020.
Policy and Planning: The data helps in designing interventions to address regional or subject-wise disparities in education quality.

Hwasong-19

02 Nov 2024

Asset Recovery Interagency Network–Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP)

02 Nov 2024

Discovery of the First "Black Hole Triple" System

02 Nov 2024

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Scientists have discovered a "black hole triple" system, which is a rare configuration in space involving one black hole and two stars.

Overview of the Discovery:

Location: The system is located 8,000 light years away from Earth, in the constellation Cygnus.
Key Features:
- A black hole at the center, currently consuming a star that is spiraling very close to it.
- A second, more distant star that orbits the black hole every 70,000 years, and another star that orbits it every 6.5 days.

What is a Black Hole Triple System?

Black Hole and Two Stars: Unlike typical binary systems (comprising a black hole and one other object), this system contains a black hole surrounded by two stars, one nearby and one far away.
V404 Cygni: The central black hole in the system is the V404 Cygni, one of the oldest known black holes, roughly 9 times the mass of the Sun.

Significance of the Discovery:

Questions on Black Hole Formation: The discovery raises new questions about how black holes are formed. Traditionally, black holes are thought to form after the explosion of a massive star (supernova), but this system does not follow that model.
New Formation Theory: Researchers suggest the black hole may have formed via a "direct collapse" process, where a star collapses into a black hole without undergoing a supernova explosion. This is referred to as a "failed supernova".
- In a failed supernova, the star's collapse happens too quickly for the explosive outer layers to be ejected, leading to the formation of a black hole without the typical violent explosion.

Implications for Other Binary Systems:

The black hole’s gradual consumption of one of its stars may imply that some binary black hole systems could have originally been triple systems, with one star eventually being consumed by the black hole.

Research and Collaboration:

Study: The discovery was made by researchers at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Published in: The findings were published in Nature in October 2024.

Additional Context:

Distance: The system is about 8,000 light years away, which is vast but still observable with advanced telescopes.
Mystery of the "Failed Supernova": The concept of a failed supernova offers new insights into the life cycle of massive stars and their transformation into black holes.

ISRO's Analogue Space Mission in Ladakh

02 Nov 2024

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In a significant leap for the country’s space exploration aspirations, India has embarked on its first analogue space mission in Leh, a landmark step that will attempt to simulate life in an interplanetary habitat to tackle the challenges of a base station beyond Earth.

Mission Overview:

Objective: To simulate living conditions in an interplanetary habitat, addressing challenges astronauts may face during deep-space missions (e.g., Moon, Mars).
Goal: Study long-term isolation, habitat design, resource management, and psychological effects on astronauts.
Partners: ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre, AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.

Rationale for Ladakh:

Geological Similarities: Ladakh’s terrain mirrors Martian and lunar surfaces, making it ideal for testing space technologies.
Climate: Cold, dry, high-altitude conditions simulate the extreme environments of space.
Focus Areas: Testing habitat construction, microbial studies, and survival strategies for long-duration space travel.

What are Analogue Space Missions?

Definition: Simulated space missions on Earth designed to replicate the conditions of space exploration.
Purpose:
- Test technologies (e.g., life support, habitat design, in-situ resource utilization).
- Study human behavior, psychological impacts of isolation, and operational readiness for extended space travel.
Relevance: Crucial for preparing astronauts for missions to the Moon, Mars, or asteroids.

Significance of Analogue Missions:

Technological Testing: Analogue missions help in evaluating systems for habitat design, life support, and health monitoring.
Human Factors: They provide insights into crew health, teamwork under pressure, and performance during isolation.
Psychological Studies: Address the impact of confinement, isolation, and communication delays on astronauts.
Training: Participants (analogue astronauts) are trained for real-world space missions by conducting scientific experiments and managing emergencies.

Global Examples of Analogue Missions:

NASA’s NEEMO: An underwater mission simulating microgravity conditions to train astronauts for space tasks.
SIRIUS Program (UAE): Focuses on the psychological impacts of long-duration space isolation, featuring international collaborations.
Arctic Mars Analogue Svalbard Expedition (AMASE): Uses the extreme Arctic environment of Svalbard to test Mars exploration technologies and procedures.

Relation to India’s Space Aspirations:

Gaganyaan Mission: ISRO’s human spaceflight mission aiming to send Indian astronauts into space.
Interplanetary Exploration: The analogue mission supports India’s broader goal of advancing human space exploration and technology development for Mars and beyond.

Melanistic Tigers

01 Nov 2024

PM rolls out Ayushman Bharat for Citizens aged 70 and above

01 Nov 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expanded the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) to provide health coverage to citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of their income or economic status. This move is aimed at addressing the healthcare challenges faced by India's elderly population, which has been growing rapidly.

Key Highlights of the Ayushman Bharat Expansion:

Health Coverage for Elderly:
- Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card: This new health card offers Rs 5 lakh annually for individuals aged 70 and above. The coverage is shared within the family, so if there are multiple elderly beneficiaries in one household, the total cover will be split.
- Scope: This initiative is designed to provide a safety net for elderly people, many of whom had previously been unable to access treatment due to high costs.
Significance of the Scheme:
- India’s elderly population is rapidly growing, with the number of people over 60 expected to reach 319 million by 2050, up from 103 million in 2011.
- The expansion of PM-JAY to include those aged 70+ is a critical step in making universal health coverage more inclusive as India’s population ages.
Eligibility and Registration:
- Individuals aged 70 years and above must register on the PM-JAY portal or through the Ayushman app. Those who already have an Ayushman Bharat card must complete an eKYC process to receive the new card and coverage.
- Exclusions: The scheme is not available in Delhi and West Bengal, as these states have not adopted the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Financial Details:
- The initial outlay for this expansion will be Rs 3,437 crore, covering the remainder of the current financial year and the next year.
- Cover for Overlapping Health Schemes: Elderly individuals who are already covered under other government schemes (e.g., CGHS, Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme) will have the option to either continue with their current coverage or choose Ayushman Bharat. Those with ESIC or private insurance can access both Ayushman Bharat and their existing cover.
Coverage Scope:
- The expansion is expected to benefit approximately 6 crore individuals across 4.5 crore families.
- Existing Coverage: Around 1.78 crore elderly people are already covered under the scheme. Additional coverage will be provided to those not currently included in the scheme.
Interoperability with Other Schemes:
- Those under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or other similar schemes will need to choose between their current insurance and the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
- However, individuals enrolled in Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) can have both their existing cover and the Ayushman Bharat coverage.
Rollout and Reach:
- The scheme will be implemented across 33 states and Union Territories, except Delhi, Odisha, and West Bengal.
- Over 29,600 hospitals, including more than 12,600 private facilities, are empanelled to provide treatment under PM-JAY.

Other Key Announcements:

U-WIN Portal: A pan-India digital platform for routine vaccinations, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of vaccination programs.
Critical Care Facilities: The Prime Minister also launched critical care infrastructure, including new facilities in AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Kalyani, and super-specialty units in Himachal Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)

01 Nov 2024

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LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a cutting-edge remote sensing technology that uses laser pulses to measure distances and create detailed 3D maps of Earth's surface. This technology has recently played a crucial role in discovering a lost Mayan city hidden under the dense Mexican jungle.

What is LiDAR?

Definition: LiDAR is a remote sensing technology that uses pulsed laser light to measure distances and generate precise 3D models of Earth’s surface.
Components: The system includes a laser, a scanner, and a GPS receiver. It is usually mounted on an aircraft to map large areas of terrain.
Data Accuracy: LiDAR can create high-resolution 3D models with vertical accuracy up to 10 cm, making it highly precise for mapping ground elevation.

How LiDAR Works

Laser Emission: LiDAR sends out rapid laser pulses toward the ground.
Reflection: These pulses hit the Earth’s surface, reflecting off features like vegetation, buildings, and terrain.
Measurement: The time it takes for the laser light to travel to the ground and back is measured, allowing the system to calculate the distance between the sensor and the surface.
Point Cloud Data: The reflected light data is collected as a "point cloud", representing all the surfaces it hits, including trees, buildings, and other features.
Refinement: This point cloud can be processed into a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), stripping away vegetation and structures to reveal the “bare earth,” which highlights features like roads, buildings, and hidden settlements.

Why LiDAR is Useful for Archaeologists

Large-Scale Surveying: Traditional archaeological methods often involve labor-intensive fieldwork, such as walking over every square meter and manually cutting through thick vegetation. LiDAR, however, allows researchers to quickly survey vast areas of land, even through dense jungle, from the comfort of a lab.
Visibility Under Vegetation: LiDAR’s ability to penetrate dense foliage and reveal features beneath the surface is a game changer. Even thick tree canopies that obscure the ground are no match for the laser pulses, which can pass through gaps to illuminate hidden structures.

The Discovery of the Lost Mayan City

The City of Valeriana: Using publicly available LiDAR data from a forest monitoring project in 2013, archaeologist Luke Auld-Thomas discovered a lost Mayan city in Mexico’s Campeche region. The city, named Valeriana, had been hidden for centuries by the thick jungle.
City Features: The city has all the hallmarks of a Classic Maya political capital, including:
- Multiple enclosed plazas
- Broad causeways
- Temple pyramids
- A ball court
- A reservoir formed by damming a seasonal watercourse
Historical Significance: Valeriana is believed to date back before 150 CE and may have been a key political and cultural center in the Maya civilization.

Applications of LiDAR Beyond Archaeology

Geography and Mapping: LiDAR is widely used to generate precise, three-dimensional data about the Earth’s surface, helping geographers and planners.
Environmental Monitoring: It is also used in forest monitoring, flood risk assessment, and environmental conservation.
Urban Planning and Engineering: Engineers use LiDAR for creating highly accurate topographical maps and planning infrastructure projects.

Anti-Counterfeiting Ink developed using Luminescent Nanomaterials

01 Nov 2024

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A novel anti-counterfeiting ink has been developed using luminescent nanomaterials, which significantly enhances security in currency, certificates, medicines, and branded goods.
The ink utilizes the luminescent properties of rare earth ions and bismuth, enabling excitation-dependent luminescence under different light sources, providing a robust solution to combat counterfeiting.

Key Features:

Multi-Wavelength Luminescence:
- The ink exhibits distinct colors when exposed to various wavelengths of light:
  - Vibrant blue under 365 nm UV light
  - Pink under 395 nm UV light
  - Orange-red under 980 nm near-infrared (NIR) light
- These varying color emissions make it difficult for counterfeiters to replicate, as traditional covert tags are visible only under UV light and can be easily duplicated.

Enhanced Durability:
- The ink remains effective under a wide range of conditions, including varying light, temperature, and humidity, ensuring long-term usability without degradation.
Simple Application Method:
- The luminescent nanomaterials are synthesized through a co-precipitation method at 120°C.
- The resulting nanomaterials are then mixed into commercially available PVC ink using sonication, allowing for easy dispersion of nanoparticles.
- The ink is applied using screen printing to create patterns and texts that exhibit distinct color changes under different lighting conditions.
Security Features:
- The ink combines rare earth ions with bismuth emissions, boosting its encryption and decryption capabilities. This creates a high level of security for applications on high-value items.

Applications:

Currency and Certificates: Enhances the authenticity of financial instruments and official documents.
Branded Goods: Protects products from counterfeiting and fraud.
Medicines: Helps verify the authenticity of pharmaceutical products, preventing the distribution of fake medicines.

Benefits:

Verification: Both consumers and manufacturers can easily verify the authenticity of products, providing an accessible solution to counterfeiting.
Practical Solution: The ink offers a practical, reliable, and non-invasive method for detecting counterfeit products, addressing a global challenge in various industries.

MhadeiWildlife Sanctuary

01 Nov 2024

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An adult tigress and three cubs have been spotted in the Mhadei wildlife sanctuary in Goa marking the first time evidence of the species has been recorded in the forests bordering the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka since 2020.

Key Highlights:

Location and Geography:

It is located near Chorla Ghat, between North Goa and Belgavi, and borders Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The sanctuary is traversed by the Mhadei River, which meets the sea at Panaji, Goa.

Ecological Significance:

It is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and shares this ecosystem with Mollem National Park and other protected areas in Goa.
The sanctuary is integral to wildlife corridors connecting the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) and Kali Tiger Reserve (Karnataka), critical for tiger conservation.

Flora and Fauna:

It is home to diverse wildlife, including the critically endangered Long-billed vultures that nest at Vazra Falls.
The region supports a variety of flora and fauna due to its biodiversity-rich Western Ghats ecosystem.

Conservation Status and Recommendations:

Goa is the only state in India to have its entire portion of the Western Ghats under state protection, with Mhadei WLS being a key area.
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has recommended that Mhadei WLS be designated as a tiger reserve to enhance protection efforts.
The sanctuary is a potential candidate for inclusion under Project Tiger.
In 2020, a Royal Bengal tigress and her cubs were tragically poisoned due to human-animal conflict.

Mahadayi Water Dispute:

The Mahadayi (Madei, Mandovi) River is a source of dispute between Karnataka and Goa regarding water sharing.
Karnataka seeks to divert water from the river to the Malaprabha River basin for drinking water supply in several districts, through the Kalasa-Banduri Nala project.
The matter is currently being heard in the Supreme Court.

Report of The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change, 2024

30 Oct 2024

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The 2024 edition of The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change presents critical insights into the intersection of health and climate change.

Key Findings from the 2024 Report

Air Pollution and Mortality in India:
- In 2021, air pollution was responsible for 1.6 million deaths in India.
- Fossil fuels (coal and liquid gas) were identified as major contributors, accounting for 38% of these deaths.
- India was ranked as the second-highest emitter of PM2.5 globally in 2022, contributing 15.8% of consumption-based and 16.9% of production-based PM2.5 emissions.
Impact of Heat Stress:
- In 2023, India experienced 2400 hours (or 100 days) of moderate to high heat stress, particularly during light outdoor activities like walking.
- Heatwaves have become more frequent, with adults over 65 years experiencing 8.4 heatwave days per year, a 58% increase from 1990-1999.
- This increased heat exposure has led to a loss of 181 billion labor hours globally, translating into an economic loss of approximately $141 billion.
Global and National Trends in Air Pollution:
- PM2.5 is particularly hazardous because it is fine enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream, leading to severe health risks like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO?), Sulphur Dioxide (SO?), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Ozone (O?) were identified as other pollutants contributing to poor air quality in India.
Health Impact of Extreme Weather:
- The 2023 heatwave was one of the hottest years on record, exacerbating health risks worldwide, especially for the elderly.
- Droughts and heatwaves also contributed to a rise in food insecurity, affecting millions globally.
Disease Transmission and Climate Change:
- Dengue transmission potential rose by 85% from 1951-1960 to 2014-2023.
- Coastal areas suitable for the spread of Vibrio pathogens, which cause cholera, expanded by 23%, affecting over 210 million people.
Health Effects of Fossil Fuel Pollution:
- Continued reliance on fossil fuels worsens air quality, leading to health problems such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Government Efforts to Tackle Air Pollution in India

National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
- NCAP is a national strategy to reduce air pollution across India, with specific action plans for 131 non-attainment cities. The initiative is supported through various central government schemes such as:
  1. Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban)
  2. Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
  3. Smart City Mission
  4. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME-II)
Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) Emission Norms:
- BS-VI standards aim to significantly reduce vehicular pollution, lowering permissible limits for NOx and particulate matter (PM) emissions from vehicles.
System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR):
- SAFAR measures air quality and provides forecasts for metropolitan cities based on real-time data, helping authorities take preventive actions.
Promotion of Renewable Energy:
- India achieved a record 11% of electricity from renewable energy in 2022. However, 71% of India’s electricity still comes from coal, underscoring the need for a faster transition to cleaner energy sources.

CRS Mobile App

30 Oct 2024

Replicas of Konark Wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan

30 Oct 2024

Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

30 Oct 2024

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Brazilhas opted not to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), becoming the second BRICS country after India to reject the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.
Brazil prefers to explore alternative ways to collaborate with Chinese investors without signing a formal treaty, aiming to avoid the perceived risks of the BRI.

BRICS and India’s Role:

Brazil’s decision follows India’s long-standing opposition to the BRI, particularly due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which India views as a violation of its sovereignty.
India has consistently argued that BRI projects should adhere to international norms, good governance, and transparency, emphasizing that such initiatives should be financially sustainable and not lead to debt traps.

Brazil’s Broader Economic Strategy:

Brazil aims to balance its relationship with China, which is a major economic partner, but without being bound by the BRI. This decision reflects broader concerns within Brazil about the long-term financial sustainability of BRI projects, especially after witnessing debt crises in other countries like Sri Lanka.

Global Context and the BRI's Impact:

The BRI, launched by China in 2013, spans several infrastructure sectors and has expanded globally, but it has faced criticism for its potential to trap smaller nations in unsustainable debt.
India and Brazil’s resistance to the BRI highlights growing skepticism among emerging economies about the long-term implications of joining China's flagship project.

Ayurveda Day 2024

30 Oct 2024

'Act4Dyslexia' Campaign

29 Oct 2024

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On October 27, 2024, prominent landmarks such as Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, India Gate, and the North and South Blocks in Delhi were illuminated in red to raise awareness for Dyslexia and other learning disabilities.
Similar illuminations took place in major cities like Patna, Ranchi, Jaipur, Kohima, Shimla, and Mumbai, highlighting the importance of dyslexia awareness.

Key Highlights:

Collaboration for Awareness:
- The campaign is organized in collaboration with UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP) and the ChangeInkk Foundation.
- Its goal is to remove stigma and foster understanding of dyslexia and other learning disabilities, which affect 20% of India’s population—around 35 million students.
Flagging off the ‘Walk4Dyslexia’:
- The ‘Walk4Dyslexia’ event, aimed at promoting collective action for dyslexia awareness, was flagged off by Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), along with Mr. Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India.
- The walk was organized by ChangeInkk Foundation, UNESCO MGIEP, Orkids Foundation, and Soch Foundation.
Growth of the Campaign:
- The Act4Dyslexia campaign saw a significant expansion in 2024, with over 1,600 walks held across the country, from state capitals to villages, engaging over 4 lakh participants.
- The campaign mobilized 2 billion steps in support of dyslexia awareness, with 150+ organizations joining forces.
Focus on Equal Rights and Opportunities:
- Dyslexia and other specific learning disabilities (SLDs) were officially recognized under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. This law mandates equal educational and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
- The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 further emphasizes inclusive education, calling for early identification, teacher capacity building, and necessary support and accommodations.
Understanding Dyslexia:
- Dyslexia is often misunderstood as a sign of being a "slow learner", but people with dyslexia often excel in areas like logical reasoning, problem-solving, and innovation.
- Notably, 40% of self-made millionaires have dyslexia, and historical figures like Albert Einstein were also dyslexic.
Global Impact:
- The campaign aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to unlock the untapped potential of individuals with learning disabilities, thereby contributing to societal development at a global level.

New Disability Certificate Rules (RPwD Rules, 2024)

29 Oct 2024

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The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Rules, 2024, were amended by the Union Government in the wake of the Puja Khedkar controversy, where an IAS probationer was dismissed for alleged forgery in her disability and caste certificates.
National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD) has called for a rollback of the new rules, citing that they make the process of obtaining disability certificates more stringent and cumbersome.

Key Changes Under the New RPwD Rules, 2024

Authority for Issuing Disability Certificates:
- Only a designated medical authority or a notified competent medical authority at the district level can issue disability certificates.
- NPRD had proposed that experts from non-profits also be authorized to carry out checks, but this suggestion was not accepted.
Colour-Coded UDID Cards:
- The new rules introduce colour-coded UDID cards to represent levels of disability:
  - White (general disability)
  - Yellow (moderate disability)
  - Blue (severe disability with 80% or higher).
Mandatory Online Applications:
- Applicants are now required to apply for disability certificates online, which could be problematic for individuals who lack access to the internet, smartphones, or are digitally illiterate.
- The NPRD has urged the government to retain the option for in-person applications.
Extended Time for Certificate Issuance:
- The new rules extend the time for issuing disability certificates from one month to three months.
Reapplication Requirement:
- If there is no action taken on an application for two years, the applicant will have to reapply, which the NPRD considers unacceptable, as it punishes disabled individuals for system failures.

NPRD's Concerns

Regressive and Burdensome:NPRD believes the amendments are regressive, adding more hurdles for genuine persons with disabilities to access certificates, which are crucial for identification and entitlement to services.
Lack of Accountability:The NPRD argues that the rules do not address the systemic issues highlighted by the Puja Khedkar case, such as the lack of accountability at various levels in the certification process.
Online Application Issues:Many people from the disabled community may struggle with technical jargon used in online applications and may not have the resources to complete the process digitally.
Delay in Issuance:Extending the time for issuing certificates to three months could create delays for those in urgent need of certification for services or entitlements.

Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)

29 Oct 2024

Greenhouse Gas Levels Hit Record High in 2023: World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

29 Oct 2024

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According to the WMO, the last time the earth had a similar CO2 concentration was 3-5 million years ago, when temperatures were 2-3°C higher and sea levels were 10-20 metres higher than they are now

Key Highlights:

Record High Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Levels:
- In 2023, annual mean carbon dioxide (CO2) levels rose by 2.3 parts per million (ppm), reaching a new record of 420 ppm.
- This marks the 12th consecutive year with an increase of over 2 ppm in CO2 levels.
Historical Context:
- CO2 levels not seen in 3-5 million years, when temperatures were 2-3°C higher, and sea levels were 10-20 meters higher than they are today.
Key GHGs at Record Highs:
- The globally averaged surface concentrations of CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide all reached new highs in 2023.
Contributors to the Increase in CO2:
- Natural Variability: Natural factors such as large vegetation fires and reduced carbon absorption by forests contributed to higher CO2 levels.
- Human Activity: High fossil fuel emissions from human and industrial activities also played a major role.
- El Niño Phenomenon: The El Niño event led to higher temperatures and drier conditions, exacerbating the rise in GHG levels through increased wildfires and reduced carbon absorption by land sinks.
Climate Feedback Loop Concerns:
- The WMO warned of a vicious cycle:
  - Climate change could cause ecosystems to become larger sources of GHGs.
  - Wildfires could release more carbon, and warmer oceans may absorb less CO2, leading to more CO2 remaining in the atmosphere, accelerating global warming.
Radiative Forcing:
- Radiative forcing (the warming effect on climate) from long-lived GHGs has increased by 51.5% from 1990 to 2023, with CO2 contributing 81% of this increase.
Methane Concerns:
- Methane saw its largest three-year increase between 2020 and 2022.
- This increase was linked to warmer temperatures and wetter land conditions during the 2020-2022 La Niña conditions, which caused an uptick in methane emissions from natural wetlands.
Long-Term Impact of CO2:
- Given CO2's long atmospheric lifetime, even with rapid emissions reductions, the warming effect will persist for several decades.

C-295 Aircraft

29 Oct 2024

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Recently, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Final Assembly Line (FAL) plant in Vadodara, Gujarat, for the manufacturing of the C-295 aircraft.
The plant is a joint venture between Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) and Airbus.
This is the first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft in India.

Key Details:

Manufacturing Timeline
- Contract: In September 2021, India signed a ?21,935 crore deal with Airbus Defence and Space to procure 56 C-295 aircraft to replace the IAF’s ageing Avro-748 fleet.
- Production Plan:
  - The first 16 aircraft will be delivered from Airbus’s plant in Seville, Spain, between September 2023 and August 2025.
  - The remaining 40 aircraft will be produced in India by TASL, with the first “Made-in-India” C-295 rolling out in September 2026.
  - The entire fleet (56 aircraft) is expected to be delivered by August 2031.
Key Features and Specifications
- Type: Tactical transport aircraft with a capacity of 5 to 10 tonnes.
- Maximum Speed: 480 km/h.
- Cabin Dimensions: 12.7 meters (41 feet 8 inches), the longest unobstructed cabin in its class.
- Passenger Capacity: Can accommodate up to 71 seats.
- Cargo Handling: Rear ramp door for quick loading/unloading and para-dropping.
- Short Take-off and Landing (STOL): Capable of operating from airstrips as short as 2,200 feet.
Significance for the Indian Air Force (IAF)
- The C-295 will enhance the medium-lift tactical capability of the IAF.
- It will replace the ageing Soviet-origin AN-32 aircraft, which are nearing the end of their operational life.
- The C-295 will bridge the capability gap in troop and cargo transport over short and medium distances.
Indigenous Content
- Indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite: All 56 aircraft will be equipped with an indigenous electronic warfare suite, developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).
- Made-in-India Components: 96% of the work that Airbus does in Spain will be done at the Vadodara plant, making it one of the highest-ever indigenous contributions for an aircraft in India.
Global Operations of the C-295
- The C-295 is operational in various challenging terrains worldwide, including:
  - Brazilian jungles, Colombian mountains (South America)
  - Deserts of Algeria and Jordan (Middle East)
  - Cold climates of Poland and Finland (Europe)
  - Military operations in Chad, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
Roles and Capabilities
- Tactical Transport: Can transport troops and supplies from main airfields to forward operating airfields.
- Short Take-off and Landing (STOL): Capable of operating from short, unprepared airstrips.
- Low-level Operations: Can conduct low-speed, low-level missions at 110 knots.
- Other Missions: Suitable for casualty evacuation, special missions, disaster relief, and maritime patrol.

ISRO’s First Electric Propulsion-Led Spacecraft (TDS-1)

28 Oct 2024

Emissions Gap Report 2024

28 Oct 2024

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The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recently published the Emissions Gap Report 2024, in anticipation of the COP29 meeting of the UNFCCC to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Key Highlights:

Current Trajectory of Global Warming:
- If countries continue with current environmental policies, global temperatures are expected to rise by 3.1°C above pre-industrial levels.
- This is significantly higher than the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to well below 2°C, with an effort to cap it at 1.5°C.
Paris Agreement at Risk:
- Even if all Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are fully implemented (including both unconditional and conditional emissions reduction targets), the world would still experience 2.6°C of warming by 2030.
- This presents a major challenge to achieving the Paris Agreement’s climate goals.
Urgent Need for Action:
- To limit global warming to 1.5°C, greenhouse gas emissions must peak before 2025 and decline by 43% by 2030.
- The report highlights the emission gap between current pledges and what is required to meet the 1.5°C goal.
Record High Emissions:
- Global greenhouse gas emissions hit a record 57.1 gigatons of CO? equivalent in 2023.
- This represents an increase of 1.3% compared to 2022, continuing the upward trend from the previous decade.
India’s Emissions:
- India’s greenhouse gas emissions grew by 6.1% between 2022 and 2023.
- Per capita emissions in India were 2.9 tCO?e in 2022, significantly lower than China (11 tCO?e) and the U.S. (18 tCO?e).
G20 Countries’ Contribution:
- G20 countries, excluding the African Union, contributed 77% of global emissions in 2023.
- The six largest emitters (including China, U.S., and India) were responsible for 63% of global emissions.
- This shows a significant imbalance in emissions, with developed countries having much higher per capita emissions compared to developing nations like India and Africa.
Necessary Emissions Cuts:
- To keep the 1.5°C target within reach, global emissions need to be cut by at least 7.5% annually until 2035.
- Cost of bridging the emissions gap: Achieving net-zero by 2050 will require USD 900 billion to USD 2.1 trillion annually, approximately 1% of global GDP.
Emission Reduction Pathways:
- Renewable Energy: Scaling up solar and wind energy technologies could contribute up to 27% of the required emissions reductions by 2030.
- Forest Conservation: Protecting and restoring forests could provide 20% of the required emissions reductions by 2030.
- Other crucial measures include improving energy efficiency, transitioning to electric vehicles, and focusing on fuel switching in key sectors like transport, industry, and buildings.
Disparities in Emissions:
- Despite changes over the past two decades, large disparities remain between emissions across regions.
- Developed countries have three times higher per capita emissions compared to the global average, while India, the African Union, and least developed countries continue to have much lower emissions.
Call to Action:
- UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen urged countries to act now, stating: “No more hot air, please.” The urgency is to ramp up climate pledges and ensure stronger actions in the upcoming COP29 talks in Baku, Azerbaijan (November 2024), where nations must work to get on a 1.5°C pathway.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Established: 1972, following the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm.
Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya.
Governing Body: The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), which is the world’s highest-level decision-making body on environmental matters, with 193 Member States.
Programs & Initiatives: UNEP leads global efforts on climate action, ecosystem restoration, clean seas, and supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Reports: UNEP publishes crucial assessments like the Emissions Gap Report, Global Environment Outlook, and Adaptation Gap Report, influencing global environmental policies.

Hong Kong Discovers Dinosaur Fossils

28 Oct 2024

2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI)

28 Oct 2024

New Space Missions and Developments

28 Oct 2024

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The Space Commission also approved a joint moon mission with Japan called the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission. For LUPEX, ISRO is developing a different moon lander than the one it used for Chandrayaan-3

New Space Missions and Developments

Chandrayaan-4 (Moon Mission):
- Type: Sample-return mission.
- Launch: Expected by 2027.
- Cost: ?2,104 crore.
- Objective: Sample collection of moon soil and rock to return to Earth.
- Mission Details: Two LVM-3 launch vehicles will launch components that will dock in Earth orbit before heading to the moon. The samples will be sent back using a bespoke canister.
Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX):
- Collaboration: Joint mission with Japan.
- Objective: Exploration of lunar poles with a new lander design, intended for potential crewed missions in future.
Venus Orbiter Mission:
- Launch Window: March 2028.
- Cost: ?1,236 crore.
- Objective: Study Venus' surface and atmosphere to understand planetary evolution in the Solar System.
Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV):
- Development Budget: ?8,240 crore for first three development flights.
- Objective: A new launcher developed with private sector collaboration for future space missions.

Cabinet Approvals for Space Initiatives

Human Spaceflight Programme (Gaganyaan):
- Four new missions under Gaganyaan, including an uncrewed Gaganyaan flight.
- Focus on developing technologies for India’s first space station, Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), planned by 2028.
Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) Missions:
- Phase 3: Approval for building 21 ISRO satellites, with 31 additional satellites by private companies.
- Total Cost: ?26,968 crore.
Development of a Third Launch Pad:
- To support the NGLV and additional space missions at Sriharikota.

Upcoming Satellite Missions

NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar):
- Launch: Early 2025 on a GSAT launch vehicle.
- Purpose: Earth observation using advanced radar technology.
- Issue: Protective coating added due to high temperatures during testing.
Proba-3 (European Space Agency):
- Launch: November 29, 2024, aboard PSLV-XL.
- Objective: Study the Sun’s corona using two satellites in formation, mimicking an eclipse to capture unique solar data.

Private Sector Involvement

Manastu Space & Dhruva Space:
- Collaboration: Testing green propulsion technology for the LEAP-3 mission.
- Technology: Hydrogen-peroxide-based green propulsion system.
- Launch: LEAP-3 mission in 2025.
Bellatrix Aerospace:
- Project: Prototype satellite for ultra-low earth orbit at 200 km altitude.
Ananth Technologies:
- Achievement: First private company to assemble, integrate, and test Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) satellites for ISRO.

Space Science and Research Updates

Chandrayaan-3:
- Findings: The crater where Chandrayaan-3 landed is older than the South Pole-Aitken Basin (4.2-4.3 billion years old).
- Data Source: Optical High-Resolution Camera (Chandrayaan-2) and Pragyaan rover (Chandrayaan-3).
Astrosat (India’s First Space Observatory):
- Mission Life: Expected to last two more years (originally planned for 5 years).
- Significance: Contributed to over 400 published papers based on multi-wavelength space observatory data.

ISRO-DBT Agreement for Biotechnology Experiments in Space

27 Oct 2024

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have signed an agreement to conduct biotechnology experiments on the upcoming Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
Timeline for BAS:
- The BAS is expected to be operational from 2028-2035, with the initial module launches slated for 2028 and full expansion by 2035.
- It will be located at an altitude of 400 km above Earth and will support 15–20-day missions in space.

Focus Areas of Research

Health Impact:
- Weightlessness & Muscle Health: Studying the effects of zero-gravity on muscle loss during space missions.
- Radiation Effects: Investigating how space radiation impacts astronaut health over long durations.
Bio-Manufacturing:
- Algae Studies: Exploring algae for potential use in nutrient-rich, long-lasting food sources and biofuel production.
- Food Preservation: Identifying algae varieties that can help preserve food for longer periods in space.
Integration with Gaganyaan Mission:
- Experiments may also be conducted during uncrewed test flights for the Gaganyaan mission (India’s first crewed mission to space, scheduled for 2025-2026).

BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy

Objective: The BioE3 policy aims to boost bio-manufacturing in India, which is projected to contribute $300 billion to the Indian economy by 2030.
Key Focus Areas:
- High-Value Bio-Based Products: Promotes the development of bio-based chemicals, biopolymers, enzymes, and smart proteins.
- Climate-Resilient Agriculture & Carbon Capture: Aims to strengthen agricultural practices to withstand climate change and promote carbon capture technologies.
- Healthcare & Nutrition: Focuses on advancements in biotherapeutics, functional foods, and regenerative medicine.
- Marine & Space Biotechnology: Encourages research in space and marine biotechnology for new applications.
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Supports R&D-driven entrepreneurship through the establishment of bio-manufacturing hubs, bio-AI centers, and biofoundries.
- Employment Growth: Aims to create skilled jobs in the growing bioeconomy, promoting green growth and sustainable industries.

Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) Overview

Structure: The station will consist of:
- Command Module
- Habitat Module
- Propulsion Systems
- Docking Ports
Objective: To support long-term research in space life sciences and bio-manufacturing, with a focus on human health, food sustainability, and biotechnology innovations.

21st Livestock Census

27 Oct 2024

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The Livestock Census is a crucial tool for understanding the current status of India’s livestock sector and its contribution to the economy and society.

What is the Livestock Census?

The Livestock Census is a nationwide survey conducted every five years to assess the number, species, breed, age, sex, and ownership status of domesticated animals and poultry, including stray animals.
Purpose: It helps in collecting comprehensive data about the livestock population and their role in the economy and society.
First Census: The first livestock census was conducted in 1919, and this is the 21st edition.
Next Census: The 21st Livestock Census will be conducted between October 2024 and February 2025 by approximately 87,000 enumerators across 30 crore households in India.

Animals Covered in the Census

The census will account for 16 species of animals, including:
- Cattle, Buffalo, Mithun, Yak, Sheep, Goat, Pig, Camel, Horse, Ponies, Mule, Donkey
- Dog, Rabbit, Elephant
- Poultry: Fowl, Chicken, Duck, Turkey, Geese, Quail, Ostrich, and Emu
The census will also collect data on 219 indigenous breeds of these species recognized by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR).

Objectives of the Livestock Census

Economic Contribution: The livestock sector contributes approximately:
- 30% of the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the agricultural sector
- 4.7% of India's overall GVA
- It plays a crucial role in rural employment, particularly in poultry and animal husbandry.
Policy Formulation and Planning:
- The data from the census is critical for formulating and implementing policies related to livestock, ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.
- It helps in monitoring and estimating GVA from livestock.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- Provides vital data for tracking the progress towards Goal 2 of SDGs (Zero Hunger) and Target 2.5, which focuses on maintaining genetic diversity in livestock, particularly addressing local breeds at risk of extinction (Indicator 2.5.2).
Sectoral Monitoring:
- The census helps in monitoring the performance and health of India’s livestock sector, which is vital for ensuring food security, rural livelihoods, and economic growth.

Key Features of the 21st Livestock Census

Digitization:
- Like the 2019 Census, this year’s census will be fully digitized, with data collected via a mobile application.
- Digital Monitoring: A dashboard will monitor progress at various levels, and the latitude and longitude of the data collection locations will be recorded.
- A software-based livestock census report will be generated to streamline analysis.
New Data Points:
- For the first time, data on pastoral animals and pastoralists will be collected, focusing on their socio-economic status and livestock holdings.
- Granular Data: The census will gather information on:
  - Proportions of households that rely on livestock for major income.
  - Gender-based data on stray cattle.
Extended Scope:
- In addition to animal population statistics, the census will also focus on the socio-economic contributions of the livestock sector, gender inclusion, and employment.

Significance of the Livestock Census

A Comprehensive Livestock Profile:
- Provides a holistic view of livestock population and the interlinkages between animal husbandry, agriculture, and rural economies.
- Assists in the management and preservation of indigenous animal breeds.
Informed Decision-Making:
- Helps policymakers, researchers, and development organizations in formulating strategies for sectoral growth, genetic diversity preservation, and livelihood enhancement for rural communities.
Monitoring Livestock Health:
- The census helps in tracking the health and sustainability of India’s livestock population, which is essential for ensuring food security and preventing animal diseases.

Findings of the 2019 Livestock Census

Total Livestock Population: 535.78 million
- Cattle: 192.9 million
- Goats: 148.88 million
- Buffaloes: 109.85 million
- Sheep: 74.26 million
- Pigs: 9.06 million
- Other species contributed a small fraction to the total livestock population (0.23%).

Launch of 'Abhay'

27 Oct 2024

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Recently, ‘Abhay’, the seventh ship in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) series was launched.

Key Details:

Project Background

Contract Details: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in April 2019 for the construction of eight ASW SWC ships.
Class of Ships: The Arnala-class ships are intended to replace the older Abhay-class ASW Corvettes currently in service with the Indian Navy.
Purpose: These ships are designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations in coastal waters and to conduct Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO) and mine-laying activities.

Design and Features of 'Abhay'

Dimensions:
- Length: 77 meters
- Width: 10 meters
Speed and Endurance:
- Maximum speed: 25 knots
- Endurance: 1800 nautical miles (NM).
Propulsion: Waterjet-propelled, offering agility and swift response in tactical situations.
Indigenous Content: Over 80% indigenous content, supporting India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in defence manufacturing.

Capabilities of the ASW SWC

Anti-Submarine Warfare:
- Designed to conduct subsurface surveillance and anti-submarine operations in coastal waters.
- Equipped with advanced sonar systems, including Hull-Mounted Sonar and Low-Frequency Variable Depth Sonar for enhanced underwater surveillance.
Armament and Equipment:
- Torpedoes and ASW rockets for anti-submarine operations.
- Mines for mine-laying operations.
- Close-in Weapon System (CIWS): 30 mm for close-range defence against aerial and surface threats.
- 12.7 mm Stabilized Remote-Control Guns for additional defensive capability.

Strategic Importance

Coastal Defence: The ASW SWC ships enhance the Navy’s capability to defend India’s extensive coastline and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) against submarine threats.
Operational Role:
- In addition to anti-submarine warfare, these ships can conduct Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), which include operations against non-traditional threats.
- Mine-laying capability to disrupt enemy naval operations.
Advanced Detection: These ships are equipped to track both surface and underwater targets, enabling them to coordinate operations with aircraft, strengthening maritime security.

Center for Generative AI, Srijan

27 Oct 2024

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IndiaAI and Meta have announced the establishment of the Center for Generative AI, Srijan (????) at IIT Jodhpur, along with the launch of the “YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building” in collaboration with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), for the advancement of open source artificial intelligence (AI) in India.

Key Initiatives Launched

Center for Generative AI, Srijan (????) at IIT Jodhpur:
- Focus on Generative AI (GenAI) research and innovation.
- Meta’s support for ethical and responsible development of AI technologies.
- Aim to empower researchers, students, and practitioners with the tools for responsible AI deployment.
- Focus Areas: Open science, AI policy advisory, and indigenous AI application development.
YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building:
- Target: Empower 100,000 students and young developers (ages 18-30) with AI skills.
- Core Focus: Leveraging open-source Large Language Models (LLMs) for real-world solutions.
- Skills Development: Generative AI, open-source tools, and sector-specific AI applications (healthcare, education, agriculture, smart cities, mobility, and financial inclusion).
- Partnership: Collaboration with AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education).

Strategic Goals and Outcomes

Research and Innovation:
- Strengthen India’s AI ecosystem through groundbreaking research and collaborations.
- Focus on open-source AI and indigenous AI solutions for national challenges.
- Empower India to lead in AI through ethical and responsible AI deployment.
AI Talent Development:
- Bridge the AI talent gap by training young developers in open-source AI technologies.
- Develop AI solutions for critical sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, smart cities, and financial inclusion.
- Program Components:
  - GenAI Resource Hub with courses, case studies, and open datasets.
  - Unleash LLM Hackathons for students to propose AI solutions for real-world challenges.
  - Support for AI startups through an Innovation Accelerator.

Sectoral Focus and Impact

Healthcare: AI for diagnostics, personalized medicine, and healthcare delivery.
Education: AI tools for enhancing learning outcomes and personalized education.
Agriculture: AI solutions for precision farming, pest control, and crop management.
Smart Cities: AI in urban planning, traffic management, and public services.
Mobility: AI applications in transportation, logistics, and urban mobility.
Financial Inclusion: AI in fintech, digital payments, and financial services for underserved populations.

Additional Programs and Opportunities

AICTE Collaboration: Mobilizing technical institutions across India to build AI capabilities.
Master Training Activation Workshops: To introduce foundational AI concepts to students.
Mentorship and Grants: Top AI solutions from hackathons will receive mentoring, seed grants, and market support.
Student Startups: AI Innovation Accelerator will incubate 10 student-led AI startups experimenting with open-source models.

Pandemic Fund Project

27 Oct 2024

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Recently, the Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying launched the Pandemic Fund Project on "Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response"in New Delhi.

Key Highlights:

Launch of Pandemic Fund Project

Objective: Strengthening animal health security in India to enhance pandemic preparedness and response.
Funding: $25 million initiative funded by the G20 Pandemic Fund.
Location: New Delhi, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.

Context and Importance

Livestock Sector: Crucial for socio-economic upliftment, contributing to employment and rural development.
Growth in Livestock Sector: Significant progress in the last 9 years through schemes like the National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP).
Key Diseases Targeted:
- Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD): Aimed at eradication, with over 90.87 crore vaccines administered.
- Brucellosis: Over 4.23 crore vaccines administered.

Objectives of the Pandemic Fund Project

Enhanced Disease Surveillance: Includes genomic and environmental monitoring for early warning systems.
Laboratory Infrastructure Development: Upgradation for better diagnosis and disease management.
Cross-Border Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships for global monitoring of zoonotic diseases.
Integrated Monitoring System: Creation of a robust system for managing zoonotic diseases, with a focus on early detection and containment.

Documents Released for Strengthening Animal Health

Standard Veterinary Treatment Guidelines (SVTG):
- Best practices for veterinary care to improve livestock health and productivity.
- Supports national action plans, especially for combating antimicrobial resistance.
Crisis Management Plan (CMP) for Animal Diseases:
- Framework for effective response and containment during animal disease outbreaks.
- Ensures timely mitigation of animal disease crises.

One Health Approach

Integration of Human, Animal, and Environmental Health: Key to preventing and managing future health crises.
Zoonotic Risks: The project emphasizes reducing zoonotic disease transmission from animals to humans, crucial given the origins of many recent public health emergencies.

Implementation and Collaboration

The project will be executed in collaboration with global institutions:
- Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
- World Bank

Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024

26 Oct 2024

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Recently, the Chanakya Defence Dialogue (CDD) 2024, second edition, was held at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
Theme: "Drivers in Nation Building: Fueling Growth Through Comprehensive Security."
Focus: Discussions on integrating national security into India's development trajectory and global strategy for a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Key Objectives:

The dialogue aimed to explore India’s strategic directions and development priorities by fostering discussions between policymakers, strategic thinkers, defence experts, and academia.
Highlighted the link between national security and economic growth, stressing how security frameworks are vital for national progress.

Key Sessions and Discussions:

Session 1: Social Cohesion and Inclusive Growth: Pillars of a Secure Nation:
- Focused on internal security, social unity, and inclusive development.
- Panelists discussed the role of community engagement, countering terrorism, and law enforcement reforms.
- Emphasized the need for integrating social progress and addressing challenges like separatism and terrorist narratives.
- Panelists called for evidence-based policies for equitable growth and stronger security frameworks to protect the country from internal threats.
Session 2: Blurring Frontiers: The Convergence of Technology & Security:
- Addressed the intersection of technology and national security.
- Topics included AI, quantum computing, IoT, and blockchain for improving cyber resilience and data protection.
- Panelists emphasized the need to balance technological innovation with strong security measures, particularly in cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection.
Session 3: Ground-breakers: Shaping Land Warfare, Reflections for the Indian Army:
- Explored the integration of emerging technologies like AI, unmanned systems, and cyber warfare tools in enhancing military readiness.
- Focused on indigenous defense technologies under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting self-reliance and reducing dependency on foreign technologies.
- Emphasized multi-domain operations and the challenges of adapting to evolving security threats, especially from advanced cyber and space warfare.

Strategic Insights:

Economic Growth & Security: The dialogue highlighted that national security and economic growth are interlinked, with a strong military infrastructure crucial for sustaining development.
Role of Technology: Technological advancements like AI, space technology, and cybersecurity are pivotal for enhancing India's defense capabilities and strategic posture in a rapidly evolving global security landscape.
Inclusive Security: Emphasized social cohesion and inclusive growth as key components of national security, acknowledging that a unified society contributes significantly to national resilience.
Global Diplomacy: India’s global leadership in multilateral forums, its stance on peacekeeping, and its role in promoting sustainable development were discussed as part of the country’s soft power strategy.

National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM)

26 Oct 2024

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The Union Ministry of Culture plans to revive and relaunch the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) to enhance the preservation and accessibility of India’s ancient texts.
The mission’s objective is to document, conserve, digitize, and disseminate India’s rich manuscript heritage, ensuring their protection and public access.

Formation of a New Autonomous Body:

The National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) is likely to be restructured into an autonomous body called the National Manuscripts Authority, which will be under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
The new body will address the challenges and gaps in manuscript preservation and management, offering more focused and flexible governance.

Background and Achievements:

Established in 2003, the NMM has been part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA).
Key achievements:
- 52 lakh manuscripts have had metadata prepared.
- Over 3 lakh manuscripts have been digitized, though only one-third have been uploaded for public access.
- Preventive and curative conservation of over 9 crore folios of manuscripts has been undertaken over the last 21 years.
- The NMM has set up 100 Manuscripts Resource Centres and Manuscripts Conservation Centres across India.

Current Challenges and Gaps:

Data Uploading and Access:
- Of the 130,000 digitized manuscripts, only 70,000 are accessible online due to the absence of a comprehensive access policy.
- A significant portion (around 80%) of manuscripts areprivately owned, restricting public access and usage.
Digitization Mismatch:
- There have been concerns about discrepancies between the digitized data and the original manuscripts, which requires correction to ensure authenticity and accuracy.
Lack of Comprehensive Access Policy:
- Limited public access to manuscripts due to policy restrictions hinders further research and public engagement with this rich heritage.

Scope and Future of NMM:

India's Manuscript Heritage: India is believed to have around 10 million manuscripts, spread across various regions, languages, scripts, and topics.
Digitization and Accessibility: Moving forward, the key challenge will be ensuring that a larger proportion of the manuscripts are digitized, uploaded, and made publicly available, particularly from private collections.
The establishment of the National Manuscripts Authority is expected to streamline efforts and enhance coordination between government bodies, private institutions, and scholars.

Precision Medicine, Biobanks, and Regulatory Challenges in India

26 Oct 2024

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Precision medicine is bringing in a new era of personalised healthcare. The field began to take concrete shape when scientists were wrapping up the Human Genome Project.

Introduction to Precision Medicine:

Precision Medicine is a novel approach to healthcare that tailors treatments and preventive strategies based on an individual’s genetics, environment, and lifestyle, instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach.
It leverages technologies like genomics, gene editing (CRISPR), and mRNA therapeutics to address various diseases such as cancer, chronic diseases, and genetic disorders.
Recent breakthroughs include gene therapy for restoring vision and stem cell transplants for reversing diabetes, demonstrating the transformative potential of precision medicine.

Role of Biobanks in Precision Medicine:

Biobanks are repositories storing biological samples (blood, DNA, tissues) along with associated health data. These samples are crucial for research and development of personalized treatments.
Large and diverse biobanks are essential for ensuring that precision medicine benefits a wide demographic, as data from homogenous groups could limit the applicability of findings.
Recent studies using biobank data have led to breakthroughs, such as identifying rare genetic disorders and developing organoid models for high-throughput drug screening.

Precision Medicine and Biobanks in India:

Market Growth: India’s precision medicine market is growing at a CAGR of 16%, expected to surpass USD 5 billion by 2030, contributing 36% to the national bioeconomy.
Policy Framework: The government’s BioE3 policy aims to promote biomanufacturing, with a focus on precision therapeutics and related technologies like gene editing and cancer immunotherapy.
Biobank Initiatives:
- Genome India Programme: Completed sequencing of 10,000 genomes from 99 ethnic groups, aimed at identifying treatments for rare genetic diseases.
- Phenome India Project: Focused on collecting 10,000 samples for improving prediction models for cardio-metabolic diseases.
- Paediatric Rare Genetic Disorders (PRaGeD) Mission: Aiming to identify genes that could help develop targeted therapies for genetic diseases in children.

Regulatory and Ethical Challenges in Biobanking:

India’s biobanking regulations are inconsistent, hindering the full potential of precision medicine. Unlike countries like the U.K., U.S., and Japan, which have comprehensive laws addressing issues like informed consent, data protection, and privacy, India lacks a cohesive regulatory framework.
Informed Consent Issues: In India, participants provide samples without full knowledge of how their data will be used, who will have access to it, and for how long it will be stored. This lack of transparency undermines public trust in biobank research.
Ethical Concerns: Without a clear regulatory framework, there is a risk of misuse of biological samples, such as non-consensual data sharing and sample mishandling.
International Implications: The absence of robust laws allows foreign pharmaceutical companies to access Indian biobank data and samples without ensuring that the Indian population benefits from the resulting research or profits.

Global Comparison of Biobank Regulations:

International Standards: Countries like the U.K., U.S., and Japan have established comprehensive biobank regulations, addressing:
- Informed consent for sample collection and data usage.
- Privacy protection and secure storage of genetic information.
- Withdrawal rights for participants at any stage of research.
India’s biobank regulations lack clear provisions for data protection and participant rights, limiting the effectiveness of research and undermining public confidence in biobanks.

Microfinance Institutions (MFIs)

26 Oct 2024

Environmental Ship Index (ESI)

26 Oct 2024

Great Indian Bustard (GIB)

25 Oct 2024

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A critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB) chick was successfully born through artificial insemination (AI) at a breeding center in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, marking a crucial step in efforts to save the species.

Endangered Status:

The Great Indian Bustard is classified as critically endangered with fewer than 150 individuals left in the wild in India.
About 90% of these birds are found in the desert areas of Rajasthan, with smaller populations in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

Main Threats to the Species:

Habitat Loss: The primary threat is the loss of habitat, which is often perceived as wasteland and is diverted for infrastructure projects like roads and development.
Slow Reproductive Rate: The bustard’s low reproductive rate exacerbates its risk of extinction.

Conservation Efforts: Bustard Recovery Program

In 2016, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change launched the Bustard Recovery Program to focus on captive breeding and creating a sustainable environment for the reintroduction of GIBs into the wild.
A dedicated GIB breeding center was set up at the Desert National Park in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, as part of this initiative.

Protection Status of GIB:
- IUCN: Critically Endangered
- CITES: Appendix 1
- Convention on Migratory Species (CMS): Appendix I
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
- It is also the state bird of Rajasthan, emphasizing its importance in the region’s biodiversity.

Introduction to Innovative Cancer Detection Technique

25 Oct 2024

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Scientists have developed an ultrasound-based technique for detecting cancer, aiming to replace traditional biopsies, which are invasive and painful.
Promising Alternative: The method uses high-energy ultrasound to release biomarkers (RNA, DNA, and proteins) from cancerous tissue into the bloodstream, allowing for early cancer detection with minimal discomfort.
Presented at Acoustical Society Conference: The technique was discussed at the joint meeting of the Acoustical Society of America and Canadian Acoustical Association in May 2024.

Traditional Cancer Detection vs. New Ultrasound Approach

Current Gold Standard - Biopsy: Traditionally, cancer is diagnosed using biopsies, where a tissue sample is extracted using a needle from suspected cancerous areas. Although effective, biopsies are invasive, painful, and carry some risks.
Ultrasound as a Non-Invasive Alternative: The new method involves using high-frequency ultrasound waves to break off cancerous tissue into droplets, which are then released into the bloodstream. The biomarkers in the droplets can be analyzed for cancerous mutations.
Enhanced Sensitivity: This ultrasound-based technique increases the levels of genetic and vesicle biomarkers in blood samples by over 100 times, enabling the detection of cancers and specific mutations that are otherwise undetectable in blood.

Key Findings of the Research

Single Cancer Cell Detection: The technique allows for the detection of a single cancer cell in blood samples. It works by passing ultrasound waves through isolated blood samples, which break apart circulating cancer cells, releasing biomarkers into the blood.
Cost-Effective: Traditional methods for detecting circulating cancer cells are costly (e.g., the ‘CellSearch’ test costs $10,000). In contrast, this ultrasound method can detect cancer with a much lower cost, around $100 (?8,400).
Potential for Early Diagnosis: The research shows promise for detecting cancer at an early stage, even before symptoms appear, using blood samples.

Challenges and Next Steps

Need for Large-Scale Clinical Trials: While the technique shows potential, large cohort studies involving diverse patient groups across different geographies and ethnicities are needed to validate the approach.
Long-Term Study for Effectiveness: Further research is required to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the technique across various cancer types and to determine the ideal biomarker thresholds for early detection.
Regulatory Approval and Commercialization: If the clinical trials yield positive results, the method could be commercially available in approximately five years, following regulatory approval.

Understanding Cancer and Its Types

Cancer Definition: Cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can form tumors and spread to other parts of the body.
Types of Cancer:
- Carcinoma: Cancer originating in epithelial cells (e.g., breast, lung, prostate cancer).
- Sarcoma: Affects connective tissues like bones and muscles.
- Leukemia: Affects blood-forming tissues, leading to abnormal white blood cell production.
- Lymphoma: Begins in immune cells, including Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Melanoma: Cancer of pigment-producing skin cells.
Key Differences Between Normal and Cancer Cells:
- Cancer cells grow uncontrollably and evade immune detection.
- Cancerous cells accumulate chromosomal abnormalities, unlike normal cells, which follow regulated growth patterns.

National Workshop on SATHI Portal

25 Oct 2024

Chenchu Tribe

25 Oct 2024

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The Chenchus of Penukumadugu have lived in the dense Nallamala forests for centuries, their existence intertwined with the wilderness around them. However, their inability to keep up with the relentless pace of modernisation has led to dwindling work opportunities under the MGNREGA.

Chenchu Tribe Overview

Location: Primarily in the dense Nallamala forests, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
Tradition: Historically hunter-gatherers, now relying on subsistence farming.
Vulnerable Status: Classified as one of the 12 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Andhra Pradesh due to low literacy, stagnant population growth, and limited access to development.
Livelihood: Dependent on forest resources (Non-Timber Forest Produce - NTFP) and agricultural labor.

Impact of MGNREGS (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme)

MGNREGS Chenchu Special Project: Launched in 2009 to address specific needs of the Chenchus, such as physical strength, food insecurities, and cultural practices.
Before Discontinuation: Provided 180 days of work per person annually, which helped Chenchus access regular income, improving food security and living conditions.
Post-Discontinuation (2022):
- The project was integrated into a nationwide MGNREGS framework, reducing workdays to the standard 100 days per household.
- Consequences: Many Chenchus stopped engaging with MGNREGS due to bureaucratic hurdles (Aadhaar and bank linkage), reduced job days, and irregular wage payments.
- Only 1,500 out of 4,000 enrolled households currently participate in MGNREGS work.

Key Issues Post-MGNREGS Reform

Aadhaar & Bank Account Challenges:
- Lack of literacy and digital skills makes the Aadhaar-based system intimidating.
- Many Chenchus are excluded from PDS and health benefits due to missing or unlinked Aadhaar cards.
- Absence of mobile phones and access to banks makes wage disbursement difficult.
Irregular Payments & Trust Issues:
- The shift to bank payments has created trust issues, as many Chenchus are illiterate and cannot verify wage deposits.
- Distance from banks (up to 30 km) adds to the difficulty in accessing payments.

Forest Rights and Wildlife Conservation

Forest Dependency: The Chenchus continue to depend on the forest for food and livelihood, but increasing restrictions due to wildlife conservation (e.g., Nagarjuna-Srisailam Tiger Reserve) have further curtailed their access to forest produce.
Forest Rights Act (FRA): Many Chenchus have land pattas under the FRA but lack resources or support to utilize their land effectively due to the discontinuation of MGNREGS.

Government and Policy Response

PVTG Initiatives: Various government initiatives like PM PVTG Mission, Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, and Janjatiya Gaurav Divas aim to uplift PVTGs, but their impact remains limited without proper implementation of specialized support programs like the MGNREGS Chenchu Special Project.

United Nations Day 2024

25 Oct 2024

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United Nations Day is celebrated each year on October 24 to mark the anniversary of the UN Charter's entry into force, aiming to raise awareness about the goals and achievements of the international body.

Key Highlights:

Purpose: Celebrates the anniversary of the UN Charter coming into effect on October 24, 1945, after World War II.
Goal: Raise awareness about the UN’s objectives and accomplishments.

UN Charter Overview

Signing & Implementation:
- Signed on June 26, 1945, in San Francisco.
- Came into effect on October 24, 1945.
- India ratified the UN Charter on October 30, 1945.
Predecessor: The League of Nations, created in 1919 after WWI, aimed at promoting international cooperation and peace.
Content:
- Foundational document of the UN, binding all member states.
- Establishes principles of international relations, including equality of nations and the prohibition of force between countries.
- Amended three times: 1963, 1965, and 1973.

UN's Core Objectives

Peace and Security: Maintaining global peace and preventing conflicts.
Humanitarian Aid: Providing assistance to those in need.
Human Rights: Protecting and promoting human rights globally.
International Law: Upholding the rule of law on the global stage.

Main Organs of the UN

General Assembly (UNGA):
- Comprises all 193 Member States, each with one vote.
- Main policy-making body, addressing international issues covered by the UN Charter.
Security Council (UNSC):
- Consists of 15 members (5 permanent, 10 elected for two-year terms).
- Permanent members: China, France, Russia, UK, USA.
- India has been elected to the UNSC eight times.
Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC):
- Composed of 54 members elected by the General Assembly.
- Coordinates policy and addresses economic, social, and environmental issues.
Trusteeship Council:
- Established to oversee trust territories transitioning to independence.
International Court of Justice (ICJ):
- The only international court resolving disputes between UN member states.
- Handles contentious cases and provides advisory opinions.
Secretariat:
- Led by the Secretary-General, appointed by the General Assembly based on Security Council recommendations.
- Acts as the chief administrative body of the UN.

Note: Most UN organs, including the UNGA, UNSC, ECOSOC, Trusteeship Council, and Secretariat, are based in New York, while the ICJ is located in The Hague, Netherlands.

Nobel Peace Prize 2024

24 Oct 2024

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The Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, an organisation of survivors of the Hiroshima-Nagasaki bombings. In doing so, the Nobel Committee has highlighted the power of their testimonies and the need for disarmament.

Key Points about Nihon Hidankyo and the Hibakusha Movement

Nihon Hidankyo:
- Established on August 10, 1956, as the nation-wide organization for survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings.
- Focuses on the welfare of Hibakusha (A-bomb survivors), promoting nuclear disarmament, and advocating for compensation for victims.
- Works to share the stories and experiences of Hibakusha, both within Japan and globally.
Hibakusha (Bomb-affected People):
- Survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.
- Played a pivotal role in the global nuclear disarmament movement.
- Their testimonies have helped create the "nuclear taboo," ensuring nuclear weapons have not been used since 1945.

Role of Hibakusha in Nuclear Disarmament

Global Impact:
- The bombings ignited a global movement for nuclear disarmament.
- Hibakusha's advocacy has highlighted the human cost of nuclear weapons, shaping international policy and promoting the nuclear taboo.
Nihon Hidankyo’s Advocacy:
- The organization has been instrumental in documenting the effects of nuclear weapons and advocating for their abolition.
- Testimonies from Hibakusha have been key in raising awareness about the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear warfare.

Nobel Committee's Recognition and Current Nuclear Challenges

Recognition of Hibakusha's Work:
- The Nobel Committee awarded the Peace Prize to Nihon Hidankyo for its role in promoting nuclear disarmament and for contributing to the nuclear taboo.
- The nuclear taboo is under increasing pressure as new countries seek nuclear weapons and existing powers modernize their arsenals.
Current Nuclear Landscape:
- The US and Russia continue to maintain large nuclear stockpiles, with the US planning to spend over $1 trillion on upgrading its nuclear capabilities by the 2040s.
- New Threats: Geopolitical tensions, including regional conflicts, raise concerns about the resurgence of nuclear arms races.

Previous Nobel Peace Prizes for Disarmament

Past Laureates:
- 1974: Former Japanese Prime Minister Eisaku Sato awarded for Japan's commitment to non-nuclear weapons policy.
- 2017: International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) awarded for its efforts to draw attention to the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons and push for a nuclear ban treaty.
Link with Alfred Nobel’s Vision:
- Alfred Nobel, the founder of the Peace Prize, made his fortune with the invention of dynamite and sought to use his wealth to promote peace, especially through disarmament.

IMF's World Economic Outlook (WEO)

24 Oct 2024

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has maintained India’s GDP growth forecast at 7% for FY2024, marking a moderation from 8.2% in 2023.
FY2025 Projection: Growth is expected to slow further to 6.5% in FY2025.
India’s growth is expected to be stronger than most other large economies, yet the downward revision reflects challenges in the global economy and moderation in domestic economic momentum.

Global Economic Growth Projections:

Global Growth (2024-2025): Global growth is projected at 3.2% in 2024 and 2025, which is stable but modest. This growth rate is largely unchanged from previous IMF forecasts.
Long-Term Outlook: The IMF's long-term projection for global growth is 3.1%, which is considered subpar compared to pre-pandemic growth rates, signaling a potential era of low growth.

Key Risks and Uncertainties:

The IMF highlights several downside risks to global growth, including:
- - Monetary tightening: Central banks' high-interest rate policies to combat inflation could have long-term negative effects on economic growth and financial stability.
  - Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, could disrupt global supply chains and trade, exacerbating inflation and slowing growth.
  - China’s Economic Slowdown: China, the world’s second-largest economy, is facing a slower growth trajectory, especially in its real estate sector, which is dragging down its overall growth.
  - Structural Challenges: The aging population and weak productivity are long-term growth inhibitors in many advanced economies, adding uncertainty to future growth prospects.
Inflation and Monetary Policy:
- The IMF's inflation forecast shows global inflation cooling:
  - 2023: Global inflation is expected to reach 6.7%.
  - 2024: It is forecast to fall to 5.8%, with advanced economies expected to return to inflation targets sooner than emerging markets.
  - 2025: A further decline to 4.3%.
- The primary driver of disinflation is not interest rate hikes but the unwinding of pandemic-related shocks, supply chain improvements, and the gradual return of labor supply.
- Monetary Policy: Central banks are likely to ease policies once inflation nears target levels, but risks of further commodity price spikes or geopolitical tensions could delay this.

US and Europe Growth:

Emerging Markets and Developing Economies:
- Growth Outlook: The IMF forecasts growth in emerging markets and developing economies at 4.2% for 2024 and 2025, with a slight moderation to 3.9% by 2026.
- Emerging Asia: Growth in emerging Asia (led by India and China) is expected to slow, from 5.7% in 2023 to 5% in 2025.
- India’s Relative Strength: India’s growth continues to outperform many emerging economies, though the slowdown from 8.2% in 2023 to 7% in 2024 reflects global economic headwinds.
Income Inequality Risks:
- The IMF warns that low growth over an extended period (4+ years) could exacerbate income inequality within countries, as sluggish growth affects job creation and wage growth.
- Countries with slow economic recovery are likely to see a widening gap between rich and poor, undermining social cohesion and stability.

PM Young Achievers’ Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM YASASVI)

24 Oct 2024

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With a vision of "Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas", the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has implemented the PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI).

Objective of PM-YASASVI:
- The scheme aims to provide financial support and educational opportunities to students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT).
- The goal is to help these students overcome financial barriers and pursue quality education, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

Consolidation of Earlier Schemes:
- PM-YASASVI integrates multiple previous scholarship schemes:
- Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship for EBCs.
- Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship for DNTs.
- This consolidation aims to streamline the process and increase the impact on vulnerable groups.

Key Components of the Scheme:
- Pre-Matric Scholarship: For students in Class 9-10 with annual family income below ?2.5 lakh. Provides ?4,000 annually.
- Post-Matric Scholarship: For students pursuing higher education, with academic allowances ranging from ?5,000 to ?20,000 based on course type.
- Top Class School Education: For meritorious students, offering ?1.25 lakh annually for students from OBC, EBC, and DNT categories in Classes 9-12.
- Top Class College Education: Covers tuition, living expenses, and educational materials for students in top institutions.
- Construction of Hostels for OBC Boys and Girls: Provides hostel facilities to socially and educationally backward students near government institutions.

Scope and Financial Allocation (2023-24):
- Pre-Matric Scholarship: ?32.44 crore allocated to states and UTs for the year 2023-24, benefiting 19.86 lakh students.
- Post-Matric Scholarship: ?387.27 crore allocated for the year, benefiting 27.97 lakh students.
- Top Class School Education: ?6.55 crore for 2,602 students.
- Top Class College Education: ?111.18 crore for 4,762 students.
- Hostel Construction: ?14.30 crore allocated for the construction of hostels, accommodating 1,146 students.

Key Benefits:
- Financial Assistance: Reduces the financial burden on students from marginalized communities, enabling them to continue their education without financial stress.
- Inclusive Education: Supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring that they can access quality education from school through to higher education.
- Promotion of Merit: Focuses on meritorious students, ensuring that academic excellence is supported at all levels, from school to top-class institutions.

Selection Process:

The YASASVI Entrance Test (YET) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for candidate selection under the scheme.
Eligible students must appear for this test, and the results determine scholarship awards.

Eligibility Criteria:
- The scheme is open to OBC, EBC, and DNT students with a family income not exceeding ?2.5 lakh annually.
- Additional specific eligibility criteria may apply for different scholarships under the scheme.

Application Process:
- Interested students can apply for scholarships via the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in), which is the official platform for application submission.

E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald's Burgers

24 Oct 2024

Cyberfraud Losses and Economic Impact

24 Oct 2024

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?1.2 lakh crore is the projected financial loss due to cyber frauds in India over the next year (2024), according to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Union Home Ministry.
- This could amount to 0.7% of India’s GDP.
Mule Accounts:
- Mule accounts are a significant contributor to cyber frauds. These accounts are used to facilitate money laundering and illegal transactions.
- On average, around 4,000 mule accounts are identified daily by I4C.
- Mule accounts typically facilitate the transfer of funds out of India, often through cryptocurrency transactions.
Sources of Cyber Scams:
- A majority of frauds are linked to Chinese entities or China-based operations, with about half of the cybercrime complaints originating from China.
- Other major hubs for cyber frauds include Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, which house call-centre-like scam compounds.
- Azerbaijan has also been identified as a new hotspot for such scams.
International Dimension:
- Fraudulent withdrawals have been reported from ATMs in Dubai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Russia using mule accounts.
- The international nature of these scams often involves routing stolen funds through various countries, using methods like cryptocurrency exchanges.
Cybercrime and Terror Financing:
- Cyber scams have potential ramifications beyond financial losses; they can be used for terror financing and money laundering.
- Cryptocurrency is a common medium for laundering money, with an example cited of ?5.5 crore laundered through 350 transactions in a short span.
ATM Hotspots and Fraudulent Withdrawals:
- 18 ATM hotspots have been identified across India where fraudulent withdrawals occur.
- Fraudsters exploit these locations to withdraw money, often using mule bank accounts and cross-border ATM networks.
Government Response:
- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is working to combat these frauds by convening meetings with the Union Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
- The objective is to curb the operation of mule accounts and strengthen the banking system to prevent such frauds.
- Banks are being urged to flag unusually high-value transactions or accounts with low balances that are engaging in suspicious activity.
Fraudulent Calls and Scam Compounds:
- Indian fraudsters, in collaboration with international scam rings, use Indian mobile phone numbers to deceive citizens.
- Countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Azerbaijan have been identified as hubs for investment scams involving fraudulent calls.
Helpline and Cyber Fraud Reporting System:
- The Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (part of I4C) and the 1930 helpline provide mechanisms to report financial frauds.
- ?11,269 crore in financial frauds was reported during the first half of 2024 via these channels.
- The system also involves cooperation with over 200 financial intermediaries, including banks and wallets.

Tenkana

23 Oct 2024

Amazon Future Engineer Program (Phase 3)

23 Oct 2024

India's Mission Mausam and the Cloud Chamber

23 Oct 2024

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Mission Mausamaims to not just improve weather forecasting in the country but also ‘manage’ certain weather events, and on demand, enhance or suppress rainfall, hail, fog and, later, lightning strikes.

Focus Areas:
- Enhancing or suppressing rainfall, hail, fog, and later, lightning strikes on demand.
- Strengthening cloud physics research to better understand and modify weather conditions.

Establishment of Cloud Chamber:
- Location: The cloud chamber is being built at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune.
- Purpose: To study cloud physics in detail and develop methods for weather modification.
- Key Feature: It will be a convective cloud chamber, capable of simulating conditions specific to Indian monsoon clouds.

What is a Cloud Chamber?

A scientific apparatus that mimics the conditions required for cloud formation.
Function: Water vapour, aerosols, and other particles are injected into the chamber, and under controlled temperature and humidity conditions, clouds can be formed.
Global Context: While many countries have cloud chambers, India is building one with convection properties, which are essential for studying monsoon clouds. Only a few such chambers exist globally.

Why India Needs a Convective Cloud Chamber?

Cloud Physics: The chamber will allow scientists to study various phenomena such as:
- Cloud behaviour under normal and extreme conditions.
- Formation of rain droplets and ice particles.
- Influence of moisture from cyclones or low-pressure systems.
- Interactions between different cloud layers.
Objective: To gain insights into cloud formation specific to the Indian monsoon and develop strategies for weather modification.

Applications for Weather Modification:

The cloud chamber will help scientists simulate and understand how to influence weather events like rain and fog, particularly in monsoon systems.
It will allow testing of new ideas and theories under controlled conditions, adjusting temperature, humidity, and convection parameters to suit Indian weather conditions.

India’s Experience with Cloud Seeding:

Cloud Seeding: A technique tested in India to enhance rainfall by introducing particles (seeds) into clouds.
CAIPEEX Program: India conducted the Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX) over a decade to study cloud seeding's effectiveness.
- Findings: Cloud seeding increased rainfall by up to 46% in some regions, showing its potential under specific conditions.
- Limitations: Cloud seeding is not a one-size-fits-all solution and is effective only under certain conditions.

Significance for India’s Weather Forecasting:

Improved Weather Modification: The cloud chamber and insights from it could lead to better management of weather events, especially in regions affected by monsoon rains, cyclones, and droughts.
Tailored Strategies: India will be able to implement targeted weather interventions, especially in agricultural regions, to reduce the negative impacts of extreme weather.

???????Global and Regional Relevance:

Cloud Chamber: The Pune facility will be one of the few globally with the specific focus on convective properties needed to study Indian monsoon systems.
Role in Climate Science: India’s investment in cloud physics research positions it at the forefront of developing technologies to manage climate variability and extreme weather events.

India-Pakistan Kartarpur Corridor Agreement Renewal

23 Oct 2024

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India and Pakistan have extended the Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor Agreement for another five years (until 2029).
Purpose: The extension ensures uninterrupted operation of the corridor, allowing Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan.
Significance: The extension reflects continued cooperation between India and Pakistan, with potential implications for improving bilateral relations.

Background of Kartarpur Corridor:

Inception: The agreement was first signed on October 24, 2019, to allow visa-free access for Indian pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur near Narowal in Pakistan.
Pilgrimage Details:
- Eligibility: Indian nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders can visit the gurdwara on a daily basis.
- Return on Same Day: Pilgrims must return on the same day.
- No Religious Restrictions: Pilgrims of any faith can use the corridor.
- Capacity: Up to 5,000 pilgrims per day can visit the gurdwara.
Historical Importance: The corridor facilitates the Sikh community's access to a key religious site, located just 4.7 km from the India-Pakistan border.
Service Charge Dispute:
- Pakistan's Service Fee: Pakistan continues to charge a $20 service fee (approx. ?1,680) per pilgrim, which India has consistently urged Pakistan to waive.
- Pakistan’s Justification: Pakistan maintains the fee to cover the $17 million spent on refurbishing the gurdwara and developing infrastructure for the corridor.
Geopolitical Context and Timing:
- Recent Developments: The agreement renewal follows External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting.
- Improved Bilateral Relations: Jaishankar’s visit marked the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly nine years, signaling potential thaw in relations, despite the lack of formal bilateral dialogue.
Strategic and Religious Importance:
- Religious Diplomacy: The Kartarpur Corridor is viewed as a confidence-building measure and a symbol of religious diplomacy, particularly for the Sikh community.
- Historical Legacy: The corridor links Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan to Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak in India, facilitating access to a site of immense religious significance for Sikhs.
Implications for India-Pakistan Relations:
- No Formal Bilateral Talks: Despite the successful renewal of the agreement, formal talks between India and Pakistan remain suspended, particularly after India’s revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, which led to a diplomatic freeze.
- Pakistan's Diplomatic Stance: Pakistan had recalled its high commissioner from India in August 2019, and tensions have remained high since then.
Potential for Future Engagement:
- Diplomatic Channels Opened: The renewal of the Kartarpur agreement and Jaishankar’s visit suggest that diplomatic channels are still open, and there may be scope for further engagement if both sides take steps to address outstanding issues.

IMF retains India’s growth projection at 7% for FY25

23 Oct 2024

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India's GDP growth forecast for the fiscal year 2024-25 to 7%, up by 20 basis points from its previous estimate of 6.8%.

India’s Growth Projections:
- Current Fiscal Year (FY2024-25): India’s GDP growth is projected at 7%, unchanged from June 2024 estimates.
- Next Fiscal Year (FY2025-26): Growth expected at 6.5%.
- Growth Decline from FY2023 (8.2%): The slowdown is attributed to the exhaustion of pent-up demand post-pandemic and the economy returning to its potential.

Global Economic Growth:
- World Output: Projected global growth at 3.2% in both 2024 and 2025.
- Advanced Economies: U.S. GDP growth revised upward to 2.8% in 2024 and 2.2% in 2025.
- Emerging Markets & Developing Economies: Growth revised upwards, largely due to stronger economic activity in Asia, with China and India being key contributors.

Global Inflation and Monetary Policy:
- Inflation Decline: Global inflation has decreased from its peak of 9.4% in Q3 2022 to 3.5% projected by end-2025.
- Inflation Outlook: Despite reductions in inflation, price pressures persist in some regions.
- Monetary Policy Tightening: IMF acknowledges challenges due to tight monetary conditions in several economies and their potential impacts on labor markets.

Global Risks and Challenges:
- Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and escalating conflicts in West Asia (e.g., Lebanon) have increased geopolitical risks, potentially affecting commodity markets.
- Protectionism: Growing protectionist policies worldwide are a risk to global trade and economic stability.
- Sovereign Debt Stress: Debt burdens in several countries could become a source of instability.
- Weak Chinese Economy: Slower-than-expected recovery in China remains a significant concern for global economic growth.
- Monetary Policy Risks: Prolonged tight monetary policies in some countries could impact labor markets and economic recovery.

IMF’s Policy Recommendations for Medium-Term Growth:
- Monetary Policy Neutrality: Countries should adopt a neutral monetary policy stance to balance growth and inflation control.
- Fiscal Policy Adjustment: Build fiscal buffers after years of loose fiscal policy to ensure stability.
- Structural Reforms: Implement structural reforms to boost productivity and cope with challenges like aging populations, the climate transition, and the need for youth employment.

India’s Economic Outlook - Key Drivers:
- Rural Consumption Growth: The upward revision of India's FY2024-25 GDP forecast to 7% is driven by improved consumption, especially in rural areas.
- Upward Revisions for 2023: The increased growth forecast also reflects positive carryover effects from India's 8.2% growth in 2023.
- Emerging Asia's Growth: The growth outlook for emerging Asia is supported by India and China, though long-term growth prospects for China are weaker (projected to slow to 3.3% by 2029).

Global Economic Outlook:
- World Growth Projections: Global growth is expected to remain at 3.2% in 2024 and 3.3% in 2025.
- Diverging Growth Rates: Growth across economies is converging as output gaps close, particularly in advanced economies (e.g., U.S. labor market cooling, euro area recovery).

Z-Morh Tunnel Project in Kashmir

22 Oct 2024

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Seven people were killed in Jammu and Kashmir when suspected militants targeted the workers of infrastructure company APCO Infratech, which is constructing the Z-Morh tunnel on the Srinagar-Sonamarg highway. This is the first militant attack on a key infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir. In the past, militants have not targeted such infrastructure projects in the region.

What is the Z-Morh Tunnel?

Length: 6.4 kilometers
Connection: Links Sonamarg (a popular tourist destination) with Kangan town in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
Construction Site: Located near Gagangir village, ahead of Sonamarg.
Naming: The tunnel gets its name from the Z-shaped road near the construction site.

Importance of the Z-Morh Tunnel

All-Weather Connectivity: The tunnel is crucial for year-round access to Sonamarg, particularly in the winter when the road is often blocked by snow avalanches.
Location: Situated at 8,500 feet above sea level, the tunnel provides a safe, all-weather route for tourists and locals, especially during winter months when access to Sonamarg is typically limited.

Strategic Importance

Part of Zojila Tunnel Project:
- The Z-Morh tunnel is integral to the larger Zojila tunnel project, which aims to provide all-weather connectivity from Srinagar to Ladakh.
- The Zojila Tunnel, under construction at an altitude of around 12,000 feet, will connect Sonamarg (Kashmir) to Drass (Ladakh) and is expected to be completed by December 2026.
Military and Strategic Significance:
- The Z-Morh tunnel is crucial for rapid military mobilization between Srinagar, Kargil, Leh, and Drass regions.
- It ensures quick access for military personnel to the Ladakh border, particularly in areas of heightened security like Siachen Glacier and the Turtuk sub-sector (on the Pakistan border).
- The tunnel will reduce dependence on air transport for troop and supply movements to forward areas, leading to cost savings and extended aircraft lifespan.

The case for a nature restoration law in India

22 Oct 2024

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The Nature Restoration Law (NRL), which was enacted by the European Union (EU), is an inspiring model from which India can draw points to tackle its growing environmental crises.

Background of the NRL in the EU

The Nature Restoration Law (NRL) was enacted by the European Union (EU) to restore ecosystems and combat biodiversity loss.
Adopted on June 17, 2024, by the EU’s Environmental Council.
Key objectives:
- Restore 20% of EU’s land and sea areas by 2030.
- Achieve full restoration of all ecosystems by 2050.
- Part of the EU’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and European Green Deal.
Target Areas:
- Forests, agricultural lands, rivers, urban spaces.
- Restoration measures include:
  - 25,000 km of free-flowing rivers.
  - Planting 3 billion trees by 2030.
Global Impact: NRL is a critical tool in reversing Europe’s biodiversity loss, where 80% of habitats are in poor condition.

Environmental Crisis in India

Land Degradation:
- 29.7% of India’s total geographical area is affected by land degradation (as per ISRO’s Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas, 2018-19).
- 97.85 million hectares of land degraded, with a significant increase since 2003-05.
- Major desertification hotspots in Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.
- Desertification: A growing concern, affecting 83.69 million hectares in 2018-19.
Ongoing Efforts:
- Green India Mission, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, and National Afforestation Programme have had positive effects.
- Integrated Watershed Management Programme is the second-largest watershed programme globally.

Need for a Comprehensive Nature Restoration Law in India

The scale of India’s environmental challenges requires a comprehensive nature restoration law similar to the EU’s NRL.
The law should have legally binding targets to restore degraded landscapes and ensure ecosystem sustainability.

Key Features of an Indian Nature Restoration Law

Restoration Targets:
- 20% of degraded land to be restored by 2030.
- Full restoration of ecosystems (forests, wetlands, rivers, agricultural lands, urban spaces) by 2050.
Wetland Restoration:
- Target restoring 30% of degraded wetlands by 2030.
- Priority wetlands like Sundarbans and Chilika Lake play critical roles in biodiversity and carbon sequestration.
Biodiversity in Agriculture:
- Promote agroforestry and sustainable agriculture practices.
- Use biodiversity indicators (e.g., butterfly or bird index) to monitor progress.
River Restoration:
- Focus on free-flowing rivers such as the Ganga and Yamuna.
- Address pollution, obstructions, and ecosystem damage in major rivers.
Urban Green Spaces:
- Ensure no net loss of urban green spaces.
- Promote urban forests in cities like Bengaluru and Delhi, where urban heat islands and air quality degradation are prominent.

Economic and Social Benefits of Ecosystem Restoration

Global Economic Impact:
- Nature restoration could generate $10 trillion annually by 2030 (World Economic Forum estimate).
Benefits for India:
- Agricultural Productivity: Restoring degraded land will enhance farm productivity.
- Water Security: Improved land restoration will contribute to better water availability.
- Job Creation: Millions of rural jobs could be created through ecosystem restoration efforts.
Contributing to SDGs:
- The law would help India meet SDG 15 (sustainable management of forests, combating desertification).
Climate Change Mitigation:
- Restoring ecosystems can help India enhance its carbon sinks, which is crucial for meeting Paris Agreement targets.
- Degraded lands lose their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.

Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans)

22 Oct 2024

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The tiny nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has played an outsized role in scientific discovery, contributing to four Nobel Prizes over the years.

Key Discoveries from C. elegans Research

C. elegans and Cellular Processes:
- The worm has helped scientists understand programmed cell death (apoptosis), a vital process in development and disease. This work contributed to the 2002 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, addressing how cells are instructed to kill themselves and how this process goes awry in conditions like AIDS, strokes, and degenerative diseases.
Gene Silencing and RNA Interference:
- In 2006, a Nobel Prize was awarded for the discovery of gene silencing via RNA interference (RNAi), a process first explored using C. elegans. This discovery led to the development of a new class of RNA-based drugs.
Cellular Imaging Techniques:
- In 2008, C. elegans contributed to breakthroughs in cellular imaging, as its use helped invent cellular “lanterns” that allowed scientists to visualize the inner workings of cells, earning a Chemistry Nobel.
Gary Ruvkun’s 2024 Nobel:
- Gary Ruvkun’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2024 was the fourth in a series of Nobel recognitions stemming from C. elegans research, reinforcing its role in fundamental biological discoveries.

Key Facts About Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans):

Size: 1 millimeter long.
Life Cycle: Completes in 3-5 days.
Cell Count: 959 cells.
Genome: First multicellular organism to have its full genome sequenced in 1998.
Sexual Reproduction: Hermaphroditic (self-fertilizing) and male.
Scientific Role: Used to study genetics, developmental biology, neuroscience, and cell biology.
Nobel Prize Contributions: Four Nobel Prizes, including those in Physiology, Medicine, and Chemistry, for advancements in cell death, gene silencing, and imaging.

IAEA’s 2024 Climate Change and Nuclear Power Report

22 Oct 2024

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The 2024 edition of the IAEA’s Climate Change and Nuclear Power report has been released, highlighting the need for a significant increase in investment to achieve goals for expanding nuclear power.
The new report was launched last week on the margins of the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) in Brazil.

Key Highlights:

Nuclear Power's Role in Climate Change Mitigation:
- Nuclear energy is gaining global interest as nations seek to enhance energy security and decarbonize economies.
- To meet net-zero emissions by 2050, nuclear power is projected to play a pivotal role, with a projected capacity increase of 2.5 times the current level by mid-century in the IAEA's high case scenario.
Investment Needs for Nuclear Expansion:
- Annual investment required to meet the IAEA's high case scenario (2050 nuclear capacity) is USD 125 billion, a significant increase from USD 50 billion annually from 2017-2023.
- If the aspirational goal to triple nuclear capacity (as pledged by over 20 countries at COP28) is to be met, USD 150 billion annually would be necessary.
- Challenges in Financing: Upfront capital for nuclear power plants is expensive, posing challenges, especially in market-driven economies and developing countries.
Private Sector and Multilateral Support:
- The private sector will need to play a larger role in financing nuclear projects.
- The IAEA is engaging with multilateral development banks to improve financing options for developing countries to invest in nuclear energy.
- Private finance initiatives: In September 2024, 14 major financial institutions signaled readiness to help fund nuclear newbuild projects.
Nuclear Financing at Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM):
- The IAEA report was launched during the 15th CEM in Brazil, a high-level forum for advancing clean energy technologies.
- Key stakeholders from Brazil, the IAEA, the International Energy Agency (IEA), and the U.S. discussed strategies for securing nuclear power financing, especially in the context of COP29 (2024) where clean energy financing will be a key focus.
Nuclear Energy in the EU’s Sustainable Financing:
- The EU taxonomy for sustainable activities now includes nuclear power, facilitating the issuance of green bonds for nuclear projects in Finland and France (2023).
- EDF received €4 billion in green bonds and around €7 billion in green loans (2022-2024).
Investment in Nuclear Power:
- To meet global climate goals, nuclear power capacity must increase by 1.8 times by 2035.
- Effective financing mechanisms are crucial to scale up nuclear power and develop the workforce and supply chains needed for the energy transition.
Policy Reform and International Partnerships:
- The report advocates for policy reforms and international partnerships to bridge the financing gap and accelerate nuclear power deployment, particularly in emerging markets and developing economies.
- Focus on technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs), which could play a role in the energy transition.
Key Areas to Support Nuclear Growth:
- Robust regulatory frameworks and new delivery models are essential to unlock investments.
- Development of skilled labor and effective stakeholder engagement is crucial for the expansion of nuclear energy.
Energy System Modelling and Planning:
- The IAEA’s energy system modelling tools assist countries like Brazil in planning nuclear power projects, including cost analyses for electricity generation and financing strategies.

Role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):

Mandate: The IAEA is the leading international body for promoting the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear energy and technologies.
Functions:
- Nuclear safeguards: Ensuring nuclear activities remain peaceful and preventing the diversion of nuclear materials for weapons purposes.
- Assisting member states with technical support, knowledge sharing, and strengthening nuclear safety and security.
- The IAEA also supports capacity-building and emergency response in case of nuclear or radiological incidents.
Structure:
- The IAEA General Conference is made up of all 178 member states, meeting annually to approve budgets and policies.
- The Board of Governors (35 members) meets several times a year to oversee the agency's activities and appointments.
Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
- The IAEA is part of the United Nations family, reporting to both the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.

Egypt becomes 2nd country in 2024 to be declared ‘malaria-free’

22 Oct 2024

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Egypt was officially declared ‘malaria-free’ by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Key Highlights:

Egypt became the second country (after Cabo Verde) to be certified malaria-free in 2024.

It is the fifth African country to achieve this milestone, joining Morocco, UAE, and Cabo Verde in the malaria-free list.
WHO Certification Criteria:
- A country is certified malaria-free if it can prove the Anopheles mosquito-borne malaria transmission chain has been broken for at least three years.
- The country must also have the capacity to prevent the re-establishment of transmission.
About Malaria:
- Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
- It is a life-threatening disease primarily found in tropical countries.
- Symptoms include fever, headache, and chills, which can be mild and difficult to diagnose.
- Prevention mainly involves vector control interventions, and treatment involves early diagnosis and use of antimalarial drugs.

Russia's Izdeliye 305 (LMUR) Missile

21 Oct 2024

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Russian state corporation Rostec has claimed that its Light Multipurpose Guided Rocket, also known as Izdeliye 305 or “Product 305,” has demonstrated remarkable resistance to jamming and interference on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Missile Overview

Name: Izdeliye 305 (Product 305), also known as LMUR (Light Multipurpose Guided Rocket)
Primary Use: Deployed by Russia’s Mi-28NM and Ka-52M attack helicopters.
Function: Designed to target and destroy armored vehicles, fortifications, pillboxes, and watercraft with high precision.

Key Features

Sniper-Like Accuracy: The missile is touted for its exceptional precision in targeting, making it one of Russia’s most successful guided weapons.
Resistance to Jamming: The missile’s control channel has shown remarkable resistance to enemy electronic warfare (EW) systems, making it effective even in contested environments.
- No instances of the missile's control channel being suppressed during the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Versatile Guidance Systems: The missile operates in several modes:
- Fire-and-Forget: The missile locks onto the target before launch and operates autonomously post-launch.
- Remote Control Mode: The operator guides the missile to the target after it locks onto coordinates and transmits live imagery to the operator’s screen.
- Inertial + Homing Mode: The missile initially flies inertially toward target coordinates, then activates its homing system for final target guidance.
High Explosive Warhead: Equipped with a 25-kg high-explosive fragmentation warhead, the LMUR is effective against a variety of targets.

Technical Specifications

Weight: 105 kg (231 lbs)
Range: Up to 9 miles, double the range of traditional Russian anti-tank missiles, providing the tactical advantage of engaging from beyond line-of-sight.
Warhead: 25 kg high-explosive fragmentation for effective target destruction.
Guidance: A combination of inertial navigation, satellite positioning, thermal imaging, and a two-way communication channel for real-time control.

Deployment and Use

Helicopter Integration: Primarily used on Mi-28NM and Ka-52M attack helicopters, and also on the Mi-8MNP-2 for special operations.
Combat Experience:
- The missile was actively used in Ukraine where it played a key role in countering Ukraine’s NATO-backed counteroffensive operations.
- It was previously tested in Syria against various targets, showcasing its capabilities before full operational deployment in 2022.

Significance in Ukraine Conflict

Impact on Ukrainian Forces: The missile’s long range and resistance to EW have made it a critical component of Russia’s aerial operations, hampering Ukraine’s battlefield progress, particularly against heavily fortified positions and NATO-backed counteroffensive efforts.

Strategic Advantage: The missile’s ability to engage targets from a distance while evading jamming attempts gives it a significant edge in modern warfare.

National Water Awards 2023

21 Oct 2024

Funga Taxonomic Kingdom

21 Oct 2024

WHO Approves First Mpox Diagnostic Test for Emergency Use

21 Oct 2024

New 'Lady Justice' Statue in the Supreme Court

21 Oct 2024

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Recently, the Chief Justice of India unveiled the ‘new lady justice’ statue in the Supreme Court premises that replaced the ‘original lady justice’. The new statue is clothed in a saree, has shed the blindfold and holds scales on one hand and the Indian Constitution on the other.

Symbolism of the New Statue

Design:
Clad in a saree, symbolizing Indian tradition.
No blindfold, with open eyes, conveying that justice "sees" all equally.
Holds the Indian Constitution in one hand and scales of justice in the other.
Significance:
Aimed at decolonization of the judiciary, replacing colonial symbols with representations that reflect India's identity and values.
The open eyes represent that justice is not blind, addressing social diversity, discrimination, and constitutional provisions for upliftment of underprivileged sections.
The Constitution in place of a sword symbolizes its supremacy in India’s legal system.

Historical Context of Lady Justice

Origin:
Rooted in Roman mythology; Justitia, the goddess of justice, symbolized by scales, sword, and a blindfold.
Blindfold added in the Renaissance as a satire on corrupt legal systems but later reinterpreted as a symbol of impartiality, representing justice without bias, irrespective of wealth, power, or social status.
Scales: Balance in weighing both sides before judgment.
Sword: Authority and power of law, to protect and punish.

Rationale for Change in India

Colonial Legacy:
The 'lady justice' symbol became prominent during British rule, reflecting colonial influence in India's legal system.
Decolonial Intent:
The shift from Western attire (robe) to a saree connects the statue to Indian traditions.
Open eyes emphasize that Indian justice is not blind and addresses social inequalities directly.
The Constitution's prominence underscores its role as the supreme guiding document in the Indian legal system.

Current Judicial System Challenges

Pending Cases:
Over 5 crore cases are pending across courts in India.
Supreme Court recently dismissed a petition for a three-year timeline to resolve the backlog, citing the overwhelming volume of cases.
Urgent Reforms Needed:
Finalize the Memorandum of Procedure:
Still pending after 8 years; addresses transparency and accountability in judicial appointments.
Representation in Judiciary:
- - Backward classes, SCs, STs, and minorities are underrepresented in higher judiciary (less than 25%), and women are underrepresented (less than 15%).
  - Appointments should reflect India's social diversity.
Vacancies in Courts:
- High Courts operate at 60-70% strength, contributing to a massive case backlog of over 60 lakh cases.
- Lower courts have 4.4 crore pending cases; vacancies must be filled by states promptly.
Priority for Constitutional Cases:
- Cases concerning the constitutional validity of laws and individual liberty should be prioritized by the judiciary.

Conclusion

The new Lady Justice statue is not just a symbolic change but reflects a broader effort to realign India’s judiciary with its social and constitutional values.
To ensure fair and prompt justice, there is an urgent need to address systemic delays, fill vacancies, and improve diversity in judicial appointments.
Only then will the judiciary truly embody the principles of impartiality and justice, as represented by the new statue.

2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival

20 Oct 2024

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The 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival was held with the aim of promoting lighthouse tourism and celebrating India’s maritime legacy.

Strategic Importance of the Lighthouse Projects

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has invested significantly in developing lighthouses as tourist hubs. The festival marks a concerted effort to integrate tourism with the preservation of these iconic structures.
Lighthouse tourism has witnessed a remarkable increase of over 400% in visitor numbers since 2014, as part of India's broader vision to promote the blue economy.
- - From just 4 lakh visitors in 2014, the footfall surged to 16 lakh in 2023-24, with over 9 lakh tourists already in the first half of FY 2024-25.

Key Projects and Announcements at the Festival

New Lighthouses: The announcement of the two new lighthouses at Chaumuck and Dhamra along Odisha’s coastline is significant for enhancing coastal infrastructure and promoting maritime tourism in the state.
Kalwan Reef Lighthouse: Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, this lighthouse is part of a broader effort to enhance maritime navigation and heritage conservation along India’s western coastline.
Development of Coastal Communities: Highlighted the importance of empowering coastal communities, particularly those living around lighthouses, to preserve and promote these structures as national cultural icons. These communities are expected to play a crucial role in lighthouse preservation, as well as in tourism and local economic development.
Paradip Port Initiatives: Additionally, major infrastructure projects at Paradip Port, such as a stacker-cum-reclaimer and a flyover bridge, were inaugurated to further bolster the port’s capabilities and enhance its role in maritime logistics. The Sagarmala Programme also continues to transform Paradip Port into a mega port with a projected handling capacity of 500 MTPA by 2047.

Economic and Employment Impact

The development of 75 iconic lighthouses across 9 coastal states and one Union Territory is not only aimed at tourism development but also focuses on job creation. As of 2024:

More than 150 direct jobs and 500 indirect jobs have been created in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and local crafts, driven by the increasing footfall at these tourist destinations.
The creation of modern amenities at these lighthouses, such as museums, amphitheaters, and children’s parks, has helped in transforming lighthouses into multifaceted tourism hubs that attract both domestic and international tourists.

Collaborative Efforts for Preservation and Promotion

Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encouraging collaboration between the government, local communities, and private stakeholders to develop and maintain lighthouses as sustainable tourist destinations.
National Framework: A central association will be created to manage coastal societies surrounding lighthouses, enabling local communities to actively participate in their preservation, protection, and promotion.
Cultural Integration: The event also underscored the need for integrating cultural heritage with tourism development, using the lighthouses as platforms to showcase local art, cuisine, and history.

COP16 to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

20 Oct 2024

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The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) will take place in Cali, Colombia, from October 21, 2024. This marks the first gathering since the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) in 2022.

About Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

Adopted in 1992, the CBD is the most comprehensive international treaty focused on biodiversity conservation, the sustainable use of natural resources, and the fair sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources. It has been ratified by 196 countries, making it a key global instrument for biodiversity governance.

Key Objectives of the CBD

Conservation of Biodiversity: Protecting genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity.
Sustainable Use of Resources: Ensuring resources are used in a way that does not deplete or degrade biodiversity.
Fair Sharing of Benefits: Ensuring that benefits from genetic resources are shared equitably with countries of origin.

Notable Frameworks within CBD

Nagoya Protocol (2010): Establishes a framework for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the utilization of genetic resources.
Cartagena Protocol (2000): Regulates the transboundary movement of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology.

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)

Adoption: The KMGBF was adopted at COP15 in 2022, following the Kunming Declaration.
Targets: The framework includes 23 targets for 2030 and 4 global goals for 2050, aimed at reversing biodiversity loss and promoting sustainability.
- Notably, the 30x30 Target aims for 30% of the world’s land and oceans to be conserved by 2030. This is a key agenda item at COP16.
- The framework also emphasizes equitable access to genetic resources and the sharing of benefits from their use (Target 13).

Challenges and Issues at COP16

Benefit-Sharing from Digital Sequence Information (DSI):
- A key issue is the fair sharing of benefits from digital sequence information (DSI) on genetic resources. The adoption of a global mechanism for this issue is still pending, as negotiations between developed and developing countries remain unresolved.
  - Developed nations advocate for unrestricted access to genetic materials in exchange for voluntary contributions to a global fund.
  - Developing nations seek a more equitable system, aligned with the CBD's principles of fair benefit-sharing.
30x30 Target Progress:
- The 30x30 target, which aims to conserve 30% of land and oceans by 2030, is far from being met:
  - 17.5% of land and 8.4% of oceans are currently under protection.
  - Concerns persist about the effectiveness of these protected areas, as studies suggest they may not be sufficient for long-term biodiversity conservation.
Financial Commitments (Target 19):
- Developed countries have pledged $20 billion annually for biodiversity financing by 2025. However, progress is slow:
  - By September 2024, only $8.2 billion (41% of the target) had been committed.
  - COP16 will assess whether this target can be met, with further announcements expected.
Implementation Gaps:
- Countries are required to set national targets aligned with the KMGBF. As of COP16, only 100 parties have submitted their targets, and 30 countries have updated their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs).
- A significant implementation gap remains in translating these targets into concrete actions.

Focus Areas for COP16

Strengthening the 30x30 Target:
- COP16 will push for enhanced efforts to meet the 30x30 conservation goal. There is a need for better management and monitoring of protected areas to ensure they contribute to biodiversity preservation.
Finalizing Benefit-Sharing Mechanism:
- Countries will focus on finalizing the multilateral benefit-sharing mechanism for genetic resources and DSI. The goal is to ensure that countries benefiting from genetic resources share those benefits with the countries of origin, addressing the issue of biopiracy and ensuring equitable access.
Financial Commitment and Tracking:
- The financial shortfall for biodiversity conservation will be a critical discussion point. Effective monitoring of the biodiversity finance tracker will be needed to ensure that developed countries meet their $20 billion/year commitment.
Addressing Implementation Gaps:
- There is a need to enhance monitoring and reporting mechanisms, improve national strategies, and align financial support with on-ground conservation efforts.

eShram-One Stop Solution

20 Oct 2024

Kala-azar Disease

20 Oct 2024

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India to seek WHO certification for eliminating disease.

Overview of Kala-Azar (Visceral Leishmaniasis)

Cause: Kala-azar is caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani, transmitted by the bite of infected female sandflies (Phlebotomus argentipes in India).
Symptoms: Includes irregular fevers, weight loss, swelling of the spleen and liver, severe anaemia. If untreated, it is fatal in over 95% of cases.
Affected Areas: Historically, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and parts of Uttar Pradesh report the highest number of cases, with Bihar alone accounting for over 70% of India's cases.

India's Achievement in Kala-Azar Control

Current Status:
- India has managed to maintain Kala-azar case numbers below 1 per 10,000 population for two consecutive years.
- This meets the WHO's criteria for elimination certification.
2023 and 2024 Statistics:
- 2023: 595 cases and 4 deaths.
- 2024 (so far): 339 cases and 1 death.

WHO Certification for Elimination

WHO's Target: The World Health Organization aims to eliminate Kala-azar as a public health problem by 2030.
Elimination Criteria: A country can be certified when:
- Local transmission is interrupted for a specified period.
- There is a system in place to prevent re-emergence of the disease.
Global Context: Bangladesh is the first country to have eliminated Kala-azar, receiving WHO certification in October 2024, after reporting fewer than 1 case per 10,000 people for three consecutive years.

India's Kala-Azar Elimination Strategies

National Health Policy (2002): Initially set the target to eliminate Kala-azar by 2010, revised multiple times, and is now aiming for 2030.
Key Strategies:
- Active Case Detection: Identification and treatment of all cases.
- Vector Control: Targeting sandfly breeding grounds through insecticides and environmental management.
- Community Awareness: Educating the public on disease prevention and early diagnosis.
- Improved Surveillance: Ensuring rapid diagnosis and treatment access, including the use of the rK39 diagnostic kit.
- Integrated Vector Management: Combining insecticide spraying with environmental changes to reduce sandfly populations.

Challenges and Areas of Focus

Root Causes: Persistent issues like poverty, inadequate sanitation, and malnutrition contribute to the spread of Kala-azar, particularly in rural, impoverished areas.
Long-term Solutions:
- Strengthen vector control and improve sanitation.
- Address socio-economic factors like poverty and displacement.
- Invest in research for vaccines and new treatments.

Public Health Impact and the Way Forward

Elimination Milestone: If India continues to reduce cases, it will join Bangladesh in eliminating Kala-azar as a public health threat.
Sustaining Gains:
- Surveillance and quick response to new cases remain critical.
- Expand access to rapid diagnostic tools and effective anti-parasitic treatments.
- Focus on inter-sectoral convergence, integrating efforts from various government sectors, including health, sanitation, and housing.

Naseem-Al-Bahr 2024

20 Oct 2024

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Indo-Oman bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr was held in Goa from October 2024.

Naseem-Al-Bahr Exercise Overview

Indian and Omani Participants:
- Indian Navy: INS Trikand (warship) and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
- Royal Navy of Oman: Vessel Al Seeb.

Initiation: Launched in 1993, marking a long-standing strategic partnership between India and Oman.
Structure: The exercise is conducted in two phases:
- Harbour Phase:
  - Professional Interactions: Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE), planning conferences.
  - Social & Sports Engagements: Informal activities to foster mutual understanding.
- Sea Phase:
  - Naval Operations:
    - Gun firings at surface inflatable targets.
    - Close-range anti-aircraft firings.
    - Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS).
  - Helicopter Operations: INS Trikand’s helicopter performed cross-deck landings and Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP) with RNOV Al Seeb.
  - Aircraft Support: Dornier aircraft provided Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT) data to enhance operational coordination.

Key Highlights of the 2024 Exercise

Interoperability: The exercise focused on improving operational coordination and enhancing mutual understanding of naval practices.
Cohesion: The Indian Navy Sea Riders embarked on RNOV Al Seeb to further strengthen the bilateral relationship.

Strategic Significance

Strengthening Ties: Naseem-Al-Bahr reaffirms the strong strategic relationship between India and Oman.
Regional Collaboration: This exercise exemplifies India's growing collaboration with like-minded nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Broader Defence Relations:
- Oman is the first GCC country to conduct such bilateral naval exercises with India.
- Both countries also engage in other defence exercises:
  - Army: Al Najah.
  - Air Force: Eastern Bridge.

Trade Relations Between India and Oman (2022):

Oil: India is the second-largest market for Oman's crude oil exports, following China.
Non-oil Exports: India is Oman's fourth-largest market for non-oil exports, after UAE, US, and Saudi Arabia.
Imports: India is the second-largest source of Oman's imports, following the UAE.
Ongoing Trade Agreement: Both nations are currently negotiating a trade agreement to further boost bilateral economic cooperation.

Musaned Digital Platform

19 Oct 2024

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Saudi Arabia Launches Musaned Digital Platform to Ensure Wage Protection for Foreign Workers.

Key Highlights:

Purpose of Musaned:
- Musaned is a digital platform launched by Saudi Arabia to ensure wage protection and improve working conditions for foreign workers, particularly those in domestic (household) employment.
- The platform aims to safeguard workers' rights, create a stable working environment, and reduce illegal immigration.
Coverage:
- The platform benefits foreign workers from 10 African countries (including Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya) and 9 Asian countries (including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka).
Key Features:
- Employment Contract Access: Workers can check and track their employment contracts and receive updates via the Musaned labour app.
- Financial Transaction Tracking: The platform monitors financial transactions between employers and foreign workers, ensuring employers meet their contractual obligations.
- Integration with Benefits: Musaned can be linked to contract insurance and health benefits, providing additional protection for workers.
Objectives:
- Wage Protection: Ensures timely and fair wages for foreign workers.
- Human Rights Protection: Promotes human rights by holding employers accountable for fulfilling their obligations.
- Vision 2030 Alignment: Supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by improving the work environment and contributing to legal labor migration.
Impact:
- The platform is expected to help secure workers’ rights, especially for domestic workers, and provide a more transparent, accountable framework for employment relations in the country.

Musaned is a significant step by Saudi Arabia to enhance the security and welfare of foreign workers, aligning with the Kingdom's broader goals of economic reform and social development under Vision 2030. The platform will provide greater transparency, protect workers’ rights, and contribute to a more regulated and sustainable labor market.

National Green Hydrogen Mission

19 Oct 2024

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The Union Government has sanctioned three pilot projects under the National Green Hydrogen Mission to explore the use of green hydrogen in steel production.
- The initiative aims to demonstrate safe and efficient hydrogen-based steelmaking processes, validate their technical feasibility, and evaluate economic viability for low-carbon steel production.
Objectives of the Scheme:
- Identify and test advanced technologies for utilizing green hydrogen in the steel sector.
- Demonstrate safe and secure operation of hydrogen-based steel production.
- Validate technical and economic feasibility, contributing to decarbonization of iron and steel manufacturing.
Pilot Project Components:
- - 100% Hydrogen-based Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) using vertical shaft furnaces.
  - Hydrogen use in Blast Furnace to reduce coal/coke consumption.
  - Hydrogen injection in vertical shaft-based DRI units.
Sanctioned Pilot Projects:

Matrix Gas and Renewables Ltd
- Capacity: 50 tons per day (TPD).
- Consortium Partners: Gensol Engineering Ltd, IIT Bhubaneswar, Metsol AB (Sweden).
Simplex Castings Ltd
- Capacity: 40 TPD.
- Consortium Partners: BSBK Pvt. Ltd., Ten Eight Investment, IIT Bhilai.
Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL)
- Capacity: 3,200 TPD (Ranchi).

Financial Support:
- Total Government Funding: ?347 crore for the three projects.
- These pilot projects are expected to be commissioned within the next three years and may serve as a blueprint for scaling up such technologies in India.
About the National Green Hydrogen Mission:
- Launched: January 4, 2023.
- Total Budget: ?19,744 crore (up to FY 2029-30).
- Primary Goal: Establish India as a global hub for green hydrogen production and export while fostering decarbonization in sectors like steel, mobility, and energy.
Key Features of the Mission:
- SIGHT (Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition):
  - Supports domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and promotes the production and use of green hydrogen.
- Expected Outcomes by 2030:
  - Green Hydrogen Production: At least 5 million metric tons (MMT) annually.
  - Renewable Energy: Addition of 125 GW in renewable energy capacity.
  - Investment: Over ?8 lakh crore in green hydrogen technologies.
  - Employment: Creation of 6 lakh jobs.
  - Reduction in Fossil Fuel Imports: Savings of over ?1 lakh crore.
  - GHG Emissions Reduction: Avoidance of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions.
Phase-wise Implementation:
- Phase I (2022-26): Focus on demand creation and initial deployment in existing hydrogen-using sectors (like steel and mobility).
- Phase II (2026-30): Expansion to new sectors with a push toward commercialization of green hydrogen.

The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to significantly decarbonize India’s steel sector and other industries by leveraging hydrogen technology. With ?347 crore allocated for pilot projects in steelmaking, the initiative sets the stage for scalable, low-carbon steel production, contributing to India's clean energy transition and supporting its goal to become a global leader in green hydrogen.

Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV)

19 Oct 2024

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GE’s LM2500 Marine Engines to Power Indian Navy’s Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV)

Key Highlights:

Engine Selection:
- General Electric’s LM2500 marine gas turbines have been chosen to power the Indian Navy's Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV), currently being built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
Project Details:
- Number of Vessels: Six NGMVs are under construction.
- Contract Value: ?9,805 crore, awarded by the Defence Ministry.
- Delivery Schedule: The first deliveries are expected to commence in March 2027.
Key Components and Suppliers:
- GE Aerospace will deliver six LM2500 engine kits to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for assembly and testing at their Industrial and Marine Gas Turbine Division in Bengaluru.
- GE will also supply the composite base, enclosure, and a full set of auxiliary systems for the gas turbines.
LM2500 Marine Gas Turbine:
- The LM2500 turbine is known for its reliability and high power output, making it ideal for the NGMV mission.
- Top Speed: 35 knots (64 km/h).
- It is central to the propulsion system, meeting the stealth and power demands of the new missile vessels.
Capabilities of NGMVs:
- Role: Designed for offensive missions, the NGMVs will be equipped for anti-surface warfare, maritime strike operations, and sea denial.
- Speed & Stealth: Capable of speeds up to 35 knots while maintaining stealth, these vessels will be difficult for enemy ships to detect.
- Weapons: They will carry a variety of anti-surface weapons, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, loitering munitions, unmanned vehicles, and other guided weapons.
Operational Roles:
- Offensive: The NGMVs will engage in attacking enemy warships, merchant ships, and land-based targets.
- Defensive: They will also be used for local naval defense operations, including the seaward defense of offshore development areas and defending choke points.
Strategic Importance:
- The NGMVs will significantly enhance India’s maritime strike capability and provide a formidable presence in strategic sea routes, especially in regions like choke points and offshore development areas.
Cochin Shipyard’s Role:
- After successfully constructing INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, CSL is now focusing on the NGMV project, along with building anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts for the Indian Navy, currently in various stages of construction.
Partnerships:
- In 2023, GE Aerospace and HAL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand their collaboration on marine gas turbines, including assembly, inspection, and testing (AIT) of the LM500 turbines.
- To date, GE Aerospace has delivered 24 marine gas turbine kits to HAL, supporting India’s Make-In-India initiative.
Global Impact:
- The LM2500 gas turbine is used by 714 vessels globally, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and availability in critical maritime defense systems.

First Chief Minister of J&K UT Takes Charge

19 Oct 2024

Karmayogi Saptah – National Learning Week

19 Oct 2024

Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS)

18 Oct 2024

Scam se Bacho Campaign

18 Oct 2024

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Government and Meta join forces for "Scam se Bacho" Campaign to tackle rising online scams.

Key Details

The "Scam Se Bacho" initiative aims to create a safer, more secure digital India by empowering users to protect themselves against growing cyber threats, contributing to the resilience of India’s digital progress.
Objective: To combat rising online scams and cyber frauds by promoting digital safety and vigilance across India.

Partners:
- Meta (formerly Facebook)
- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
- Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB)
- Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)

Purpose and Vision

Goal: Empower Indian citizens with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from online scams and cyber threats.
Strategic Focus:
- Foster a culture of digital safety and vigilance.
- Align with the Digital India initiative, which has seen extraordinary growth in digital services, including 900 million internet users and leadership in UPI transactions.
- The campaign aims to build a national movement to safeguard citizens, emphasizing the importance of cyber literacy and digital security.

Key Points

Growing Cybersecurity Threats:
- India has seen a surge in cyber frauds, with 1.1 million cases reported in 2023.
- The government is committed to addressing these threats through stronger cybersecurity measures and enhancing digital literacy.
Meta’s Role:
- Meta’s global expertise in online safety will be leveraged to equip citizens with the knowledge to prevent cyber scams.
- Meta’s collaboration with the government aims to extend the reach of the campaign nationwide.

Features of the "Scam Se Bacho" Campaign

Nationwide Reach:
- The initiative targets India’s 900 million internet users, making it a comprehensive national effort.
Government Support:
- Backed by key ministries to ensure alignment with national digital and cybersecurity goals under Digital India.
- Whole-of-government approach to raise awareness on cyber safety.
Educational Focus:
- The campaign emphasizes educating citizens on how to recognize and prevent online scams and threats.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna Appointed as Next Chief Justice of India

18 Oct 2024

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Justice Sanjiv Khanna Appointed as Next Chief Justice of India, Will Assume Office on November 11

Appointment:
- Justice Sanjiv Khanna has been appointed as the 51st Chief Justice of India by President Droupadi Murmu.
- He is set to take office on November 11, 2024, succeeding Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, who is retiring on November 10, 2024.
Tenure:
- Justice Khanna's tenure will be relatively short, lasting only six months, as he is scheduled to retire on March 13, 2025.

Career and Background

Education and Early Career:
- Justice Khanna is a graduate of Delhi University’s Campus Law Centre.
- He enrolled as an advocate in 1983 and primarily practiced before the Delhi High Court.
- Prior to his elevation to the Delhi High Court in 2005, he served as the Senior Standing Counsel for the Income Tax Department and the standing counsel for civil matters for the Delhi government.
Judicial Career:
- Supreme Court Appointment: Justice Khanna was appointed to the Supreme Court in January 2019, despite not having served as Chief Justice of a High Court. He was elevated over other senior judges from the Delhi High Court, such as Justices Rajendra Menon and Pradeep Nandrajog, whose names were initially recommended but not forwarded to the government.
Key Contributions:
- Justice Khanna has been part of several significant rulings, including:
  - February 2024: Part of the five-judge bench that struck down the Electoral Bond Scheme as unconstitutional.
  - 2023: Contributed to upholding the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution.
  - 2023: Authored a ruling granting the Supreme Court the power to directly grant divorce under Article 142 on the grounds of "irretrievable breakdown of marriage."
Administrative Role:
- Justice Khanna currently serves as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).

Process of Appointment of Chief Justice of India (CJI)

Seniority Principle: The CJI is typically the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court.
Memorandum of Procedure (MoP): The Law Ministry requests a recommendation from the outgoing CJI for his successor.
Presidential Appointment: After receiving the recommendation, the President of India formally appoints the new CJI.
Tenure and Retirement: The CJI serves until the age of 65. Upon retirement, the senior-most judge becomes the next CJI.
Merit and Integrity Considerations: In addition to seniority, merit and integrity play crucial roles in the selection process for the CJI.

Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum

18 Oct 2024

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Recently, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) inaugurated the third Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum.

Purpose and Goals

Objective: To accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems to address global challenges:
- Eradicate poverty (SDG 1)
- End hunger and malnutrition (SDG 2)
- Reduce inequalities (SDG 10)
Target: Focuses on improving the lives of poor and vulnerable populations by:
- Raising incomes
- Enhancing nutritional status and overall well-being
- Strengthening resilience to climate change

Key Features of the HIH Initiative

Launched: 2019 as a flagship program by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Primary Focus Areas:
- Geospatial and analytics-driven approach: Utilizes advanced geospatial modeling, biophysical, socio-economic data, and analytics to identify key territories for intervention.
- Market-based transformation: Aims to create sustainable, market-based solutions for agricultural development and food systems transformation.
- Value Chain Development: Focus on developing value chains for priority commodities to boost incomes and food security.
- Agro-Industry Building: Strengthening agro-industries and introducing efficient water management and precision agriculture systems.
- Digitalization: Introducing digital services for better agricultural planning and productivity.

Key Areas of Intervention

Agricultural Transformation: Identifying territories with the highest potential for transformation.
Sustainable Management: Focus on sustainable practices in forestry, fisheries, and land management.
Climate Resilience: Building systems to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce vulnerability.
Food Loss Reduction: Addressing food losses and waste across agricultural value chains.

Global Participation

Member Countries: 72 countries have joined the initiative, collaborating on shared goals for agrifood systems transformation.

The Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum

Purpose: A platform to mobilize investments for the successful implementation of agrifood transformation programs under the HIH initiative.
Event: The third Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum was recently opened by the FAO Director-General to discuss challenges and solutions for global agrifood system transformation.

About the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Established: October 1945, it is the oldest permanent specialized agency of the United Nations.
Mandate:
- Improve nutrition.
- Increase agricultural productivity.
- Raise the standard of living in rural areas.
- Contribute to global economic growth.
Headquarters: Rome, Italy.
Members: 194 Member States and the European Union.

Key Role of FAO:

FAO leads international efforts to combat hunger and malnutrition worldwide.
Supports member countries in implementing agricultural and food security programs.

Strategic Importance

The Hand-in-Hand Initiative is integral to FAO’s mandate, focusing on countries with the most pressing needs due to poverty, hunger, or crises (natural or man-made).
It enhances cooperation among nations to tackle global food security challenges, with a particular emphasis on countries with limited national capacities.

Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS)

18 Oct 2024

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The Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSE&L), Ministry of Education, hosted a two-day Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) knowledge sharing workshop in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

Event Overview:
- Two-day workshop hosted by the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSE&L), Ministry of Education.
- Focus areas: School-to-Work Transition and Strengthening the Assessment System.
Key Objectives:
- To enhance school-to-work transitions.
- To discuss strengthening educational assessment systems.
- Align education with future workforce needs as per the National Education Policy 2020.

Day 1: School-to-Work Transition

Panel Discussions:

Policy Frameworks:
- Role of National Education Policy 2020, National Curriculum Framework (NCF), and National Credit Framework (NCrF) in school-to-work transitions.
- Focus on integrating skill education into school curricula, fostering multidisciplinary learning, and continuous evaluation to meet industry standards.
- Emphasis on internships, apprenticeships, and flexible learning pathways.
Curriculum Integration:
- Need for integrated efforts across departments and aligning curriculum with industry demands.
- Focus on strengthening 21st-century skills in CBSE schools.
Career Counselling and Psychometric Analysis:
- Focus on using psychometric assessments for career counselling and preparing students for future work environments.
Work-Based Learning:
- Discussed partnerships with industry for work-based learning.
- Effective collaborations between schools and industry for internships, placements, and best practices.

Day 2: Strengthening Assessment System

Psychometric Analysis & Career Counselling:
- Smt. Idzes Angmo Kundan (Principal Secretary, Maharashtra) presented the 3 P approach to career choices: Personal Interest, Parental Approach, and Possible Opportunities.
Enhancing Student Outcomes:
- Discussed improving student outcomes by strengthening assessment systems.
- Shared innovations in educational assessments.
- Highlighted innovative assessment practices for future education.
VSK Implementation (Chhattisgarh):
- Discussed VSK modes, data analysis, and strategies for integrating assessment outcomes with learning objectives.
Strengthening Assessment Cells:
- Advocated for the establishment of assessment cells.
- Discussed best practices and challenges in strengthening assessment cells across states.

World Energy Outlook 2024

17 Oct 2024

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The International Energy Agency's (IEA) World Energy Outlook 2024 offers an in-depth analysis of global energy trends, emphasizing the shift towards clean energy, growing energy demand, and the effects of geopolitical conflicts.

Key Highlights:

Economic Growth:
- India was the fastest-growing major economy in 2023 with a 7.8% growth rate.
- On track to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028.
- Surpassed China in 2023 to become the most populous country globally, despite a fertility rate below replacement level.
Energy Demand Surge:
- India is projected to experience the highest increase in energy demand over the next decade.
- By 2035, India’s total energy demand is expected to rise by 35%, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and increased living standards.
Urbanization and Infrastructure Growth:
- Over 12,000 cars are expected to be added to Indian roads daily by 2035.
- Built-up space is set to increase by over 1 billion square meters annually, surpassing the total built space of South Africa.
Industrial Expansion:
- Iron and steel production is expected to grow by 70% by 2035.
- Cement output is set to increase by 55%.
- Air conditioner stock to grow more than 4.5 times, with electricity demand from cooling expected to exceed Mexico’s total consumption in 2035.
Energy Supply & Coal:
- India’s electricity generation capacity is projected to nearly triple to 1,400 GW by 2035.
- Coal remains a dominant energy source despite growth in renewables:
  - Coal-fired power capacity will increase by 60 GW by 2030.
  - Coal will continue to account for over 30% of electricity generation even as solar PV expands.
  - By 2035, coal use in industries like steel and cement will grow by 50%.
Renewable Energy & Clean Tech:
- India is on track to become a global leader in renewable energy, with a nearly 3x increase in electricity generation capacity.
- The country is expected to have the world’s third-largest installed battery storage capacity by 2030.
- By 2030, low-emission energy sources (solar, wind, nuclear) are expected to generate over 50% of India’s electricity.
Electric Vehicles & Oil Demand:
- The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to peak India’s oil demand by the 2030s, reducing reliance on oil for transportation.
- Oil demand for transport will decline as EVs proliferate, though demand for oil in other sectors (e.g., petrochemicals) will continue.
Net Zero Target:
- India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
- By 2035, clean energy generation could be 20% higher than current policy projections, thanks to electric mobility, hydrogen use, and improved energy efficiency.
- CO2 emissions are projected to be 25% lower than under the Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS).
Policy Support:
- India’s clean energy goals are backed by government initiatives, such as:
  - PM-KUSUM scheme for solar energy in agriculture.
  - National Solar Mission.
  - Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme to boost domestic solar PV manufacturing.
Global Energy Trends:
- Geopolitical Risks: Global energy security remains affected by geopolitical tensions (e.g., Russia-Ukraine conflict, Middle East tensions).
- Energy Transition: Global shift toward clean energy, with solar and wind power investments accelerating.
- Oil & Gas Surplus: Oil and LNG supply expected to increase, putting downward pressure on prices by the late 2020s.
- Electric Mobility: EVs projected to account for 50% of new car sales by 2030.
- Energy Efficiency: Despite efforts, global targets for doubling energy efficiency by 2030 are unlikely to be met with current policies.

IEA Overview:

The International Energy Agency (IEA) provides analysis and policy advice on energy security, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
Established in 1974, it now includes 31 member countries and 13 association countries, including India.
Major publications: World Energy Outlook, India Energy Outlook, World Energy Investment Report.

India’s Semiconductor Market Projected to Surpass $100 Billion by 2030

17 Oct 2024

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India's semiconductor market is poised to exceed $100 billion by 2030, according to a report from the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association and Counterpoint Research. Currently valued at $45 billion in 2023, the market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 13%, driven by demand in mobile handsets and IT sectors, which together account for over 75% of revenues.

Key Highlights:

Growth Drivers: The growth is supported by strong demand for electronics and government initiatives like the production-linked incentive scheme. Semiconductors are essential for various industries, including electronics, defense, healthcare, and automotive.
Importance of Semiconductors: These materials, which include silicon and germanium, are crucial for electronic devices. They can conduct electricity under certain conditions, making them fundamental in transistors, integrated circuits, and devices like LEDs and solar cells.
Global Context: The global semiconductor supply chain has shown vulnerabilities, particularly during the chip shortage of 2021. Major producers include Taiwan (44% market share), China (28%), South Korea (12%), the U.S. (6%), and Japan (2%). Countries are now focusing on building domestic chip industries to reduce dependency on a few key suppliers.

Factors Favoring India's Growth in Semiconductors:

Skilled Workforce: India has a vast pool of STEM graduates, providing a skilled workforce for semiconductor manufacturing and design.
Cost Advantage: Lower labor costs and efficient supply chains position India favorably for semiconductor manufacturing.
Supply Chain Diversification: India is becoming a hub for back-end assembly and testing operations, with potential for front-end manufacturing.
Government Support: Initiatives like Semicon India and the India Semiconductor Mission aim to create a robust semiconductor ecosystem, offering substantial fiscal incentives for companies.

Government Initiatives:

Semiconductor Fab Scheme: Provides 50% project cost support for semiconductor manufacturing.
Display Fab Scheme: Offers similar support for display manufacturing.
Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme: Trains 85,000 engineers across academic and R&D institutions.
Recent approvals for the establishment of semiconductor plants in Gujarat and Assam further bolster this initiative.

Nobel Prize for Economics 2024

17 Oct 2024

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The winners of this year’s Economics Nobel, or the Sveriges Riksbank Prize awarded for economic sciences, Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson (AJR), pioneers in new institutional economics, emphasised the role of institutions in the direction of development.

The Great Divergence

Definition: Refers to the economic and political development gap between the West and East, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Key Factors:
- Industrialization in Western Europe enabled the projection of political power globally.
- Colonial institutions established during this period have long-lasting effects on post-colonial nations.

Role of Institutions in Development

Nobel Prize Winners: Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James Robinson (AJR) awarded for their work in new institutional economics.
Institutions Defined: Set of rules constraining human behavior, ensuring law and order, and preventing coercion.
Types of Institutions:
- Extractive Institutions: Concentrate wealth among elites, historically prevalent in colonized regions (e.g., Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America).
- Inclusive Institutions: Promote broader participation in economic growth, more common in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

Research Contributions

Natural Experiments: AJR used historical data to show how differing colonial practices influenced economic outcomes.
Key Findings:
- Areas with landlord-based colonial systems had lower agricultural investment and productivity.
- Regions under direct colonial rule lagged in infrastructure like schools and health centers.

Implications of AJR's Work

Economic Institutions: Reflect collective choices shaped by political power, which can be either de jure (formal) or de facto (informal).
Challenges in Reform: Conflicting interests often hinder agreement on the nature of beneficial institutions.

Critical Perspectives

Skepticism of AJR's Framework: Some scholars argue that AJR's emphasis on Western liberal institutions overlooks the complexities of historical contexts, including corruption and systemic inequalities in early U.S. history.
Modern Economic Dynamics: AJR caution against assuming that inclusive institutions will automatically lead to prosperity, as evidenced by concerns regarding China's future growth under extractive political systems.

Insights from Nobel Prize Research

Key Focus Areas:
- Institutional structures in colonized countries significantly shape economic prosperity.
- Example of Nogales, Arizona, and Nogales, Mexico illustrates the impact of institutions on economic opportunities.

About the Nobel Prize Recipients

Daron Acemoglu:
- MIT professor and co-author of influential works on power and prosperity.
- Advocates for democracy's role in economic growth while acknowledging its challenges.
Simon Johnson:
- Former IMF chief economist, current MIT professor.
- Emphasizes the complexity of addressing entrenched poverty due to institutional frameworks.
James A. Robinson:
- University of Chicago professor, co-author of works on economic disparity.
- Highlights historical transitions toward inclusive societies and their importance in economic development.

Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences

Established: 1968 by the Swedish central bank.
Purpose: Complement existing Nobel Prizes, recognizing contributions to economic sciences.
Notable Previous Laureates: Include Claudia Goldin (2023) for gender pay gap research and Abhijit Banerjee et al. (2019) for poverty alleviation studies.

SAMARTH Scheme

17 Oct 2024

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Samarth is a demand-driven and placement-oriented umbrella skilling program of the Ministry of Textiles. Samarth Scheme has been extended for two years (FY 2024-25 and 2025-26) with a budget of Rs. 495 Crore to train 3 lakh persons in textile-related skills.

Key Details:

Scheme Name: Samarth (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector)
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Textiles
Extension Period: FY 2024-25 and 2025-26
Budget: ?495 Crores
Target: Train 3 lakh individuals in textile-related skills

Objectives

Skilling Programs: Provide demand-driven, placement-oriented training.
Industry Support: Encourage job creation in organized textile and related sectors.
Skill Enhancement: Focus on upskilling and reskilling in traditional sectors (handloom, handicraft, silk, jute).

Implementation

Implementing Partners:
- Textile Industry/Industry Associations
- Central/State government agencies
- Sectoral Organizations (e.g., DC/Handloom, Central Silk Board)
Current Achievements:
- Total Trained: 3.27 lakh candidates
- Employment Rate: 2.6 lakh (79.5%) have secured jobs
- Women Empowerment: 2.89 lakh (88.3%) women trained

Scheme Features

Coverage: Entire textile value chain, excluding spinning and weaving.
Training Focus:
- Entry-level skilling
- Upskilling/reskilling existing workers in apparel and garmenting
Beneficiaries: Handicraft artisans and job seekers in the textile sector.

Background

Cabinet Approval: The scheme is a continuation of the Integrated Skill Development Scheme from the 12th Five Year Plan.
Implementation Agency: Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).

Advancements of Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda - AROHA-2024

17 Oct 2024

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All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi is organising its first-ever international conference - Advancements of Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda - AROHA-2024.

Key Details:

Theme: "Advancements in Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda"
Conference Goals
- Position Ayurveda as a key pillar of global health and wellness.
- Facilitate dynamic exchanges among scholars, industry leaders, and practitioners.
- Explore the integration of traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific advancements.
Agenda Highlights
- Topics Covered:
  - Ayurveda and ethnomedicine
  - Quality control and standardization
  - Diagnosis and drug delivery
  - Evidence-based understanding and globalization
Institute Background
- All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA): Apex institute for Ayurveda with NAAC A++, NABH, and ISO accreditations.
- Facilities: 200-bed referral hospital, 44 specialty departments.
- Global Collaborations: Partnerships with institutions in 17 countries, including London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Western Sydney University.
- Innovations: Focus on research, drug development, and scientific validation of Ayurvedic practices.
Participant Benefits
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with experts in Ayurveda and holistic healthcare.
- Learning Experiences: Attend plenary sessions, round table discussions, and exhibitions on medicinal plants and startups in Ayurveda.
- Recognition: Awards for contributions to Ayurveda.
- Research and Innovation Focus: Discussions on technology integration, including AI and bioinformatics.

DigiLocker Partners with UMANG

16 Oct 2024

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The National e-Governance Division (NeGD) has announced the integration of the UMANG app with DigiLocker- India’s Digital Wallet. This collaboration aims to provide citizens with seamless access to a wide range of government services bringing greater convenience and allowing users to manage multiple services through a single platform.

UMANG app

The UMANG app is accessible to all Android users with an expansion to iOS in the pipeline.
The UMANG mobile app is an all-in-one single, unified, secure, multi-channel, multi-lingual, multi-service mobile app.
It provides access to high-impact services of various organizations of the Union and States.

Simplified Citizen-Government interaction

This integration makes it easier for citizens to interact with the Government in an efficient, digital-first manner. DigiLocker has always been a pioneer in simplifying access to personal and official documents, and after integration with UMANG, it has expanded the range of services you can access on the go.

About DigiLocker
DigiLocker is a flagship initiative under the Digital India program aimed at providing secure cloud-based storage of essential documents. By integrating with e-governance services such as UMANG, DigiLocker further is committed to further enhance accessibility and ease of living.

World Food Day 2024

16 Oct 2024

PM GatiShakti National Master Plan

16 Oct 2024

Announcement of AI Centres of Excellence

16 Oct 2024

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Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, announced the establishment of three AI Centres of Excellence (CoE) focused on Healthcare, Agriculture, and Sustainable Cities in New Delhi.

Key Details:

Establishment of Three AI-CoEs:
- Focus Areas:
  - Healthcare: Led by AIIMS and IIT Delhi.
  - Agriculture: Led by IIT Ropar, Punjab.
  - Sustainable Cities: Led by IIT Kanpur.
- Collaboration: CoEs will work with industry partners and start-ups.
Financial Commitment:
- Total Approved Budget: ?990 crore for FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28.
- Purpose: Support the establishment and operation of the CoEs.
Vision and Impact:
- Pradhan emphasized the CoEs' role as solution providers for global public good.
- Expected to create a new generation of job and wealth creators.
- Aims to strengthen India's credentials in the global AI landscape.
Leadership and Implementation:
- Apex Committee: Co-chaired by Shri Sridhar Vembu (Zoho CEO).
- Committee includes industry leaders and academic heads.
- Shri K. Sanjay Murthy highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Future Prospects:
- Dr. Vembu noted the CoEs will enhance the health of villages and cities, nurture talent, and generate opportunities.
- The initiative aligns with India's vision of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).
Presentation and Film:
- Insights into the development of AI-CoEs presented by Smt. Saumya Gupta.
- A short film titled "Make AI in India and Make AI work for India" was showcased.

The establishment of these Centres of Excellence in AI signifies a major step toward fostering an effective AI ecosystem in India, aimed at developing scalable solutions and enhancing human resources in critical sectors.

International Abhidhamma Divas

16 Oct 2024

e-Migrate Portal

15 Oct 2024

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Recently, the Union Ministers for External Affairs and Labour and Employment launched the upgraded e-Migrate portal and mobile app, aimed at enhancing the migration experience for Indian workers seeking employment abroad. This initiative reflects the Indian government's commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of its migrant workforce, aligning with global migration goals under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

About e-Migrate Portal

The e-Migrate portal is an online platform designed to facilitate and manage the migration of Indian workers. It promotes safe and legal mobility channels by providing a transparent framework for migrant workers, including:

Information Access: Comprehensive resources to help migrants understand the migration process.
Documentation Support: Tools to assist with necessary paperwork.
Helpline Support: A 24/7 multilingual helpline that addresses issues faced by workers, particularly in the Gulf region.
Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives to educate workers about their rights and responsibilities abroad.

The upgraded version of the portal, launched in October 2024, features enhanced functionality to better serve Indian migrants.

Key Features of e-Migrate v2.0

Multilingual Helpline: Offers real-time support in multiple languages, ensuring that urgent issues are resolved efficiently.
Integration with Digilocker: Facilitates secure, paperless submission of essential documents, such as passports and employment contracts.
Social Security Net: Enhances social security measures for migrants, including insurance policies and partnerships with the State Bank of India for fee-free digital payment services.
Mobile App: Introduced for the first time, this app provides easy access to services, including a job search marketplace for overseas employment opportunities.
Rural Accessibility: Collaboration with Common Service Centres (CSCs) aims to expand immigration services to rural areas in local languages, making the platform more accessible to diverse populations.

Significance

The e-Migrate portal aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 10, which promotes orderly and responsible migration. By fostering safe migration practices, this initiative seeks to empower Indian workers and protect their rights while contributing to the country's international workforce.

Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas - Electric Vehicle (MAHA-EV) Mission

15 Oct 2024

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The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has officially launched its first two initiatives: the Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG) and the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas - Electric Vehicle (MAHA-EV) Mission. These initiatives aim to enhance India’s research landscape and support innovation in critical sectors.

Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG)

Objective: The PMECRG is designed to empower early career researchers by providing flexible funding and support for high-quality innovative research. It aims to foster creativity and drive technological progress, positioning India as a global leader in science and technology (S&T).
Significance: This grant recognizes the essential role of young researchers in advancing India's scientific agenda. By investing in their development, ANRF aims to cultivate a vibrant research ecosystem that encourages groundbreaking discoveries.

Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas - Electric Vehicle (MAHA-EV) Mission

Focus: The MAHA-EV Mission targets the development of key technologies for electric vehicles, specifically in areas such as tropical EV batteries, power electronics, machines and drives (PEMD), and charging infrastructure.
Goals:
- Reduce Import Dependency: By fostering domestic innovation in EV components.
- Global Leadership: Positioning India as a leader in the electric vehicle sector, aligning with the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision.
Collaboration: The mission is designed to encourage multi-institutional and multi-disciplinary collaboration to address critical scientific challenges, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of India's EV sector.

Significance of Both Initiatives

Bridging Gaps: Both initiatives aim to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial applications, a key goal of ANRF. This alignment is crucial for translating research into practical applications that benefit society.
Strategic Interventions: These programs reflect the discussions held during the ANRF's Governing Board meeting, which emphasized global positioning in key sectors, capacity building, and fostering an innovation ecosystem.
Long-term Vision: The initiatives contribute to India's goal of achieving a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, accelerating the country's progress toward a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

The launch of the PMECRG and MAHA-EV Mission marks a significant step in enhancing India's research ecosystem. By supporting early career researchers and advancing electric vehicle technologies, ANRF is poised to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and strengthen India’s position on the global scientific stage. These initiatives reflect a commitment to sustainable development and technological leadership, paving the way for transformative advancements in various sectors.

Haber-Bosch process

15 Oct 2024

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The Haber-Bosch process has fundamentally transformed agricultural practices and global food production, enabling the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which is essential for fertilizers.

The Nitrogen Molecule

Composition: Nitrogen primarily exists as molecular nitrogen (N?) in the atmosphere, where two nitrogen atoms are bonded with a strong triple bond. This bond is very stable and requires significant energy (946 kJ/mol) to break, rendering N? largely inert and unavailable for direct use by plants.

Nitrogen in Nature

Natural Fixation: In nature, the energy required to break the N? bond is typically provided by phenomena like lightning, which converts nitrogen to reactive forms such as nitrogen oxides (NO and NO?). These can subsequently form nitric acid when they react with water, depositing reactive nitrogen through rainfall.
Microbial Processes: Certain bacteria, including Azotobacter and Rhizobia, can fix atmospheric nitrogen into reactive forms, supporting plant growth. Azolla, a fern with a symbiotic cyanobacterium, also helps in nitrogen fixation.

The Nitrogen Cycle

Plant Uptake: Plants absorb reactive nitrogen in the form of ammonium (NH??) and nitrate (NO??) from the soil, essential for synthesizing proteins and other vital compounds. Humans and animals rely on plants for their nitrogen intake.
Cycle Completeness: While nitrogen is returned to the soil through excretion and decomposition, some is lost back to the atmosphere as N?. This loss contributes to the depletion of soil nitrogen, especially in crops that do not fix their own nitrogen.

Ammonia Production

Haber-Bosch Process: This process synthesizes ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen under high pressure and temperature, using a catalyst to enhance efficiency. Initially developed by Fritz Haber and scaled by Carl Bosch, this method became the backbone of modern fertilizer production.

Benefits and Downsides of Fertilizers

Food Security: The Haber-Bosch process has significantly increased food production, contributing to a remarkable rise in global food supply and preventing widespread hunger. It is estimated that one-third of the world’s population relies on fertilizers produced via this process for their food.
Environmental Impact: The widespread use of nitrogen fertilizers can lead to environmental issues:
- Excess Nutrients: Over-application can result in nutrient runoff into water bodies, causing eutrophication, which depletes oxygen and harms aquatic life.
- Acid Rain: Reactive nitrogen can contribute to acid rain, affecting soil health and biodiversity.
- Soil Degradation: Continuous fertilizer use without adequate replenishment of nutrients can degrade soil quality over time.

While the Haber-Bosch process is crucial for modern agriculture and food security, it also presents significant environmental challenges. The balance between using fertilizers effectively and sustainably is essential to ensure that technological advancements do not come at the cost of ecological health. As such, addressing food security requires not just technological innovation, but also thoughtful political and social engagement to manage resources responsibly.

India's Renewable Energy Capacity Hits 200 GW Milestone

15 Oct 2024

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India has recently celebrated a landmark achievement in its renewable energy sector, with its total renewable energy capacity surpassing 200 GW as of October 10, 2024. This milestone, reported by the Central Electricity Authority, showcases the country’s growing commitment to clean energy and its strategic shift towards a more sustainable future.

Overview of India’s Renewable Energy Landscape

As of October 2024, India's total electricity generation capacity stands at 452.69 GW, with renewable sources contributing a substantial 201.45 GW, representing 46.3% of the overall capacity. This shift highlights India’s increasing reliance on cleaner, non-fossil fuel energy.

Key contributors to this capacity include:

Solar Power: Leading with 90.76 GW, capitalizing on India's abundant sunlight.
Wind Power: Following closely at 47.36 GW, leveraging the country’s vast wind corridors.
Hydropower: Large hydro projects add 46.92 GW, while small hydro contributes an additional 5.07 GW.
Biopower: Incorporating biomass and biogas energy, contributing 11.32 GW.

Together, these resources are pivotal in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.

Leading States in Renewable Energy Capacity

Certain states are at the forefront of this renewable energy expansion:

Rajasthan: 29.98 GW, benefiting from ample land and sunlight.
Gujarat: 29.52 GW, driven by robust solar and wind initiatives.
Tamil Nadu: 23.70 GW, utilizing favorable wind conditions.
Karnataka: 22.37 GW, supported by a mix of solar and wind projects.

Key Schemes and Programs

The Indian government has introduced numerous initiatives to accelerate renewable energy capacity, aiming for 500 GW from non-fossil sources by 2030. Notable programs include:

National Green Hydrogen Mission
PM-KUSUM Scheme
PM Surya Ghar Scheme
Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) for solar PV modules

These efforts reflect the government's commitment to fostering a sustainable energy future while addressing the challenges posed by climate change and energy security. Here are some other ongoing key initiatives:

Notification of a trajectory for renewable energy power bids of 50 GW per annum by Renewable Energy Implementation Agencies (REIAs) from FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28.
Foreign Direct Investment permitted up to 100 percent under the automatic route to attract investments.
Waiver of Inter-State Transmission System charges for solar and wind power projects commissioned by June 30, 2025; green hydrogen projects until December 2030; and offshore wind projects until December 2032.
Announced Renewable Purchase Obligation trajectory until 2029-30, including separate RPO for Decentralized Renewable Energy.
A Project Development Cell has been established to attract and facilitate investments in the renewable sector.
Standard Bidding Guidelines issued for tariff-based competitive bidding for procurement of power from grid-connected solar, wind, and wind-solar projects.
Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Parks are being set up to provide land and transmission for large-scale renewable energy projects.
Cabinet approval for a Viability Gap Funding scheme for offshore wind energy projects, facilitating the installation and commissioning of 1 GW of offshore wind energy capacity along the coasts of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
Issued Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, for net-metering up to 500 kilowatts or the electrical sanctioned load, whichever is lower.
The “National Repowering and Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects, 2023” has been released.
“Strategy for Establishment of Offshore Wind Energy Projects” outlines a bidding trajectory of 37 GW by 2030.
Offshore Wind Energy Lease Rules, 2023, notified to regulate the grant of leases for offshore wind energy development.
Procedure for Uniform Renewable Energy Tariff (URET) has been established.
Standard & Labelling (S&L) programs for Solar Photovoltaic modules and grid-connected solar inverters have been launched.
A transmission plan has been prepared to augment transmission infrastructure until 2030.
The Electricity (Late Payment Surcharge and Related Matters) Rules have been notified.
Green Energy Open Access Rules 2022 have been issued to promote renewable energy.
Launched the Green Term Ahead Market (GTAM) to facilitate the sale of renewable energy power through exchanges.
Orders issued to ensure that power is dispatched against Letters of Credit or advance payment for timely payments to renewable energy generators.

ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly 2024

15 Oct 2024

THAAD Missile Defence System

14 Oct 2024

Ladakh's Aurorae

14 Oct 2024

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In October 2024, Ladakh witnessed spectacular auroras, typically seen in higher latitudes, indicating increased solar activity. This phenomenon was reported following intense solar storms, with red and green lights observed in the night sky. The auroras were captured by all-sky cameras operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Hanle and Merak.

What Are Auroras?

Auroras are vibrant displays of light caused by interactions between charged particles from the Sun and Earth's magnetosphere. When solar winds—streams of charged particles—collide with atoms in the upper atmosphere, they create visible light, similar to how neon lights function.

Causes of Recent Auroras

The recent auroras in Ladakh were linked to several strong solar storms, particularly coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are significant bursts of solar wind and magnetic fields rising above the solar corona. The storms, emanating from active solar regions, traveled towards Earth at remarkable speeds, disrupting the normal space weather and allowing auroras to be visible at lower latitudes, including Mexico and Germany.

Implications of Solar Activity

Astrophysicists at the Center of Excellence in Space Sciences India (CESSI) noted that these auroras validate ongoing efforts in space weather monitoring. The increased solar activity is part of the solar cycle, which peaks approximately every 11 years. Current predictions indicate that Solar Cycle 25 may reach its peak in 2024.

Monitoring Space Weather

Organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) closely monitor space weather to provide timely warnings about solar events that could disrupt satellite communications and other services. The CESSI team successfully predicted the occurrence of solar storms, enhancing confidence in their ability to forecast space weather and its potential impacts.

Potential Hazards

While auroras are visually striking, intense solar storms can have detrimental effects, including:

Satellite Disruption: Increased drag and radiation can damage satellites in low Earth orbit, affecting navigation, communications, and military operations.
Communication Blackouts: Severe storms can interfere with radio and satellite communications, impacting daily life and services.

Wayanad’s New X-Band Radar

14 Oct 2024

Global Hunger Index 2024

14 Oct 2024

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The 2024 Global Hunger Index (GHI) emphasizes food as a fundamental human right, alongside air and water.

Key Highlights:

Current Crisis: Despite adequate food production globally, around 350 million people face extreme hunger, with 49 million on the brink of famine.
Statistics: Over 820 million people are chronically undernourished, and malnutrition claims the lives of five million children under five each year.

Top 10 Countries Most Affected by Hunger (2024)

Somalia: GHI Score 44.1 (GHI 2000: 63.3)
Yemen: GHI Score 41.2 (GHI 2000: 41.6)
Chad: GHI Score 36.4 (GHI 2000: 50.5)
Madagascar: GHI Score 36.3 (GHI 2000: 42.3)
Democratic Republic of the Congo: GHI Score 34.9 (GHI 2000: 47.2)
Haiti: GHI Score 34.3 (GHI 2000: 39.8)
Niger: GHI Score 34.1 (GHI 2000: 53.1)
Liberia: GHI Score 31.9 (GHI 2000: 48.0)
Central African Republic: GHI Score 31.5 (GHI 2000: 48.0)
Korea (DPR): GHI Score 31.4 (GHI 2000: 43.7)

India's Position

Ranking: India ranks 105th in the GHI 2024, categorized as having a "serious" hunger situation.
GHI Score: India’s score stands at 27.3, showing some improvement from a score of 38.4 in 2000 (previously classified as "alarming").

Key Concerns in India

Undernourishment: 13.7% of the population is undernourished.
Child Stunting: 35.5% of children under five are stunted.
Child Wasting: 18.7% of children under five experience wasting.
Child Mortality: 2.9% of children do not survive to age five.

Global Hunger Index (GHI):

A tool measuring hunger across countries based on four indicators:

- Undernourishment
- Child Wasting
- Child Stunting
- Child Mortality
Data Sources: The GHI is based on data from credible organizations like the FAO, WHO, and UNICEF, as well as government surveys.

Hunger Indicators Explained

Undernourishment: Reflects the overall food access situation.
Child Wasting: Indicates acute malnutrition; a critical health issue.
Child Stunting: Reflects chronic malnutrition; significant public health concern.
Child Mortality: Represents the most severe consequence of hunger.

The 2024 GHI report reveals that while progress has been made in addressing hunger globally, significant challenges remain, particularly in countries like India and the most affected nations. Addressing these issues is crucial for achieving the goal of zero hunger by 2030.

Jipmer Launches ‘Tele-MANAS’ Mental Health Helpline

14 Oct 2024

South Karanpura Coalfield

11 Oct 2024

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Recent research has highlighted significant shale gas generation potential in the eastern region of the South Karanpura coalfield, located in the Ramgarh district of Jharkhand, India. Evidence from microscopic palynomorphs and organic remains, combined with geochemical assessments, indicates that the eastern Sirka coalfield demonstrates a higher potential for hydrocarbon generation compared to the Giddi coalfield to the north.

Overview of the South Karanpura Coalfield

Location and Size: The South Karanpura coalfield is situated along the Chingara fault and covers approximately 195 square kilometers, housing an estimated 5,757.85 million tonnes of coal reserves.
Composition: This region is rich in coal, carbonaceous shale, and sandstone layers, making it well-established for its substantial coal deposits.
Emerging Focus: With increasing energy demands and interest in hydrocarbon exploration, there is a growing emphasis on the potential for coal bed methane and shale gas generation in this area, aligning with national energy strategies for greener energy sources.

Research Methodology

Scientists from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP) conducted a comprehensive study to evaluate hydrocarbon generation potential. The research involved:

Sample Collection: Sediments were collected from coal, carbonaceous shale, and sandstone layers at the Sirka and Giddi C collieries in Hazaribagh district.
Analysis Techniques: The study utilized palynological analysis of microscopic remains, alongside Rock-Eval pyrolysis to assess the potential of the rock samples. Key parameters analyzed included:
- Palynofacies
- Free hydrocarbons (S1)
- Heavy hydrocarbons (S2)
- Pyrolyzable carbon (PC)
- Residual hydrocarbon (RC)

The collected samples, which date back to the Permian (Barakar) period, indicate favorable conditions for high hydrocarbon resource potential in the eastern South Karanpura coalfield.

Shale Gas Overview

Shale gas is an unconventional natural resource found at depths of 2,500 to 5,000 meters, deeper than conventional crude oil. Its extraction involves deep vertical drilling followed by horizontal drilling, with hydraulic fracturing (fracking) being the most common method used to access gas trapped in low-permeability rocks.

New Cancer Therapy Target

11 Oct 2024

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Scientists have identified a promising new target for cancer treatment by activating a DNA repair enzyme called TDP1. This approach suggests a combination therapy that could serve as a potential precision medicine for patients resistant to current treatments.

Current Treatment Limitations:
- Existing anticancer drugs (e.g., Camptothecin, Topotecan, Irinotecan) target Topoisomerase 1 (Top1), essential for DNA replication and transcription.
- Cancer cells frequently develop resistance to these single-agent therapies, necessitating alternative treatment strategies.
Research Insights:
- Conducted by scientists at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), Kolkata, under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
- The study focused on how cancer cells repair DNA during cell division and respond to chemotherapy targeting Top1.
Key Findings:
- The research, published in The EMBO Journal 2024, highlights two critical proteins:
  - Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1)
  - Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1)
- CDK1 regulates the DNA repair process, while TDP1 helps cancer cells survive by repairing drug-induced Top1 damage.
Mechanism of Action:
- TDP1 repairs Top1 that is trapped during the S phase of DNA replication.
- The role of TDP1 during the mitotic phase was previously unknown; CDK1 phosphorylates TDP1, enhancing its repair capabilities.
- Phosphorylation is crucial for efficient DNA repair, allowing cancer cells to withstand Top1-targeted chemotherapy.
Potential for Combination Therapy:
- Targeting both CDK1 and TDP1 could help overcome drug resistance and improve treatment efficacy.
- Suggested use of CDK1 inhibitors (e.g., avotaciclib, alvocidib) alongside Top1 inhibitors may disrupt DNA repair and halt the cell cycle, increasing cancer cell mortality.
Research Implications:
- Phosphorylation of TDP1 by CDK1 is essential for managing DNA damage in cancer cells.
- Inhibiting CDK1 may induce chromosome instability, effectively targeting cancer cells.
- The combination of CDK1 and Top1 inhibitors aims to enhance cancer treatment effectiveness.
Future Directions:
- Identifying CDK1 and TDP1 as potential targets paves the way for developing new cancer therapies that inhibit DNA repair mechanisms.
- Further studies using animal models are ongoing to validate this innovative approach for precision medicine in treating resistant cancers.

NABARD Survey on Rural Financial Inclusion

11 Oct 2024

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NABARD has published the findings from its second All India Rural Financial Inclusion Survey (NAFIS) for 2021-22, which offers primary data based on a survey of 1 lakh rural households, covering various economic and financial indicators in the post-COVID period.

Survey Overview:

Inaugural survey conducted for 2016-17, results released in August 2018.
Aims to analyze changes in rural economic conditions since 2016-17.
Included all 28 states and Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Insights from NAFIS 2021-22

Increase in Average Monthly Income:
- Average monthly income rose by 57.6% from Rs. 8,059 (2016-17) to Rs. 12,698 (2021-22).
- Nominal CAGR of 9.5%, with annual nominal GDP growth at 9%.
- Agricultural households earned Rs. 13,661; non-agricultural households earned Rs. 11,438.
- Salaried employment contributed 37% to total income; cultivation contributed one-third for agricultural households.
Rise in Average Monthly Expenditure:
- Average monthly expenditure increased from Rs. 6,646 (2016-17) to Rs. 11,262 (2021-22).
- Agricultural households reported higher consumption (Rs. 11,710) compared to non-agricultural households (Rs. 10,675).
- Expenditure exceeded Rs. 17,000 in states like Goa and Jammu & Kashmir.
Increase in Financial Savings:
- Annual average financial savings grew to Rs. 13,209 in 2021-22 from Rs. 9,104 in 2016-17.
- 66% of households saved in 2021-22, up from 50.6% in 2016-17.
- 71% of agricultural households reported savings, compared to 58% of non-agricultural households.
- States like Uttarakhand (93%) and Uttar Pradesh (84%) had high saving rates, while Goa (29%) and Kerala (35%) had lower rates.
Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Coverage:
- 44% of agricultural households possessed a valid KCC.
- Among larger landholders and those with recent agricultural loans, 77% reported having a KCC.
Insurance Coverage:
- Households with at least one insured member increased from 25.5% (2016-17) to 80.3% (2021-22).
- Vehicle insurance was most common (55%), followed by life insurance (24%).
Pension Coverage:
- Households with at least one member receiving any form of pension rose from 18.9% to 23.5%.
- 54% of households with members over 60 years old reported receiving a pension.
Financial Literacy:
- Good financial literacy increased by 17 percentage points, from 33.9% to 51.3%.
- Sound financial behavior improved from 56.4% to 72.8%.

Conclusion

The NAFIS 2021-22 highlights significant advancements in rural financial inclusion since 2016-17.
Improvements in income, savings, insurance coverage, and financial literacy are notable.
Government welfare schemes (e.g., PM Kisan, MGNREGS) have positively impacted rural lives.
Continued support and investment in rural development are essential for economic empowerment and financial security in India's rural population.

Colombo Security Conclave

11 Oct 2024

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The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) reached a milestone on August 30, 2024 with India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Mauritius signing a Charter and a memorandum of understanding, for the establishment of the CSC secretariat.

Key Facts:

Background of CSC:

Originally called the NSA Trilateral on Maritime Security, the CSC was established in 2011 among India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The initiative aimed to bolster maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

Membership:

The founding members include India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Mauritius joined in 2022, and Bangladesh became a member in 2024. Seychelles participates as an observer state.

Goals of CSC:

The CSC aims to foster cooperation in five main areas:

Maritime safety and security
Counterterrorism and prevention of radicalization
Combating trafficking and transnational organized crime
Cybersecurity and safeguarding critical infrastructure
Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief

Defence Exercises:

In November 2021, India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives held Exercise Dosti XV in the Maldives, marking their first joint military exercise in the Arabian Sea under the CSC framework.

Nobel Prize in Literature 2024

11 Oct 2024

Unexpected Transformation of the Sahara Desert

10 Oct 2024

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The Sahara Desert, one of the driest regions globally, is undergoing a surprising transformation due to an extratropical cyclone that impacted northwestern Africa on September 7-8, leading to patches of green across Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya.

Key Details:

Satellite Observations: NASA's satellite images reveal extensive greenery sprouting in areas typically known for drought conditions, as reported by NASA’s Earth Observatory.
Flourishing Vegetation: Climate researcher Sylwia Trzaska noted that shrubs and trees are thriving in low-lying regions like riverbeds. Peter de Menocal, president of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, highlighted that plant life can quickly respond to significant rainfall, transforming dunes into vibrant landscapes.
Historical Context: Research indicates that the Sahara was once a lush environment with lakes and vegetation between 11,000 and 5,000 years ago. Recent heavy rains have replenished normally dry lakes.
Rainfall Dynamics: The unusual rainfall event is attributed to the northward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which has moved further north than usual, resulting in equatorial-like downpours in the Sahara. Some areas experienced over half a foot of rain, surpassing typical annual precipitation levels.
Impact of Rain Patterns: While the rains primarily affected less populated regions, severe flooding has resulted in over 1,000 fatalities and impacted around four million people across 14 African nations, according to reports from the World Food Programme and Associated Press.
Climate Change Factors: Experts suggest that the repositioning of the ITCZ may be connected to record-high ocean temperatures and climate change, potentially altering rainfall patterns across Africa.
Future Projections: As global ocean temperatures stabilize, de Menocal predicts that the rain belt may revert to a more southerly position, potentially crossing the equator.
Sahara Desert Facts:

o The Sahara is the world's largest hot desert, spanning approximately 4,800 km in length and 1,800 km in width.

o It covers about 31% of the African continent, extending across 11 North African nations, including Algeria, Egypt, Mali, Morocco, Western Sahara, Tunisia, Chad, Libya, Mauritania, Niger, and Sudan

Universal Postal Union

10 Oct 2024

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The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is set to assess the integration of the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) with cross-border remittances via the global postal network, according to a recent official announcement.

About the Universal Postal Union

The UPU is a specialized agency of the United Nations and serves as the main platform for international cooperation in the postal sector. Established by the Treaty of Bern in 1874, it stands as the second oldest international organization in the world.

Functions

The UPU coordinates postal policies among its member nations and oversees the global postal system. It establishes the rules for international mail exchanges and makes recommendations aimed at enhancing the volume and quality of mail, parcel, and financial services. Additionally, it plays an advisory, mediating, and liaison role while providing technical assistance when necessary.

Membership

Any member state of the United Nations is eligible to join the UPU. Non-member countries can also become UPU members, subject to approval by at least two-thirds of the existing member nations. Currently, the UPU comprises 192 member countries.

Structure

The UPU consists of four main bodies:

1. The Congress: The highest authority of the UPU, convening every four years.

2. The Council of Administration: Responsible for ensuring the continuity of UPU operations between Congresses and supervising activities related to regulatory, administrative, legislative, and legal matters.

3. The Postal Operations Council: Acts as the technical and operational hub of the UPU, composed of 48 member countries elected during Congress.

4. The International Bureau: Functions as the secretariat, providing logistical and technical support to the other UPU bodies.

The headquarters of the Universal Postal Union is located in Bern, Switzerland.

Caracal

10 Oct 2024

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The Gujarat government has recently announced plans to establish a Caracal Breeding and Conservation Center in the Chadva Rakhal area of Kutch, with a budget of ?10 crore.

About the Caracal

The caracal, known locally as "siya gosh" (meaning "black ear" in Persian), is a reclusive and primarily nocturnal feline celebrated for its agility and remarkable skill in catching birds mid-flight.
In terms of nesting, caracals typically utilize abandoned porcupine burrows or rock crevices for denning and are often found with their young hidden among dense vegetation. They tend to live in small groups, and their elusive behavior makes them hard to spot in the wild.

Habitat and Distribution

Caracals inhabit various environments, including woodlands, savannahs, and scrub forests. In India, suitable habitats are found in regions such as Kutch, the Malwa Plateau, the Aravalli hills, and Bundelkhand. This species is also present in numerous countries across Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia.

Threats to Survival

The caracal faces significant threats from extensive hunting, illegal wildlife trade, and the destruction of its natural habitats.

Conservation Status

According to the IUCN, the caracal is classified as "Least Concern." In India, it is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

RBI's Recent Monetary Policy Review

10 Oct 2024

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) maintained its benchmark interest rate at 6.5% for the 10th consecutive monetary policy review since April 2023. The policy stance was shifted to “neutral,” indicating potential for a future rate cut.

Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Overview

The decision to keep interest rates unchanged was supported by a majority of five out of six members of the MPC, which convened for three days starting October 7.
The change in policy stance from “withdrawal of accommodation” to “neutral” was unanimously agreed upon.

Focus Areas

The MPC emphasized the need for a durable alignment of inflation with targets while supporting economic growth.
Macroeconomic parameters for inflation and growth were described as well balanced.

Inflation Insights

A moderation in headline inflation is expected to reverse in September, likely remaining elevated due to adverse base effects.
Retail inflation was below the central bank’s median target of 4% in July and August.

Growth Projections

The RBI maintained its 7.2% GDP growth projection and a 4.5% average inflation estimate for 2024-25, with risks evenly balanced.
Second-quarter inflation projection was revised down to 4.1% from 4.4%, while a rise to 4.8% is expected for the October to December quarter.

Domestic Growth and Investment

Domestic growth remains robust, with private consumption and investment growing together.
This growth has provided the RBI with the capacity to prioritize inflation control to achieve the 4% target.

Risks to Inflation

The Governor highlighted that unexpected weather events and escalating geopolitical conflicts pose significant upside risks to inflation.

National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC)

10 Oct 2024

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G)

09 Oct 2024

2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry

09 Oct 2024

2024 Nobel Prize in Physics

09 Oct 2024

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John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton won the 2024 Nobel Prize for physics “for foundational discoveries and inventions that enable machine learning with artificial neural networks”. Their work lies at the roots of a large tree of work, the newest branches of which we see today as artificially intelligent (AI) apps like ChatGPT.

Significance of ANNs

Definition: ANNs are collections of interconnected nodes that mimic the networks of neurons in animal brains, enabling machines to process data, recognize patterns, and learn.
Applications: Integral to AI applications such as facial recognition, language translation, and numerous fields including physics, chemistry, and medicine.

Historical Context

Hopfield Network:
- Developed by John Hopfield in 1983.
- Based on Donald Hebb's neuropsychological theory of learning, emphasizing how connections between neurons strengthen through repeated interactions.
- Capable of storing and reconstructing images by adjusting node connections to achieve a low-energy state, effectively denoising input.
Boltzmann Machine:
- Geoffrey Hinton's work on deep-learning machines, building on Ludwig Boltzmann's statistical mechanics.
- Introduced the concept of generative AI through networks that differentiate between probable outcomes.
- Developed Restricted Boltzmann Machines (RBMs) in the 2000s, enhancing learning efficiency through layered networks.

Evolution and Current State of ANNs

Technological Progress: ANNs have evolved significantly, transitioning from individual computers to distributed networks like the cloud.
Current Variants: Innovations include transformers, backpropagation, and long short-term memory techniques, making ANNs more capable and widely accessible.

Concerns and Risks

Ethical Considerations: Rapid advancements in AI raise concerns about safety, misinformation, and job displacement.
Expert Opinions: Both Hopfield and Hinton have expressed worries about the implications of AI systems surpassing human intelligence and the potential for misuse.

Trachoma

09 Oct 2024

MACE Observatory

09 Oct 2024

UK-Mauritius Treaty on Chagos Archipelago

08 Oct 2024

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The United Kingdom said it would cede sovereignty of the strategically important Chagos Islands to Mauritius, calling it a “historic political agreement”. The UK has long controlled Chagos and the Diego Garcia military base located there, jointly operating it with the United States.

Background of the Chagos Archipelago

Historical Context

The Chagos archipelago consists of 58 islands located about 500 km south of the Maldives.
Initially uninhabited, the islands were populated in the late 18th century through the importation of slave labor.
The islands were ceded to Britain from France in 1814, and in 1965, the UK established the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), which includes Chagos.

Controversy Over Sovereignty

Mauritius, a former British colony, claims that the detachment of Chagos from its territory during its independence in 1968 was illegal.
The UK compensated Mauritius with a grant but retained control, establishing a military base on Diego Garcia.

Strategic Importance of Diego Garcia

Military Significance

Diego Garcia has been a crucial U.S. military base since its operational status began in 1986.
It played a key role in U.S. military operations during conflicts in the Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
The base enables rapid response to crises and supports regional security, especially in light of U.S. interests in monitoring key trade routes like the Malacca Strait.

Geopolitical Implications

The presence of the U.S. military in the Indian Ocean is vital for countering security threats, particularly regarding China's growing influence.

Recent Developments: The UK-Mauritius Agreement

Key Features of the Treaty

On October 3, 2023, the UK agreed to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, marking a significant political shift.
The treaty allows Mauritius to resettle Chagossians (excluding Diego Garcia) and establishes a trust fund for their benefit.
Despite this, the UK retains control over Diego Garcia for an initial period of 99 years.

Implications of the Agreement

The resolution of the sovereignty issue may strengthen Western commitments to a stable and free Indo-Pacific region.
If unresolved, tensions could push Mauritius toward seeking alliances with alternative powers like China.

India’s Position and Interests

Support for Mauritius

India has historically supported Mauritius in its claims over Chagos, reflecting its stance against colonial legacies.
In 2019, India voted in favor of Mauritius at the UN General Assembly regarding the Chagos dispute.

Strategic Partnerships

With increasing Chinese assertiveness in the Indian Ocean, India has been strengthening its ties with Mauritius.
Recent initiatives include the inauguration of an India-built airstrip and jetty in Agaléga, enhancing connectivity and support for Mauritius.

Conclusion

The UK-Mauritius treaty over the Chagos Archipelago marks a significant turning point in colonial legacies and geopolitical alliances in the Indian Ocean. For India, supporting Mauritius aligns with its broader strategic interests and enhances its influence in a region marked by competing global powers. As the dynamics evolve, India's role in fostering regional stability and partnerships will be crucial.

44th Session of Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

08 Oct 2024

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India Participates in 44th Session of Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses

Key Contributions:

Nutrient Reference Values:
- Advocated for reference values for ages 6 to 36 months.
- Suggested combining NRV-R values by averaging those for 6-12 months and 12-36 months.
- This proposal was accepted by the committee.
Probiotic Guidelines:
- Emphasized the need to update FAO/WHO probiotic guidelines, which are two decades old.
- Highlighted the lack of international harmonization in probiotic regulations affecting global trade.
- Committee agreed to revisit guidelines and requested FAO and WHO to conduct a literature review on probiotics.
Discussion on Sweetness Assessment:
- Disagreed with the EU’s sensory testing proposal for carbohydrate sources in Follow-up Formula, citing lack of scientific validation.
- Supported by USA, Canada, and others; this led to the committee discontinuing the topic for now.
- Noted that ISO 5495 or other methods could be used in the absence of harmonized methods.
Delegation:
- Included representatives from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Ministry of Women and Child Development.
- Advocated for various food safety, consumer health, and trade-related issues.
Outcome:
- India’s suggestions were officially incorporated into the final report, significantly influencing global food safety and nutrition standards.
Additional Announcements:
- FAO/WHO plans for a Joint Statement on Healthy Diet Principles.
- Updates on reviewing benefits and risks of Alternative Animal Source Foods (A-ASFs).
- FAO introduced a new “Food and Diet” domain on its FAOSTAT database.

Marburg Virus

08 Oct 2024

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Definition:
- Marburg virus is one of the deadliest pathogens known to infect humans, causing severe hemorrhagic fever.
Current Situation in Rwanda:
- Rwanda reported its first Marburg case late last month.
- At least 46 individuals have been infected, with 12 reported deaths.
- Approximately 80% of infections are among medical workers.
- The outbreak poses a significant threat to Rwanda’s fragile healthcare system, which has only 1,500 doctors for over 13 million people.

Characteristics of Marburg Virus

Deadliness:
- Marburg virus disease (MVD) has case fatality rates ranging from 24% to 88%, depending on the strain and case management.
- The first outbreak occurred in Marburg, Germany, in 1967, with subsequent outbreaks primarily in Africa.
Family:
- Marburg belongs to the filovirus family, which includes Ebola.
- Both viruses are clinically similar and can cause high-fatality outbreaks.

Transmission

Initial Infection:
- Human infections initially occurred through prolonged exposure to mines or caves inhabited by Rousettus bats (notably the Egyptian fruit bat).
Human-to-Human Transmission:
- MVD spreads directly through contact with blood and bodily fluids of infected individuals.
- Indirect transmission can occur via contaminated surfaces and materials (bedding, clothing).
Risk for Medical Workers:
- Medical workers treating MVD cases are frequently infected, especially when infection control measures are inadequate.

Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD)

Incubation Period: Symptoms can appear 2 to 21 days after infection.
Initial Symptoms: High fever, Severe headache, Muscle ache, Watery diarrhea, Abdominal pain and cramping, Vomiting
Hemorrhagic Symptoms:
- Many patients develop bleeding from various sites, including the digestive system (fresh blood in feces and vomit), nose, gums, and vagina.
- Fatalities often occur due to severe blood loss and shock, typically 8 to 9 days after symptom onset.

Prevention and Treatment

Current Status:
- No approved vaccines or specific treatments exist for MVD.
Supportive Care:
- Rehydration (oral or intravenous fluids) and symptom management improve survival rates.
Experimental Treatments:
- Rwanda is seeking experimental vaccines and treatments to address the outbreak.
- The US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute provided 700 doses of an experimental Marburg vaccine for healthcare professionals on the frontlines.

Genome Editing and Hereditary Cancers

08 Oct 2024

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The International Agency for Research on Cancer’s estimates of the burden of 36 cancers in 185 countries suggest one in five individuals has a lifetime risk of developing cancer.

Impact of CRISPR on Cancer Research:
- CRISPR screens have revolutionized the study of BRCA genes through high-throughput functional genetic analysis.
- Researchers use CRISPR-Cas9 to create specific mutations in BRCA genes, studying their effects on DNA repair and cancer development.
Cancer Statistics:
- One in five individuals has a lifetime risk of developing cancer (International Agency for Research on Cancer).
- In 2022, there were approximately 20 million new cancer cases and 9.74 million cancer-related deaths; projections suggest these could rise to 32 million new cases and 16 million deaths by 2045, with Asia potentially accounting for half of the cases.
Genetic Mutations and Inheritance:
- All cancers stem from genetic mutations; about 10% of cancer cases may involve inherited mutations.
- Specific inherited mutation prevalence:
  - 20% in ovarian cancer patients.
  - 10% in breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers.
  - 6% in cervical cancer.
BRCA Genes Overview:
- The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, discovered in 1994 and 1995, are crucial for understanding hereditary cancer syndromes.
- Mutations in BRCA genes significantly increase the risk of breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers.
- BRCA mutations are estimated to occur in 1 in 400 individuals, with higher prevalence (1 in 40) among Ashkenazi Jews due to genetic bottlenecks and founder effects.
Importance of Genetic Testing:
- Testing for BRCA mutations helps identify individuals at higher risk, enabling personalized prevention strategies such as increased surveillance or preventive surgery.
- The American Society of Clinical Oncology recommends testing for 15 genes related to breast and ovarian cancer risk.
Targeted Therapies:
- PARP inhibitors represent a new class of chemotherapy drugs effective for cancers with BRCA mutations.
- Clinical trials show promising results, especially when combined with platinum-based chemotherapy.
Advancements in Understanding Cancer Genes:
- CRISPR technology has improved our understanding of cancer-related genes, enabling researchers to study the effects of specific mutations.
- Studies have identified how different mutations influence responses to therapies like PARP inhibitors.
Recent Research Findings:
- Research from the Wellcome Sanger Institute identified over 3,000 genetic changes in the RAD51C gene that could significantly increase breast and ovarian cancer risk.
- Variants disrupting RAD51C function can increase ovarian cancer risk six-fold and aggressive breast cancer risk four-fold.
Risk Spectrum:
- Genetic risk is a spectrum based on how mutations affect protein function.
- Large-scale variant analysis is vital for personalized medicine and cancer prevention.
Role of Population Studies:
- Population prevalence studies help identify hereditary cancer risks and inform genetic screening for at-risk individuals.
- Early cancer detection allows for better healthcare decisions and potential preventive therapies.
Goals for Cancer Management:
- The ultimate aim is to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality, leading to healthier lives for individuals and families.

Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2024: MicroRNA Research

08 Oct 2024

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Overview

The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun for their groundbreaking discovery of microRNA and its crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. This award highlights their individual contributions to understanding how microRNAs influence gene expression, significantly advancing the field of molecular biology.

What are MicroRNAs?

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules typically 19-24 nucleotides long. They regulate protein production by interacting with messenger RNA (mRNA), ultimately influencing how much protein is synthesized from genetic information.

The Process of Gene Regulation

Gene expression involves two primary steps:

Transcription: DNA is copied into mRNA in the nucleus.
Translation: mRNA is translated into proteins by ribosomes with the help of transfer RNA (tRNA).

MicroRNAs play a critical role in regulating this process, particularly after transcription, by silencing mRNA and thereby controlling protein production.

Pioneering Research

Background

In the late 1980s, Ambros and Ruvkun utilized the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, a small roundworm, to explore developmental processes. They focused on mutant strains, lin-4 and lin-14, which displayed abnormal development.

Key Discoveries

Victor Ambros: Ambros cloned the lin-4 gene and discovered that it produced a short RNA molecule that did not code for proteins. This finding suggested that lin-4 could inhibit lin-14’s activity.
Gary Ruvkun: Ruvkun investigated the regulation of the lin-14 gene and determined that lin-4 did not prevent the production of lin-14 mRNA. Instead, it inhibited protein production later in the gene expression process. He identified crucial segments in lin-14 mRNA essential for its inhibition by lin-4.

Collaborative Findings

Their subsequent experiments demonstrated that lin-4 microRNA binds to lin-14 mRNA, effectively blocking the production of lin-14 protein. Their findings were published in 1993 and laid the foundation for the understanding of microRNA.

Impact and Recognition

Initially, the significance of their discoveries was not widely recognized, as it was thought that microRNA regulation was specific to C. elegans. However, Ruvkun’s later identification of the let-7 gene, a microRNA found in various animal species, broadened the understanding of microRNAs' universal role in gene regulation.

Current Understanding

Today, it is known that humans possess over a thousand genes that code for different microRNAs. These molecules are crucial in regulating gene expression across multicellular organisms.

Applications and Future Directions

MicroRNAs can fine-tune gene expression, influencing various cellular functions despite similar genetic backgrounds. Abnormal microRNA regulation has been linked to diseases such as cancer and genetic disorders. While the Nobel Committee acknowledged that practical applications of miRNA research are still developing, understanding these molecules is vital for future research and therapeutic advancements.

Doddalathur Megalithic Burial Site

07 Oct 2024

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A team of history and archaeology scholars and students from the University of Mysore have embarked on an excavation of megalithic burial sites in Chamarajanagar district.

Location: Doddalathur village, Hanur taluk, Chamarajanagar district, situated in a valley by the Male Mahadeshwara Hill ranges.
Team: A group of history and archaeology scholars and students from the University of Mysore, in collaboration with the Mythic Society, Bengaluru.
Excavation Focus: Exploration of megalithic burial sites corresponding to the Iron Age (approximately 1200 BC to 300 CE).
Site Features:
- Burials consist of circles made of large boulders, referred to as "megalithic."
- A small hillock is located to the west of the village.
Historical Significance:
- The site was discovered by C. Krishnamurti of the Archaeological Survey of India in 1961.
- Originally contained over 1,000 burials, many of which have been lost due to agricultural expansion and development.
- Despite disturbances, many burials remain intact and are considered suitable for excavation.
Goals of the Project:
- To enhance understanding of megalithic-Iron Age culture in southern Karnataka's hilly regions.
- To provide practical field training for archaeology students.

Maritime Exercise Malabar 2024

07 Oct 2024

DefConnect 4.0

07 Oct 2024

India’s Tripartite Agreement

07 Oct 2024

Increasing Frequency of Typhoons in Southeast Asia

07 Oct 2024

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Overview of Typhoons

Definition: A typhoon is a type of cyclone with wind speeds of 119 km/h or more, forming over warm ocean waters near the equator.
Mechanism: As warm, moist air rises from the ocean, it creates a low-pressure system, leading to the characteristic circular wind patterns: anticlockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

Recent Typhoon Events

Typhoon Yagi: The most powerful tropical cyclone in Asia in 2024, with peak winds of 260 km/h. It caused significant destruction across Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, displacing around 631,000 people and resulting in over 500 fatalities.
Typhoon Bebinca: Reached wind speeds of 151 km/h, classified as a Category 1 storm, impacting eastern China with heavy rainfall and forcing evacuations for over 414,000 residents.
Typhoon Shanshan: Affected Japan, bringing severe weather conditions.

Why are Typhoons more frequent?

Rising Sea Surface Temperatures:
- Global warming has raised ocean temperatures, providing more energy for typhoon formation and intensification.
Atmospheric Circulation Changes:
- Alterations in patterns, such as the weakening of the Walker Circulation, affect the frequency and paths of typhoons.
El Niño and La Niña Effects:
- The El Niño-Southern Oscillation significantly influences typhoon activity. El Niño years often lead to increased typhoon occurrences in Southeast Asia, while La Niña can enhance cyclone activity in the Western Pacific.
Increased Atmospheric Moisture:
- Higher global temperatures result in more evaporation, adding moisture to the atmosphere, which fuels stronger storms and increases rainfall intensity.
Geographical Vulnerability:
- Southeast Asia’s location near warm ocean currents makes it a hotspot for typhoon activity, particularly along its extensive coastlines.
Marine Heat Waves:
- Climate change has led to more frequent marine heat waves, causing extreme ocean warming, which contributes to intensified storms.
Weaker Land-Sea Temperature Gradients:
- Changes in temperature differences between land and sea can prolong storm duration and severity.
Urbanization and Environmental Degradation:
- Rapid urban development and the destruction of coastal ecosystems, like mangroves, diminish natural barriers against storm impacts.

Humanitarian Impact and Response

The increasing intensity and frequency of typhoons have precipitated severe humanitarian crises in affected regions. The need for international cooperation in disaster response has become critical, involving collaboration among governments, civil societies, and humanitarian organizations to provide aid and support for those affected.
Understanding the multifaceted reasons behind the rising frequency of typhoons is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their impacts and enhance community resilience in Southeast Asia.

Mpox Diagnostic Test

06 Oct 2024

Discovery of New Hammerhead Shark Species

06 Oct 2024

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A team of marine biologists led by a Florida International University researcher has described a new species of the shark genus Sphyrna from the Caribbean and the Southwest Atlantic.

New Species: Named Sphyrna alleni (common name: shovelbill shark).
Habitat: Found in coastal waters, estuaries, coral reefs, and seagrass beds from Belize to Brazil, with confirmed presence in:
- Caribbean: Belize, Panama, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago.
- Southwestern Atlantic: Brazil.
Characteristics:
- Small species, less than 1.5 m in length.
- Distinctive flat, shovel-shaped head lacking indentations on the anterior edge.
- Different from Sphyrna tiburo:
  - More rounded anterior margin.
  - Absence of lobules on the posterior margin.
  - Higher precaudal vertebral count (80-83 vs. ~73 in Sphyrna tiburo).
Evolutionary Insight: Possible sister lineage to Sphyrna vespertina, suggesting Sphyrna tiburo diverged later.
Conservation Status:
- Hammerhead sharks are highly threatened, primarily due to overfishing.
- Most species, except Sphyrna gilberti, are listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
- Current IUCN assessment of Sphyrna tiburo as Globally Endangered may need reevaluation considering the new findings.
Management Recommendations:
- Increased management efforts needed for Sphyrna alleni, particularly restrictions on gillnets and trawls, which significantly impact this species.
Publication: Findings reported in the journal Zootaxa.

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

06 Oct 2024

Global Strategic Preparedness, Readiness and Response Plan (SPRP)

06 Oct 2024

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The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the Global Strategic Preparedness, Readiness and Response Plan (SPRP) to tackle dengue and other Aedes-borne arboviruses.

Key Highlights:

Purpose:
- Tackle dengue and other Aedes-borne arboviruses (e.g., Zika, chikungunya).
- Reduce disease burden, suffering, and deaths globally.
Background:
- Rapid geographical spread of dengue due to:
  - Unplanned urbanization.
  - Poor water, sanitation, and hygiene practices.
  - Climate change.
  - Increased international travel.
- An estimated 4 billion people at risk, projected to increase to 5 billion by 2050.
- Significant increase in dengue cases; 12.3 million reported by August 2023, nearly double the total from 2022.
Global Impact:
- Dengue endemic in over 130 countries, particularly affecting:
  - South-East Asia.
  - Western Pacific.
  - Americas.
  - Africa facing compounded health crises due to conflicts and disasters.
Emergency Grade: WHO has graded the global dengue situation as grade 3, the highest emergency level.
Key Components of SPRP:
- Emergency Coordination: Leadership and coordination activities for outbreak response.
- Collaborative Surveillance: Tools for early detection and control, including strengthened surveillance and epidemiological analysis.
- Community Protection: Engaging communities in local prevention and response measures.
- Safe and Scalable Care: Ensuring resilient health services for adequate patient care.
- Access to Countermeasures: Promoting research for better treatments and vaccines.
Implementation Timeline: Over one year until September 2025, requiring US$ 55 million for health preparedness and response efforts.
Alignment with Other Initiatives:
- Supports the Global Vector Control Response 2017-2030.
- Linked to the Global Arbovirus Initiative (2022) targeting mosquito-borne diseases.
Call to Action:
- Encourages collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities.
- Emphasizes the need for innovation and improved vector control strategies.

This plan aims to mobilize a coordinated response to the escalating threat of dengue and related diseases, emphasizing the role of all stakeholders in public health.

Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORAD)

06 Oct 2024

Pradhan Mantri-Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme

05 Oct 2024

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The Prime Minister of India is set to announce the 18th installment of the PM-KISAN scheme in Washim, Maharashtra. This will benefit over 9.4 crore farmers nationwide, with the government allocating more than ?20,000 crore for this initiative.

About PM-KISAN

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a Central Sector Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) initiative aimed at providing income support to farmers.

Key Features:

Financial Assistance: The scheme offers ?6,000 annually to small and marginal farmer families, distributed in three equal installments.
Eligibility: Initially targeted at families with up to 2 hectares of cultivable land, the scope was later broadened to include all farmer families, regardless of land size.
Family Definition: The definition of a family under this scheme includes the husband, wife, and minor children.
Identification of Beneficiaries: State governments and Union Territory administrations are responsible for identifying eligible farmer families based on the scheme's guidelines.
Direct Transfers: The funds are directly credited to the beneficiaries' bank accounts.

Exclusion Criteria

Certain categories of individuals are not eligible for benefits under the PM-KISAN scheme, including:

Institutional Land-holders: Those who hold land under institutional ownership.
High-Profile Government Officials: This includes former and current holders of constitutional posts, ministers, members of legislative assemblies, mayors, and district panchayat chairpersons.
Government Employees: Serving or retired officers and employees of central or state government ministries and departments are excluded.
Pensioners: Retired pensioners receiving a monthly pension of ?10,000 or more, as well as those in the previously mentioned categories, are also ineligible.
Income Tax Filers: Individuals who have paid income tax in the last assessment year.
Registered Professionals: Professionals such as doctors, engineers, lawyers, chartered accountants, and architects who are engaged in practice and registered with professional bodies.

India's BRAP 2024 Alignment with World Bank's B-READY Index

05 Oct 2024

Co-district Initiative

05 Oct 2024

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Assam has launched an innovative administrative initiative by inaugurating 21 'co-districts' as part of its Phase 1 rollout, which began on Friday and will extend into Saturday, ultimately introducing a total of 39 co-districts. This new structure replaces the previous system of 24 civil sub-divisions, aiming to bring governance closer to the citizens.

About the Co-District Initiative

Structure: Co-districts serve as smaller administrative units within the larger district framework, each headed by an Assistant District Commissioner.
Objective: This unique initiative, the first of its kind in India, seeks to enhance accessibility to governance and address administrative challenges faced by district administrations.
Scope: The government plans to establish co-district offices in all 126 assembly constituencies in Assam.

Functions and Powers

The co-districts will handle a variety of important functions, including:

Land Revenue Matters: Managing land-related issues and revenue collection.
Development and Welfare Work: Overseeing development projects and welfare programs.
Excise and Disaster Management: Addressing excise-related matters and coordinating disaster response efforts.
Administrative Control: Co-districts will have authority over all departmental activities within their jurisdiction.
Magisterial Powers: Commissioners will be empowered to issue permissions for events and manage other administrative tasks.
Routine Administrative Tasks: Responsibilities include issuing ration cards, caste certificates, and land sale permissions.

India-U.S. MoU on Critical Minerals Supply Chains

05 Oct 2024

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The sixth Commercial Dialogue took place in Washington on October 4, 2024, led by Indian Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal and U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.
MoU Signing: A day prior, the leaders signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding and diversifying critical minerals supply chains to enhance resilience.
Focus Areas:
- Identification of equipment, services, policies, and best practices for the development of U.S. and Indian critical minerals, covering:
  - Exploration
  - Extraction
  - Processing and refining
  - Recycling and recovery
Context: This agreement follows China's export restrictions on gallium and germanium, critical for the semiconductor industry, and its ban on technology related to rare earth magnets and critical materials extraction.
Strategic Goals:
- Promote open supply chains, technology development, and investment flows for green energy.
- Explore collaboration with other mineral-rich countries, particularly in Africa and South America.
Progress on Semiconductor Supply Chains:
- Continued efforts to establish resilient semiconductor supply chains since the previous MoU.
- Completion of a "readiness assessment" by the U.S. Semiconductor Industry Association and India Electronics Semiconductor Association.
- Commitment to foster investments, joint ventures, and technology partnerships.
Innovation Handshake: Success of roundtables in San Francisco and New Delhi aimed at enhancing innovation ecosystems and startup collaboration.
Strategic Clean Energy Partnership: Discussions from the EIN Roundtable in March 2024 informed the U.S.-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership meeting.
IPEF Supply Chain Agreement: Significant progress noted in the IPEF ministerial meeting, focusing on semiconductors, chemicals, and critical minerals, particularly batteries and healthcare products.
Future Collaborations:
- Focus on expanding U.S. Department of Commerce presence in India with approximately 70 Foreign Commercial Service staff.
- Plans for a U.S. trade mission to India in March 2025 aimed at supporting U.S. SMEs owned by underserved communities.
Domestic Solar Manufacturing Protection: India reinstated the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) order to protect local solar PV module production against cheaper imports from China.
Economic Context:
- The Economic Survey 2023-24 highlights China's expanding manufacturing trade surplus and its restrictive actions affecting India's access to solar equipment.
- India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes have invested over $4.5 billion to bolster clean energy manufacturing but require additional policies to safeguard these investments.

Status of Elephant in India 2022-23

05 Oct 2024

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Shelved Census Report: The Environment Ministry has delayed the release of the elephant census report, “Status of Elephant in India 2022-23,” due to a lag in the Northeast census, with publication on hold until at least June 2025.
Population Decline: Preliminary data from the report indicates significant drops in elephant populations across several regions:
- Southern West Bengal: 84% decline
- Jharkhand: 64% decline
- Odisha: 54% decline
- Kerala: 51% decline
Developmental Threats: The report cites “mushrooming developmental projects,” including unregulated mining and infrastructure development, as major threats to elephant populations.
Methodological Concerns: The Environment Ministry noted that refined counting methods could explain some discrepancies, suggesting new data may not be directly comparable to previous censuses conducted every five years since the 1990s.
Old Counting Methods:
- Pre-2002: Elephants were counted using the “total direct count” method, which involved simple head counts but lacked scientific rigor for larger populations.
- 2002: Introduction of the “indirect dung count” method, where dung samples were used to estimate density based on decay rates.
- Sample Block Counts: Modified methods involved surveying limited areas (5 sq km) to improve detection accuracy.
Elephants vs. Tigers: In 2021, a harmonized approach for estimating elephant and tiger populations was proposed, utilizing a similar block and co-variate methodology for both species.
Genetic Mark-Recapture: The 2022-23 elephant census employed a genetic mark-recapture model using dung samples to identify individual elephants.
Impact of Delay: Experts argue that withholding the available data hinders conservation efforts and governance. Delays could exacerbate the plight of elephant populations, particularly in regions facing specific threats, such as mining in Odisha.

Key Findings of the Unreleased Report:

Overall Decline: The overall elephant population has decreased by 20% since 2017, with some areas reporting reductions of up to 41%.
Regional Impact:
- Southern West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha have seen losses of nearly 1,700 elephants.
- The Western Ghats region indicates an 18% decline.
Northeast Region: The census for this area relies on extrapolated data from 2017, with approximately one-third of India's elephants located there.
Contributing Factors: Habitat fragmentation, poaching, and human-elephant conflicts due to developmental activities are major threats.
Conservation Recommendations: Strategies to strengthen elephant corridors, restore habitats, and enhance community involvement in conservation are vital.
Challenges in the Northeast: Urban development, mining, and agriculture significantly threaten elephant movement and survival, underscoring the need for targeted conservation strategies.
Conservation Status of Elephants in India:
- Leading States: Karnataka, Assam, and Kerala have the highest elephant populations.
- Conservation Status: Elephants are classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and are protected under multiple international conventions.
Threats to Elephants:
- Habitat Loss: Rapid human population growth is diminishing elephant habitats.
- Fragmentation: Habitat disruption from construction and development projects is prevalent.
- Unlawful Killing: Human-elephant conflict often leads to retaliatory killings.
- Poaching: Targeting of male elephants for tusks continues to threaten genetic diversity.
Conservation Measures:
- Financial support under various government schemes for habitat conservation and human-elephant conflict resolution.
- Establishment of 33 Elephant Reserves across 14 states.
- Collaborative efforts with railways and power departments to mitigate risks.
- Regular elephant census every five years by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) for monitoring populations.

USCIRF Report on India: Key Highlights

04 Oct 2024

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The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), a Washington DC-based bipartisan U.S. federal government agency, has released a country update on India, flagging “collapsing religious freedom conditions”.

Agency Overview:
- The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan U.S. federal commission established under the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA).
- Its primary functions include reviewing global religious freedom violations, providing policy recommendations to U.S. leaders, and publishing annual reports.
Current Concerns:
- USCIRF's latest report indicates a “collapse” in religious freedom conditions in India, particularly worsening throughout 2024, especially around national elections.
Legal and Policy Changes:
- Strengthening of discriminatory legislation, including:
  - State-level anti-conversion and anti-terrorism laws.
  - Implementation rules for the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).
  - Passage of a State-level Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in Uttarakhand.
Violations and Incidents:
- Expropriation of Places of Worship:
  - Authorities have facilitated the construction of Hindu temples on former mosque sites.
  - Increased attacks on religious minorities, particularly following the consecration of the Ayodhya temple in January 2024.
- Targeting of Religious Minorities:
  - Arrests of Christians accused of forced conversions under anti-conversion laws.
  - Anti-cow slaughter laws exploited by vigilante groups to target Muslims, Christians, and Dalits, often with little to no legal repercussions for perpetrators.
Recommendations:
- USCIRF urges the U.S. State Department to designate India as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to severe violations of religious freedom.

About USCIRF

Composition: Comprised of nine commissioners appointed by the U.S. President or Congressional leaders, supported by non-partisan staff.
Objective: To monitor and recommend actions on religious freedom violations aligned with international human rights standards.

Indian push needed to end AIDS as a global health threat by 2030: UNAIDS

04 Oct 2024

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The UNAIDS Director recently highlighted the crucial role India plays in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, asserting that without its significant contributions, achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 is unlikely.

Understanding HIV/AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells, which diminishes the body's ability to combat infections and diseases.
When HIV progresses to its most severe form, it is diagnosed as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), characterized by a severely compromised immune system, leading to life-threatening infections and cancers.
The virus is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, including blood, semen, and breast milk. While there is currently no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively manage HIV and prevent its progression to AIDS.

India’s Progress in Combating HIV/AIDS

From 2010 to 2023, India has made significant strides in reducing annual new HIV infections by 44%, surpassing the global average.
Additionally, AIDS-related deaths in India have decreased by nearly 80% during the same period, also exceeding global trends. However, challenges persist, with approximately 68,000 new infections reported in 2023, translating to around 185 daily.
The Global AIDS Strategy emphasizes the need for 80% of prevention services to be delivered by community-led organizations, which are essential for reaching key populations but require sufficient resources and support.

About UNAIDS

UNAIDS, established in 1996, coordinates global efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and supports those affected. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it unites the efforts of 11 UN organizations and works in collaboration with various global and national partners to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

Key aspects of UNAIDS include:

Global Mandate: To coordinate responses, support countries in prevention and treatment, and advocate for human rights and equality in access to services.
Targets: The "90-90-90" targets aimed for 2020 sought to ensure that 90% of people living with HIV were diagnosed, 90% of those diagnosed were on treatment, and 90% of those on treatment achieved viral suppression.
Current Strategy: The 2021-2026 Global AIDS Strategy focuses on eliminating inequalities that drive HIV and aims to ensure that 30 million people are on treatment by 2025.
Funding and Advocacy: Funded by governments, private foundations, and corporations, UNAIDS organizes key campaigns, including World AIDS Day, to raise awareness and promote advocacy.

PM Internship Scheme

04 Oct 2024

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The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her Budget speech on July 23, was launched on October 3. The PM Internship Scheme aims to provide internship opportunities to one crore youth in the top 500 companies over the next five years.

Companies will upload their internship positions, and candidates can submit applications starting October 12.

What is the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme?

The PM Internship Scheme will enhance youth employability in India by offering them hands-on exposure to real-world business environments. The scheme represents a transformative opportunity to bridge the skills gap and drive sustainable growth in India.

A monthly stipend of ?4,500 will be provided to the interns from the central government via DBT (Direct Benefit transfer), with an additional ?500 offset provided by the company’s CSR fund.

Who is eligible for the PM internship scheme?

Candidates aged between 21 and 24 years who are not engaged in full-time employment are eligible for the one-year internship programme.
Internships are available to those who have passed class 10 or higher.
Individuals from families with government jobs are excluded
The scheme is not open to post-graduates
A candidate who graduated from premier institutes such as IIT, IIM, or IISER, and those who have CA, or CMA qualification would not be eligible to apply for this internship.
Anyone from a household that includes a person who earned an income of ?8 lakh or more in 2023-24, will not be eligible.

How to apply for the PM internship scheme?

Interns can register in the portal and apply for internships. The portal, pminternship.mca.gov.in, is likely to be opened up for youngsters to enroll for consideration by companies on October 12. This window will be open till October 25 for the first batch of internships. Candidates must share and self-certify some data about their educational qualifications and residential pin codes.
Candidates’ data will be matched with companies’ needs and locations using Artificial Intelligence tools, and a shortlist of candidates will then be generated for companies to consider.
The portal is designed to streamline the application process and make candidate selection more transparent. Applicants can check the status of their applications in the portal once they have applied to the available posts.

What is the benefit of the scheme?

The scheme is to provide on-job training to youth and an exposure to real-life work environment. The scheme will also benefit the industry by creating a pipeline of skilled, work-ready youth who can be employed post-internship both in large as well as micro, small and medium enterprise.

National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds)

04 Oct 2024

Status of Classical Language: An Explainer

04 Oct 2024

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The Union Cabinet has approved to confer the status of Classical Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages.

Why is a language declared as Classical?

Designating a language as classical acknowledges its historical significance and its role in preserving Bharat’s rich cultural heritage. These languages have been crucial in transmitting ancient knowledge, philosophies, and values for millennia. Government recognition emphasizes their deep antiquity and literary traditions, enhancing their status and promoting efforts for their preservation and research, ensuring their relevance in the modern world.

What are the criteria for declaring a language as classical?

In 2004, the Government of India, for the first time, created a new category of languages known as Classical Languages. It set the following as criteria for the status of Classical Language:

High antiquity of its early texts/ recorded history over a thousand years.
A body of ancient literature/ texts, which is considered a valuable heritage by generation of speakers.
The literary tradition must be original and not borrowed from another speech community.

This criterion was revised in 2005 and 2024 based on the recommendations of Linguistic Experts Committees (LEC) under Sahitya Akademi to examine the proposed languages for the status of Classical Language. Later the criteria were revised in 2024 as follows:

High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500- 2000 years.
A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a heritage by generations of speakers.
Knowledge texts, especially prose texts in addition to poetry, epigraphical and inscriptional evidence.
The Classical Languages and literature could be distinct from its current form or could be discontinuous with later forms of its offshoots.

The 2024 Linguistic Expert Committee also recommended the following languages to be fulfilling revised criteria to be considered as a Classical Language: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, Bengali

How many languages have been declared classical so far?

Languages Date of Recognition Notification by Source/Notification Date

Tamil October 12, 2004 Ministry of Home Affairs October 12, 2004

Ministry of Sanskrit November 25, 2005 Ministry of Home Affairs November 25, 2005

Telugu October 31, 2008 Ministry of Culture October 31, 2008

Kannada October 31, 2008 Ministry of Culture October 31, 2008

Malayalam August 8, 2013 Ministry of Culture August 8, 2013

Odia March 1, 2014 Ministry of Culture March 1, 2014

Steps Taken by the Ministry of Education for Advancing Classical Languages:

Establishment of Central Universities (2020): Three universities created to promote Sanskrit through an Act of Parliament.
Central Institute of Classical Tamil:
- Facilitates translation of ancient Tamil texts.
- Promotes research and offers courses for students and scholars.
Centres for Excellence:
- Established for Classical Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Odia under the Central Institute of Indian Languages in Mysuru.
Awards: Introduction of national and international awards to recognize achievements in Classical Languages.
Additional Benefits:
- National Awards for Classical Languages.
- Establishment of university chairs.
- Dedicated centers for promoting Classical Languages.

Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) Results for 2022-23

03 Oct 2024

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The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the results of the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) for the financial year 2022-23 (April 2022 to March 2023).
- The fieldwork for this survey was conducted from November 2023 to June 2024.
The ASI provides critical insights into the dynamics of the manufacturing sector, covering aspects such as output, value added, employment, and capital formation.

Key Highlights

Gross Value Added (GVA): Increased by 7.3% in current prices for 2022-23 compared to the previous year.
Industrial Output: Grew by over 21% in 2022-23 compared to 2021-22.
Employment: Estimated employment in the sector rose by 7.4% over the previous year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

The growth in key economic parameters such as invested capital, input, output, GVA, and wages indicates a robust recovery in the industrial sector. Notably, industries like Basic Metal Manufacturing, Coke & Refined Petroleum Products, Food Products, Chemicals, and Motor Vehicles were significant contributors, accounting for about 58% of total output and showing a 24.5% increase in output and 2.6% in GVA.

State Contributions

Top GVA Contributors:
- Maharashtra
- Gujarat
- Tamil Nadu
- Karnataka
- Uttar Pradesh

Together, these states contributed over 54% of the total manufacturing GVA.

Highest Employment States:
- Tamil Nadu
- Maharashtra
- Gujarat
- Uttar Pradesh
- Karnataka

Collectively, these states accounted for about 55% of total manufacturing employment in 2022-23.

Survey Details

The ASI encompasses various industrial units, including:

Factories registered under the Factories Act, 1948.
Bidi and cigar manufacturing establishments.
Electricity undertakings not registered with the Central Electricity Authority.
Units with 100 or more employees registered in the Business Register of Establishments.

The survey employs a comprehensive sampling strategy, dividing units into Central and State Samples to ensure accurate representation. Key components of the data collection include:

Central Sample: Includes all units in less industrially developed states and specific industrial categories.
State Sample: Comprises selected units based on employee count and other criteria.

Industrial Classification

Since 1959, the ASI has adopted various classifications to categorize industries. The current classification, NIC 2008, is based on the UN's international standards and has been in use since 2008-09.

Data Collection and Reliability

Data collection is conducted via a dedicated web portal, following the Collection of Statistics Act. Various quality checks ensure reliability, with the Relative Standard Errors (RSE) for important estimates remaining within acceptable limits.

Modified PKC-ERCP project

03 Oct 2024

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Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan governments signed an agreement for the implementation of the Rs 72,000 crore Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal river linking project.

Modified PKC-ERCP Project Overview

Signatories: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti signed a MoU for implementation.
Project Type: Inter-state river linking initiative.
Integration: Combines the long-standing Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal (PKC) project with the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) under India's National Perspective Plan for interlinking rivers.

Objectives and Benefits

Water Supply: Aims to provide drinking and industrial water to 13 districts in eastern Rajasthan and the Malwa and Chambal regions of Madhya Pradesh.
Irrigation: Expected to irrigate approximately 5.6 lakh hectares across both states.
Groundwater Management: Focus on improving groundwater levels and enhancing socio-economic conditions in rural Rajasthan.

Project Components

Detailed Project Report (DPR): Currently under preparation, will outline water sharing, cost distribution, and implementation strategies.
Historical Context:
- PKC Project: Proposed in 1980 as part of a national plan, initially focused on diverting water from Kalisindh and Newaj rivers to Chambal.
- ERCP: Proposed by Rajasthan in 2019 to optimize water resources by redistributing surplus monsoon water from various sub-basins to deficit areas.

Geographic Focus

Beneficiary Districts in Rajasthan: Includes Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Karauli, and others.
River Systems Involved:
- Chambal River: Originates in Madhya Pradesh, flows through Rajasthan, and joins the Yamuna.
- Kalisindh and Parbati Rivers: Serve as sources for water diversion.

Implementation Challenges

Dependable Yield Issues: The original project proposal was based on a 50% dependable yield, contrary to the 75% norm, which was unacceptable to Madhya Pradesh. This led to discussions and revisions.
Task Force Recommendations: Integrated discussions led to the proposal of the Modified PKC-ERCP, addressing both states' concerns.

Significance of the Project

National Perspective Plan (NPP): Part of a larger initiative to manage water resources effectively across India, aiming to address water scarcity and improve irrigation.
Support for Industrial Development: Enhances water availability for the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, fostering economic growth.

PM E-DRIVE Scheme

03 Oct 2024

India’s Oil Imports from Saudi Arabia and Russia

03 Oct 2024

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Context

India’s crude oil imports are influenced by refinery maintenance cycles, which affect demand.
August saw a dip in oil demand due to pre-maintenance preparations, but September recorded a recovery.

September Oil Import Trends

Saudi Arabia:
- Imports rose 39.8% month-on-month to 0.73 million barrels per day (bpd), the highest since March.
- Saudi market share increased to 15.5% in September from 11.7% in August.
- Riyadh is reducing prices to regain lost market share, as earlier imports had plummeted to a multi-year low (0.42 million bpd in June).
Russia:
- Remains India’s largest oil supplier with imports increasing by 6.4% from August to 1.88 million bpd.
- Russian crude constituted 40.2% of India’s total crude imports of 4.68 million bpd in September.
Iraq:
- Supplied 0.87 million bpd, accounting for 18.7% of total imports.
UAE:
- Oil imports increased by 18.6% month-on-month to 0.49 million bpd, the highest since June 2022.

Market Dynamics

Price Sensitivity: Indian refiners are highly price-sensitive, which could lead to increased competition among suppliers.
Potential for Increased Russian Imports: With Indian refiners expected to secure larger long-term contracts for Russian oil, further increases in imports from Russia are anticipated.

Strategic Implications

Saudi Arabia is concerned about losing market share to Russia, especially as India’s refiners are currently favoring discounted Russian crude.
Increased competition may benefit Indian refiners through better pricing from various suppliers.

Economic Context

India, as the world's third-largest oil consumer with over 85% import dependency, is significantly affected by global oil price fluctuations.
Although discounts on Russian crude have decreased, the overall savings from purchasing large volumes remain significant for Indian refiners.

The evolving landscape of India’s oil imports highlights the competitive dynamics among major suppliers, particularly Saudi Arabia and Russia, and underscores India’s strategic importance as a key market in the global oil sector.

Little Prespa Lake's Decline

03 Oct 2024

Cruise Bharat Mission

01 Oct 2024

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The central government launched the five-year Cruise Bharat Mission, aiming to boost cruise tourism in India to 1 million passengers and create 400,000 jobs by 2029.

Mission Goals

Passenger Traffic: Increase from 0.5 million to 1 million sea cruise passengers by 2029.
River Cruise Passengers: Grow from 0.5 million to 1.5 million.
Job Creation: Generate 400,000 jobs in the cruise sector.
Infrastructure Expansion:
- International cruise terminals: From 2 to 10.
- River cruise terminals: From 50 to 100.
- Marinas: From 1 to 5.

Implementation Phases

Phase 1 (2024-2025):
- Conduct studies and master planning.
- Form alliances with neighboring countries.
- Modernize existing cruise terminals and destinations.
Phase 2 (2025-2027):
- Develop new cruise terminals and marinas.
- Activate high-potential cruise locations.
Phase 3 (2027-2029):
- Integrate cruise circuits across the Indian Subcontinent.
- Continue developing infrastructure and enhancing cruise experiences.

Strategic Focus Areas

Sustainable Infrastructure:
- Develop world-class terminals, marinas, and water aerodromes.
- Emphasize digitalization (e.g., facial recognition) and decarbonization (shore power).
- Create a National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047.
Operational Efficiency:
- Streamline operations using digital solutions (e.g., e-clearance and e-visa facilities).
Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration:
- Focus on international marketing and investment.
- Host events like the "Cruise India Summit."
- Form alliances with neighboring countries (UAE, Maldives, Singapore).
Regulatory and Financial Policies:
- Establish tailored fiscal and financial policies.
- Launch a National Cruise Tourism Policy.
Capacity Building & Employment:
- Create a Centre of Excellence for cruise-related economic research.
- Develop National Occupational Standards to enhance youth employment opportunities.

Expected Outcomes

Tourism Growth: Position India as a global cruise destination.
Cultural Promotion: Highlight the cultural, historical, and natural heritage of Bharat through cruise circuits.
Community Benefits: Ensure inclusive growth for local communities and stakeholders in the cruise sector.

The Cruise Bharat Mission is set to redefine India's cruise tourism landscape, focusing on infrastructure development, operational efficiency, and promoting cultural heritage, while ensuring economic growth and job creation for the future.

BharatGen Initiative

01 Oct 2024

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BharatGen is a pioneering generative AI initiative launched in New Delhi, aimed at revolutionizing public service delivery and enhancing citizen engagement, with Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State, in virtual attendance.

Significance
- Represents India's commitment to advancing homegrown technologies.
- Positions India as a global leader in generative AI, similar to achievements with UPI and other innovations.
- Marks the world's first government-funded Multimodal Large Language Model project focusing on Indian languages.
Leadership and Implementation
- Spearheaded by IIT Bombay under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).
- Collaboration with the TIH Foundation for IoT and various academic partners, including IITs and IIMs.
- Key figures involved include Prof. Shireesh Kedare (Director, IIT Bombay) and Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan (consortium leader).
Core Objectives
- Deliver generative AI models as a public good, prioritizing socio-cultural and linguistic diversity.
- Address broader needs such as social equity, cultural preservation, and inclusivity.
- Make AI accessible for industrial, commercial, and national priorities.
Key Features
- Multilingual and Multimodal Models: Capable of handling text and speech in multiple languages.
- Bhartiya Data Sets: Focus on India-centric data collection and training.
- Open-Source Platform: Promotes collaboration and innovation in AI research.
- Ecosystem Development: Fosters a robust AI research community.
Project Timeline and Impact
- Expected completion in two years, with benefits for government, private, educational, and research institutions.
- Ensures coverage of India’s diverse linguistic landscape through multilingual datasets.
- Emphasis on data sovereignty to strengthen control over digital resources.
Alignment with National Goals
- Supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by reducing reliance on foreign technologies.
- Aims to strengthen the domestic AI ecosystem for startups, industries, and government agencies.
- Focuses on democratizing access to AI for innovators and researchers.
Research and Community Engagement
- Data-efficient learning for languages with limited digital presence.
- Development of effective models with minimal data through research collaborations.
- Initiatives to foster an AI research community, including training programs and hackathons.
Future Roadmap
- Key milestones outlined up to July 2026, focusing on:
  - Extensive AI model development and experimentation.
  - Establishment of AI benchmarks tailored to India’s needs.
  - Scaling AI adoption across industries and public initiatives.

Joint Military Exercise KAZIND-2024

01 Oct 2024

La Nina and North India’s pollution

01 Oct 2024

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Recent research by scientists at the National Institute of Advanced Science (NIAS) has underlined the links between climate change, La Niña and air quality.

Key Points on Air Quality Outlook for Delhi and North India

Delayed La Niña & Monsoon Retreat:
- Erosion of optimism for improved air quality this winter in Delhi.
- Significant pollution challenges anticipated in early winter months.
- Possible relief in December and January, contingent on La Niña strengthening.
Impact of Stubble Burning:
- If stubble burning occurs at half the intensity of previous years, November air quality may deteriorate.
Research Insights:
- Study by National Institute of Advanced Science (NIAS) links climate change, La Niña, and air quality.
- Notable air quality improvement in winter 2022-23 was linked to La Niña conditions.
- Late onset of La Niña contributes to air quality uncertainty.
Changing Pollution Dynamics:
- Shift from local emission-centric views to broader climatological factors is necessary.
- Air quality in Delhi worsens during winter due to high humidity, calm winds, and poor pollutant dispersion.
La Niña Delays:
- Delayed La Niña onset means weak winds and stagnant conditions, worsening pollution.
- Expected development between September and November 2024.
Effects of Stubble Burning:
- North-north-westerly winds could carry pollution from stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana into Delhi.
Potential Outcomes of Late La Niña Onset:
- If La Niña develops in December or January, may improve air quality slightly.
- However, a longer, severe winter could exacerbate pollution issues due to lower inversion layers.
NIAS-SAFAR Model Predictions:
- Early La Niña could have worsened air quality in the peninsular region.
- Early onset might have improved northern air quality.
Link to Climate Change:
- Evidence suggests extreme air pollution correlates with climate change.
- Emphasizes the need for rigorous mitigation efforts and broader airshed management.
Call for Rethinking Air Quality Strategies:
- Focus on integrating larger climatic factors into air quality policies.
- Prioritize health-centric measures through collaborative efforts with scientific bodies.

What is La Niña?

La Niña (or ‘The Little Girl’ in Spanish) is a phase of what climatologists refer to as the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a phenomenon that is a key driver of global natural climate variability.
ENSO is characterised by changes in sea temperatures along the tropical Pacific Ocean due to atmospheric fluctuations overhead. These changes alter and interfere with the global atmospheric circulation, and influence weather worldwide.
Occurring in irregular cycles of anywhere between two to seven years, ENSO has three phases — warm (El Niño or ‘The Little Boy’ in Spanish), cool (La Niña), and neutral.
During the neutral phase, the eastern Pacific (off the northwestern coast of South America) is cooler than the western Pacific (around Philippines and Indonesia). This is because prevailing trade winds — caused by Earth’s rotation, between 30 degrees north and south of the equator — move east to west, sweeping warmer surface water along with them. The relatively cool waters from below rise to the surface to replace the displaced water.
These wind systems weaken in the El Niño phase, leading to lesser displacement of warmer waters off the American coasts. Consequently, the eastern Pacific becomes warmer than usual. The opposite happens in the La Niña phase i.e. trade winds become stronger than usual and push larger quantities of water to the western Pacific.

Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)

01 Oct 2024

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The Manipur government has extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in the hill districts of the State for another six months.
Effective October 1, the provisions of the Act will be extended to the whole State, except 19 police station limits in seven valley districts, thus maintaining the status quo, since three such notifications were passed since March 2023.
It added that the “disturbed area” status could not be reviewed and a detailed ground assessment could not be done as “the sister security agencies are preoccupied with maintenance of law and order” and “it will be premature to arrive at any conclusion or decision on such sensitive matter without detailed assessment.”

Overview of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)

Enactment: The AFSPA was passed by Parliament and approved by the President on September 11, 1958.
Context: It was introduced in response to rising violence in the North-eastern States, which state governments struggled to control.

Key Provisions of AFSPA

Powers Granted:
- The Act empowers armed forces and Central Armed Police Forces in "disturbed areas" to:
  - Kill anyone acting against the law.
  - Arrest and search premises without a warrant.
  - Receive protection from prosecution and legal action without Central government sanction.
Issuance of Notifications:
- Both State and Union governments can issue notifications regarding AFSPA.
- The Ministry of Home Affairs issues "disturbed area" notifications for Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.

Definition of Disturbed Areas

Criteria:
- A disturbed area is declared under Section 3 of AFSPA, indicating the need for armed forces' assistance in maintaining civil order.
- Factors leading to the declaration can include:
  - Conflicts among different religious, racial, linguistic, or regional groups.
Authority to Declare:
- The Central Government, the Governor of the State, or the administrator of a Union Territory can declare an area as disturbed.
Duration:
- Once designated as disturbed, the area remains classified as such for three months, as per The Disturbed Areas (Special Courts) Act, 1976.
State Government Input:
- State governments can recommend whether AFSPA should continue in their region.

Colombo Security Conclave (CSC)

03 Sep 2024

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The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) recently marked a significant milestone with the signing of the Charter and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of its Secretariat in Colombo. This initiative aims to strengthen regional security collaboration among member states.

Key Features of the Colombo Security Conclave

Member States: The CSC comprises five member countries:
- India
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
- Maldives
- Mauritius

Additionally, Seychelles participates as an observer nation.

Core Objectives: The primary goal of the CSC is to enhance regional security by addressing transnational threats and challenges that are common concerns for member states. This includes a collaborative approach to ensure stability and safety in the region.

Origin and Evolution

The CSC originated as the Trilateral for Maritime Security Cooperation, established through trilateral meetings among National Security Advisors (NSAs) and Deputy NSAs from India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka starting in 2011.
The initiative faced a setback after 2014 due to heightened tensions between India and the Maldives.
It was revived and rebranded as the CSC in 2020, expanding its membership to include Mauritius and, more recently, Bangladesh.

Structure and Cooperation

The conclave facilitates interactions among NSAs and Deputy NSAs of member countries, fostering dialogue and cooperation on security matters.
Cooperation under the CSC is organized around five key pillars:
1. Maritime Safety and Security
2. Countering Terrorism and Radicalization
3. Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organized Crime
4. Cybersecurity and Protection of Critical Infrastructure
5. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief

Permanent Secretariat

The establishment of a permanent Secretariat in Colombo is expected to enhance coordination and streamline operations among member states, bolstering the efficacy of the CSC in addressing regional security issues.

Thanjavur Veena

03 Sep 2024

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The Thanjavur Veena has the distinction of being the first musical instrument in India to receive the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, highlighting its cultural and artistic significance. Here’s an overview of its features, types, and craftsmanship:

About Thanjavur Veena

Construction:
- The Thanjavur Veena is known for its unique construction, which comes in two main types:
  - Ekantha Veena: Carved from a single block of wood.
  - Sada Veena: Composed of three sections—resonator (kudam), neck (dandi), and head—with joints.
Design Features:
- The instrument features 24 fixed frets (mettu), enabling musicians to play a wide range of ragas.
- Traditionally made from the bark of the Jackfruit tree, the bark undergoes extensive testing to ensure quality and durability.
Craftsmanship:
- The process of crafting a Thanjavur Veena can take 15-20 days, involving cutting, intricate carving, shaping, and assembly of the wood to form the integral parts of the instrument.

Types of Veena

The Thanjavur Veena is one of several types of veenas used in Indian classical music:

Rudra Veena and Vichitra Veena: Predominantly used in Hindustani classical music.
Saraswati Veena and Chitra Veena: Associated with Carnatic classical music, with the Saraswati Veena being unique to Thanjavur.

Cultural Significance

The Saraswati Veena is particularly notable as it is often associated with Goddess Saraswati, the deity of learning and arts, who is frequently depicted holding a veena. This connection emphasizes the instrument's importance in Indian culture and music.

7 New Schemes to Boost Farmer Income

03 Sep 2024

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The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, approved seven schemes to improve farmers’ lives and increase their incomes at a total outlay of Rs 14,235.30 Crore.

1. Digital Agriculture Mission: based on the structure of Digital Public Infrastructure, Digital Agriculture Mission will use technology for improving farmers’ lives. The Mission has a total outlay of Rs 2,817 crores. It comprises two foundational pillars

1. Agri Stack

Farmers registry
Village land maps registry
Crop Sown Registry

2. Krishi Decision Support System

Geospatial data
Drought/flood monitoring
Weather/satellite data
Groundwater/water availability data
Modelling for crop yield and insurance

The Mission has provision for

Soil profile
Digital crop estimation
Digital yield modelling
Connect for crop loan
Modern technologies like AI and Big Data
Connect with buyers
Bring new knowledge on mobile phones

2. Crop science for food and nutritional security: with a total outlay of Rs 3,979 crore. The initiative will prepare farmers for climate resilience and provide for food security by 2047. It has following pillars:

Research and education
Plant genetic resource management
Genetic improvement for food and fodder crop
Pulse and oilseed crop improvement
Improvement of commercial crops
Research on insects, microbes, pollinators etc.

3. Strengthening Agricultural Education, Management and Social Sciences: with a total outlay of Rs 2,291 Crore the measure will prepare agriculture students and researchers for current challenges and comprises the following

Under Indian Council of Agri Research
Modernising agri research and education
In line with New Education Policy 2020
Use latest technology … Digital DPI, AI, big data, remote, etc
Include natural farming and climate resilience

4. Sustainable livestock health and production: with a total outlay of Rs 1,702 crore, the decision aims to Increase farmers income from livestock and dairy. It comprises the following

Animal health management and veterinary education
Dairy production and technology development
Animal genetic resource management, production and improvement
Animal nutrition and small ruminant production and development

5. Sustainable development of Horticulture: with a total outlay of Rs 1129.30 crore the measure is aimed at increasing farmers’ income from horticulture plants. It comprises the following

Tropical, sub-tropical and temperate horticulture crops
Root, tuber, bulbous and arid crops
Vegetable, floriculture, and mushroom crops
Plantation, spices, medicinal, and aromatic plants

6. Strengthening of Krishi Vigyan Kendra with an outlay of Rs 1,202 crore

7. Natural Resource Management with an outlay of Rs 1,115 crore

Current State of Mental Healthcare in India

03 Sep 2024

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Overview

India’s mental healthcare landscape is evolving, with increasing awareness and decreasing stigma around mental health issues. However, access to mental healthcare remains a significant challenge due to a shortage of professionals. Here are the key points:

Current State of Mental Healthcare in India

Rising Demand: Shifts in societal attitudes have led to more individuals seeking mental health support. Awareness and willingness to access treatment have notably increased.
Professional Shortage: Despite the rising demand, there are only 0.75 psychiatrists per one lakh population, far below the World Health Organization’s recommendation of three per lakh. As of the latest data, India has about 9,000 psychiatrists, while an estimated 36,000 are needed to meet the standard.
Slow Workforce Growth: Approximately 1,000 psychiatrists enter the workforce annually, but with attrition and unemployment, it could take around 27 years to reach the WHO target without intervention.
Comparative Analysis: India has one of the lowest psychiatrist-to-population ratios among BRICS nations, trailing only Ethiopia. However, it performs better than many South Asian countries.

Limitations of Current Data

Outdated Survey: The data largely relies on the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) conducted between 2015 and 2016, which is based on a limited sample size of around 40,000 people across 12 states.
Narrow Focus: The NMHS primarily addressed specific mental illnesses and overlooked milder conditions, emotional issues, and vulnerable populations like prisoners and the homeless.
Need for Updated Research: A second NMHS is scheduled for release next year, which may provide more comprehensive data and insights.

Improvements in Awareness and Attitudes

Positive Attitudinal Shift: A study by the LiveLoveLaugh Foundation found significant improvements in how Indians perceive mental health. For instance, the percentage of people believing that individuals with mental illnesses can handle responsibilities rose from 32% in 2018 to 65% in 2021.
Willingness to Seek Help: Over 90% of respondents in 2021 indicated they would seek treatment for themselves or support others in doing so, a substantial increase from 54% in 2018.
Increased Awareness: Awareness of mental health issues has grown, with 96% of respondents in 2021 recognizing mental health compared to 87% in 2018.

Conclusion

While India is making strides in reducing stigma and increasing awareness around mental health, the critical shortage of mental health professionals poses a significant barrier to accessing timely care. Addressing this issue requires targeted policy interventions and incentives to boost the supply of mental health professionals and improve the overall infrastructure for mental healthcare in the country.

Digital Agriculture Mission

03 Sep 2024

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Introduction

India's digital revolution has significantly transformed governance and service delivery in recent years by creating digital identities, secured payments and transactions. This progress has paved the way for a thriving digital ecosystem across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, education, and retail, positioning India as a leader in citizen-centric digital solutions.

For a similar transformation of the Agriculture Sector, the Union Cabinet Committee, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the 'Digital Agriculture Mission' with a substantial financial outlay of Rs. 2,817 Crore, including a central government share of Rs. 1,940 Crore, on September 2, 2024.

The Digital Agriculture Mission is designed as an umbrella scheme to support various digital agriculture initiatives. These include creating Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), implementing the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES), and supporting IT initiatives by the Central Government, State Governments, and Academic and Research Institutions.

The scheme is built on two foundational pillars:

Agri Stack
Krishi Decision Support System.

Additionally, the mission includes ‘Soil Profile Mapping’ and aims to enable farmer-centric digital services to provide timely and reliable information for the agriculture sector.

AgriStack: Kisan ki Pehchaan

AgriStack is designed as a farmer-centric Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to streamline services and scheme delivery to farmers. It comprises three key components:

1. Farmers' Registry

2. Geo-referenced village maps

3. Crop Sown Registry

A crucial feature of AgriStack is the introduction of a 'Farmer ID', similar to Aadhaar card, serving as a trusted digital identity for farmers.
- These IDs, created and maintained by the State Governments/ Union Territories, will be linked to various farmer-related data, including land records, livestock ownership, crops sown, and benefits availed.
The implementation of AgriStack is progressing through partnerships between the Central and State Governments, with 19 states having signed MoUs with the Ministry of Agriculture. Pilot projects have been conducted in six states to test the creation of Farmer IDs and the Digital Crop Survey.
The six states include Uttar Pradesh (Farrukhabad), Gujarat (Gandhinagar), Maharashtra (Beed), Haryana (Yamuna Nagar), Punjab (Fatehgarh Sahib), and Tamil Nadu (Virudhnagar).

Key targets include:

Creating digital identities for 11 crore farmers over three years (6 crore in FY 2024-25, 3 crore in FY 2025-26, and 2 crore in FY 2026-27)
Launching the Digital Crop Survey nationwide within two years, covering 400 districts in FY 2024-25 and all districts in FY 2025-26

2. Krishi Decision Support System

The Krishi Decision Support System (DSS) will integrate remote sensing data on crops, soil, weather, and water resources into a comprehensive geospatial system.

3. Soil Profile Mapping

Under the mission, detailed soil profile maps on a 1:10,000 scale for approximately 142 million hectares of agricultural land have been envisaged, with 29 million hectares of soil profile inventory already being mapped.

Further under the Digital Agriculture Mission, the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES) will be used for crop-cutting experiments to provide precise yield estimates, enhancing agricultural production accuracy.
The mission is expected to create direct and indirect employment in agriculture, providing opportunities for around 2,50,000 trained local youth and Krishi Sakhis.
By leveraging modern technologies like data analytics, AI, and remote sensing, the mission will improve service delivery for farmers, including streamlined access to government schemes, crop loans, and real-time advisories.

Key Components of the Mission

The Digital Agriculture Mission focuses on grassroots implementation, targeting farmers as the primary beneficiaries. Some of the key benefits of the mission include:

Digital authentication for accessing services and benefits, reducing paperwork and the need for physical visits.
Enhanced efficiency and transparency in government schemes, crop insurance, and loan systems through accurate data on crop area and yield.
Crop map generation and monitoring for better disaster response and insurance claims.
Development of digital infrastructure to optimize value chains and provide tailored advisory services for crop planning, health, pest management, and irrigation.

Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in the Union Budget 2024-25 that the Government, in partnership with states, will implement Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for agriculture over the next three years.
This initiative will cover farmers and their lands, with a digital crop survey for Kharif planned for 400 districts this year. The goal is to update registries with details of 6 crore farmers and their lands.
The Union Budget 2023-24 had previously introduced the DPI for agriculture, which aims to provide comprehensive data on farmers, including demographic details, land holdings, and crops sown. The DPI will integrate with state and central digital infrastructures to offer a range of farmer-centric services, including information on livestock, fisheries, soil health, and available benefits.

Conclusion

The Union Cabinet also approved six major schemes alongside the Digital Agriculture Mission, with a total outlay of Rs 14,235.30 crore.
These initiatives include Rs 3,979 crore for Crop Science aimed at ensuring food security and climate resilience by 2047, and Rs 2,291 crore for strengthening Agricultural Education, Management, and Social Sciences to support students and researchers. Rs 1,702 crore is allocated for Sustainable Livestock Health and Production to boost incomes from livestock and dairy, while Rs 1,129.30 crore is designated for Sustainable Development of Horticulture to increase income from horticulture. Additionally, Rs 1,202 crore will be invested in strengthening Krishi Vigyan Kendra, and Rs 1,115 crore towards Natural Resource Management.
These comprehensive approaches leverage digital technologies to enhance productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in India's agricultural sector, potentially transforming the lives of millions of farmers across the country. By extending the digital revolution to agriculture, India aims to further solidify its position as a global leader in innovative, technology-driven solutions for critical sectors of the economy.

Supreme Court of India

02 Sep 2024

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On August 31, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the National Conference of District Judiciary at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. This event marked the 75th anniversary of the Supreme Court of India, highlighted by the unveiling of a commemorative stamp and coin.

Supreme Court of India: History and Key Insights

The Origins of the Judiciary

The concept of law, or Dharma, in ancient India was significantly influenced by the Vedas, which outlined rules of conduct and rituals in the Dharma Sutras. These texts addressed the duties of individuals and the rights of kings, forming the foundation of Hindu Law. The earliest systematic examination of jurisprudence can be found in Kautilya's Artha Sastra (circa 300 B.C.), particularly its third chapter, which discusses legal transactions and disputes.

Establishment of the Supreme Court

The Regulating Act of 1773, enacted by the British Parliament, initiated the establishment of the Supreme Court of Judicature at Calcutta, with its Letters of Patent issued on March 26, 1774. This court had the authority to hear all complaints and lawsuits involving His Majesty’s subjects in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. Additional Supreme Courts were later established in Madras (1800) and Bombay (1823).
The Indian High Courts Act of 1861 replaced these Supreme Courts with High Courts in various provinces, which became the highest judicial authorities until the Federal Court of India was created under the Government of India Act 1935. After India gained independence in 1947, the Supreme Court of India was formally established on January 26, 1950, with its inaugural session held on January 28, 1950.
The Supreme Court's rulings are binding across India, and it possesses the power of judicial review to ensure that legislative and executive actions align with constitutional provisions and fundamental rights.

Structure and Functioning

Initially, the Supreme Court operated for only a few hours each day and convened for 28 days a year. Today, it functions extensively, meeting approximately 190 days annually. The court was temporarily housed in the Parliament House before moving to its current location on Tilak Marg, New Delhi, in 1958.
The court's architecture symbolizes justice, featuring a prominent dome and spacious corridors. It began with a Chief Justice and seven judges, with Parliament later increasing this number as the workload grew. Currently, the Supreme Court includes a Chief Justice and 30 judges.

Appointment and Qualifications of Judges

Judges are appointed by the President of India, based on recommendations from a committee of senior judges (Collegium System). A candidate must be a citizen of India and have served as a High Court judge for at least five years or as an advocate for ten years. The age of retirement for judges is 65 years.

Judicial Independence and Removal

Judicial independence is constitutionally protected. A Supreme Court judge can only be removed by the President on grounds of proven misbehavior or incapacity, following a resolution supported by a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament.

Judicial Salaries and Provisions

Judges’ salaries and pensions are defined by the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1958, and are charged to the Consolidated Fund of India.

Acting Chief Justice

In the absence of the Chief Justice, the President appoints another judge as the Acting Chief Justice, as stipulated in Article 126.

Post-Retirement Opportunities

While retired judges cannot practice law in India, they often serve in governmental roles, such as leading commissions. There have been calls for a "cool-off" period before such appointments.

Ad Hoc Judges

Ad hoc judges may be appointed when necessary, and must meet the qualifications for Supreme Court judges. Retired judges can also be called back to serve temporarily.

Courts of Record

Both the Supreme Court and High Courts are classified as courts of record, with the authority to punish for contempt as per Article 129.

Seat of the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is based in Delhi but can convene anywhere in India, with such decisions made by the Chief Justice in consultation with the President.

Samudra Pratap

02 Sep 2024

Retired Sportsperson Empowerment Training (RESET) Programme

02 Sep 2024

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Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya launched “Retired Sportsperson Empowerment Training” (RESET) Programme on the occasion of National Sports Day in New Delhi.

Key Highlights:

This programme aims to empower retired athletes by equipping them with essential career skills and knowledge, enhancing their employability and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the sports ecosystem.

Eligibility Criteria

Age: Retired athletes aged 20 to 50 years.
Achievements:
- Must be winners of international medals or participants in international events.
- Alternatively, must have been national or state medallists or participants in competitions recognized by:
  - National Sports Federations
  - Indian Olympic Association
  - Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

Programme Structure

Levels: Two tiers based on educational qualifications:
- Class 12th and above
- Class 11th and below
Learning Mode: A hybrid approach, combining:
- Self-paced online learning through a dedicated portal.
- On-ground training for practical skill development.

Lead Institute

Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE) will oversee the implementation and administration of the programme.

Support and Opportunities

Placement Assistance: Comprehensive guidance for job placements in relevant sectors.
Entrepreneurial Guidance: Support for athletes looking to start their own ventures in sports or related fields.
Internships: Opportunities for hands-on experience in:
- Sports organizations
- Competitions
- Training camps
- Leagues

Implementation and Benefits

Self-Paced Learning: Flexibility for participants to manage their learning schedules effectively.
On-Ground Training: Hands-on practical sessions aimed at enhancing skills relevant to various career paths.
Evaluation and Certification: Participants will be assessed and awarded a certificate upon successful completion, adding value to their career prospects.

The RESET Programme not only recognizes the achievements of retired athletes but also empowers them to leverage their experiences in new and impactful ways, fostering a robust sports ecosystem in India.

Queers can open Joint Bank Accounts

02 Sep 2024

Project NAMAN

02 Sep 2024

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The Indian Army launched the first phase of Project NAMAN, aimed at supporting Defence Pensioners, Veterans, and their families.
Key Features of Project NAMAN:
- Implements the SPARSH (System for Pension Administration Raksha) digital pension system.
- Streamlines pension processes and provides accessible facilitation points for Veterans and Next of Kin (NOK).
Importance:
- Ensures care and support for veterans and their families.
- Services extended to residents of military stations and surrounding localities.
Establishment of Common Service Centres (CSCs):
- Tripartite MoU signed between:
  - Indian Army’s Directorate of Indian Army Veterans
  - CSC e-Governance India Limited
  - HDFC Bank Limited
- CSCs provide:
  - SPARSH-enabled pension services
  - Government to Citizen (G2C) services
  - Business to Consumer (B2C) services
Phase One Deployment:
- 14 CSCs established in key locations: New Delhi, Jalandhar, Leh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Bengdubi, Gorakhpur, Jhansi, Secunderabad, Saugor, Guntur, Ahmedabad, Bangalore.
- Future expansion plans for approximately 200 centres nationwide in the next 2-3 years.
Infrastructure Support:
- HDFC Bank provided necessary IT infrastructure.
- Local military stations contributed physical facilities.
Community Engagement:
- Concept developed based on feedback from the Defence community.
- Promotes camaraderie among serving and retired Armed Forces personnel.
Management of CSCs:
- Each CSC managed by a Village Level Entrepreneur (VLE) selected from veterans or NOKs by Local Military Authorities (LMAs).
- VLEs receive training from CSC e-Governance India Limited.
- HDFC Bank offers monthly grants of ?20,000 for the first 12 months to support VLEs.
Conclusion:
- Project NAMAN reflects the Indian Army's commitment to veteran welfare.
- Offers SPARSH-centric services and entrepreneurial opportunities for Veterans and NOKs, empowering them to contribute to their communities.

Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD)

01 Sep 2024

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Establishment of Disease-Free Zones:
- The Union government plans to create FMD-free zones in eight states: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
- Aim: Expand export opportunities for Indian animal products and enhance global market presence.
Vaccination Efforts:
- Advanced vaccination initiatives are underway in the identified states, as stated by Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
Collaborative Workshop:
- A workshop on ‘Animal Infectious Disease Prioritisation’ was held in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation.
- Focus: Prioritized 20 major animal infectious diseases based on severity, transmissibility, and national importance.
Action Plan:
- Formulated focusing on five critical areas:
  - Coordination
  - Communication
  - Monitoring and surveillance
  - Prevention and control
  - Therapeutics and socio-economic planning
Regional Disease Prioritization:
- Strengthening regional-level prioritization of animal diseases for tailored control strategies.
Overview of FMD:
- Highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals like cattle, swine, sheep, and goats, but not horses or cats.
- Significant economic impact due to its effect on livestock production and trade.

Key Characteristics of FMD:

Transmission:
- Virus present in excretions and secretions; aerosolized virus can infect other animals via respiratory or oral routes.
Symptoms:
- Fever, blister-like sores on the tongue, lips, and hooves.
- High mortality in young animals, with production losses noted even post-recovery.
Vaccination:
- Available vaccines must be matched to specific virus types/subtypes.

Repairability Index for Mobile and Electronic Sectors

01 Sep 2024

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The Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Government of India, has established a committee of experts to create a framework for the Repairability Index.

Objective:
- Enhance consumer transparency regarding product repairability.
- Promote sustainable practices in the tech industry.
National Workshop:
- Held on August 29, 2024, focusing on the Right to Repair in the Mobile and Electronics Sector.
- Aimed to gather industry stakeholders to agree on evaluating components for the Repairability Index.
Key Goals:
- Address the rapid demand and short lifespan of mobile and electronic devices.
- Provide essential repair information and ensure access to spare parts, even for discontinued products.
Repairability Index:
- A consumer-focused tool that helps in making informed product decisions based on repairability.
- Aims to standardize repairability assessments, enabling easier product comparisons.
Consumer Empowerment:
- The index fosters mindful consumption and sustainability.
- Ensures affordable repair options and improves overall consumer satisfaction by addressing information gaps.
Key components of the Repair Ecosystem:

Comprehensive Repair Information: Access to repair manuals/DIYs, diagnostics, and a list of necessary tools and parts.
Accessible Spare Parts: Easily identifiable and timely delivery of spare parts.
Affordable Tools: Inexpensive, widely available, and safe tools for consumers.
Modular Design: Key components designed for independent access and modularity.
Economic Feasibility: Ensuring that the cost of repair parts and labor is affordable for consumers.

Taking into account the above necessities the committee is expected to recommend enabling framework for Policies/Rules/Guidelines which support repairability and integration of repairability index with the extant regulatory provisions in mobile and electronics sector to enhance consumer experiences in reusing the mobile and electronics products they own.

The committee will submit a comprehensive report including a framework for repairability index in Indian context by 15th November, 2024.

India's Biotech Revolution

01 Sep 2024

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The Indian Cabinet has recently approved the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) proposal, a significant move to advance the country’s biotechnology sector.

Scheduled to take effect on April 1, 2025, the BioE3 policy aims to capitalize on India's biotechnology potential by focusing on six key areas: bio-based chemicals, functional foods, precision biotherapeutics, climate-resilient agriculture, carbon capture, and marine/space research.

Current Status of India’s Biotechnology Sector

India ranks among the top 12 biotechnology destinations globally and is the third-largest in the Asia-Pacific region. As of 2024, India's Bioeconomy is valued at an estimated USD 130 billion. The sector is integral to India’s goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy by 2024, with biotechnology contributing about 3% to the global market share.

Biotechnology Categories in India:

Biopharmaceuticals: India is a major supplier of low-cost drugs and vaccines, leading in biosimilars with the highest number of approvals.
Bio-Agriculture: India dedicates approximately 55% of its land to agriculture, holding the fifth-largest area of organic agricultural land worldwide. The sector's contribution to the Bioeconomy is expected to grow from USD 10.5 billion to USD 20 billion by 2025.
Bio-Industrial: Biotechnology is enhancing industrial processes, manufacturing, and waste disposal.
Bio IT & BioServices: India excels in contract manufacturing, research, and clinical trials, hosting the highest number of US FDA-approved plants outside the US.

Government Initiatives:

100% foreign direct investment (FDI) is permitted in greenfield pharma and medical devices.
The National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2021-25 aims to make India a global leader in biotechnology, targeting a USD 150 billion Bioeconomy by 2025.
The Department of Biotechnology has established 51 Biotech-KISAN hubs to connect farmers with scientific advancements.
The Union Budget 2023-24 includes INR 10,000 crore for 500 ‘waste to wealth’ plants under the GOBARdhan scheme.
The GenomeIndia Project focuses on sequencing and analyzing the Indian population’s genomes to aid public health.

Challenges and Recommendations

Challenges:

Regulatory Hurdles: The complex approval process for GMOs and overlapping regulatory bodies slow down progress.
Funding Issues: Limited funding and high risks deter investment. The biotechnology sector receives only 0.05% of India's GDP from the Central Government.
Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate research facilities and cold chain infrastructure hamper progress.
IP Concerns: Intellectual property protection remains weak, affecting innovation.
Global Competition: Indian firms face stiff competition from established global players.
Talent Shortages: A brain drain and skills mismatch impede growth.
Ethical Dilemmas: Ethical issues related to GMOs and gene editing pose challenges.

Recommendations:

Regulatory Streamlining: Establish a unified Biotechnology Regulatory Authority and adopt a risk-based assessment approach.
Innovative Funding: Create a Biotechnology Investment Fund with public-private partnerships.
Talent Development: Launch skill development programs and integrate biotech training into various disciplines.
Infrastructure Investment: Develop shared high-end research facilities and upgrade cold chain infrastructure.
IP Strengthening: Enhance the IPR regime and establish a Biotech Patent Pool.
Leverage Make in India: Expand the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to cover more biotech products and establish specialized manufacturing corridors.

Unified Pension Scheme

01 Sep 2024

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The new Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), set to launch on April 1, 2025, aims to provide improved old age income security. Around 23 lakh Central government employees will benefit from this new scheme, and those currently under the National Pension System (NPS) will have the option to switch to UPS. States can also adopt the UPS for their employees, but they will need to secure funding from their own resources.

Key Components of UPS

The UPS introduces several enhancements to pension benefits:

Pension Benefits: Employees will receive half of their average basic pay over the final 12 months of service as a monthly pension after completing a minimum of 25 years of service. For those with less than 25 years, the pension will be proportionately reduced, with a minimum pension of ?10,000 for those with at least 10 years of service.
Family Pension: A family pension equivalent to 60% of the employee's pension will be provided to dependents upon the employee's death.
Inflation Adjustment: Pension incomes will be adjusted in line with the consumer price trends for industrial workers, similar to the dearness relief provided to current government employees.
Superannuation Payout: In addition to gratuity, a lumpsum superannuation payout will be given, amounting to 1/10th of the employee’s monthly emoluments for every six months of service.

Differences from the Current System

The new UPS combines features from the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and NPS:

Old Pension Scheme (OPS): Employees who joined before January 1, 2004, are covered under OPS, which guarantees a pension of 50% of the last drawn salary, adjusted for dearness allowance. It also offers a family pension of 60% of the last drawn pension, with provisions for commutation and additional increases for pensioners over 80 years of age.
National Pension System (NPS): Introduced in 2004, NPS replaced OPS for new employees, shifting from a defined benefits system to a defined contribution scheme. Employees and the employer contribute a percentage of the salary to market-linked securities, with no guaranteed pension amount, only a corpus that must be used to buy an annuity upon retirement.

The UPS aims to blend the certainty of OPS with the funded approach of NPS. While employees' contributions will be capped at 10% of their salary, the government will contribute 18.5%, with potential adjustments over time. The government will cover any shortfall between investment returns and pension promises.

Reasons for the Change

The transition to UPS addresses concerns raised by government employees and political pressure regarding the NPS. Employees have criticized NPS for its lack of guaranteed pension benefits compared to OPS. The issue has become politically significant, with opposition parties promising to revert to OPS in various states.

In March 2023, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a review of NPS led by former Finance Secretary T.V. Somanathan. Though the review’s findings are yet to be made public, the introduction of UPS reflects a compromise balancing employee expectations with fiscal prudence.

Reactions and Future Impact

Central government employees generally welcome the UPS, recognizing it as a step toward addressing the shortcomings of NPS. However, there are concerns about the contributory nature of UPS and the absence of a commutation option like in OPS. Economists are analyzing the scheme's financial implications, with an expected additional cost of ?7,050 crore this year for the government. Future pension payouts may increase but are anticipated to be manageable with higher revenue growth.

The UPS marks a significant shift in pension policy, aiming to provide greater financial security for government employees while managing fiscal responsibilities.

New Target for Cancer Treatment Discovered by IACS Scientists

01 Sep 2024

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In a significant breakthrough, scientists at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) in Kolkata have identified a new target for cancer therapy. Their study, recently published in The EMBO Journal, focuses on how cancer cells manage DNA repair during cell division, potentially paving the way for more effective treatments.

Key Findings

The researchers explored how cancer cells respond to topoisomerase 1 (Top1)-targeted chemotherapy. Top1 inhibitors, such as camptothecin, topotecan, and irinotecan, disrupt DNA replication and transcription, causing damage that usually leads to cell death. However, cancer cells can sometimes develop resistance by employing internal DNA repair mechanisms, primarily involving a protein called TDP1.

Mechanism of Action

Top1 is crucial for relaxing DNA supercoils during cell division, a process necessary for accurate chromosome segregation. Drugs targeting Top1 can kill cancer cells by preventing this relaxation. Nonetheless, cancer cells counteract this damage with TDP1, which repairs the DNA and promotes cell survival.

The IACS team discovered that TDP1's function is influenced by its phosphorylation status, which changes during the cell cycle and drug treatment. This modification helps TDP1 detach from chromosomes during cell division, a mechanism that helps cells survive despite the presence of chemotherapy drugs.

Novel Therapeutic Approach

The researchers propose a novel approach that combines inhibitors of two key molecules: CDK1 protein and TDP1 enzyme. CDK1 plays a critical role in regulating the cell cycle, while TDP1 is involved in repairing DNA damage. By inhibiting both, the researchers aim to disrupt the cancer cell's ability to repair DNA damage caused by Top1 inhibitors.

This combinatorial targeting strategy could enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments. While Top1 inhibitors induce DNA damage, CDK1 inhibitors could prevent the repair of this damage or halt the cell cycle, making it difficult for cancer cells to survive. This dual-target approach may also help overcome resistance mechanisms that cancer cells develop against single-agent therapies.

Clinical Implications

CDK1 inhibitors, including avotaciclib, alvocidib, roniciclib, riviciclib, and dinaciclib, are currently in various stages of clinical trials. These drugs can be used alone or in combination with other DNA-damaging agents. Combining CDK1 inhibitors with Top1 inhibitors holds promise for significantly improving cancer treatment outcomes by targeting different aspects of the cell cycle and DNA replication.

Although the study was conducted using human breast cancer cells, the findings suggest potential benefits for patients with other types of cancer, such as ovarian, colorectal, and small cell lung cancers (SCLC). SCLC, in particular, is associated with tobacco smoking and could potentially benefit from this new combinatorial approach.

Conclusion

The IACS study opens new possibilities for cancer treatment by targeting DNA repair mechanisms in cancer cells. By combining CDK1 and Top1 inhibitors, the researchers aim to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and overcome resistance. Further research, including clinical trials, will be essential to validate these findings and develop personalized cancer therapies that could improve patient outcomes across various cancer types.

Recent Announcement on Dark Matter Research

30 Sep 2024

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Recently two representatives from the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment, working 1.5 km underground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, announced that they had placed the tightest restrictions yet on the identities of dark matter particles, resulting in a null finding that clarified which identities these particles could not have, leading to a sense of resignation rather than disappointment among the physics community, as similar experiments like XENON-nT in Italy and PandaX-4T in China have yielded empty results for decades despite significant efforts.

Background on Dark Matter

Definition: Dark matter makes up most of the universe's mass, contributing to its structure.
Composition: Likely consists of previously unknown particles that:
- Do not interact with photons.
- Remain stable over billions of years.
Key Question: Can dark matter interact with atomic nuclei and electrons?

Experimental Strategies

Proposed Method:
- Introduced by physicists Mark Goodman and Ed Witten in 1985.
- Concept: Use a “sail” (a chunk of metal) deep underground to detect dark matter interactions.
- Objective: Measure unknown mass and interaction rate (cross-section) of dark matter particles.

Scattering Cross-Section

Concept:
- Similar to light interaction with different media (vacuum, glass, rock).
- Cross-sections indicate how readily a particle can scatter.
Previous Limits: Proposed limits as small as 10−38cm210^{-38} text{cm}^210−38cm2.
Current Achievements: Recent experiments have ruled out cross-sections as small as 10−44cm210^{-44} text{cm}^210−44cm2.

Challenges Ahead

Neutrino Interference:
- As detectors increase in size, they also detect more noise from neutrinos, complicating dark matter detection.
- Both PandaX-4T and XENONnT report issues with neutrino signals.
Resignation in Community:
- Scientists had hoped for clearer results before facing the challenge of distinguishing dark matter from neutrinos.

Alternative Research Avenues

Focus on Lighter Particles:
- Exploring dark particles lighter than atomic nuclei for easier detection.
Technological Development:
- Advancing technologies to measure minimal energy transfers using special materials.

Conclusion

Ongoing Effort: The search for dark matter continues to unite scientific disciplines and require innovative approaches.
Human Ingenuity: The pursuit reflects a broader effort to understand the universe, drawing on collective expertise and creativity.

NAMASTE programme

30 Sep 2024

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A recent government survey has shed light on the demographics of workers engaged in the hazardous cleaning of urban sewers and septic tanks across India. This initiative, part of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment's NAMASTE programme, highlights significant disparities within this labor sector.

Key Findings

Community Representation: An overwhelming 91.9% of the 38,000 workers profiled belong to marginalized communities:
- Scheduled Castes (SC): 68.9%
- Other Backward Classes (OBC): 14.7%
- Scheduled Tribes (ST): 8.3%
- General Category: 8%
Mortality Rates: Between 2019 and 2023, at least 377 individuals died while performing hazardous cleaning tasks, underscoring the dangers associated with this work.

The NAMASTE Programme

Objective: The NAMASTE programme aims to mechanize sewer work to prevent fatalities linked to manual cleaning. It seeks to transition workers into safer, more sustainable roles as "sanipreneurs" by providing safety training, equipment, and capital subsidies.
Background: This programme replaces the earlier Self-Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS), focusing on the more technical aspects of hazardous cleaning rather than manual scavenging.
Namaste is a Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) as a joint initiative of the MoSJE and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
The Scheme has been approved with an outlay of Rs. 360 crore for four years from 2022-23 to 2025-26.
NAMASTE aims to achieve the following outcomes:
- Zero fatalities in sanitation work in India
- All sanitation work is performed by skilled workers
- No sanitation workers come in direct contact with human faecal matter
- Sanitation workers are collectivized into SHGs and are empowered to run sanitation enterprises
- All Sewer and Septic tank sanitation workers (SSWs) have access to alternative livelihoods
- Strengthened supervisory and monitoring systems at national, state and ULB levels to ensure enforcement and monitoring of safe sanitation work
- Increased awareness amongst sanitation services seekers (individuals and institutions) to seek services from registered and skilled sanitation workers

Progress and Coverage

Implementation: Since the scheme's inception, 3,326 urban local bodies (ULBs) have begun profiling workers, with many reporting minimal or no workers engaged in hazardous cleaning.
Data Collection: The government is gathering data from over 3,000 ULBs across 29 states and union territories to better understand the scope and risks associated with this labor.

AVGC: The Future of Media & Entertainment Industry

30 Sep 2024

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Introduction

The AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics) sector is set to be the future of the media and entertainment industry.
According to the FICCI-EY 2024 report, India now boasts the second-largest anime fan base globally and is projected to contribute 60% to the worldwide growth in anime interest in the coming years.
In a significant step toward making India a global hub for AVGC, the Union Cabinet recently approved the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) in Mumbai.

NCoE Background

NCoE will be set up as a Section 8 Company under the Companies Act, 2013 in India with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry and Confederation of Indian Industry representing the industry bodies as partners with the Government of India.
The establishment of the NCoE follows the Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs 2022-23 budget announcement, which proposed the creation of an AVGC task force in the country.
NCoE AVGC aims at creating a world class talent pool in India to cater to the Indian as well as global entertainment industry.
Provisionally named the Indian Institute for Immersive Creators (IIIC), this center aims to revolutionize the AVGC sector and foster innovation in immersive technologies.
It will be modeled after renowned institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).

Objective of NCoE (IIIC)

Boasting a growth rate of 25% and an estimated value of ?46 billion by 2023 (FICCI-EY Report 2023), the animation industry in India is thriving and offers a promising future for passionate young talent.

Below are some of the key objectives of the NCoE (IIIC):

Focusing of creating Indian IP
Leveraging our cultural heritage in new age
Create a multiplier effect in the industry
An industry led initiative, in partnership with state and academia
Integrated focus on education, skilling industry, development, innovation
Hub and spoke model of development to be followed
IIIC as the hub and several center’s as its spokes dedicated innovation and research fund to promote start-up ecosystem

Conclusion

The Union Cabinet's approval of the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for AVGC marks a pivotal step in strengthening India’s media and entertainment industry. This initiative is set to boost the economy while creating new job opportunities in the rapidly growing AVGC sector. As a global hub for filmmaking, India's advancements in technology and infrastructure will enable the production of high-quality content, positioning the country as a leader in technological innovation and creativity.

MARBURG VIRUS OUTBREAK IN RWANDA

30 Sep 2024

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Rwanda is currently facing an outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD), leading to six fatalities, primarily among healthcare workers.

What is Marburg Virus Disease?

Marburg virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness first identified in 1967 in Germany. It is caused by the Marburg virus, which is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, particularly fruit bats.

Current Situation in Rwanda

The ongoing outbreak has claimed six lives, most of whom were healthcare professionals. The Minister of Health has emphasized the need for heightened preventive measures and community vigilance.

Symptoms and Transmission

Common symptoms of MVD include high fever, severe headache, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. The virus spreads through direct contact with the blood, secretions, and bodily fluids of infected individuals.

Available Treatments and Supportive Care

There is currently no specific treatment for Marburg virus disease. Supportive care, including symptom management and hydration, is critical, and early medical attention is essential for those exhibiting symptoms.

Preventive Measures and Recommendations

To prevent the spread of MVD, individuals should:

Practice good hygiene.
Avoid contact with infected persons.
Ensure thorough cooking of animal products.
Use protective equipment when caring for sick patients.

Global Context and Pandemic Risk

While Marburg virus disease poses a significant mortality risk and can spread between humans, its pandemic potential is lower than that of more contagious viruses. Rapid containment efforts are essential to prevent wider outbreaks.

INDIA DESERVES PERMANENT UNSC SEAT: BHUTAN

30 Sep 2024

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With its significant economic growth and leadership of the Global South, India deserves a permanent seat at the UN Security Council, says Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.

Key Highlights:

Economic Growth: Highlights India’s significant economic growth and its leadership in the Global South as justifications for this status.
International Backing: India’s bid gains momentum with support from several UN Member States, including France, the UK, and the U.S.
Need for Reform: Bhutan emphasized that the UNSC is outdated and must evolve to reflect contemporary geopolitical and economic realities.
Advocacy for Representation: Bhutan has long called for a more representative and effective Security Council, backing India’s inclusion at the high table.

About UN Security Council (UNSC)

Composition: Total of 15 member states.
- 5 permanent members (P5): China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (with veto rights).
- 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
Election of Non-Permanent Members:
- Elected on a regional basis:
  - 5 seats for African and Asian states.
  - 2 seats for Latin American and Caribbean states.
  - 1 seat for Eastern European states.
  - 2 seats for Western European and other states.
Presidency:
- Rotates monthly among members, following the English alphabetical order of country names.
Primary Functions:
- Maintain international peace and security.
- Investigate and resolve disputes.
- Impose sanctions and authorize the use of force.
- Establish peacekeeping missions.
- Make recommendations to member states.
Meeting Schedule:
- Regular meetings at UN headquarters in New York.
- Can convene at any time in response to emergencies.
Decision-Making:
- Requires affirmative votes from at least 9 of the 15 members.
- Any of the P5 can veto resolutions, raising concerns about the Council's effectiveness.
Subsidiary Bodies:
- Includes committees, working groups, and sanctions committees focused on specific issues like counter-terrorism, nuclear non-proliferation, and peacekeeping operations.
Reforming the UN Security Council (UNSC)
- Charter Amendments:
  - Reforming the UNSC requires amendments to the UN Charter.
- Voting Requirements:
  - An amendment must be adopted by a two-thirds majority of the General Assembly.
  - It must also be ratified by two-thirds of UN member states, including all permanent members of the UNSC.

Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi

29 Sep 2024

ETURNAGARAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

29 Sep 2024

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A rare collision of two cyclones has led to significant environmental impact, including the flattening of thousands of trees within the sanctuary.

Key Details:

Location: Situated in the Mulugu district of Telangana, near the borders of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh. Approximately 100 km from Warangal and 250 km from Hyderabad.
Establishment: Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1952 by the Nizam government of Hyderabad.
Area: Covers around 806 square kilometers.

Geographic Features

Rivers:

Dayyam Vagu: A significant water source that divides the sanctuary into two parts.
Godavari River: Flows through the sanctuary, contributing to its rich biodiversity.

Flora

Vegetation: Dense tropical dry deciduous forest.
Key Species: Includes teak, bamboo, madhuca, and terminalia trees, creating a lush habitat.

Fauna

Wildlife: Home to diverse species such as:
- Mammals: Tiger, leopard, panther, wolf, wild dogs, jackals, sloth bear, chousingha, blackbuck, nilgai, sambar, spotted deer, and four-horned antelope.
- Reptiles: Notable for its population of mugger crocodiles and snakes, including cobras, pythons, and kraits.

Cultural Significance

Temple: The famous Sammakka-Saralamma Temple is located within the sanctuary.

INDIA TO SUPPORT TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO IN DEVELOPING UPI-LIKE PAYMENT SYSTEM

29 Sep 2024

India’s Commitment to Social Determinants of Health at UNGA

29 Sep 2024

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Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, represented India at the G20 Joint Finance-Health Task Force meeting during the 79th UN General Assembly.
Focus: The session emphasized the importance of investing in health and addressing social determinants of health (SDH) through initiatives like debt-for-health swaps.

Key Highlights:

Role of SDH: Underscored how social determinants such as housing, sanitation, water access, and income security are crucial for health investment priorities.
Flagship Programs: India’s notable initiatives include:
- Ayushman Bharat: The world’s largest health insurance scheme.
- Swachh Bharat Mission: Aiming for a cleaner India.
- Jal Jeevan Mission: Ensuring water access for all.
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: Promoting housing for all.
Impact of PM-JAY: Highlighted improvements in access to healthcare and outcomes, especially for non-communicable diseases.

Data and Policymaking

Importance of Data: Stressed the need for enhanced data availability and standardization on SDH indicators to support effective policymaking.
Unified Approach: Called for G20 nations to collaborate on data collection and analysis for better health systems globally.

Exploring Debt-for-Health Swaps

Potential Mechanism: Discussed debt-for-health swaps as a means to relieve financial pressure while promoting health equity.
Next Steps: Emphasized the need for stakeholder engagement and pilot programs to ensure effective implementation.

Conclusion

Global Leadership: India reaffirmed its commitment to health equity through evidence-based policies and partnerships.
Shared Vision: Advocated for a unified effort towards achieving “Health for All,” highlighting the significance of investments in social determinants of health.

About Social determinants of health (SDOH)

SDOH are non-medical factors that affect a person's health, well-being, and quality of life. They include the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age.
SDOH also include the broader systems that shape everyday life, such as economic policies, social norms, and political systems.
Some examples of SDOH include:
- Safe housing, transportation, and neighborhoods
- Racism, discrimination, and violence
- Education, job opportunities, and income
- Access to nutritious foods and physical activity opportunities
- Polluted air and water
- Language and literacy skills

GST COMPENSATION CESS

29 Sep 2024

IBSA (INDIA, BRAZIL, SOUTH AFRICA) GROUPING

28 Sep 2024

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In a significant move for global security, the Foreign Ministers of the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) grouping issued a strong declaration against terrorism during the 79th UN General Assembly in New York. This declaration condemned terrorism in all its forms and reaffirmed the collective responsibility of the international community to eliminate terrorist safe havens worldwide.

Key Points from the IBSA Declaration:

Universal Threat: The ministers stressed that terrorism is a threat that transcends borders, cultures, and governments.
Rule of Law: They emphasized that counter-terrorism efforts must adhere to international law, particularly the UN Charter and human rights laws, ensuring civil liberties are respected.
International Framework: A call was made for establishing a comprehensive international counter-terrorism framework, with the United Nations at its core, to coordinate global efforts against terrorism.
Cross-Border Security: The declaration highlighted the need for stringent actions against the movement of terrorists and the financing of terrorist networks, condemning groups like Al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).
Comprehensive Convention: A renewed commitment to accelerate the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN was emphasized, aiming to create a unified legal framework for combating terrorism.

POLITICAL DECLARATION ON ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE (AMR)

28 Sep 2024

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World leaders have officially adopted the Political Declaration on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) at the UN High-Level Meeting, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated global action to combat AMR, which claims 1.27 million lives annually. This declaration recognizes drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) as a critical component of the global AMR response, marking a significant moment in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Key Highlights of the Declaration

DR-TB Priority: The declaration emphasizes the severe burden that DR-TB imposes on health systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and the potential reversal of progress made against tuberculosis and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Global Death Reduction Target: A target to reduce global deaths associated with AMR by 10% by 2030 and a funding goal of USD 100 million to help at least 60% of countries establish funded AMR plans by 2025.
Support for Vulnerable Groups: Recognition of the socioeconomic challenges faced by those affected by AMR, affirming the need for integrated, person-centered healthcare, including support to reduce stigma.
Independent Panel for Action: Agreement to establish an independent panel to provide evidence for actions against AMR by 2025.

Commitment to Action

The Stop TB Partnership applauds this commitment and urges UN Member States to provide necessary funding for implementing the declaration's commitments. The partnership aims to work closely with governments and civil society to translate these commitments into concrete actions.

Challenges of Antimicrobial Resistance

AMR poses a significant threat, particularly in LMICs, where it exacerbates existing healthcare challenges:

Increased Infections: Medical facilities often become hotspots for treatment-resistant infections, making routine procedures riskier. In LMICs, about 11% of surgical patients experience infections.
Lack of Resources: Access to clean water, proper diagnostics, and antimicrobial medicines is often limited, increasing vulnerability to drug-resistant infections.
Impact of Conflicts: AMR complicates treatment in conflict zones, where drug-resistant infections spread rapidly among displaced populations, further emphasizing the need for peaceful resolutions.

Economic Implications of AMR

The economic case for addressing AMR is compelling:

Without a stronger response, AMR could lead to an additional $412 billion in healthcare expenditures annually over the next decade, along with $443 billion in losses due to workforce participation and productivity declines.
Implementing critical AMR interventions is considered a “best buy,” with a potential return of $7 to $13 for every dollar invested.

AYUSHMAN BHARAT DIGITAL MISSION (ABDM)

28 Sep 2024

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Over 67 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) have been created in the past three years under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). The digital healthcare mission marked its three-year anniversary.

Key Highlights:

Launch Date: September 27, 2021.
Vision: Establish a robust digital health infrastructure to enhance healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and transparency.
Duration: A transformative three-year journey aimed at revolutionizing India’s digital healthcare ecosystem.

Objectives and Background

Alignment with National Health Policy: The mission stems from the National Health Policy (2017), emphasizing accessibility and the integration of digital technologies.
Building Blocks:
- National Health Stack (2018) introduced unique health identifiers and verified registries.
- National Digital Health Blueprint (2019) provided guidance for implementing ABDM.

Key Features of ABDM

Unique Health Identifier (ABHA ID): Assigns a unique ID to every individual for managing health records.
Healthcare Professionals Registry (HPR): Comprehensive database of healthcare professionals across all systems of medicine.
Health Facility Registries (HFR): Repository of public and private health facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
Health Information Exchange and Consent Manager (HIE-CM): Allows secure access and sharing of health records based on informed consent.
Unified Health Interface (UHI): Facilitates the discovery and delivery of health services.
National Health Claims Exchange (HCX): Standardizes the insurance payment process for quicker claims.
Data Privacy and Security: Ensures confidentiality and security of health-related information in compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.
Interoperability: Enables seamless data exchange among stakeholders, supported by key gateways (HIE-CM, NHCX, UHI).
Transparency: Offers individuals access to both public and private health services, ensuring transparent pricing and accountability.

Key Initiatives

Scan and Share: QR-code based OPD registration reduces wait times and improves data accuracy.
Digital Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS): Financial incentives to encourage participation in the ABDM ecosystem, launched on January 1, 2023.
Microsites for Private Sector Adoption: Operationalized 106 microsites to facilitate ABDM adoption among private providers.
End-to-End ABDM Adoption Pilot: Aimed at digitizing healthcare facilities across India, with 131 selected for participation.

Achievements

Health Accounts Creation: Over 67 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) established, linking 42 crore health records.
Ecosystem Participation: Involvement of 236 private entities and leading public institutions, enhancing interoperability.
Healthcare Facility Registration: 3.3 lakh health facilities and 4.7 lakh healthcare professionals registered.

Moving Towards Transformation

Collaborations: Partnerships with IIT Kanpur and Maharashtra University of Health Sciences to drive digital health education and public goods development.
Training Initiatives: Introduction of a WhatsApp Chatbot for stakeholder training on digital health practices.
Digital Health Standards: Launched by the National Accreditation Board of Hospitals to promote digital health technology adoption.
Integration of eSwasthya Dham Portal: Extends ABDM benefits to Char Dham Yatris.

Vision for the Future

ABDM aims to create a seamless digital health ecosystem, ensuring every Indian citizen has access to their health records through a unique ABHA ID. The initiative includes:

Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS): Aids healthcare professionals in improving clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.

INDIA-UZBEKISTAN BILATERAL INVESTMENT TREATY (BIT)

28 Sep 2024

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India and Uzbekistan signed the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) aimed at boosting the confidence of investors of both the countries.

Key Highlights:

Investor Protections:
- Assured Protection: The BIT guarantees protection for investors from both countries, aligning with international standards.
- Minimum Standards: It establishes a minimum standard of treatment and non-discrimination for investors.
- Dispute Resolution: An independent arbitration forum will be available for dispute settlement.
Investment Safeguards:
- Protection from Expropriation: The treaty safeguards investments from unjust expropriation.
- Transparency and Compensation: Provisions are included for transparency and compensation for losses incurred.
Regulatory Balance: While protecting investors, the treaty maintains a balance with the state's right to regulate, ensuring adequate policy space for both countries.

Economic Context

Shared Commitment: The BIT reflects the commitment of both nations to foster economic ties and create a resilient investment environment.
Expected Outcomes: It is anticipated that the treaty will facilitate increased bilateral investments, benefiting businesses and economies in India and Uzbekistan.
Current Investment Landscape: As of August 2024, Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) from India to Uzbekistan stands at $20 million, with Indian investments notable in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, amusement parks, automobile components, and hospitality.

India and Bilateral Investment Treaties

BITs are reciprocal agreements between two countries designed to promote and protect foreign private investments within each other's territories.

Key Guarantees Established:
- National Treatment: Foreign investors are treated on par with domestic companies.
- Fair and Equitable Treatment: Investors receive treatment aligned with international law.
- Protection from Expropriation: Limits the ability of a country to seize foreign investments without appropriate compensation.
Status of BITs in India
- Historical Context:
  - Until 2015, India had signed BITs with 83 countries, with 74 currently in force. These agreements were based on the Indian Model BIT established in 1993.
- Revisions and Current Approach: In 2015, India revised its Model BIT text. Since then, India has:
  - Signed new BITs/Investment Agreements with four countries.
  - Entered negotiations with 37 countries/blocks for new agreements.
  - Terminated older BITs with 77 countries, with only six remaining in force.
Key Features of the Revised Model BIT
- Investor Protection:
  - Provides robust protection for foreign investors in India and Indian investors abroad.
  - Balances investor rights with government obligations.
- Investor Confidence:
  - Enhances investor confidence by ensuring non-discriminatory treatment and a level playing field.
  - Establishes an independent arbitration forum for dispute resolution.
- Investment Definition:
  - Adopts an "enterprise"-based definition of investment to encompass various forms of investment.
- Dispute Settlement Provisions:
  - Refined Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) provisions require investors to exhaust local remedies before seeking international arbitration.
  - Limits arbitration tribunals to awarding monetary compensation only.
- Regulatory Authority Preservation:
  - Excludes government procurement, taxation, subsidies, compulsory licenses, and national security from BIT coverage, ensuring the government retains regulatory authority.
Strategic Impact
- Preferred FDI Destination: The revised BIT aims to position India as a preferred destination for foreign direct investment (FDI).
- Protection of Outbound FDI: It also focuses on safeguarding outbound investments made by Indian entities.

GLOBAL INNOVATION INDEX (GII) 2024

28 Sep 2024

WORLD TOURISM DAY 2024

27 Sep 2024

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The Ministry of Tourism celebrated World Tourism Day on September 27, 2024, under the theme “Tourism and Peace.” The focus was on how tourism fosters global peace by encouraging cross-cultural interactions and understanding.

Key Details:

World Tourism Day, established in 1980 by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), celebrates the global impact of tourism and raises awareness about its economic, social, and cultural significance.
- This day celebrates the diverse experiences that tourism offers and commits to making travel more inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial for all; here’s all you need to know about the day.
The date, September 27, was chosen to commemorate the adoption of UNWTO statutes in 1975
The theme for World Tourism Day 2024 is “Tourism and Peace,” which will highlight the association between tourism and world peace, with the United Nations emphasising the significance of comprehending diverse cultures and encouraging sustainable tourism.

World Tourism Day: Significance and Celebrations

World Tourism Day is a global event that celebrates the role of tourism in bridging cultural gaps, enhancing mutual understanding, and driving economic development.
It focuses on responsible tourism practices, celebrating diverse cultural heritage, and addressing environmental sustainability and fair distribution of benefits.
Events include seminars, workshops, and conferences on the theme of the year, cultural festivals, exhibitions, and public performances.
Educational campaigns and community outreach activities raise awareness about responsible travel, supporting local economies, and protecting natural environments.

Note:

The World Economic Forum, in its recently released Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI), shares the top countries gaining popularity in the travel and tourism industry.
Notably, in Southeast Asia, India ranks 39th as the TTDI’s top lower-middle-income economy. India’s strong Natural (6th), Cultural (9th) and Non-Leisure (9th) resources drive its travel industry, with the country’s being only one of three to score in the top 10 for all the resources pillars.
The TTDI measures the set of factors and policies that enable the sustainable and resilient development of the T&T sector, which in turn contributes to the development of a country. Among the 119 countries, here are the top 10 countries for travel and tourism in 2024 attracting travellers from all over the globe.

GlobE Network

27 Sep 2024

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India was elected to the 15-member GlobE Steering Committee on September 26, 2024, in a plenary session in Beijing. The election involved a multistage voting process.

Role and Significance:
- India will play a vital role in shaping the global agenda on corruption and asset recovery.
- The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) highlighted India's expertise in combating corruption as a significant asset for the GlobE Network.
About the GlobE Network:
- The Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network) is a G-20 initiative, supported by India since 2020.
- Officially launched on June 3, 2021, during a UN General Assembly session against corruption.
- Currently comprises 121 member countries and 219 member authorities.
Governance Structure:
- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) serves as the central authority for India within the GlobE Network.
- Indian member authorities include the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
- The Steering Committee consists of one chair, one vice-chair, and 13 members providing leadership and direction.
Functionality and Objectives:
- The GlobE Network facilitates the sharing of best practices, criminal intelligence, and strategy development among international agencies to combat corruption.
- It is supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which provides secretariat services.
G-20 Presidency Initiatives:
- During India’s G-20 Presidency in 2023, two high-level principles for combating corruption were adopted, emphasizing the use of the GlobE Network to enhance global cooperation.

PLANETARY BOUNDARIES AND OCEAN ACIDIFICATION

27 Sep 2024

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A new report from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) indicates that the world's oceans are nearing critical acidity levels.

Key Findings:
- Nine Crucial Factors: The report identifies nine essential elements for sustaining life on Earth.
- Exceeded Limits: Six of these factors have already surpassed safe limits due to human activities.
- Ocean Acidification: This is poised to become the seventh boundary breached.
Crossed Boundaries:
- Factors Affected:
  - Climate change
  - Loss of natural species and habitats
  - Depletion of freshwater resources
  - Increase in pollutants, including plastics and agricultural chemicals
Causes of Ocean Acidification:
- Primarily driven by rising carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from burning fossil fuels (oil, coal, gas).
Implications of Acidification:
- Damage to corals, shellfish, and phytoplankton, disrupting marine ecosystems.
- Threats to food supplies for billions of people.
- Reduced capacity of oceans to absorb CO2, exacerbating global warming.
Ozone Layer Status:
- Currently not close to being breached; showing recovery since the banning of harmful chemicals in 1987.
Air Quality Concerns:
- A ninth boundary related to particulate matter is near danger limits.
- Improvements in air quality are noted, but industrializing nations still face pollution risks.
Tipping Points:
- Crossing these boundaries could lead to irreversible and catastrophic consequences for humanity and future generations.
- All boundaries are interconnected; breaching one can destabilize the entire system.
Opportunities for Solutions:
- Addressing critical issues, such as limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, can have widespread benefits across multiple environmental challenges.

Planetary boundaries

The planetary boundaries were introduced in 2009 to define the global environmental limits within which humans can safely live.
Johan Rockström, former director of the Stockholm Resilience Centre, led a group of 28 renowned scientists to identify the nine processes that regulate the stability and resilience of the Earth system.
- Climate Change: Greenhouse gas concentrations, primarily CO2, are the primary metric here. Exceeding the recommended levels risks amplifying global warming.
- Ocean Acidification: Oceans absorb CO2, leading to decreased pH levels. This boundary measures the carbonate ion concentration, vital for marine life like corals.
- Stratospheric Ozone Depletion: The ozone layer protects life from harmful ultraviolet radiation. This boundary emphasizes the ozone concentration in the stratosphere.
- Nitrogen and Phosphorus Cycles: Excess nitrogen and phosphorus, often from fertilizers, can disrupt ecosystems. Here, the focus is on their flow into the environment.
- Freshwater Use: Freshwater is vital for life. This boundary pinpoints the annual consumption of freshwater resources.
- Land-System Change: As we modify landscapes, particularly through deforestation, we alter habitats and carbon storage capabilities. This threshold concerns the amount of forested land remaining.
- Biodiversity Loss: Biodiversity underpins ecosystem resilience. This metric observes the extinction rate of species.
- Atmospheric Aerosol Loading: Aerosols influence climate and human health. This boundary examines their density in the atmosphere.
- Chemical Pollution: Synthetic chemicals can harm ecosystems and human health. This boundary reviews their concentration and spread.

INDIA WATER WEEK (IWW) 2024

27 Sep 2024

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The 8th edition of India Water Week (IWW) 2024 was held from September 17-20, 2024, at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, this prestigious international event has established itself as a key platform for collaboration in water resource management.
With participation from global water experts, government leaders, and private-sector representatives, the event aimed to address the critical challenges of water management, foster innovation, and promote sustainable water practices.

Theme and Focus

The theme for India Water Week 2024 was "Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management." This theme underscored the importance of cross-sectoral and international collaboration to address the 21st-century's growing water challenges and the need for integrated efforts in water conservation, management, and equitable access to water resources.

India Water Week: An International Forum

Since its inception in 2012, India Water Week has grown into a pivotal event in global water diplomacy, offering a platform for dialogue, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
Each edition focuses on a specific water-related issue, providing policymakers, experts, and industry leaders the opportunity to present solutions and explore cooperative strategies.

International WASH Conference

A key highlight of IWW 2024 was the International WASH Conference, organized by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti.
This conference focused on global collaboration in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), aiming to address pressing sanitation challenges and promote hygiene standards.
The conference was held between 17th-19th September 2024, in New Delhi. This three-day gathering, centered on the theme ‘Sustaining Rural Water Supply’, offered a platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing innovations, and sharing best practices aimed at addressing global WASH challenges, with a special focus on achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).

Key Takeaways from India Water Week 2024

The India Water Week 2024 concluded with several important takeaways:

Collaboration and Cooperation: Water security can only be achieved through partnerships across sectors and borders.
Innovation in Water Management: Startups and technological innovations are key to addressing the future challenges of water resource management.
Community Participation: Local communities play a crucial role in water conservation efforts, and their involvement is vital to achieving sustainable development.
Policy Recommendations: The event produced several policy recommendations for sustainable water governance, addressing challenges in climate resilience, infrastructure development, and groundwater management.

Conclusion

India Water Week 2024 was a landmark event that brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to address the complexities of water management in the 21st century. The event paved the way for a more sustainable and inclusive approach to water development through partnership, cooperation, and innovation, ensuring equitable access to water resources for all.

PARAM Rudra Supercomputers

27 Sep 2024

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Recently, the Prime Minister of India launched three Param Rudra Supercomputing Systems and a High-Performance Computing (HPC) system for weather and climate research via a virtual event.

PARAM Rudra Supercomputers

Development: Indigenously developed under the National Supercomputing Mission.
Deployment Locations:
- Delhi: Inter University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) focuses on material science and atomic physics.
- Pune: Giant Metre Radio Telescope (GMRT) will explore Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) and other astronomical phenomena.
- Kolkata: S N Bose Centre drives advanced research in physics, cosmology, and earth sciences.

High-Performance Computing (HPC) System

Purpose: Tailored for weather and climate research.
Location:
- Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune.
- National Center for Medium Range Weather Forecast (NCMRWF), Noida.
System Names: 'Arka' and 'Arunika', reflecting their solar connection.

Significance of the HPC System

Enhanced Predictive Capabilities:
- High-resolution models improve accuracy and lead time for: Tropical cyclones, Heavy precipitation, Thunderstorms, Hailstorms, Heat waves, Droughts and Other critical weather phenomena

National Supercomputing Mission (NSM)

Launch and Goals
- Launched in 2015 to position India among world-class computing power nations.
- Aims to connect national academic and R&D institutions with a network of over 70 high-performance computing (HPC) facilities.
Implementation
- Managed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY), Government of India.
- Estimated cost: Rs 4,500 crore over 7 years.
- Supports initiatives like 'Digital India' and 'Make in India'.
Current Status
- India ranks 74th globally in supercomputing, with only 9 supercomputers out of more than 500 worldwide.
- The mission addresses the growing computing demands of the scientific community and aligns with international technology trends.
Infrastructure and Networking
- Envisions a supercomputing grid with over 70 HPC facilities networked via the National Knowledge Network (NKN).
- NKN connects academic institutions and R&D labs through a high-speed network.

ASIA POWER INDEX

26 Sep 2024

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In a major shift, India surpassed Japan to become the third-largest power in the Asia Power Index, reflecting its increasing geopolitical stature. This achievement is driven by India's dynamic growth, youthful population, and expanding economy, solidifying its position as a leading force in the region.

Key Factors Behind India’s Rise:

Economic Growth: India has shown remarkable post-pandemic economic recovery, contributing to a 4.2-point rise in its Economic Capability. India’s massive population and strong GDP growth reinforce its standing as the world’s third-largest economy in PPP terms.
Future Potential: India’s Future Resources score increased by 8.2 points, signalling a potential demographic dividend. Unlike its regional competitors, particularly China and Japan, India benefits from a youthful population that will continue to drive economic growth and labour force expansion in the coming decades.
Diplomatic Influence: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has garnered greater international recognition. India’s non-aligned strategic posture has allowed New Delhi to navigate complex international waters effectively. India ranked 6th in terms of diplomatic dialogues in 2023, reflecting its active engagement in multilateral forums.
- Further, India’s large population and economic capabilities offer it substantial promise. India’s score in Cultural Influence has also remained relatively strong, underpinned by its global diaspora and cultural exports.
- In addition, India’s role in multilateral diplomacy and security cooperation has been a point of emphasis. India's participation in dialogues, as well as its leadership in the Quad, has allowed it to play a significant role in regional security dynamics, albeit outside of formal military alliances.

Asia Power Index

The Asia Power Index, launched by the Lowy Institute in 2018, is an annual measure of power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region.
It evaluates 27 countries across the Asia-Pacific, examining their ability to shape and respond to the external environment.
The 2024 edition offers one of the most comprehensive assessments of power distribution in the region to date. Timor-Leste has been included for the first time, reflecting its growing importance in Southeast Asia.
The Index focuses on both the material capabilities of states and the influence they exert on the international stage.

Criteria and Parameters of Power Measurement

Power in the Asia Power Index is divided into resource-based and influence-based determinants:

Resource-Based Determinants:
- Economic Capability: The core economic strength of a country, measured through indicators like GDP at purchasing power parity (PPP), technological sophistication, and global economic connectivity.
- Military Capability: Evaluates conventional military strength based on defense spending, armed forces, weapon systems, and signature capabilities like long-range power projection.
- Resilience: The internal capacity to deter threats to state stability, including institutional robustness, geopolitical security, and resource security.
- Future Resources: Forecasts the future distribution of resources, including economic, military, and demographic factors projected for 2035.
Influence-Based Determinants:
- Economic Relationships: The capacity to exercise leverage through trade, investment, and economic diplomacy.
- Defense Networks: The strength of alliances and partnerships, measured through military cooperation and arms transfers.
- Diplomatic Influence: The extent of a country's diplomatic reach, participation in multilateral forums, and foreign policy ambition.
- Cultural Influence: The ability to shape international public opinion through cultural exports, media, and people-to-people ties.

A country's overall power score is derived from a weighted average of these eight measures, encompassing 131 individual indicators. The results offer a nuanced understanding of how countries convert their resources into influence within the Asia-Pacific.

10 YEARS OF MAKE IN INDIA

26 Sep 2024

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The “Make in India” initiative has completed 10 years. It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 25, 2014.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The ‘Make in India’ campaign aims to facilitate investment, foster innovation, enhance skill development, protect intellectual property & build best in class manufacturing infrastructure.
“Make in India” was designed to transform India into a global hub for design and manufacturing.
Seen as an important ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, its objective is twofold. Firstly, to boost India’s manufacturing capabilities and secondly to showcase its industrial potential on a global stage.
The “Make in India 2.0” phase encompassing 27 sectors – both manufacturing and service.

4 pillars of “Make in India” initiative:

New Processes: To enhance the business environment, promote entrepreneurship and startups – ‘ease of doing business’ became a crucial factor.
New Infrastructure: Development of industrial corridors, smart cities, integrating state-of-the-art technology and high-speed communication to create world-class infrastructure, improving intellectual property rights (IPR) infrastructure etc.
New Sectors: Opening of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in sectors like Defence Production, Insurance, Medical Devices, Construction, and Railway infrastructure.
New Mindset: In order to support industrial growth and innovation – the government embraced a role as a facilitator rather than a regulator. The Government partners with industry in the economic development of the country.

Key Initiatives to enable Make in India initiative

Production linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes: The primary goals of the PLI Schemes are to attract substantial investments, incorporate advanced technology, and ensure operational efficiency. These schemes cover 14 key sectors aimed at fostering investment in cutting-edge technology and promoting global competitiveness.

PM GatiShakti: It is a strategic initiative aimed at achieving Aatmanirbhar Bharat and a US $5 trillion economy by 2025 through the creation of multimodal and last-mile connectivity infrastructure. PM GatiShakti is a transformative approach for economic growth and sustainable development. The approach is driven by 7 engines, namely:

Railways
Roads
Ports
Waterways
Airports
Mass Transport
Logistics Infrastructure

Semiconductor Ecosystem Development: It encompasses four key schemes:

Modified Scheme for Setting Up Semiconductor Fabs in India
Modified Scheme for Setting Up Display Fabs in India
Modified Scheme for Setting Up Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics, Sensors Fabs, and Discrete Semiconductors, along with Semiconductor Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP) / OSAT Facilities in India
Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme

It aims to foster the development of a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem in the country.

The Semicon India Programme aims to provide a significant impetus to semiconductor and display manufacturing by facilitating capital support and promoting technological collaborations.

National Logistics Policy: Introduced to complement the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan. It focusses on enhancing the soft infrastructure of India’s logistics sector.

The Comprehensive Logistics Action Plan (CLAP) was rolled out. The key areas which it addresses are logistics systems, standardization, human resource development, state engagement, and logistics parks.

The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme: Aims to create “Smart Cities” and advanced industrial hubs.

Startup India: Several programs aimed at supporting entrepreneurs, building a robust startup ecosystem, and transforming India into a country of job creators instead of job seekers were rolled out.

Implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST): As India’s tax reforms, it is seen as crucial in the context of the Make in India initiative.

Unified Payments Interface: For India’s digital economy growth, it is seen as one of the key initiatives to enable ease of doing business.

Ease of Doing Business: The efforts aim to simplify regulations, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and create a more business-friendly environment, significantly boosting investor confidence and supporting the objectives of the Make in India initiative.

China test-fires an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean

26 Sep 2024

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China stated that it test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile, firing it into the Pacific Ocean in its first such exercise in decades.

Launch Details:

The missile carried a dummy warhead and fell into a designated area in the high seas.
The specific flight path and landing location were not disclosed.

Testing Objectives:

The launch tested weapon performance and troop training levels, achieving its expected objectives.

Historical Context:

This is the first ICBM test over the Pacific Ocean in over 40 years.
China's first ICBM, the DF-5, was test-fired in 1980.

ICBM Specifications:

The latest ICBM, likely the DF-41, has an estimated range of 12,000 to 15,000 kilometers (7,400 to 9,300 miles), capable of reaching the US mainland.

Strategic Messaging:

Analysts interpret the test as a warning to the US, suggesting direct intervention in Taiwan could expose the American homeland.
The test signals China's ability to engage multiple fronts simultaneously.

Regional Tensions:

Recent weeks have seen heightened tensions with Japan, the Philippines, and Taiwan due to military incursions and exercises.

International Norms:

There is a global expectation to notify nations of long-range missile launches to avoid miscalculations. China has limited agreements regarding this, primarily with Russia.

Military Buildup:

Under Xi Jinping, China has enhanced its nuclear capabilities and revamped the PLA’s Rocket Force.
Recent satellite imagery indicates the construction of hundreds of ICBM silos in China’s deserts.

Future Projections:

As of 2023, China has over 500 operational nuclear warheads, projected to exceed 1,000 by 2030 according to the Pentagon.

Implications of the Test:

The ICBM test may be aimed at demonstrating military readiness despite recent corruption scandals within the Rocket Force.

About ICBMs:

An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a long-range ballistic missile system primarily designed for nuclear weapons delivery. They are powerful and destructive weapons, capable of travelling vast distances at incredibly high speeds.

Key features of ICBMs:
- Range: Range greater than 5,500 kilometres with maximum ranges varying from 7,000 to 16,000 kilometres.
- Speed: ICBMs can travel at speeds exceeding 20,000 kilometres per hour.
- Payload: Typically designed to carry nuclear warheads, though they could potentially be used to deliver other types of weapons, such as chemical or biological weapons.
- Deployment: ICBMs can be launched from silos underground, mobile launchers on land, or submarines at sea.

Countries having operational ICBMs: Russia, United States, China, France, India, United Kingdom, Israel and North Korea.

INDIA'S BIOE3 POLICY AND SMART PROTEINS

26 Sep 2024

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The Indian government recently approved the Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment (Bioe3) Policy, which prioritizes the production of "smart proteins". This initiative aligns with broader national goals of achieving a sustainable, circular bioeconomy and a Net Zero carbon economy.

What Are Smart Proteins?

Smart proteins are alternative proteins derived from unconventional sources such as:

Algae
Fungi
Insects
Fermentation processes
Lab-grown cells

This category also includes plant-based proteins, designed to replicate the taste and nutritional value of animal products without the need for livestock farming.

Environmental Benefits

The production of smart proteins offers significant environmental advantages:

Water Use: 72-99% less water compared to conventional meat.
Land Use: 47-99% less land required.
Water Pollution: 51-91% reduction in pollution.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions: 30-90% fewer emissions.

Health and Safety

With rising incomes, India's protein consumption has increased, from 9.7% of calories in 1991 to 11% in 2021. Smart proteins:

Enhance food safety by reducing the risk of zoonotic diseases.
Foster ethical consumption and align with traditional Indian dietary preferences.

Objectives of the BioE3 Policy

The Bioe3 Policy aims to:

Foster high-performance biomanufacturing.
Promote sustainable growth and innovation in biotechnology.
Support the transition towards a Net Zero carbon economy.

By emphasizing the development of smart proteins, the Bioe3 Policy represents a strategic move towards a more sustainable and resilient food system in India.

ACHIEVING GLOBAL NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT

26 Sep 2024

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Overview

Global nuclear disarmament remains a top priority for the United Nations, initially emphasized in the General Assembly’s first resolution in 1946. Despite historical efforts, approximately 12,100 nuclear weapons still exist today, with ongoing modernization plans in many countries.

Key Historical Milestones

1945: Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing an estimated 213,000 people.
1946: First UN resolution identifies nuclear disarmament as a key goal.
1959: General Assembly endorses the goal of general and complete disarmament.
1963: Opening of the Partial Test Ban Treaty.
1978: First Special Session of the General Assembly dedicated to disarmament.
1996: Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty opens for signature.
2017: Adoption of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

Recent Developments

2019: U.S. withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.
2023: Russia suspends participation in the New START Treaty, raising concerns over arms control.

The International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons

Established: December 2013, following a high-level meeting on nuclear disarmament.
Observed: Annually on September 26.
Purpose: Raise awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons and promote their total elimination.

Goals of the International Day

Enhance public education on the humanitarian risks associated with nuclear weapons.
Mobilize international efforts towards a nuclear-weapon-free world.

Continuing Challenges

The doctrine of nuclear deterrence remains central to the security policies of nuclear-armed states and their allies.
No nuclear weapons have been destroyed under a treaty framework, and current disarmament negotiations are stagnant.
Growing frustration among UN Member States over the slow progress in nuclear disarmament.

NAGAR VAN YOJANA (NVY)

25 Sep 2024

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Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India achieved a 100-Day Target of 100 Nagar Vans under Nagar Van Yojana (NVY) with the objective to Enhance Urban Greenery.

Key Details:

Launch: Initiated in 2020 to enhance urban greenery, improve quality of life, and foster social cohesion.
Financial Support: Offers ?4 lakh per hectare for creation and maintenance of urban forests.
Area Specification: Nagar Van areas range from 10 to 50 hectares.
Coverage: Applicable to all cities with Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

Achievements

100-Day Target: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change achieved a target of 100 Nagar Vans, surpassing it with the approval of 111 Nagar Vans in just 100 days.
Geographic Spread: These 111 Nagar Vans are distributed across six states and one Union Territory.

Features of Nagar Vans

Biodiversity Focus: Emphasis on planting fruit-bearing, medicinal, and native species to attract wildlife and maintain ecological balance.
Community Involvement: Engages citizens, students, and stakeholders through tree planting, educational programs, and sustainable management.
Design Elements: Each Nagar Van includes two-thirds tree cover and features components like Biodiversity Parks, Smriti Vans, Butterfly Conservatories, Herbal Gardens, and Matri Vans.

Future Goals

Expansion Plans: Target to develop 1,000 Nagar Vans by 2027, supported by the National Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (National CAMPA).
Environmental Impact: Aims to protect forest land from degradation and address urban environmental issues such as air pollution and habitat loss.

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Campaign

Launch Date: Introduced on June 5, 2024, during World Environment Day.
Purpose: Encourages tree planting as a tribute to mothers, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
Tree Planting Goals: Aims to plant 80 crore trees by September 2024 and 140 crore by March 2025.
Tracking Efforts: Participants can document their planting through the MeriLiFE portal, where over 75 crore saplings have been recorded.

Recent Initiatives

Tree Plantation Drive: A recent drive on September 17, 2024, aimed at creating Matri Vans in newly approved Nagar Vans, highlighting community and governmental collaboration for sustainable urban development.

INDIA’s FIRST MISSION TO VENUS

25 Sep 2024

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India is set to launch its first mission to Venus in March 2028, following the recent approval from the Union Cabinet. This mission, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), marks India’s second interplanetary endeavor after the successful Mars Orbiter Mission in 2013.

Importance of Studying Venus

Earth's Twin: Venus is often referred to as Earth’s twin due to its similar mass, density, and size. Understanding Venus can provide insights into Earth’s own evolution.
Extreme Conditions: The planet has a surface temperature around 462°C and an atmospheric pressure similar to that found deep under Earth’s oceans. Its atmosphere consists primarily of 96.5% carbon dioxide and features clouds of sulfuric acid.
Historical Water Presence: Venus may have had water in the past, leading scientists to explore how it transitioned to its current hostile environment, likely due to a runaway greenhouse effect.

Mission Overview

Launch Timeline: The mission will utilize a strategic launch window when Earth and Venus are closest, occurring every 19 months. It was initially planned for 2023 but is now set for 2028.
Payload: The mission will carry around 100 kg of scientific instruments, including 17 Indian and 7 international experiments.
Journey to Venus: After exiting Earth's orbit, the spacecraft will take about 140 days to reach Venus.

Aero-Braking Technique

First-time Use: This mission will employ aero-braking, a technique to adjust the spacecraft’s orbit by skimming through Venus's atmosphere, creating drag that reduces altitude.
Target Orbit: The satellite will initially be in a highly elliptical orbit of 500 km x 60,000 km and will be gradually lowered to an orbit of either 300 x 300 km or 200 x 600 km over about six months.

Scientific Payloads

Synthetic Aperture Radar: For imaging the surface of Venus.
Thermal Camera: To study temperature variations.
Interplanetary Dust Analysis: Investigating dust particle flow.
High-Energy Particle Studies: Examining particles entering the atmosphere and their ionization effects.
Atmospheric Composition Study: Assessing the structure, variability, and thermal state of Venus’s atmosphere.

Which countries are trying to study Venus?

There have been several missions to Venus in the past by the United States, the erstwhile USSR, Japan, and a collaborative mission of the European Space Agency (ESA) with Japan.
The US has planned at least two more missions to Venus in the future — DaVinci in 2029 and Veritas in 2031 — and the ESA has planned the EnVision mission for 2030.

INDIA ATTENDS IPEF MINISTERIAL MEETING

25 Sep 2024

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Recently, the Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal joined a virtual meeting of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) alongside representatives from 13 other partner countries. This meeting marked the third gathering focused on the framework's key pillars: Supply Chain Resilience, Clean Economy, and Fair Economy.

Key Agreements and Future Steps

Entry into Force of Agreements:
- The IPEF partners celebrated the upcoming implementation of the Clean Economy Agreement and the Fair Economy Agreement on October 11 and October 12, 2024, respectively. These agreements aim to enhance economic cooperation and deliver tangible benefits to member nations.
Supply Chain Resilience:
- The ministers discussed the progress in operationalizing the Supply Chain Agreement, emphasizing collaborative efforts to create more competitive and resilient supply chains. Key actions include:
  - The formation of action plan teams for critical sectors like semiconductors, critical minerals, and chemicals, addressing vulnerabilities revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  - India's election as Vice Chair of the Supply Chain Council, which aims to streamline communication and cooperation among member countries.
Clean Economy Initiatives:
- The Clean Economy Agreement focuses on energy security, climate resilience, and reducing fossil fuel dependence. Ministers acknowledged the advancement of eight Cooperative Work Programs (CWPs) addressing topics such as hydrogen and carbon markets.
- The first IPEF Investor Forum, held in Singapore, facilitated discussions on investment opportunities in climate-friendly technologies.
Fair Economy Measures:
- The Fair Economy Agreement aims to bolster anti-corruption measures and improve tax administration efficiency. Upcoming workshops will address foreign bribery laws and public procurement oversight.
- India highlighted its own anti-corruption measures and commitment to transparency under Prime Minister Modi's leadership.

About IPEF

Launched on May 23, 2022, in Tokyo, IPEF includes 14 countries: Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and the USA. The framework seeks to enhance economic engagement, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region through its four key pillars: Trade, Supply Chain Resilience, Clean Economy, and Fair Economy.

SPICED SCHEME

25 Sep 2024

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In the News

The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has authorized the SPICED scheme (Sustainability in Spice Sector through Progressive, Innovative, and Collaborative Interventions for Export Development), which will run until 2025-26.

Overview

This initiative aims to expand the cultivation area and enhance the productivity of both small and large cardamom. It will also focus on improving the quality of spices for export through advancements in post-harvest processes and promoting value-added spice exports.

Key Objectives:

Increase cardamom production and boost export potential.
Improve post-harvest quality to meet export standards and ensure compliance with safety and quality regulations.

India holds the position of the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices globally.

Cardamom

Cardamom is sourced from the seeds of the Elettaria cardamomum plant (commonly known as green or true cardamom) and is a member of the ginger family. It is known for its unique, robust flavor that combines both spicy and sweet notes. There are two primary varieties: Small Cardamom and Large Cardamom.

Small Cardamom:

Origin: Native to the evergreen forests of South India's Western Ghats.
Major Producers: Primarily grown in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Growing Conditions: Thrives in loamy soil with thick shade, requires temperatures between 10°C and 35°C, and needs 1500 to 4000 mm of annual rainfall.

Large Cardamom:

Distribution: Mainly cultivated in the Sub-Himalayan regions of Northeast India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Major Producers: Key production areas include Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
Growing Conditions: Prefers high altitudes (600 to 2000 meters), with average rainfall of 3000-3500 mm, and temperatures ranging from 6°C to 30°C. Well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter are ideal.

About the Spices Board of India

Established in 1987 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Spices Board of India serves as the apex organization for the promotion and export of a diverse array of spices, including black pepper, both small and large cardamom, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, and fenugreek. The Board was formed by merging the Cardamom Board (1968) and the Spices Export Promotion Council (1960). Its headquarters is located in Kochi, Kerala.

Ideas4LiFE Initiative

25 Sep 2024

SWACHH BHARAT MISSION 2.0

24 Sep 2024

GREENLAND LANDSLIDE AND GLOBAL SEISMIC WAVES

24 Sep 2024

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Massive Greenland landslide sent seismic waves around earth for 9 days. One year ago, roughly 25 million cubic metres of ice and rock splashed into the Dickson Fjord in Greenland and displaced the water enough to give rise to a 200-metre high mega-tsunami; in this way, a melting glacier led to a planet-wide tremor, and researchers warn that it may not be the last

Seismic Observations

Detection: Unusual seismic signals recorded by stations worldwide, characterized by a single frequency, unlike typical earthquake vibrations.
Classification: Initially termed a "USO" (unidentified seismic object) due to its atypical properties.
Duration: Waves persisted for nine days, unlike typical aftershock patterns.

Investigation Efforts

Collaboration: Involved over 68 researchers from 40 universities across 15 countries.
Data Sources: Combined seismic data, satellite imagery, water level monitors, and a classified bathymetric map from the Danish Navy.
Conclusion: The seismic waves resulted from a massive landslide caused by the collapse of Hvide Støvhorn peak, which triggered a series of events leading to the tsunami.

Mega-Tsunami and Seiche

Tsunami Details:
- Created by the avalanche crashing into the fjord, displacing water significantly.
- Resulted in waves that reflected off fjord walls, reaching heights of nearly 110 meters due to the fjord's unique shape.
Seiche Phenomenon:
- Oscillations in the fjord persisted for over nine days, reflecting the energy from the landslide.
- Maximum amplitude of the seiche recorded at 7.4 meters, with a frequency of 11.45 MHz.

Climate Context

Global Warming Impact: Thinning glaciers contributed to instability in the region, making such landslides more likely.
Future Predictions: Researchers warn of increased frequency and scale of similar events as climate change continues to affect Arctic and subarctic regions.

Key Takeaways

The Greenland landslide serves as a reminder of the unpredictable consequences of climate change, including massive geological events.
The incident highlights the interconnectedness of natural systems and the potential for localized events to have global repercussions.

ROBOTIC MULES AND HIGH-ALTITUDE INNOVATIONS IN THE ARMY

24 Sep 2024

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The Army has inducted 100 robotic mules, known as Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULE), under the fourth tranche of emergency procurements (EP).

Purpose: These robotic mules are designed for surveillance and transporting light loads across challenging terrains, especially in high-altitude areas.
Specifications:
- Endurance: Capable of operating for up to three years.
- Temperature Range: Functions effectively in extreme temperatures from -40°C to +55°C.
- Payload Capacity: Can carry up to 15 kg.
- Mobility: Can climb stairs, steep hills, and traverse obstacles; waterproof and able to cross rivers.
- Sensing Abilities: Equipped with electro-optics and infrared capabilities for object recognition.
- Control Mechanisms: Operable via an easy-to-use remote control, Wi-Fi, or Long-Term Evolution (LTE) connections.
- Mission Programming: Can be programmed for specific missions using waypoints or pre-recorded tasks.
- Combat Integration: Capable of integration with small arms for military applications.
Logistics Drones: Logistics drones are currently undergoing trials to enhance support and movement in forward areas, particularly in high-altitude conditions.
High-Altitude Habitat Evaluation: A new tent designed for extreme cold environments (operating at temperatures down to -40°C) is under evaluation. This tent, called Peak Pods, is intended for use in sub-zero conditions.
Evaluation Locations: The tent has been tested in three high-altitude sites:
- Leh (11,500 feet)
- Daulat Beg Oldie (16,700 feet)
- Durbuk (12,500 feet)
Significance: These advancements reflect the Army's focus on technological innovations to enhance operational capabilities in high-altitude areas, especially following the 2020 stand-off with China in Eastern Ladakh.
Funding and Timelines: The EP process allows contracts up to ?300 crore, with a requirement for delivery within one year.

GINGEE FORT PROPOSED FOR UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

24 Sep 2024

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Recently nominated for UNESCO’s World Heritage Site status, Gingee Fort is part of the Maratha Military Landscapes of India, which encompasses 12 historical sites, primarily located in Maharashtra, with Gingee being the sole representative from Tamil Nadu. The nomination highlights the fort’s historical importance, unique military architecture, and its integral role in Maratha military history.

Significance of Gingee Fort

Gingee Fort, often referred to as the "Troy of the East," stands as a crucial historical monument in Tamil Nadu. Perched atop three prominent hillocks—Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandragiri—it has served as a significant stronghold for numerous empires throughout Indian history, including the Vijayanagar Nayaks, Marathas, Mughals, French, and British. This fortification exemplifies India’s rich and diverse historical legacy.

Unique Features

The fort complex spans 11 acres and boasts an array of significant structures, including:

Kalyana Mahal: An eight-storey royal residence.
Durbar Hall: A ceremonial hall for gatherings.
Stepped Well and Cannon: Examples of advanced engineering and military use.
Clock Tower and Armory: Reflecting its historical military significance.
Elephant Tank and Stables: Indicating its use for royal elephants.
Temples and Mosques: Including the Venkataramana Temple with intricate carvings and the Sadathtulla Mosque.

Additionally, the fort features advanced water supply systems from various historical periods, ensuring adequate resources for its inhabitants.

Historical Timeline

The origins of Gingee Fort trace back to 1200 CE when built by Ananta Kon of the Konar Dynasty. The fort underwent significant renovations under the Vijayanagar Empire. Key historical events include:

1677: Captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji, it remained under Maratha control until 1698.
1698: Came under Mughal possession, later ruled by the Nawabs of Arcot and briefly by the French.
1750-1770: Occupied by the French before falling to the British.

This timeline reflects the fort's strategic and cultural significance across different dynasties.

Nomination Process for UNESCO

The process for securing UNESCO World Heritage Site status involves rigorous evaluation. Experts from UNESCO and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) assess the site's historical significance, conservation state, and management strategies. A visit to Gingee Fort is scheduled as part of this evaluation, with a recommendation expected for the 2025 World Heritage designation.

Preparation of the Nomination Dossier

The Development and Research Organisation for Nature, Arts and Heritage (DRONAH) prepared the nomination dossier, aligning with UNESCO’s operational guidelines. This comprehensive document details the fort's historical context, conservation status, and management strategies, aimed at demonstrating its outstanding value for humanity.

SUPREME COURT RULING ON CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATIVE MATERIAL: KEY HIGHLIGHTS

24 Sep 2024

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Overview of the Ruling

Date: Recent ruling by the Supreme Court of India.
Context: Determined that viewing, downloading, storing, or distributing material involving child sexual exploitation constitutes a criminal offense under the POCSO Act and the Information Technology Act.
Appeal Background: Decision overturned a Madras High Court ruling that deemed private viewing of such material non-criminal.

Terminology and Legislative Recommendations

Terminology Change: Supreme Court advocates replacing “child pornography” with “Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material” (CSEAM) to avoid trivialization of the crime.
Amendment Call: Court urged Parliament to amend the POCSO Act and advised promulgating an ordinance for immediate effect.

Key Highlights of the Ruling

Redefinition of Terminology: Emphasizes that "pornography" may imply consensual acts, misrepresenting the nature of child exploitation.
Expansion of Section 15 of the POCSO Act:
- Possession Without Reporting: Individuals must delete or report any stored CSEAM; failure results in penalties.
- Intent to Transmit: Possessing CSEAM with intent to share, barring reporting, is punishable.
- Commercial Possession: Storing CSEAM for commercial purposes faces the strictest penalties.
Concept of Inchoate Offenses: Classifies offenses related to CSEAM as preparatory actions towards further crimes.
Redefinition of Possession:
- Includes "constructive possession," where individuals can be liable without direct physical possession.
- Watching CSEAM online without downloading can still be deemed possession.
Educational Reforms:
- Court urged for comprehensive sex education to counter stigma and misconceptions.
- Curriculum should cover consent, healthy relationships, and respect for diversity.
Awareness of the POCSO Act: Central and state governments are mandated to promote awareness, supported by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).
Formation of Expert Committee: To develop programs for health and sex education while increasing POCSO awareness among children.
Victim Support and Awareness: Emphasized the need for psychological support, counseling, and educational assistance for victims.

Status of Crimes Against Children

Increasing Incidents: India leads in online child sexual abuse imagery, with 25,000 uploads reported from April to August 2024.
Geographical Distribution: Major uploads identified in Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
Rising Cases: From 331 cases in 2017 to 781 in 2018, with 1,171 cases of inappropriate content dissemination reported in 2022.

Overview of the POCSO Act

Purpose: Addresses sexual exploitation and abuse of children, defining a child as anyone under 18.
Features:
- Gender-Neutral: Recognizes that both genders can be victims.
- Victim Confidentiality: Mandates protection of victims’ identities.
- Mandatory Reporting: Requires reporting of suspected abuse.

Gaps in Implementation

Support Persons: Lack of designated support persons for victims; 96% of cases showed inadequate support during legal processes.
POCSO Courts: Only 408 designated courts across 28 states as of 2022, leading to access issues.
Special Prosecutors: Shortage of trained public prosecutors for POCSO cases.

Conclusion

Call for Collaboration: Emphasizes the need for a coordinated approach involving educators, healthcare providers, and law enforcement to combat child sexual exploitation.
Societal Responsibility: A shift in societal attitudes is essential for preventing victimization and ensuring recovery for victims.

KEY FINDINGS ON ATROCITIES AGAINST SCS AND STS (2022)

23 Sep 2024

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According to the latest report under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act by the Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry, the majority of atrocities against Scheduled Tribes (STs) were also concentrated in 13 states, which reported 98.91% of all cases in 2022.

Case Statistics:
- Total cases of atrocities against Scheduled Castes (SCs): 51,656
- Total cases against Scheduled Tribes (STs): 9,735
- 97.7% of SC cases and 98.91% of ST cases reported from 13 states.
States with Highest Incidents:
- SCs:
  - Uttar Pradesh: 12,287 cases (23.78%)
  - Rajasthan: 8,651 cases (16.75%)
  - Madhya Pradesh: 7,732 cases (14.97%)
  - Other significant states: Bihar (6,799), Odisha (3,576), Maharashtra (2,706)
- STs:
  - Madhya Pradesh: 2,979 cases (30.61%)
  - Rajasthan: 2,498 cases (25.66%)
  - Odisha: 773 cases (7.94%)
  - Other significant states: Maharashtra (691), Andhra Pradesh (499)
Charge Sheets and Investigations:
- SC-related cases: 60.38% resulted in charge sheets; 14.78% ended with final reports (false claims/lack of evidence).
- ST-related cases: 63.32% led to charge sheets; 14.71% concluded similarly.
- Pending investigations by end of 2022: 17,166 SC cases, 2,702 ST cases.
Conviction Rates:
- Decline from 39.2% in 2020 to 32.4% in 2022.
Infrastructure Deficiencies:
- Only 194 out of 498 districts in 14 states have established special courts for these cases.
- Lack of identified atrocity-prone areas in states like Uttar Pradesh despite high case numbers.
Protection Cells:
- SC/ST protection cells established in multiple states and union territories.

Reasons for Atrocities Against SCs and STs

Caste Prejudice: Deep-rooted hierarchies and social exclusion lead to violence.
Land Disputes: Conflicts over land access among historically deprived SC/ST communities.
Economic Marginalization: Limited access to education and resources heightens vulnerability.
Power Imbalance: Dominant castes wield political and social influence, perpetuating discrimination.
Inadequate Law Enforcement: Weak implementation of protective laws and bureaucratic bias hinder justice.
Political Exploitation: Caste tensions are sometimes used for electoral gains.

Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989

Objective: Protect SCs and STs from caste-based violence and discrimination.
Key Provisions:
- Defines various offences against SC/ST members, prescribing stricter punishments.
- Excludes anticipatory bail provisions for accused under the Act.
- Mandates establishment of special courts for speedy trials.
- Investigations must be conducted by senior police officers and completed within stipulated time frames.
Recent Amendments:
- 2015: Enhanced protections for SC/ST women.
- 2019: Restored original provisions for arrest procedures following a Supreme Court ruling.

Recommendations for Improvement

Strengthen Legal Framework: Establish more special courts and train personnel in sensitive handling of SC/ST cases.
Improve Reporting Mechanisms: Enhance systems for victims to report atrocities without fear.
Awareness Campaigns: Educate communities on SC/ST rights and legal protections.
Targeted Interventions: Identify and address issues in atrocity-prone districts.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement frameworks for accountability and continuous improvement in addressing these issues.
Collaborate with NGOs: Work with civil society to support victims and advocate for their rights.

100 YEARS OF ICAR-NISA

23 Sep 2024

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Overview:

The ICAR-National Institute of Secondary Agriculture (NISA), originally established in 1924 as the Indian Institute of Natural Resins and Gums in Ranchi, Jharkhand, marks its centenary this year. Renamed in 2022, it operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, focusing on enhancing the value of agricultural products.

Understanding Secondary Agriculture:

Secondary agriculture encompasses the transformation of primary agricultural products into higher-value commodities and includes activities such as:

Beekeeping
Poultry farming
Agricultural tourism

This sector plays a crucial role in converting agricultural produce, residues, and by-products into valuable goods for various uses, including pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial applications. Examples of secondary agriculture practices include:

Extracting vitamins from grains
Producing oil from rice bran
Making jaggery from sugarcane
Cottage industries for jams and pickles

Growth Potential: The sector is poised for growth due to:

Increasing consumer demand for value-added products like ready-to-eat meals.
The need for innovative uses of renewable agro-bio resources.
The significant availability of agricultural byproducts.

Significance of Secondary Agriculture:

Environmental Sustainability: Proper utilization of crop residues can reduce waste and pollution.
Enhanced Farmer Income: Activities like beekeeping and lac culture provide additional revenue streams for farmers.
Value Addition: Processing agricultural products increases their shelf life and overall productivity.
Promotion of Cottage Industries: Supports rural economies and fosters technology adoption.

Challenges Ahead: Despite its potential, secondary agriculture faces several hurdles:

The industry for high-value products from agricultural byproducts, such as Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, is still emerging.
Small landholdings complicate the collection of crop residues.
Limited research on suitable technologies hampers development.
There is a lack of awareness among farmers regarding the processing of agricultural waste.

Conclusion

As ICAR-NISA celebrates its 100th anniversary, it remains crucial in shaping the future of secondary agriculture in India, addressing both challenges and opportunities to enhance sustainability and farmer livelihoods.

INDO-PACIFIC ECONOMIC FRAMEWORK (IPEF)

23 Sep 2024

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India signed agreements within the US-led 14-member IPEF focused on a clean and fair economy.

Objectives:
- Facilitate development, access, and deployment of clean energy and climate-friendly technologies.
- Strengthen anti-corruption measures and promote tax transparency among member countries.
Clean Economy Agreement:
- Aims to accelerate energy security and mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
- Focuses on innovative methods to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote technical cooperation.
Fair Economy Agreement:
- Seeks to create a transparent and predictable business environment to enhance trade and investment.
- Emphasizes information sharing, asset recovery facilitation, and strengthening cross-border investigations.
Funding Mechanisms:
- IPEF offers platforms for technical assistance and concessional funding.
- IPEF Catalytic Capital Fund: Initial grant of $33 million aimed to catalyze $3.3 billion in private investments.
- PGI Investment Accelerator: Received $300 million from the US International Development Finance Corporation.
Concerns Raised:
- Experts highlighted concerns over the secrecy of IPEF negotiations with limited public input.
- Expressed hope that India has not agreed to a non-derogation clause that could limit domestic regulatory flexibility for national projects.
Potential Risks:
- Most standards discussed in IPEF are aligned with those in the US and OECD countries.
- India risks compliance pressures in future trade deals if it adopts these standards without adequate preparation.
Strategic Importance of IPEF:
- Involves 14 member countries, focusing on economic cooperation through four key pillars: trade, supply chain resilience, clean economy, and fair economy.
- Represents 40% of the global economy and 28% of world trade, highlighting India's commitment to regional partnerships alongside the US, Japan, Australia, and other Indo-Pacific nations.

COP 29 AT BAKU

23 Sep 2024

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Azerbaijan is making a significant move in the global climate finance landscape by proposing the Climate Finance Action Fund (CFAF) at the upcoming COP29 conference. This fund aims to gather voluntary contributions from fossil-fuel-producing nations and companies, with Azerbaijan itself making the initial investment. The fund’s goal is to support climate action in developing countries, which often struggle to finance their environmental initiatives.

Key Aspects of the CFAF:

Voluntary Contributions: The fund seeks donations from fossil fuel entities, allowing them to contribute based on a fixed amount or production volumes.
Bipartite Allocation: Proposed funds will be split equally—half for climate projects in developing nations and half for supporting those countries in executing their national climate action plans.
Operational Threshold: The CFAF will only commence operations once it secures a minimum of $1 billion and commitments from at least ten countries to participate.

Context of COP29:

COP29, hosted in Baku from November 11 to 22, centers on finalizing a climate finance agreement, particularly the obligations of developed nations post-2025. This follows the ongoing struggle to meet the $100 billion annual financing target established in the Paris Agreement.

Additional Proposals:

Azerbaijan has also introduced several other initiatives as part of its agenda, including:

Expanding Global Energy Storage: Aiming to increase capacity sixfold by 2030.
Green Hydrogen Market: Fostering a global marketplace for green hydrogen.
Minimizing Emissions from Digital Growth: Ensuring that the environmental impact of increasing digitalization and data centers is mitigated.

Challenges Ahead:

Despite the ambitious plans, there are significant hurdles to overcome, including establishing a robust framework for the CFAF, garnering international support, and ensuring compliance from contributors. As the conference approaches, ongoing negotiations will be crucial to achieving substantial agreements on climate finance that can lead to meaningful progress in combating climate change.

QUAD CANCER MOONSHOT

23 Sep 2024

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The Quad Cancer Moonshot Initiative is a significant collaborative effort among the Quad countries—India, the United States, Australia, and Japan—aimed at combating cancer through innovative strategies. The initiative focuses on key areas such as preventing and detecting cancer, improving treatment, and alleviating the disease's impact on patients and families.

Key Highlights of the Quad Cancer Moonshot Initiative:

Focus Areas:
- Cervical Cancer Screening: Enhancing access to screening programs.
- HPV Vaccination: Increasing vaccination rates against HPV, which is the leading cause of cervical cancer.
- Patient Treatment: Improving treatment protocols and accessibility for cancer patients.
India’s Contributions:
- Financial Commitment: India has pledged $10 million to support the WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health, aimed at enhancing digital health technologies for cancer care in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Material Support: India will provide cervical cancer screening kits, detection tools, and HPV vaccines valued at $7.5 million to bolster healthcare initiatives in the region.
- AI-based Protocols: Development of AI-driven treatment protocols to improve care delivery for cancer patients.
- Capacity Building: India aims to enhance radiotherapy services and overall cancer prevention strategies in the Indo-Pacific.

This initiative represents a strong commitment to fostering international collaboration in healthcare, particularly in the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. By empowering communities with accessible tools and resources, the Quad countries aim to significantly reduce the burden of cancer in the region.

AMUR FALCONS

22 Sep 2024

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An order issued by the District Magistrate directed the owners of air guns to deposit their hunting weapons at the offices of respective village authorities.

Amur Falcons: An Overview

Scientific Classification:

Common Name: Amur Falcon
Scientific Name: Falco amurensis
Family: Falconidae

Physical Characteristics:

Size: Small raptors, approximately 28-30 cm in length.
Distinctive Features: Dark plumage with white wing linings; reddish-orange eyes and feet.

Migration Patterns:

Breeding Grounds: Southeastern Russia and northern China.
Migratory Route: They leave their breeding areas in autumn, traveling south to round the Himalayas, stopping in Nagaland, and then heading towards the Western Ghats before crossing the Indian Ocean to reach South Africa.
Distance: These falcons undertake an incredible journey of around 22,000 kilometers annually, making them one of the most remarkable long-distance migrants among raptors.

Diet:

Primarily insectivorous, they also consume small vertebrates when available.

Conservation Status:

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Legal Protection:
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule IV
- Convention on Migratory Species (CMS): Appendix II

Recent Conservation Efforts:

Ban in Manipur: The Tamenglong district administration has imposed a ban on hunting, catching, killing, and selling Amur falcons in preparation for their migratory arrival.
Tagging Program: In 2016, radio transmitters were used to monitor their migration routes.
Awareness Initiatives: An annual ‘Amur Falcon Festival’ in Tamenglong district promotes awareness and celebrates these migratory birds.

Threats:

Amur falcons face various threats including habitat loss, hunting, and illegal trapping.

Cultural Significance:

Locally known as ‘Kahuaipuina’ in Manipur and ‘Molulem’ in Nagaland, these birds hold ecological and cultural significance, particularly in regions that serve as critical stopover points during migration.

Summary

The Amur falcon is a small but remarkable migratory raptor known for its long-distance travels from its breeding grounds in Asia to Africa. Conservation efforts in India, particularly in the Tamenglong district of Manipur, aim to protect these birds from hunting and habitat loss, ensuring their continued survival and highlighting their importance in the ecosystem.

WORLD RHINO DAY

22 Sep 2024

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Celebrated annually on September 22, World Rhino Day raises awareness about the critical conservation status of rhinoceroses and the myriad threats they face, such as poaching and habitat loss. This day, first initiated by the World Wildlife Fund South Africa in 2010, aims to highlight the need for the conservation of all five species of rhinos: the Javan, Sumatran, Black, Greater One-Horned, and White rhinos.

The Current Status of Rhino Species

Among the five rhino species, three are classified as
Critically Endangered: the Black, Javan, and Sumatran rhinos.
The White Rhino is considered Near Threatened, with the Northern White Rhino itself critically endangered.
The Greater One-Horned Rhino, primarily found in India, is listed as Vulnerable.

Notably, Kaziranga National Park in Assam is home to the largest population of Greater One-Horned Rhinos, boasting approximately 3,700 individuals.

Conservation Efforts

In India, initiatives like Project Rhino play a crucial role in safeguarding rhino populations. This project focuses on preventing poaching, enhancing habitat management, and increasing public awareness. It collaborates with various conservation groups and government agencies to strengthen law enforcement against poaching and to relocate rhinos to safer areas.

Another significant program is the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (IRV 2020), aimed at boosting the population of Greater One-Horned Rhinos in Assam, particularly in regions where they had previously become extinct.

Surprising Facts About Rhinos

Despite their thick skin, rhinos can get sunburned.
Rhinos are related to zebras, horses, and tapirs.
All five species are considered endangered.
A group of rhinos is called a "crash."
Rhinos' horns are made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails.
The term "rhinoceros" comes from two Greek words meaning "nose" and "horn."
Rhinos and elephants are not natural enemies.
One of the most famous depictions of a rhino is Albrecht Dürer's woodcut from 1515.
The gestation period for rhinos can last up to 16 months.
Rhinos have historically been used in traditional Asian medicine.

QUAD GROUPING

22 Sep 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United States, where he will participate in the fourth Quad Leaders Summit in Wilmington, Delaware.

What is the Quad Grouping?

The Quad, or Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, is an informal strategic alliance comprising India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. Originally formed in response to the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, the Quad aims to foster collaboration in various areas, but its primary focus has become countering the influence of China in the Indo-Pacific region.

Historical Background

2004: The Quad began as a response to the Indian Ocean tsunami, facilitating disaster relief.
2007: Japanese PM Shinzo Abe formalized the alliance.
2017: Amid rising Chinese assertiveness, the Quad was revitalized, expanding its objectives beyond maritime security.

Structure and Characteristics

The Quad is not a formal organization; it lacks a secretariat or permanent decision-making body like the EU or UN.
It focuses on strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties among member nations.
Unlike NATO, the Quad does not include collective defense provisions but conducts joint military exercises to demonstrate unity.

Key Developments

In 2020, the Malabar naval exercises expanded to include Australia, marking the first joint military exercises of the Quad since its resurgence.
The first in-person summit took place in Washington, D.C. in 2021.

Objectives of the Quad

The Quad has outlined several primary objectives:

Maritime Security: Ensuring safe and open sea routes in the Indo-Pacific.
Climate Change: Addressing environmental challenges collaboratively.
Investment Ecosystem: Creating opportunities for economic investment in the region.
Technological Innovation: Promoting advancements and cooperation in technology.
Public Health: Collaborating on initiatives like vaccine diplomacy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Expansion and Future Directions

The Quad members have discussed expanding the partnership to include countries like South Korea, New Zealand, and Vietnam. In a joint statement, they reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, resilient, and inclusive Indo-Pacific governed by international law.

Challenges and Opposition

China views the Quad as an effort to encircle and contain its influence. Beijing has criticized the grouping, labeling it as a strategy that incites discord among Asian nations.

45TH CHESS OLYMPIAD

22 Sep 2024

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Recently, both the Indian men's and women's chess teams achieved remarkable success by winning gold medals at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest.

In the final round of the 45th Chess Olympiad, the Indian men's team triumphed over Slovenia with a score of 3.5-0.5.
At the same time, the Indian women's team showcased their skills by defeating Azerbaijan with the same score of 3.5-0.5.
With this victory, India joins an elite group, as only China and the former Soviet Union had previously managed to win both men's and women's gold medals in the same Chess Olympiad edition.
- The Indian men's team had previously claimed bronze medals in 2014 and 2022.
- Meanwhile, the Indian women's team secured a bronze medal in the 2022 tournament held in Chennai.

About the Chess Olympiad:

This prestigious event occurs every two years and features national teams from around the globe. It is organized by FIDE, which also selects the host nation.
The inaugural Olympiad, which was unofficial, took place in 1924.

100 Years of the Discovery of the Indus Civilization

22 Sep 2024

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Introduction

The centenary of the announcement of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) by Sir John Marshall on September 20, 1924, marks a significant milestone in archaeological history. This civilization, known for its advanced urban planning, encompasses over 2,000 sites across India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

Historical Context

Discovery of the Indus Civilization

John Marshall's Role: As the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Marshall played a pivotal role in the excavations of Harappa and Mohenjodaro.
Initial Findings: The civilization was revealed through meticulous work over two decades, beginning with Marshall's initial interest in the antiquities of India.

The Process of Discovery

The Concept of 'The Slow Hunch'

Definition: Inspired by Steven Johnson's idea of 'the slow hunch,' this concept highlights how insights develop over time, similar to Joseph Priestley's early experiments with oxygen.
Application to Marshall: Marshall's initial curiosity about the antiquity of India was nurtured through years of observations and explorations, culminating in the excavation of Harappa in 1921.

Key Individuals Involved

Daya Ram Sahni: Conducted the first excavations at Harappa, uncovering evidence of an ancient culture.
Rakhaldas Banerji: Excavated Mohenjodaro in 1922, leading to significant discoveries that indicated a widespread civilization.

Institutional Challenges

Limitations within ASI

Lack of Collaboration: The ASI lacked a platform for archaeologists to share insights, impeding a collaborative approach to discoveries.
Marshall's Focus: His dedication to ongoing projects, particularly at Taxila, resulted in delays in recognizing the significance of findings at Harappa and Mohenjodaro.

Announcing the Discovery

Marshall's Publication

Impactful Presentation: In September 1924, Marshall's article vividly described the architectural and cultural features of the Indus Civilization, captivating readers.
Scholarly Reception: The discovery sparked immediate scholarly interest, leading to further inquiries into the civilization's connections with ancient Mesopotamia.

Characteristics of the Harappan Civilization

Overview

Timeframe: Flourished around 2500 BCE, classified as a Bronze-age civilization.
Major Sites: Notable locations include Harappa, Mohenjodaro, and Lothal.

Key Features

Urban Planning: Cities featured grid layouts, advanced drainage systems, and distinct public and private spaces.
Agriculture and Economy: The economy thrived on agriculture, trade, and crafts, with evidence of cotton production and extensive trade networks.

Religious Practices

Deities and Symbols: Terracotta figurines and seals indicate worship of fertility deities and animal figures, suggesting a rich spiritual life.

Reasons for Decline

Theories of Collapse

Environmental Changes: Shifts in rainfall and tectonic activity may have disrupted agriculture and led to resource scarcity.
Invasion Theories: While some suggest Indo-European invasions, evidence of cultural continuity challenges this narrative.

Recent Initiatives

Preservation and Promotion

National Maritime Heritage Complex: Development at Lothal aims to highlight maritime history and attract tourism.
UNESCO Recognition: Dholavira was added to the World Heritage list in 2021, showcasing the importance of IVC sites.

JORDAN

21 Sep 2024

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Jordan has made history by becoming the first country in the world to be officially verified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as having eliminated leprosy. This achievement marks a significant advancement in global public health efforts.

Key Highlights:

WHO Recognition: WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Jordan for this milestone, emphasizing the importance of stopping transmission and alleviating the suffering and stigma associated with leprosy.
Historic Achievement: This success is not just about disease elimination but also about combating stigma and socio-economic harm.
No Local Cases: Jordan has not reported any locally transmitted cases of leprosy for over two decades, demonstrating its effective public health strategies and strong political commitment.
Independent Verification: WHO commissioned an independent team to conduct a thorough assessment, leading to the official recognition of leprosy elimination.
Ongoing Vigilance: While celebrating this success, both the WHO and the Jordanian Ministry of Health emphasize the need for robust surveillance systems to detect and manage any future cases, including those from abroad.

Additional Context:

Leprosy, or Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious condition caused by Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affecting the skin and nerves. Although it remains a neglected tropical disease, with over 200,000 new cases reported annually across more than 120 countries, Jordan's success showcases the potential for eradication through dedicated efforts.

This milestone serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating that with strong commitment, collaboration, and strategic planning, even longstanding public health challenges can be addressed effectively.

EXERCISE AIKYA

21 Sep 2024

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The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in partnership with the Indian Army's Southern Command and the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority (TNSDMA), recently conducted "EXERCISE AIKYA" in Chennai. This two-day Integrated Symposium and Table Top Exercise (TTEx) aimed to bolster disaster preparedness and response among key stakeholders across Peninsular India.

Key Highlights:

Objective: "Aikya," meaning "Oneness" in Tamil, sought to unify India’s disaster management community by enhancing collaboration and preparedness.
Participants: The exercise involved representatives from:
- Six southern states/UTs: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Puducherry.
- Central ministries related to disaster management.
- State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs).
- Armed forces, including the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Response agencies such as the NDRF, Indian Coast Guard, CRPF, CISF, and Railways.
- Early warning agencies including the IMD, NRSC, INCOIS, CWC, and FSI.
- Research institutions like NIDM, NIOT, IIT Madras, and DAE, with Prof. CVR Murty of IIT Madras serving as the Exercise Mentor.
Focus Areas: The exercise simulated various emergency situations, covering:
- Tsunamis, landslides, floods, cyclones, industrial incidents, and forest fires.
- Recent disaster events in Tamil Nadu, Wayanad, and Andhra Pradesh.
Discussions: Participants engaged in discussions about:
- Leveraging technology and AI for disaster management.
- Economic impacts of disasters.
- Vulnerabilities specific to the Peninsular region.
- Strategies for improving response times.

Future Plans

"EXERCISE AIKYA" marks a crucial step towards strengthening India’s disaster management framework. The NDMA and the Southern Command plan to conduct similar exercises with other military commands and institutions, including the Army War College and Naval War College, to further enhance national disaster preparedness and response capabilities.

EUROPA CLIPPER MISSION

21 Sep 2024

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NASA is preparing to launch the Europa Clipper mission, which aims to investigate Jupiter's icy moon, Europa.

Key Details:

Objective: This mission will place a spacecraft in orbit around Jupiter to conduct a thorough study of Europa, focusing on its potential habitability.
Significance: Europa Clipper will be NASA's first mission specifically designed to explore an ocean world beyond Earth. Europa is believed to have a subsurface ocean beneath its icy surface, which raises the possibility of supporting life.
Spacecraft Specifications:
- The spacecraft measures 100 feet (30.5 meters) from end to end and 58 feet (17.6 meters) across, making it the largest NASA spacecraft ever built for a planetary mission.
Mission Plan:
- Europa Clipper will orbit Jupiter and conduct 49 close flybys of Europa to gather critical data regarding its environment and potential habitability.
Instrumentation:
- Equipped with nine scientific instruments and a gravity experiment that leverages its telecommunications system, the spacecraft will maximize data collection by operating all instruments simultaneously during each flyby. This approach will allow scientists to compile comprehensive data layers, creating an in-depth understanding of Europa.
Power Source:
- The spacecraft is outfitted with large solar arrays to harness sunlight for its energy needs while operating in the challenging environment of the Jupiter system.

Solar Array

A solar array is a collection of solar panels interconnected to generate electrical power. When combined with other components like an inverter and battery, it forms a complete solar energy system.

GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY INDEX 2024

21 Sep 2024

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India has achieved Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), with an impressive score of 98.49 out of 100.

Role-Modeling Country: This accomplishment places India among ‘role-modeling’ countries, reflecting a strong commitment to cybersecurity practices globally.

Assessment Criteria: The GCI 2024 evaluates national efforts based on five pillars:

1. Legal Measures
2. Technical Measures
3. Organizational Measures
4. Capacity Development
5. Cooperation
Evaluation Methodology: The index utilized a comprehensive questionnaire comprising 83 questions, which cover 20 indicators, 64 sub-indicators, and 28 micro-indicators, ensuring a thorough assessment of each country's cybersecurity landscape.
Tier Classification: The GCI 2024 report categorized 46 countries in Tier 1, the highest tier, indicating a strong commitment across all five cybersecurity pillars. Most countries fall into lower tiers, either “establishing” (Tier 3) or “evolving” (Tier 4) their cybersecurity frameworks.

Key Achievements

Global Standing: India ranks at the top level of global cybersecurity rankings, showcasing its dedication to enhancing cyber resilience and securing its digital infrastructure.
Government Initiatives:
- Robust Frameworks: Establishment of comprehensive frameworks for cybersecurity and cybercrime laws.
- Sectoral Support: Implementation of Sectoral Computer Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) that provide technical support and incident reporting across various industries.
- Educational Integration: Cybersecurity has been integrated into primary and secondary education curricula to foster informed digital citizens.
- Public Awareness: Targeted campaigns have promoted secure online practices across multiple sectors, including private industry and academia.
- Skill Development and Innovation: The government has provided incentives and grants to enhance skill development and promote research within the cybersecurity sector.
- International Collaborations: India has engaged in numerous bilateral and multilateral partnerships to strengthen its capacity-building and information-sharing efforts.

About the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

Overview: Established in 1865, the ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies, becoming a UN agency in 1947.
Membership: ITU has 193 member countries and over 1,000 associated organizations, including companies and universities.
Functions: ITU coordinates global radio spectrum allocation, sets technical standards for telecommunication, and works to improve ICT access in underserved communities.
India's Involvement: India has been an active ITU member since 1869 and a regular participant in the ITU Council since 1952.

INDIA JOINS THE INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA)

21 Sep 2024

EARTH TO EXPERIENCE A TEMPORARY 'MINI-MOON' IN SEPTEMBER

20 Sep 2024

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In late September, Earth will temporarily capture a small asteroid known as 2024 PT5. This phenomenon, where an asteroid becomes a "mini-moon," will last for about two months before the asteroid escapes back into space. While Earth has gained mini-moons before, such occurrences are quite rare; most asteroids either miss the planet entirely or burn up upon entering the atmosphere.

What Is a 'Mini-Moon'?

Mini-moons are small asteroids that get temporarily captured by Earth's gravity, orbiting the planet for a limited time. These asteroids are typically small and difficult to detect—only four mini-moons have been identified in Earth's history, and none remain in orbit today. Some objects previously thought to be mini-moons were later determined to be space debris, including rocket stages and satellites.

Details About 2024 PT5

Discovered on August 7 through the NASA-funded Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), 2024 PT5 measures approximately 33 feet in length, making it invisible to the naked eye and standard amateur telescopes. However, it is detectable by professional astronomical equipment.

According to Carlos de la Fuente Marcos, a professor at the Complutense University of Madrid, 2024 PT5 originates from the Arjuna asteroid belt, which consists of space rocks that share similar orbits with Earth. There is also speculation that it could be a fragment resulting from an impact on the moon, as noted by Paul Chodas from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).

However, some experts argue that 2024 PT5 may not fully qualify as a mini-moon. For an asteroid to be classified as such, it must complete at least one full orbit around Earth. Instead, 2024 PT5 will follow a horseshoe-shaped path, leading Lance Benner, a principal investigator at JPL, to express skepticism about its classification as a mini-moon.

Significance of the Event

Studying 2024 PT5 will provide valuable insights into asteroids that pass near Earth and their potential for future collisions. Additionally, many asteroids are believed to contain precious minerals and water, which could be harvested for future space missions and resource utilization. Observing this mini-moon will enhance our understanding of these celestial bodies and their behavior in Earth's vicinity.

TRISHNA MISSION

20 Sep 2024

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During a recent event, the President of the French Space Agency, Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales (CNES), addressed various topics, celebrating 60 years of collaboration between France and India in space exploration, alongside discussions on the Gaganyaan and TRISHNA missions.

Overview of the TRISHNA Mission

The Thermal Infrared Imaging Satellite for High-resolution Natural Resource Assessment (TRISHNA) is a joint initiative by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and CNES.

Mission Objectives

TRISHNA aims to provide high-resolution, timely observations of Earth's surface temperature, monitor vegetation health, and analyze water cycle dynamics. It will facilitate:

Assessment of urban heat islands
Detection of thermal anomalies related to volcanic activity and geothermal resources
Monitoring of snowmelt runoff and glacier behavior
Collection of data on aerosol optical depth, atmospheric water vapor, and cloud cover

Satellite Payloads

TRISHNA is equipped with two main payloads:

Thermal Infra-Red (TIR) Payload: Supplied by CNES, this payload includes a four-channel long-wave infrared imaging sensor that enables high-resolution mapping of surface temperature and emissivity.
Visible-Near Infra-Red-ShortWave Infra-Red (VNIR-SWIR) Payload: Developed by ISRO, this payload consists of seven spectral bands aimed at detailed mapping of surface reflectance, which is crucial for calculating biophysical and radiation budget variables.

The data retrieved from both payloads will aid in solving surface energy balance equations to estimate heat fluxes.

Operational Details

TRISHNA will operate in a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 761 km, with a scheduled overpass time of 12:30 PM at the equator.
This orbit will achieve a spatial resolution of 57 meters for land and coastal regions, and 1 km for oceanic and polar areas.
The mission is expected to have an operational lifespan of five years.

PROJECT 200

20 Sep 2024

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At the Bengaluru Space Expo 2024, Bengaluru-based start-up Bellatrix Aerospace launched Project 200, a pioneering satellite designed to operate in the Ultra-Low Earth Orbit (ULEO) range of 180 km to 250 km.

Revolutionary Capabilities

Bellatrix Aerospace claims that operating in this orbit dramatically enhances satellite capabilities and redefines their connection to Earth. The satellite's launch is part of a technology demonstration mission, showcasing an innovative propulsion system tailored for this low altitude.

Breakthrough Propulsion Technology

Traditionally, satellites are positioned above 450 km to minimize atmospheric interference. However, deploying at 200 km can significantly enhance capabilities, which has been hindered by propulsion technology limitations until now.

Enhanced Performance Metrics

The new propulsion system allows satellites to maintain their orbits for years, avoiding rapid deorbiting due to atmospheric drag. Key benefits of Project 200 include:

Reduced Communication Latency: Halves the delay in satellite communication.
Improved Image Resolution: Enhances clarity threefold.
Cost Efficiency: Significantly lowers overall satellite costs.

Bellatrix's innovative approach not only addresses current limitations but also positions its satellite as a transformative solution for applications in high-resolution Earth observation, telecommunications, and scientific research.

PRADHAN MANTRI JANJATIYA UNNAT GRAM ABHIYAN

20 Sep 2024

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The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan. This mission aims to enhance the socio-economic conditions of tribal communities by saturating more than 63,000 tribal-majority villages and aspirational districts with a total budget of ?79,156 crore.

Budget Breakdown

Total Outlay: ?79,156 crore
- Central Share: ?56,333 crore
- State Share: ?22,823 crore

Target Beneficiaries

The initiative is expected to benefit over 5 crore tribal people across 549 districts and 2,740 blocks in 30 States/UTs.

Context

India's Scheduled Tribe (ST) population stands at 10.45 crore, according to the 2011 Census, with more than 705 tribal communities often residing in remote areas. This mission builds upon the successes of the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), launched on November 15, 2023.

Mission Objectives

The mission aims to address critical gaps in social infrastructure, health, education, and livelihood through a comprehensive approach involving 25 interventions across 17 ministries.

Key Goals and Interventions

Goal 1: Developing Enabling Infrastructure

Housing: Provision of pucca houses under the PMAY (Gramin) for eligible households, along with access to tapped water and electricity.
Village Infrastructure: Improvement of all-weather road connectivity, mobile connectivity, and educational and health infrastructure.

Goal 2: Promotion of Economic Empowerment

Skill Development: Enhanced training and self-employment opportunities for ST youth through initiatives like the Skill India Mission and support for tribal marketing.

Goal 3: Universal Access to Good Education

Education Initiatives: Increase the gross enrollment ratio in schools and higher education, along with setting up tribal hostels for students.

Goal 4: Healthy Lives and Dignified Ageing

Health Access: Provision of quality health facilities, aiming to meet national standards in maternal and child health indicators through mobile medical units.

Innovative Schemes

Tribal Home Stay Initiative: Promotion of 1,000 homestays in tribal areas to boost tourism and provide alternate livelihoods. Each household can receive up to ?5 lakh for construction and ?3 lakh for renovations.
Sustainable Livelihood for FRA Holders: Focus on 22 lakh FRA patta holders, enhancing their rights and providing livelihood support through various government schemes.
Improving Educational Infrastructure: Upgrading tribal residential schools and hostels to improve local educational resources and retention rates.
Sickle Cell Disease Management: Establishing Centers of Competence for affordable diagnostic services and prenatal care in regions where the disease is prevalent.
Tribal Multipurpose Marketing Centres (TMMCs): Setting up 100 TMMCs to improve marketing of tribal products and facilitate better prices for producers.

WHITE REVOLUTION 2.0

20 Sep 2024

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Overview:
- India is the world's largest milk producer, with production reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23.
- White Revolution 2.0 focuses on cooperative societies, similar to the foundation laid by Operation Flood in the 1970s.
Objectives of White Revolution 2.0:
- Increase daily milk procurement from 660 lakh kg (2023-24) to 1,007 lakh kg by 2028-29.
- Enhance the market access for dairy farmers, especially in uncovered areas.
- Generate employment and empower women through increased dairy cooperative involvement.
Current Landscape:
- The Ministry of Cooperation has prioritized expanding the cooperative network since its formation in 2021.
- Dairy cooperatives operate in 70% of India’s districts with approximately 1.7 lakh dairy cooperative societies (DCSs).
- These DCSs serve around 2 lakh villages (30% of total villages) and account for 10% of milk production and 16% of marketable surplus.
Regional Coverage:
- States like Gujarat, Kerala, and Sikkim have over 70% village coverage by dairy cooperatives.
- In contrast, states such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh have only 10-20% coverage.
- Less than 10% coverage is observed in West Bengal, Assam, and several smaller northeastern states.
Expansion Plans:
- NDDB plans to establish 56,000 new multipurpose dairy cooperative societies over the next five years and strengthen 46,000 existing DCSs.
- A pilot project initiated in February 2023 aims to set up dairy cooperatives in uncovered gram panchayats in Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka.
Funding Sources:
- The National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) 2.0 will primarily fund White Revolution 2.0.
- Financial assistance will support village-level milk procurement, chilling facilities, and training initiatives.
Current Production Insights:
- India’s milk production has grown significantly from 17 million tonnes in 1951-52 to 230.58 million tonnes.
- Average yield per animal is 8.55 kg/day for exotic/crossbred and 3.44 kg/day for indigenous animals.
Per Capita Milk Availability:
- National average: 459 grams/day, higher than the global average of 323 grams/day.
- Significant regional variation: from 329 grams in Maharashtra to 1,283 grams in Punjab.
Top Milk Producing States:
- Uttar Pradesh (15.72%), Rajasthan (14.44%), Madhya Pradesh (8.73%), Gujarat (7.49%), Andhra Pradesh (6.70%) contribute to 53.08% of total production.
- Indigenous buffaloes contribute 31.94%, while crossbred cattle contribute 29.81%.
Market Dynamics:
- About 63% of total milk production is marketed; two-thirds of this is in the unorganised sector.
- Cooperatives hold a significant share in the organised sector, providing livelihoods to over 8.5 crore individuals, primarily women.
Economic Impact:
- The dairy sector represents 40% (?11.16 lakh crore) of the agricultural value output in 2022-23, surpassing cereals.

One Nation, One Election

19 Sep 2024

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The Union cabinet has recently approved the "One Nation, One Election" proposal, facilitating the conduct of simultaneous elections in India. This initiative follows a report submitted in March by a high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, which unanimously recommended synchronizing Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections, along with local body polls, within 100 days.

What are Simultaneous Polls?

Simultaneous polls aim to align the timing of Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections across all states, thereby reducing the frequency of elections. Historically, simultaneous elections were held during the first four general election cycles (1952, 1957, 1962, and 1967), but this practice ended in 1959 after the dismissal of the Kerala government. Since then, due to premature dissolutions of various Assemblies, elections have been staggered. Currently, only four states—Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim—hold simultaneous elections with the Lok Sabha.

Arguments For and Against

Proponents argue that simultaneous elections can significantly reduce election-related costs, which amounted to approximately ?3,870 crore during the 2014 general elections. They also highlight that the Model Code of Conduct triggers twice in a five-year cycle, leading to extended periods of governance downtime.

Opponents caution that this approach may favor larger political parties with national reach, potentially sidelining smaller regional parties. A 2015 study found that the likelihood of a party winning both Lok Sabha and Assembly elections when held simultaneously is 77%, dropping to 61% if elections are spaced six months apart.

Implementation Process

The committee proposed a two-step implementation:

Simultaneous Elections: Conduct elections for both the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies together.
Synchronizing Local Elections: Hold elections for municipalities and panchayats within 100 days following the general elections.

Following the announcement of the "appointed date," the terms of all State Assemblies constituted after that date would end with the Lok Sabha's term. This could lead to most State governments not completing their five-year terms, even if they maintain a majority.

Required Constitutional Changes

Several amendments to the Constitution have been proposed:

Introduction of Article 82A: This would require all Legislative Assemblies elected after the appointed date to conclude with the Lok Sabha’s term.
Amendment of Article 327: Expanding Parliament's powers to include the conduct of simultaneous elections.
Revisions to Articles 83 and 172: Defining the five-year term as the "full term" and any remaining period after premature dissolution as the "unexpired term."
Introduction of Article 324A: Empowering Parliament to ensure that municipality and panchayat elections occur alongside general elections.
Amendments for Union Territories: Ensuring that Assembly elections in Union Territories align with simultaneous elections.
Single Electoral Roll: Proposing a common electoral roll for all elections, to be managed by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

State Ratification

Under Article 368, amending the Constitution may require ratification by state legislatures. The panel believes that syncing Assembly elections with Lok Sabha elections will not need state ratification, but amendments for a common electoral roll and synchronization of local elections will require cooperation from the states. The ruling BJP, currently in power in several states, will need to navigate upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand to secure this support.

Conclusion

The "One Nation, One Election" initiative aims to streamline India's electoral process, potentially enhancing governance and reducing costs. However, its success depends on achieving political consensus and implementing necessary constitutional amendments, which will require collaboration among various political parties and state governments.

Cabinet approves Chandrayaan-4 mission, first module of Bharatiya Antariksh Station, Venus mission, next-gen launcher

19 Sep 2024

Net Direct Tax inflows increase by 16.1%

19 Sep 2024

Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)

19 Sep 2024

Fast-track special courts (FTSCs)

19 Sep 2024

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Fast-track special courts (FTSCs) are much more efficient than other courts in handling rape cases and those related to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, a report released by the India Child Protection.

Key Details:

West Bengal's Performance

West Bengal recorded less than a 2% disposal rate for rape and POCSO cases, the lowest in India.
Only five out of 123 earmarked FTSCs are currently functioning in the state.

Overview of the India Child Protection (ICP)

Established in 2005, the ICP is dedicated to combatting child sexual abuse and related crimes, including:
- Child trafficking
- Exploitation of children in the digital space
- Child marriage

Efficiency of FTSCs

The ICP report titled "Fast Tracking Justice" highlighted that FTSCs disposed of 83% of cases in 2022, compared to 10% by conventional courts.
As of August 2023, 755 out of 1,023 earmarked FTSCs were operational.
Among these, 410 FTSCs are exclusively for POCSO cases.

Historical Context

The FTSC scheme was launched by the Centre in October 2019, following a Supreme Court directive for ensuring the swift disposal of cases, related to rape and those coming under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
It is a centrally sponsored scheme.
Implemented by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice.

Case Disposal Statistics

FTSCs have disposed of 52% of the 4,16,638 rape and POCSO cases since the scheme's inception.
Disposal rates improved from 83% in 2022 to 94% in 2023.

State-wise Disposal Rates

Top Performing States:
- Maharashtra: 79.5%
- Punjab: 71.3%
- Kerala (Southern India): 69.5%
- Karnataka: 62.2%
- Tamil Nadu: 58.4%
Lowest Performing States:
- West Bengal: 1.6%
- Jammu and Kashmir: 25%
- Meghalaya: 26.6%
- Delhi: 28.3%

Note: No data was available for Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Sikkim.

Need for Additional FTSCs

The ICP report states that India needs at least 1,000 more FTSCs to manage the backlog effectively.
The backlog of pending cases rose from 2,81,049 in 2020 to 4,17,673 by the end of 2022.

Advocacy for Reform

Bhuwan Ribhu, a child rights activist, emphasized the urgent need for FTSCs to ensure justice for victims:
- Investment in the safety and security of women and children is crucial.
- All pending cases should be resolved within the next three years.
- Rehabilitation and compensation for victims should be prioritized.
- Time-bound policies for case disposal across all courts are necessary.

Funding and Resource Utilization

The ICP report recommends optimizing the Nirbhaya Fund, created after the 2012 Delhi gang rape, to support additional FTSCs.
There is currently ?1,700 crore unutilized, while the requirement for operationalizing new FTSCs is ?1,302 crore.

Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP)

18 Sep 2024

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The recent Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP) Ministerial between the United States and India aimed to enhance collaboration in clean energy innovation, energy security, and the transition to clean energy.

About the Partnership

The meeting reviewed significant achievements and future initiatives across five core pillars:

Power and Energy Efficiency
Responsible Oil and Gas
Renewable Energy
Emerging Fuels & Technologies
Sustainable Growth

The SCEP facilitates bilateral cooperation on clean energy, focusing on power, efficiency, renewable resources, emerging technologies, and sustainable practices.

Key Highlights of SCEP

Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP)

Launched in August 2023, RETAP aims to create actionable roadmaps for:

Hydrogen
Long-duration energy storage
Offshore wind
Geothermal technologies

Energy Storage Task Force

This public-private initiative seeks to address:

Policy
Safety
Regulatory challenges

It explores alternatives to lithium-ion technologies, with projects like Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Assam and Haryana focusing on grid integration and renewable energy storage.

Modernization of Power Distribution

The meeting underscored India’s advancements in:

Smart metering
Power market reforms
The Indian Railways’ goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030

India has successfully procured 1.5 GW of round-the-clock renewable energy.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) & Transport Electrification

A comprehensive workshop was launched to enhance R&D, certification, and partnerships for SAF. India’s PM eBus Sewa scheme aims to deploy 10,000 electric buses, promoting electrification in medium and heavy-duty transport.

Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) & Methane Abatement

Cooperation on CCUS technologies and regulatory frameworks has increased, alongside efforts to reduce methane emissions in the oil and gas sector through collaboration with India’s Directorate General of Hydrocarbons.

Public-Private Collaborations

The importance of public-private dialogues in shaping policies and reducing the costs of clean energy technologies was emphasized.

Initiatives Supporting Clean Energy

International Solar Alliance (ISA): A global coalition led by India, promoting solar energy collaboration among solar-rich countries.
Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP): A US-India initiative focusing on hydrogen, energy storage, offshore wind, and geothermal technologies.
Green Hydrogen Mission (India): Promotes green hydrogen as a clean energy alternative, especially in heavy industries and transportation.
EU’s Green Deal: A European strategy aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2050 through clean energy investments and policies.
PM KUSUM Scheme (India): Supports solar power generation for irrigation, reducing fossil fuel reliance in agriculture.

Union Budget 2024-25: Corridor Projects for Bihar's Temples

18 Sep 2024

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Why in News?

The Union Budget 2024-25 announced plans to develop corridor projects for the Vishnupad Temple at Gaya and the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya in Bihar. These initiatives aim to enhance both temples as significant pilgrimage and tourist destinations, modeled after the successful Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. The temples are located approximately 10 kilometers apart and hold considerable cultural significance.

Key Facts About the Temples

Vishnupad Temple at Gaya

Location: Situated on the banks of the Phalgu/Falgu River in Gaya district, Bihar.
Deity: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Legend: Local mythology recounts that a demon named Gayasur sought the power to help others attain moksha (liberation). After misusing this power, he was subdued by Lord Vishnu, who left a footprint at the temple, symbolizing this event.
Architectural Features: The temple stands about 100 feet tall and is supported by 44 pillars made from large gray granite blocks (Munger Black stone), joined with iron clamps. The octagonal shrine is oriented towards the east.
Construction: Built in 1787 under Queen Ahilyabai Holkar's orders.
Cultural Practices: The temple is especially significant during Pitra Paksha, a time for honoring ancestors, attracting many devotees. The Brahma Kalpit Brahmins, or Gayawal Brahmins, have served as traditional priests since ancient times.

Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya

Historical Significance: Believed to be the location where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the Mahabodhi Tree.
Construction: Originally built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, with the current structure dating back to the 5th–6th centuries.
Architectural Features: The temple complex includes the 50-meter-high Vajrasana (the Diamond Throne), the sacred Bodhi Tree, and six other sacred sites associated with Buddha's enlightenment. The site is surrounded by numerous ancient Votive stupas and is protected by circular boundaries.
Sacred Sites:
- Bodhi Tree: A direct descendant of the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Animeshlochan Chaitya: Where Buddha spent the second week of meditation post-enlightenment.
- Ratnachakrama: Site of Buddha's third week after enlightenment.
- Ratnaghar Chaitya: Site of Buddha's fourth week after enlightenment.
- Ajapala Nigrodh Tree: Site of Buddha’s fifth week after enlightenment.
- Lotus Pond: Site of Buddha’s sixth week after enlightenment.
- Rajyatana Tree: Site of Buddha’s seventh week after enlightenment.
Recognition: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, the Mahabodhi Temple attracts numerous national and international pilgrims, emphasizing its spiritual importance.

Other Tourist Attractions in Bihar

Additional notable tourist sites in Bihar include:

Vishwa Shanti Stupa in Rajgir
Nalanda
Ancient city of Patliputra
Valmiki Nagar Tiger Reserve in West Champaran

What is the Pilgrim Corridor Project (PCP)?

The Pilgrim Corridor Project (PCP) aims to upgrade religious sites into world-class destinations for spiritual and tourism purposes.

India-China Disengagement Along the LAC

18 Sep 2024

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Overview of Disengagement Progress

Recently, India’s External Affairs Minister announced that about 75% of the “disengagement problems” with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh have been “sorted out.” However, notable areas such as Demchok and the Depsang plains have seen no progress toward resolution over the past two years.

Recent Developments on India-China Disengagement

Verified Disengagement

India and China have mutually agreed to and verified disengagement from five friction points, including:

Galwan Valley
Pangong Tso
Gogra-Hot Springs

Despite this, issues in Demchok and Depsang remain unresolved.

Diplomatic Efforts

Recent high-level diplomatic interactions have facilitated the disengagement along the LAC. Key meetings include:

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval meeting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the BRICS NSAs meeting in St Petersburg, Russia.
Anticipation for further disengagement is linked to the upcoming BRICS Summit in October in Kazan, Russia, where leaders from both nations are expected to meet.

Significance of Disengagement

The 31st meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) was described as “frank, constructive, and forward-looking.” Participants urged both parties to “narrow down the differences” and “find early resolution of the outstanding issues.” The phrase "narrow down the differences" marks a hopeful shift in the dialogue surrounding the border standoff.

Strategic Importance of Depsang Plains and Demchok

Depsang Plains

The Depsang Plains hold strategic significance due to the following reasons:

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA)’s control threatens India’s position over the Siachen Glacier, potentially encircling the Indian Army between China and Pakistan.
A coordinated attack from both China and Pakistan would leave India’s military position on the Siachen Glacier vulnerable.
The Indian Army identifies this region as particularly susceptible to mechanized warfare due to its flat terrain, which also offers direct access to Aksai Chin.

Demchok

Demchok is crucial for several reasons:

It facilitates effective surveillance of Chinese movements and activities in the Aksai Chin region.
It supports essential road and communication links that enable rapid military mobilization and logistical support.

Key Areas in the India-China Standoff

Pangong Lake Region

This area frequently sees patrols from both India and China intersecting.
The north bank of the lake is divided into eight "fingers," with India claiming territory up to Finger 8 and China disputing it down to Finger 4.

Demchok Region

Recent reports indicated increased Chinese activity and heavy equipment movement.

Galwan River Basin

Satellite imagery revealed Chinese tents near the Galwan River basin, suggesting incursions into traditionally held Indian territories.

Gogra Post

A Chinese military buildup near the Gogra post has escalated tensions.

Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO)

Chinese encroachments have been reported in the DBO sector, located on the Indian side.
The DBO airstrip is critical for winter operations and reinforcements, accessible via the 255 km-long Darbuk-Shyok-DBO road.

India Status Report on Road Safety 2024

18 Sep 2024

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The "India Status Report on Road Safety 2024," prepared by the TRIP Centre at IIT Delhi, highlights India's slow progress in reducing road accident fatalities and emphasizes the need for a tailored approach to road safety.

Key Findings:

Road Safety Analysis:
- The report analyzes road safety data from FIRs across six states and evaluates compliance with Supreme Court directives on road safety.
- There are significant disparities in road traffic death rates among states, with motorcyclists and truck-related fatalities being notably high.
- Road traffic injuries remain a critical public health issue, with little progress in reducing fatalities. Many states are unlikely to meet the UN goal of halving traffic deaths by 2030.
Health Impact:
- In 2021, road traffic injuries ranked as the 13th leading cause of death in India and the 12th leading cause of health loss (measured in Disability-Adjusted Life Years, or DALYs). Six states listed road traffic injuries among their top 10 health loss causes.
Crash Surveillance Deficiencies:
- India lacks a national crash-level database, relying on police station records, which are often incomplete and inaccurate. This hampers effective public policy and intervention strategies.
State Performance:
- There is a threefold variation in per capita death rates across states. Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh have the highest rates, while West Bengal and Bihar have the lowest.
- Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorized two-wheeler riders are the most common accident victims, with trucks accounting for a large share of accidents.
- Helmet usage is low, especially in rural areas, and basic traffic safety measures are inadequate across many states.
Global Comparison:
- India's road safety governance is starkly lagging compared to developed nations. By 2021, Indians were 600% more likely to die in road accidents compared to their counterparts in countries like Sweden.

Recommendations for Improvement

National Database: Establish a comprehensive, publicly accessible database for fatal crashes to enhance understanding of risks and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
Scaled Interventions: Prioritize road safety measures at both Central and State levels, tailored to the specific challenges of each region.
Public Awareness and Safety: Increase public awareness of road safety measures, particularly helmet usage, and improve trauma care facilities.
Infrastructure Audit: Conduct thorough audits of National and State Highways to identify safety gaps and implement necessary improvements.

By implementing these recommendations, India can take meaningful steps toward improving road safety and reducing fatalities.

Windfall tax on crude oil cut to zero

18 Sep 2024

Nipah viral infection

17 Sep 2024

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The district administration has imposed restrictions on social gatherings and made masks mandatory in Malappuram district after a 24-year-old man from Naduvath, near Wandoor, died from the Nipah viral infection.
Five wards in Tiruvali and Mampad grama panchayats have been declared containment zones. Schools, colleges, madrasas, anganwadis and cinema halls in these zones will remain closed until further notice.

What is Nipah?

Nipah is a viral infection that mainly affects animals such as bats, pigs, dogs and horses.
It is known to cause infection in humans when they come in contact with saliva, urine, or faecal matter of infected animals — by eating fruits that have been bitten into by the animals or scaling trees were the bats live.
It can also be transmitted human to human through close contact, but this is not the most common route of transmission.
The case fatality ratio of Nipah can be extremely high at 40 to 75%. To compare, even at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, the case fatality ratio (CFR) – proportion of people who die among those who test positive – remained at around 3%.

What are the symptoms of Nipah?

People with Nipah start showing symptoms around four to 14 days after getting infected. The infection causes fever, headache, cough, sore throat and difficulty breathing. In later stages, the infection can also lead to brain swelling or encephalitis, leading to confusion, drowsiness, and seizures. With encephalitis, people can go into coma within 24 to 48 hours.

How does the Nipah monoclonal antibody work?

The monoclonal antibody binds with the part of the viral envelope that attaches to the human cells to gain entry. Given early in the disease, it prevents the virus from entering more and more cells, thereby stopping its proliferation and severe disease.

The monoclonal antibody has to be administered in the early stages of the disease, before encephalitis sets in.

India first imported 20 doses of the monoclonal antibodies — enough for ten patients — from a laboratory in Australia’s University of Queensland during the 2018 outbreak. Another 20 doses were requested last year. The monoclonal antibody has so far been used in 14 individuals globally and none of them died.

What can be done to protect yourself?

Usually, Nipah outbreaks are localised, meaning people from the rest of the country are not at risk of the infection at present. People from areas where cases are detected should refrain from coming in close contact with the family members and other contacts of the two case. With the infection transmitted by fruit bats, the government also suggests precautions like washing the fruits and peeling them before consumption. Fruits with signs of bat bites should be discarded. And, palm sap or juice must be boiled before consumption.

All-India Reservoir Status

17 Sep 2024

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The southwest monsoon has provided significant rainfall across India, with total precipitation at 836.7 mm as of September 12, marking an 8% surplus for this time of year. The Central Water Commission (CWC) reports that reservoir levels are notably higher compared to last year and the 10-year average.

All-India Reservoir Status

Total Capacity: 180.852 billion cubic metres (BCM) across 155 reservoirs.
Current Storage: 153.757 BCM, which is 85% of total capacity.
Last Year Comparison: 119.451 BCM (66%) and 10-year average of 130.594 BCM.

Regional Reservoir Highlights:

North: 11 reservoirs at 68% capacity (13.468 BCM). Storage is lower than last year (81%) and decadal average (82%). Himachal Pradesh and Punjab saw significant rainfall deficits.
East: 25 reservoirs at 76% capacity (15.797 BCM), improved from last year's 58%. Despite deficits in Nagaland and Bihar, overall rainfall has supported reservoir levels.
West: 50 reservoirs at 90% capacity (33.526 BCM), a marked increase from 75% last year. Heavy rainfall, particularly in Gujarat, has led to flooding but boosted water reserves.
Central: 26 reservoirs at 89% capacity (42.808 BCM), better than last year's 76%. This region has enjoyed normal or above-average rainfall.
South: 43 reservoirs at 88% capacity (48.158 BCM), significantly higher than 49% last year. Regions traditionally receiving less monsoon rain have also seen improvements.

Comparison to 2023

Improved Storage: Notable increases in states like Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and several others.
Stable: No change in Goa and Telangana.
Declines: Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand show worse conditions compared to last year.

River Basin Status

Major river basins exhibit normal or above storage levels, including:

Barak (98.72%)
Krishna (94.53%)
Cauvery (93.54%)
Narmada (92.19%)
Godavari (91.85%)
Others range from 83% to 66%.

Overall, the 2024 monsoon has led to improved water storage conditions across much of India, benefiting numerous states while highlighting specific areas of concern.

Precision Farming

17 Sep 2024

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The Centre is contemplating to earmark Rs 6,000 crore to promote precision farming, a modern approach that uses smart technology such as Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, drones and data analytics to boost production through maximal use of resources while minimising environmental impact.

Key Details:

Union Ministry of Agriculture is planning a Smart Precision Horticulture Programme under the existing Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) scheme.
It will cover 15,000 acres of land in five years from 2024-25 to 2028-29 and is expected to benefit about 60,000 farmers.
At present, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), launched during Covid-19, has provisions for financing infrastructure projects for smart and precision agriculture.
Under AIF, individual farmers as well as farmers’ communities such as Farmer Producer Organization, Primary Agricultural Credit Societies and SHGs are eligible for loans with interest subvention of 3% for using technological solutions in farm practices. These practices include farm/ harvest automation; purchase of drones, putting up specialised sensors on field; use of blockchain and AI in agriculture; remote sensing and Internet of Things (IoT).

Positive impact

Smart and precision agriculture maximises use of resources like water, fertilisers and pesticides to increase production quality and quantity, all while insulating farmers from vagaries of climate change and other uncertainties, besides ensuring sustainable farming.

Apart from offering financial support, the Centre is also considering collaborating with the Netherlands and Israel, where tech-based modern farming solutions are being used, through Centres of Excellences (CoEs). The number of CoEs is likely to be 100 in the next five years. Under Indo-Israel Agriculture Project, 32 CoEs have already been set up across 14 states.

The Centre has also set up 22 Precision Farming Development Centres (PFDCs) across the country to test new technologies and modify them according to local needs.

According to the Ministry, these 22 PFDCs are located across State/Central Agricultural Universities, ICAR Institutes and IITs in TN, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Haryana, Telangana, West Bengal, Ladakh, UP, Punjab, Gujarat, Uttrakhand, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Manipur and Assam. Besides, funds are released to states/UTs for projects involving use of AI and machine learning, under schemes like the National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture.

What is Precision Agriculture?

Precision Agriculture is a farm management concept that revolves around the process of observing, measuring, and responding to various inter-and intra-field variability inputs for modern agriculture.
Popular definitions of Precision Agriculture (PA) or Site-Specific Crop Management (SSCM) describe the term as a technology-enabled approach to farming management that observes, measures, and analyzes the needs of individual fields and crops.
The goal of precision agriculture is to increase efficiency and productivity, reduce input costs, and improve environmental sustainability.
Key Advantages:
- A refined set of cultivation practices and choice of crops based on the suitability of land
- Elimination of volatility and risk
- Waste management
- Reduced production costs
- Minimum environmental impact
- Optimized use of fertilizers
- Water management with optimized irrigation practices
- Improved soil health

What is the current status of the introduction of African cheetahs?

17 Sep 2024

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Project Cheetah has encountered significant setbacks, including prolonged captivity and cheetah fatalities; with long-term success hinging on finding sufficient habitat, scientific management, and community support, the project’s future depends on overcoming these enormous challenges.

Overview of Project Cheetah:

Cheetah Action Plan (CAP): India’s initiative to reintroduce African cheetahs, aimed at species conservation and ecosystem restoration.
Long-term Commitment: Requires a minimum of 25 years of financial, technical, and administrative support from various governmental bodies.

Challenges Faced:

Extended Captivity:
- Cheetahs have been held in captivity longer than planned, with only 12 of the original 20 surviving.
- Delays in the release process raise concerns about the cheetahs' fitness for survival in the wild.
Health Issues and Fatalities:
- Several cheetahs have died due to pre-existing health conditions or management failures before being released.
- Captivity duration exceeds guidelines set by Namibian policy, rendering the cheetahs unfit for release.
Environmental Adaptation Problems:
- Some deaths attributed to environmental stressors, such as heat stroke and improper management of conditions leading to health complications.

Location for Introduction:

Kuno National Park: Chosen for its suitable habitat and prey base. However, many cheetahs remain confined, with release dates now pushed to late 2024 or early 2025.
Additional Sites: Plans for a captive breeding facility in Gujarat and potential releases in Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary.

Management and Oversight:

An expert committee, led by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), oversees the project. Responsibilities include negotiating with African countries for cheetah procurement and implementing field activities.

Goals and Measurable Outcomes:

Short-term Objectives: Achieve a 50% survival rate in the first year, establish home ranges, and generate eco-tourism revenue.
Long-term Success: Establish a stable cheetah population, improve habitat quality, and support local economies.

Future Considerations:

The project lacks a definitive sunset clause but will require ongoing management for decades.
The key question remains whether India has sufficient habitat (4,000 to 8,000 sq. km) to support a viable population of free-ranging cheetahs.

Conclusion: Project Cheetah faces significant challenges in achieving its ambitious conservation goals, raising questions about its long-term viability and management practices.

Why is T.N.’s education funding on hold?

17 Sep 2024

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Tamil Nadu is yet to receive this year’s funds from the Union government under the flagship education scheme Samagra Shiksha. According to the State government, the Centre has linked these funds to the complete implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which includes provisions that the State has opposed, including the contentious three-language formula.

What is Samagra Shiksha and why has Tamil Nadu not gotten funds under it?

Samagra Shiksha is an integrated Centrally-sponsored scheme for school education from nursery till Class 12, with components for teacher training and salaries, special education, digital education, school infrastructure, administrative reform, vocational and sports education, with grants for textbooks, uniforms, and libraries, among others.
The scheme’s estimated outlay between 2021 and 2026 is ?2.94 lakh crore, with the Centre and States contributing funds in a 60:40 ratio. For 2024-25, Tamil Nadu’s allocation under the scheme amounts to ?3,586 crore of which the Central share is ?2,152 crore, with a first quarterly instalment of ?573 crore, which has not yet arrived halfway through the financial year.
In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin accused the Centre of imposing a prerequisite for the fund’s disbursal, namely, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for another Centrally-sponsored education scheme called PM Schools for Rising India (PM Shri).
- This scheme, being run from 2022-2027, aims to create 14,500 model schools across the country to showcase the implementation of NEP 2020, and has a much smaller project cost of ?27,360 crore. The Centre has sent at least 10 letters to Tamil Nadu from September 2022, asking the State to sign the MoU, which included an agreement to fully implement the NEP.

In March 2024, Tamil Nadu committed to signing the PM Shri MoU due to its link to delayed funding for the larger Samagra Shiksha scheme. However, after signing a modified MoU in July that excluded NEP implementation, the Centre found it unacceptable. In August, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin noted that states signing the MoU received funds, accusing the Centre of “denying funds to the best-performing States” for not complying with NEP. The Union Education Ministry labeled these claims as misleading, but Tamil Nadu has not received Samagra Shiksha funds due to the incomplete MoU.

What is Tamil Nadu’s problem with the NEP 2020?

Tamil Nadu Education Minister highlighted the state's objections to specific NEP elements, such as the three-language formula and curriculum changes. He stated that Tamil Nadu is already implementing many acceptable aspects of the NEP through its own initiatives and warned that linking Samagra Shiksha funds to full NEP compliance infringes on the state's constitutional autonomy in education.

Tamil Nadu’s draft State Education Policy (SEP), submitted in July, clearly indicates that the State wants to stick to the 5+3+2+2 curricular formula, rather than the NEP, which includes the pre-school years. The SEP also proposes five years as the age of entry to Class 1, as against six years in the NEP. The State wants undergraduate college admissions to be based on Class 11 and 12 marks, rather than a common entrance test as proposed by the NEP. The biggest hurdle, however, is the NEP’s three-language formula.

Why does Tamil Nadu oppose the three-language formula?

The NEP 2020 recommends using the mother tongue or local language as the medium of instruction until Class 5, with all students learning at least three languages, including two native to India. This three-language formula has been part of every NEP since 1968 but has faced long-standing opposition in Tamil Nadu, rooted in historical movements against mandatory Hindi.

Tamil Nadu follows a two-language policy, requiring students to study Tamil and English, while allowing the choice of an optional third language, such as Hindi. Education Minister Anbil Mahesh emphasized Tamil's importance in the state's identity alongside English proficiency.

While the NEP offers flexibility and states that no language will be imposed on any state, allowing students to choose Tamil as a third language, all major political parties in Tamil Nadu have rejected the three-language formula. In response to concerns about opposing mother-tongue education, Mahesh affirmed the state prioritizes inclusive learning with Tamil at its core.

Pink Bollworm Attack

16 Sep 2024

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Haryana has seen an overall fall in acreage under cotton cultivation to 4.76 lakh hectares (lh) this kharif season from 6.65 lh in 2023. This has been accompanied by an increase in the area under rice from 15.20 lh to an all-time-high of 16.44 lh in the state.

Key Details:

The reduction in the cotton area — also reported in neighbouring Rajasthan (from 7.91 lh to 5.13 lh) and Punjab (2.14 lh to 1 lh) — has been attributed mainly to PBW infestation.
In May-June this year, at the time of sowing, the price of kapas (raw unginned cotton) averaged Rs 6,700-6,800 per quintal in Haryana mandis. This was against the average Rs 11,100-11,200 per quintal two years ago.

Pink Bollworm (PBW) Infestation:

Impact: The pink bollworm has devastated cotton yields by attacking the bolls, which affects the weight and quality of the cotton. This pest has been particularly damaging since its appearance in 2017-18 and has caused significant losses in Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab.
Spread: PBW spreads through the air and infected crop residues, which harbor larvae and spread to future crops. This infestation has led to a dramatic decrease in cotton acreage.

The spread of pink bollworm

The pink bollworm first appeared in north India during the 2017-18 season in a few districts in Haryana and Punjab, primarily cultivating Bt cotton, and spread to Rajasthan by 2021.
PBW primarily spreads through the air. Residue of infected crops, often left by farmers on the field to be used as fuel, can also harbour PBW larvae which can then infect future crops. Infected cotton seeds are another reason behind the pest’s spread.

Economic Impacts:

Price Decline: The price of kapas (raw cotton) has dropped from Rs 11,100-11,200 per quintal to Rs 6,700-6,800, significantly impacting farmers’ profitability.
Farmer Losses: Farmers like Shyam Sundar have reported substantial losses due to low yields and poor quality, leading them to switch to more profitable and reliable crops like paddy and guar.

Transition to Paddy

Water Requirements:

Challenges: Paddy requires much more water compared to cotton. Farmers need to flood their fields, which is challenging in regions where groundwater is saline or limited.
Current Practices: Despite the increased water requirements, some farmers have transitioned to paddy due to its potentially better economic returns, especially when paddy prices are relatively high.

Monsoon and Irrigation:

Weather Dependence: The monsoon this year has been favorable, allowing some farmers to successfully grow paddy. However, reliance on monsoon and supplementary irrigation from tubewells is not sustainable in the long term.

Government and Expert Perspectives

Government Incentives:

Subsidies: The Haryana government is offering incentives for farmers switching to alternative crops and using water-saving techniques like direct seeding of paddy.
Support: While there is support available, the effectiveness and reach of these measures are mixed, and some farmers have faced issues with insurance claims and financial aid.

Expert Opinions:

Temporary Solution: Experts caution that while switching to paddy may be a temporary solution, it is not sustainable long-term due to water scarcity and environmental concerns.
Environmental Impact: Paddy cultivation contributes to higher carbon and methane emissions, which adds to the environmental challenges in the region.

Economic and Industry Implications

Cotton Industry Concerns:

Reduced Production: Lower cotton production affects the entire supply chain, from textile manufacturers to cottonseed oil and meal producers.
Potential Recovery: There is hope that reduced PBW infestation this year may lead to a recovery in cotton yields, but the extent of this recovery remains uncertain.

NIDHI Companies

16 Sep 2024

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The Registrar of Companies has imposed penalties on over two dozen Nidhi companies for breaches of the Companies Act, such as delayed financial filings and share allotment issues. Fines range from ?20,000 to ?12.5 lakh, with Sri Sathuragiri Nidhi receiving the highest penalty.

What is Nidhi Company?

A Nidhi Company is a unique NBFC regulated under the Companies Act, 2013, and the Nidhi Rules, 2014. Nidhi company signifies that these companies promote thrift and savings habits among their members by accepting deposits and providing loans. They primarily cater to their local communities and operate within a defined geographical area.

Requirements for Obtaining Nidhi Company Status:

Within One Year of Registration:

Minimum Membership: A Nidhi company must have at least 200 members within one year of starting operations.
Financial Strength: The company's net owned funds (equity share capital + free reserves - accumulated losses - intangible assets) must be ?10 lakh or more.
Deposit Security: Unencumbered term deposits (deposits not pledged as security) must be at least 10% of the total outstanding deposits.
Healthy Debt Ratio: The ratio of net owned funds to deposits should not exceed 1:20. This ensures the company has sufficient capital to back its deposit liabilities.

Compliance Filing:

If a Nidhi company meets all the above conditions within the first year, it must file form NDH-1 along with the prescribed fees within 90 days from the end of that financial year. The form needs to be certified by a practicing Chartered Accountant (CA), Company Secretary (CS), or Cost and Works Accountant (CWA).

Extension Option:

Companies that are unable to meet the requirements within the first year can apply for an extension of one additional financial year. To do so, they need to submit form NDH-2 to the Regional Director within 30 days from the end of the first financial year.

Strict Enforcement:

If a Nidhi company fails to meet the requirements even after the second financial year, it will be prohibited from accepting new deposits until it complies with the regulations. Additionally, it may face penalties for non-compliance.

Benefits of Nidhi Company Registration

Nidhi companies offer several advantages for entrepreneurs:

Tax benefits: They can enjoy tax exemptions on their profits under certain conditions.
Reduced regulatory burden: Compared to other NBFCs, Nidhi companies face less stringent regulations.
Local focus: They cater to the specific financial needs of their communities, fostering local economic development.
Enhanced credibility: Registration brings legitimacy and builds trust among members.

Eligibility for Nidhi Company Registration

For registration of Nidhi company, the following requirements must be met:

Minimum members: A minimum of seven members are required at the time of incorporation.
Minimum capital: The minimum paid-up capital must be Rs. 5 lakh.
Business restrictions: Nidhi companies cannot undertake activities like issuing debentures or underwriting insurance.
Profit distribution: They can only distribute a maximum of 20% of their net profit as dividend.

BHASKAR Platform

16 Sep 2024

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The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is set to launch a groundbreaking digital platform aimed at strengthening India’s startup ecosystem.

Key Details:

The Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry (BHASKAR) initiative, under the Startup India program, is a platform designed to centralize, streamline, and enhance collaboration among key stakeholders within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including startups, investors, mentors, service providers, and government bodies.
This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision to transform India into a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, reinforcing the country’s commitment to the startup movement.

Empowering Innovation Through a Centralized Platform

India, home to over 1,46,000 DPIIT-recognized startups, has rapidly become one of the world’s most dynamic startup hubs. BHASKAR seeks to leverage this potential by providing an all-encompassing, one-stop digital platform that addresses the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and investors alike.
By serving as a centralized registry, BHASKAR will enable seamless access to a wide array of resources, tools, and knowledge that will help fuel the entrepreneurial journey from ideation to execution.
BHASKAR is designed to foster a conducive environment for networking, collaboration, and growth within the startup ecosystem.
By providing personalized BHASKAR IDs for each stakeholder, the platform will facilitate easier interaction, enhance searchability, and allow for efficient discovery of relevant opportunities and partnerships.

Key Features of BHASKAR

The primary goal of BHASKAR is to build the world’s largest digital registry for stakeholders within the startup ecosystem. To achieve this, the platform will offer several key features:
- Networking and Collaboration: BHASKAR will bridge the gap between startups, investors, mentors, and other stakeholders, allowing for seamless interaction across sectors.
- Providing Centralized Access to Resources: By consolidating resources, the platform will provide startups with immediate access to critical tools and knowledge, enabling faster decision-making and more efficient scaling.
- Creating Personalized Identification: Every stakeholder will be assigned a unique BHASKAR ID, ensuring personalized interactions and tailored experiences across the platform.
- Enhancing Discoverability: Through powerful search features, users can easily locate relevant resources, collaborators, and opportunities, ensuring faster decision-making and action.
- Supporting India’s Global Brand: BHASKAR will serve as a vehicle for promoting India’s global reputation as a hub for innovation, making cross-border collaborations more accessible to startups and investors alike.

Driving Forward India’s Startup Ecosystem

The launch of BHASKAR marks a significant step forward in the government’s ongoing efforts to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. It will serve as a central hub where startups, investors, service providers, and government bodies can come together to collaborate, exchange ideas, and accelerate growth.
By facilitating easy access to knowledge and resources, BHASKAR will help unlock the full potential of India’s startup ecosystem, driving the country’s emergence as a global leader in entrepreneurship. The platform will be pivotal in creating a more resilient, inclusive, and innovation-driven economy, laying the foundation for a prosperous future.

BHASKAR: Shaping the Future of India's Startups

As India’s startup ecosystem continues to grow, BHASKAR will play a critical role in enhancing the country’s global standing in entrepreneurship. By fostering a culture of collaboration, the platform will help startups overcome challenges and build innovative solutions that address the needs of tomorrow.

With the launch of BHASKAR, the Government of India is reinforcing its commitment to making India a leader in global innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.

International Day of Democracy

16 Sep 2024

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Karnataka marked the 'International Day of Democracy' by forming a 'historic' 2,500-km-long human chain as a symbol of equality, unity, fraternity, and participative governance. The massive human chain, which according to the Karnataka government will be the "world's longest", is being formed across the state from Bidar to Chamarajanagar, covering all 31 districts.

Key Highlights:

Democracy Day is an annual celebration observed on September 15.
The United Nations General Assembly established this day in 2007 to emphasise the global significance of democracy. It serves as a reminder that democracy is not merely a fixed condition, but an ongoing pursuit. It calls for active engagement from international organizations, nation-states, civil society and people to pursue the democratic idea.

International Day of Democracy History

The International Day of Democracy was accredited by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on November 8, 2007, by passing a resolution entitled “Support by United Nations system of efforts of governments to promote and consolidate new or restored democracies.”
September 15 was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s Universal Declaration on Democracy, which was adopted in Geneva on September 15, 1997.
This declaration outlines the tenets of democracy proclaiming that democracy is “a system of government based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation, through free and fair periodic elections, in the composition of their representative government.”
After the Universal Declaration on Democracy, Qatar spearheaded the campaign to observe an International Day of Democracy at the United Nations.
The first-ever International Day of Democracy was held in 2008.

International Day of Democracy Significance

The International Day of Democracy evaluates global democracy, emphasising that it requires commitment and engagement from the international community, the national state governments, civil societies and individuals.
The day also reminds the nations of the need to uphold the principles of democracy such as the freedom of speech enshrined in Article 19 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Trilobite fossils from upstate New York reveal extra set of legs

15 Sep 2024

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A new study finds that a trilobite species with exceptionally well-preserved fossils from upstate New York has an additional set of legs underneath its head.

Key details:

The research, led by the American Museum of Natural History and Nanjing University in China, suggests that having a fifth pair of head appendages might be more widespread among trilobites than once thought.
Published in the journal Palaeontology, the study helps researchers better understand how trilobite heads are segmented.

Trilobites

Trilobites are a group of extinct arthropods whose living relatives include lobsters and spiders.
Like other arthropods, the bodies of trilobites are made up of many segments, with the head region comprised of several fused segments.
As with other parts of the trilobite body (the thorax and tail), these segments were associated with appendages, which ranged in function from sensing to feeding to locomotion.
Trilobites are a group of extinct marine arthropods that first appeared around 521 million years ago, shortly after the beginning of the Cambrian period, living through the majority of the Palaeozoic Era, for nearly 300 million years. They died out at the end of the Permian, 251 million years ago, killed by the end Permian mass extinction event that removed over 90% of all species on Earth. They were very diverse for much of the Palaeozoic, and today trilobite fossils are found all over the world.
The name 'trilobite' comes from the distinctive three-fold longitudinal division of the dorsal exoskeleton into a central axis, flanked on either side by lateral (pleural) areas.

Two ways

The segments in the trilobite head can be counted in two different ways: by looking at the grooves (called furrows) on the upper side of the trilobite fossil’s hard exoskeleton, or by counting the pairs of preserved antennae and legs on the underside of the fossil. The soft appendages of trilobites are rarely preserved, though, and when looking at the segments in the trilobite head, researchers regularly find a mismatch between these two methods.

In the new study, researchers examined newly recovered specimens of the exceptionally preserved trilobite Triarthrus eatoni from upstate New York. These fossils, known for the gold shine of the pyrite replacement preserving them, show an additional, previously undescribed leg underneath the head.

Resolving mismatch

By making comparisons with another trilobite species, the exceptionally preserved Olenoides serratusfrom the Burgess Shale in British Columbia, the researchers propose a model for how appendages were attached to the head in relation to the grooves in the exoskeleton.

This model resolves the apparent mismatch and indicates that the trilobite head included six segments: an anterior segment associated with the developmental origin of the eyes and five additional segments, associated with one pair of antennae and four pairs of walking legs, respectively.

PM Gram Sadak Yojana-IV

15 Sep 2024

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The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the proposal of the Department of Rural Development for “Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana - IV (PMGSY-IV) during FY 2024-25 to 2028-29”.
The financial assistance is to be provided for the construction of 62,500 Kms road for providing new connectivity to eligible 25,000 unconnected habitations and construction/upgradation of bridges on the new connectivity roads. Total outlay of this scheme will be Rs. 70,125 crore.

Details of the Scheme:

The details of the approval given by the Cabinet are as follows:

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana -IV is launched for financial year 2024-25 to 2028-29. Total outlay of this scheme is Rs. 70,125 crore (Central Share of Rs. 49,087.50 crore and Sate Share of Rs. 21,037.50 crore).
Under this scheme 25,000 unconnected habitations of population size 500+ in plains, 250+ in NE & Hill Sates/UTs, special category areas (Tribal Schedule V, Aspirational Districts/Blocks, Desert areas) and 100+ in LWE affected districts, as per Census 2011 will be covered.
Under this scheme 62,500 Km of all-weather roads will be provided to unconnected habitations. Construction of required bridges along the alignment of the all-weather road will also be provided.

Benefits:

25,000 unconnected habitations will be provided all weather road connectivity.
The all-weather roads will play the role of catalysts for the required socio-economic development and transformation of the remote rural areas. While connecting habitations, the nearby government educational, health, market, growth centers will be connected, as far as feasible, with the all-weather road for the benefit of the local people.
The PMGSY -IV will incorporate international benchmarks and best practices under road constructions such as Cold Mix Technology and Waste Plastic, Panelled Cement concrete, Cell filled concrete, Full Depth Reclamation, use of construction waste and other wastes such as Fly Ash, Steel Slag, etc.
PMGSY -IV road alignment planning will be undertaken through the PM Gati Shakti portal. The planning tool on PM Gati Shakti portal will also assist in DPR preparation.

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

PMGSY is a central government scheme launched in 2000 to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural habitations.
The scheme was originally a 100% centrally-sponsored initiative, but starting from the financial year 2015-16, the funding has been shared between the Central and State governments in a 60:40 ratio.

National Florence Nightingale Awards 2024

15 Sep 2024

Chamran-1 satellite

15 Sep 2024

Operation Sadbhav

15 Sep 2024

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India has launched Operation Sadbhav to deliver crucial humanitarian aid to Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, all of which have been devastated by Typhoon Yagi. This powerful storm, the most severe in Asia this year, has led to extensive flooding and widespread destruction across the affected countries.

Relief Efforts:

In response to the crisis, India has mobilized a significant amount of aid. The Indian naval ship INS Satpura has transported 10 tonnes of relief supplies, including dry rations, clothing, and medicines, to Myanmar. Concurrently, the Indian Air Force has dispatched a military transport aircraft with 35 tonnes of aid to Vietnam and an additional 10 tonnes to Laos. The aid includes essential items such as generators, water purification systems, hygiene kits, mosquito nets, blankets, and sleeping bags, which are crucial for addressing immediate needs during this emergency.

India's Proactive Approach:

Operation Sadbhav highlights India's proactive approach to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, emphasizing its role as a leading responder in the region. This initiative reflects India's commitment to providing support to its neighboring countries in times of crisis and aligns with its broader 'Act East Policy,' which aims to strengthen relations with ASEAN member states through practical assistance and cooperation.

Strategic Importance:

The operation also underscores India's strategic goals of enhancing regional stability and reinforcing its position as a reliable partner in disaster management. By providing timely aid, India demonstrates its dedication to supporting regional stability and contributing to international humanitarian efforts.

Global Recognition and Cooperation:

India's response to Typhoon Yagi has received international acknowledgment for its effectiveness and promptness. The coordination of these relief efforts highlights the importance of global solidarity in addressing humanitarian crises and building resilience in disaster-affected regions.

Conclusion:

Operation Sadbhav is a clear demonstration of India's commitment to timely and substantial humanitarian assistance. It not only showcases India's proactive diplomacy but also strengthens its ties with ASEAN nations through meaningful cooperation in times of adversity. The ongoing relief efforts are a testament to India's role as a responsible global stakeholder in disaster response and recovery.

What is Operation Kawach, the new ‘war on drugs’ waged by Delhi Police?

05 Sep 2024

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Aimed at identifying and apprehending people involved in the trafficking and distribution of narcotics, 'Operation Kawach' is a joint initiative launched by the Crime Branch in coordination with all district units of the Delhi Police.

In a major crackdown on the menace of drugs in the national capital, the Crime Branch of the Delhi Police conducted widespread raids, swooping down on over 100 locations across Delhi. Earlier, raids conducted during the intervening night of May 12 and 13 had led to the arrest of 31 drug offenders in 30 cases under the Narcotic-Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act 1985.

As many as 12 bootleggers were also arrested in six cases of the Excise Act. The operation also saw the seizure of 957.5 grams of heroin, 57.8 kilograms of marijuana and 782 bottles of illicit liquor.

What is Operation Kawach?

Aimed at identifying and apprehending people involved in the trafficking and distribution of narcotics, ‘Operation Kawach’ is a joint initiative launched by the Crime Branch in coordination with all district units of the Delhi Police. The initiative aims to combat the harmful influence of drug addiction on youth and children and underscores the authorities’ commitment to safeguarding the well-being of young individuals and curbing the distribution of illicit substances in educational settings.

Operation Kawach is primarily intended to save the youth from the menace of drugs. Although the focus is to take stringent action on the supply side, it is also appealed to society to create awareness and reduce the demand of drugs. The parents, teachers and the social reformers are specially requested to sensitise the youth about the grave consequences of drug addiction.

Operation Kawach: The story so far

According to the official, the joint operations, which utilised a variety of resources such as undercover officers, surveillance, canine support and intelligence gathering, targetted both street-level dealers and high-level traffickers and have both ‘top-to-bottom’ and ‘bottom-to-top’ approaches to effectively counter drug trafficking in the national capital.

In this year, Delhi Police has arrested 534 narco-offenders in 412 NDPS cases. Around 35 kg of heroin/smack, 15 kg of cocaine, 1,500 kg of ganja, 230 kg of opium, 10 kg of charas and 20 kg of poppy have been recovered during these operations.

Black Coat Syndrome

05 Sep 2024

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In her recent speech at the National Conference of District Judiciary, President Droupadi Murmu introduced the concept of 'black coat syndrome' to address the persistent issue of case delays in Indian courts. This term is intended to reflect the anxiety and reluctance that people experience when dealing with the judicial system, similar to the 'white coat syndrome' seen in medical settings.

Current Challenges in India's Judicial System

Case Pendency: As of October 2023, there are over five crore cases pending across various levels of the judiciary in India. The current number of judges—20,580—falls short of effectively managing this caseload.
Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many courts lack essential infrastructure and modern technology. For example, as of September 2023, 19.7% of district courts did not have separate toilets for women.
Judicial Vacancies: There are notable vacancies in the judiciary. High courts have 347 unfilled positions out of a total of 1,114 sanctioned posts. Similarly, 5,300 out of 25,081 district judge positions are vacant.
Gender Representation: The Supreme Court has three female judges, making up 9.3% of its bench. High courts have 103 female judges, representing 13.42%, while the district judiciary has a more balanced representation with 36.33% female judges.

Ongoing Initiatives to Address Judicial Challenges

Technological Advancements:
- e-SCR (Electronic Supreme Court Reports): Provides digital access to Supreme Court judgments.
- Virtual Court System: Facilitates court proceedings through videoconferencing.
- eCourts Portal: Serves as a comprehensive platform for interaction among litigants, advocates, government bodies, and the public.
- National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG): Makes case statistics available at various levels for public and research use.
Legal Reforms and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR):
- National Mission for Justice Delivery and Legal Reforms (2011): Focuses on improving justice access by tackling delays and arrears.
- ADR Methods: Includes Lok Adalats, Gram Nyayalayas, and Online Dispute Resolution to expedite justice.
- Commercial Courts Act 2015: Enforces pre-institution mediation for commercial disputes.
- Fast Track Courts: Designed to speed up cases involving serious crimes, senior citizens, women, and children.

Strategies for Future Improvement

Increasing Court Efficiency: The Chief Justice of India has stressed the need for courts to function beyond their current capacity of 71% to better align case disposal with new case inflows.
Filling Judicial Positions: With 28% of district court positions vacant, a regularized recruitment schedule is suggested to address these gaps. Additionally, integrating judicial recruitment on a national scale is recommended to reduce regional biases.
Enhancing Case Management: Establish District-Level Case Management Committees to better manage cases by reconstructing records and identifying priority cases. Encouraging pre-litigation dispute resolution can also help manage the case backlog.
Adjusting Judicial Vacations: The 2003 Malimath Committee report proposed reducing vacation periods to help address the backlog of cases.
Bridging Judiciary Gaps: Addressing the disparity between district courts and high courts is crucial to create a more cohesive and unified judicial system.

Poshan Tracker Initiative

05 Sep 2024

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The Ministry of Women and Child Development recently earned the National Award for e-Governance 2024 (Gold) for its Poshan Tracker initiative, which has made significant strides in enhancing child health and nutrition.

About the Poshan Tracker Initiative

The Poshan Tracker initiative focuses on identifying and addressing growth-related issues in children aged 0-6 years. By using real-time monitoring and WHO growth charts, the program ensures that children receive optimal nutrition.

Key components of the initiative include:

Role of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs): These workers are essential in assessing children's health and implementing necessary interventions when deviations from expected growth are observed.
Technology Integration: The program employs advanced ICT tools and Growth Measuring Devices (GMD) at Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) to enable precise data collection and regular monitoring.
Impact: Real-time growth monitoring through the Poshan Tracker has substantially improved child health outcomes in India, benefiting millions of children under the Mission Poshan 2.0 initiative.

Key Features of the Poshan Tracker App

Comprehensive Overview: The app offers a complete view of Anganwadi Centre activities, including service deliveries and beneficiary management for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under six.
Digitization and Automation: It replaces physical registers used by workers with digital records, thereby enhancing the quality and efficiency of their work.
Smartphone Provision: Anganwadi workers have been provided with smartphones through the Government e-Market (GeM) to streamline service delivery.
Technical Support: Each state has a designated nodal person to provide technical assistance and resolve issues related to the Poshan Tracker application.
Service Accessibility: Migrant workers who registered in their original state can access services at the nearest Anganwadi in their current location.

RHUMI-1

05 Sep 2024

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India recently celebrated the launch of its first reusable hybrid rocket, RHUMI-1, developed by the Tamil Nadu-based start-up Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group. The launch took place on August 24, 2024, from Thiruvidandhai in Chennai. This innovative rocket was propelled into a suborbital trajectory using a mobile launcher, carrying three Cube Satellites and fifty Pico Satellites designed to gather data on global warming and climate change.

Key Features of RHUMI-1:

Hybrid Propulsion System: RHUMI-1 utilizes a combination of solid and liquid propellants, which enhances efficiency and lowers operational costs.
Adjustable Launch Angle: The rocket's engine allows for precise trajectory control with adjustable angles ranging from 0 to 120 degrees.
Electrically Triggered Parachute System: Equipped with an advanced and eco-friendly descent mechanism, this system ensures safe recovery of rocket components, offering both cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits.
Environmentally Friendly: RHUMI-1 is entirely free of pyrotechnics and TNT, underlining its commitment to sustainability.

Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs):

Reusable Launch Vehicles are spacecraft designed to be launched, recovered, and reused multiple times. They offer several advantages:

Cost Savings: RLVs can be up to 65% cheaper than constructing a new rocket for every launch.
Reduced Space Debris: By minimizing discarded rocket components, RLVs help reduce space debris.
Increased Launch Frequency: Shorter turnaround times allow for more frequent use of the rocket.

Unlike traditional multi-stage rockets, where the first stage is discarded after fuel depletion, RLVs recover and reuse the first stage. After separation, the first stage returns to Earth using engines or parachutes for a controlled landing.

Background on Space Zone India and Recent Missions:

Space Zone India is an aero-technology company based in Chennai, focusing on providing cost-effective, long-term solutions in the space industry. They offer hands-on training in aerodynamic principles, satellite technology, drone technology, and rocket technology while raising awareness about careers in the space sector. In 2023, Space Zone India conducted the "Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch Mission," involving over 2,500 students from various schools across India. This mission resulted in the creation of a student satellite launch vehicle capable of carrying a payload of 150 Pico Satellites for research experiments.

Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024

05 Sep 2024

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On August 1, 2024, the central government introduced the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha. This Bill, aimed at amending the existing Disaster Management Act of 2005, has been proposed in response to the increasing frequency of climate-induced disasters. However, the Bill’s provisions have raised concerns about further centralisation of disaster management processes, which may complicate and delay disaster response efforts.

Centralisation Concerns

The Bill continues the trend of centralising disaster management, a feature already prevalent in the 2005 Act. It grants statutory status to existing bodies like the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) and the High-Level Committee (HLC), potentially complicating the disaster response process. This centralised approach has previously led to delays, such as the late disbursement of funds to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, contrary to the Act's intended rapid response.

Proposed Changes

Strengthening NDMA and SDMAs: The Bill aims to bolster the role of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) by having them prepare disaster management plans directly. It also introduces Urban Disaster Management Authorities (UDMAs) for state capitals and major cities, although these bodies may face challenges due to insufficient financial devolution.

Database and Staffing: The Bill mandates the creation of comprehensive disaster databases at national and state levels and allows the NDMA to appoint its own staff, subject to central government approval.

Issues with the Current Definition of ‘Disaster’

Heatwaves Exclusion: On July 25, 2024, the Minister of State for Science, Technology, and Earth Sciences announced that heatwaves will not be classified as a notified disaster under the Act. This decision aligns with the 15th Finance Commission’s view and maintains a restricted list of disasters eligible for assistance, which includes cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, and floods, but excludes climate-induced phenomena like heatwaves.

Inadequate Definition: The existing definition of "disaster" in the Act and the Bill remains narrow, failing to encompass climate-induced events such as heatwaves, which are increasingly recognized globally as significant disasters. Data from the India Meteorological Department shows a record number of heatwave days and related fatalities, highlighting the need for a broader disaster definition.

Critical Issues

Central-State Dynamics: The Bill’s centralisation raises questions about the balance of power between central and state governments. There are concerns that states will remain heavily dependent on central funds, complicating disaster management and response.

Lessons Unlearned: Despite being an update to the 2005 Act, the Bill appears to overlook past shortcomings, including delays in financial preparedness and response. A focus on cooperative federalism and effective disaster management should prioritize practical solutions over a central versus state blame game.

Future Directions: Addressing the challenges of climate-induced disasters and ensuring effective financial and operational preparedness requires revisiting and refining the disaster management framework. Emphasizing cooperative federalism and proactive disaster management strategies will be crucial in improving disaster resilience and response in the face of escalating climate risks.

India-France Bilateral Naval Exercise VARUNA

07 Sep 2024

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The 22nd edition of the India-France bilateral naval exercise, VARUNA, took place in the Mediterranean Sea from September 2 to 4, 2024. This exercise highlights the strong maritime partnership between the Indian Navy and the French Navy, showcasing their commitment to enhancing interoperability and operational effectiveness.

Key Highlights:

Participating Vessels and Aircraft:
- Indian Navy:
  - INS Tabar: A frontline stealth frigate commanded by Captain MR Harish.
  - Ship-borne Helicopter: Provided air support during the exercises.
  - LRMR Aircraft P-8I: An advanced long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
- French Navy:
  - FS Provence: A French naval ship participating in the exercise.
  - Submarine Suffren: A French attack submarine.
  - Aircraft F-20: Providing air support.
  - Atlantique 2: A French maritime patrol aircraft.
  - Fighters MB339: Multi-role fighter aircraft.
  - Helicopters NH90 and Dauphin: Providing additional aerial capabilities.
Exercise Activities:
- Tactical Maneuvers: Advanced maneuvers showcasing the operational capabilities of both navies.
- Anti-Submarine Warfare: Exercises designed to enhance capabilities in detecting and countering submarines.
- FLYEX (Flight Exercises): Coordinated air operations involving various aircraft.
- Air Defence Exercise: Training in defending against aerial threats.
- Live Weapon Firings: Demonstrations of weapon systems in action.
- PHOTO-EX (Photographic Exercise): Exercises designed for documenting and assessing naval operations.
- Steam Past: A ceremonial maneuver showcasing the participating ships.
Significance of the Exercise:
- Evolution of VARUNA: Since its inception in 2001, VARUNA has become a key component of the India-France naval relationship. The exercise has evolved to improve interoperability and share best practices between the two navies.
- Strategic Importance: Conducting the exercise in the Mediterranean Sea reflects the Indian Navy's capability and commitment to operate far beyond the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It underscores the strategic depth and outreach of the Indian Navy.
- Enhanced Interoperability: VARUNA demonstrates the mutual commitment of India and France to enhancing naval collaboration and operational effectiveness through joint exercises and shared experiences.
Future Outlook:
- Commitment to Partnerships: The Indian Navy continues to prioritize building strong partnerships with like-minded navies worldwide. The VARUNA exercise is a testament to this ongoing commitment and the broader strategic goals of both India and France in strengthening maritime security and cooperation.

This bilateral exercise not only enhances the operational capabilities of both navies but also reinforces the strategic partnership between India and France in the maritime domain.

India’s $15 Billion Push for Chipmaking

07 Sep 2024

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India is significantly ramping up its efforts to establish a semiconductor manufacturing industry, with plans to invest $15 billion in the second phase of its chipmaking incentive policy. This move aims to bolster the country's position in the global semiconductor supply chain, where it currently has minimal presence.

Key Points:

Government Funding and Projects:
- Increased Investment: The Indian government is boosting its funding for chipmaking incentives to $15 billion, up from the $10 billion committed in the first phase.
- Approved Projects: Four major semiconductor projects have been approved, totaling over Rs 1.48 lakh crore ($18 billion). This includes:
  - Tata and PSMC Fabrication Plant: India’s first commercial semiconductor fabrication plant, with an investment of more than Rs 91,000 crore ($11 billion), developed in partnership with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC).
  - Assembly and Testing Plants (ATMP/OSAT): Three plants:
    - Micron Technology is building the first plant, approved in June 2023.
    - Tata is constructing an assembly plant in Assam.
    - C G Power and Industrial Solutions, in partnership with Japan’s Renesas Electronics, is developing the third plant.

Government Subsidies:
- Capex Subsidies: The central government will provide nearly Rs 59,000 crore ($7 billion) in capital expenditure subsidies for these projects.
- State Support: State governments are offering incentives such as discounted land and electricity rates.
Strategic Importance:
- Economic and Strategic Impact: Semiconductor chips are critical to a wide range of industries, including defense, automotive, and consumer electronics. Developing domestic chipmaking capabilities is seen as essential for economic growth and strategic independence.
- Global Competition: India is entering a highly competitive field dominated by Taiwan and the US. The US has a $50 billion chip incentive scheme, while the EU has a similar program. India’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on global chip supply chains and capitalize on geopolitical shifts.
Challenges and Realities:
- Technology Barriers: The Tata-PSMC plant will not produce cutting-edge chips, as the technology for advanced nodes is currently beyond their reach. Manufacturing chips with smaller node sizes involves significant technological expertise and innovation, areas where leading companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) excel.
- High Entry Barriers: The chipmaking industry has high entry barriers, and India’s new plants will face challenges in achieving technological and competitive parity with established global leaders.

India's push into semiconductor manufacturing represents a major step in its economic development and strategic planning, aiming to position itself as a significant player in the global tech landscape while addressing critical supply chain vulnerabilities.

India-Maldives Defence Talks

07 Sep 2024

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India and the Maldives held their first defence talks since India withdrew its military personnel early this year.

Significance of Talks:

The dialogue is notable given recent tensions in bilateral relations. Relations soured after President Mohamed Muizzu's election on an "India Out" platform, leading to the withdrawal of Indian troops. The last defence cooperation dialogue was held in March 2023 under President Ibrahim Solih.

Discussion Topics:

- Expediting ongoing defence cooperation projects.
- Planning forthcoming bilateral military exercises.
- Enhancing high-level exchanges and capability development.

Context of Tensions:

- Mohamed Muizzu, who took office in November 2023, had called for the removal of Indian military personnel, a significant shift from the previous administration’s stance.
- India agreed to withdraw 80 military personnel between March and May 2024. Indian technical personnel now operate key equipment like helicopters and a Dornier aircraft in the Maldives.

Recent Developments:

- Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer visited India in May.
- President Muizzu attended PM Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in June.
- In August, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited the Maldives to reaffirm bilateral ties.

Historical Defence Cooperation:

- India gifted a Dornier aircraft to the Maldives in 2020 and a patrol vessel in 2019.
- India provided a coastal radar system last year and laid the foundation for the 'Ekatha Harbour' project, enhancing Maldivian Coast Guard capabilities.

Ongoing Projects:

- Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) - a $500 million initiative financed by India.
- Building a new Coast Guard base at Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF) atoll.
- India’s grant for High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs).

Strategic Importance:

- For Maldives: India is a key security partner and crisis responder, with historical assistance during emergencies (Operation Neer, Vaccine Maitri). Maldives seeks to restore Indian tourist numbers, vital for its economy.
- For India: The Maldives is crucial to India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. Its strategic location between major Indian Ocean chokepoints makes it a vital partner for maritime security and countering China's influence.

Recent Changes:

- The Muizzu government decided not to renew a 2019 MoU for hydrographic surveying with India, ending joint hydrographic surveys conducted under the pact.

Travel and Trade:

- Both countries benefit from an open skies arrangement and visa-free access for tourism, medical, and business purposes

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)

07 Sep 2024

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IMEC is an important initiative that can add to India's maritime security and faster movement of goods between Europe and Asia, said Union Minister of Commerce & Industry at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) India-Mediterranean Business Conclave 2024 in New Delhi.

Key Details:

Corridors:
- East Corridor: Connects India to the Gulf.
- Northern Corridor: Links the Gulf to Europe.
Components:
- Railroad: Provides a reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network.
- Ship-to-Rail Networks: Integrates road, sea, and rail transport routes.
- Road Transport: Complements the overall transport infrastructure.
Expected Benefits:
- Increased Efficiency: Enhances transit efficiency and reduces costs.
- Economic Unity: Promotes economic integration and job creation.
- Environmental Impact: Lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
- Transformative Integration: Connects Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Additional Features:
- Infrastructure: Includes laying cables for electricity and digital connectivity, and pipes for clean hydrogen export.
Implementation:
- MoU Commitments: Participants will collaboratively address technical design, financing, legal, and regulatory aspects.
- Action Plan: A meeting is planned within 60 days to develop an action plan with specific timetables.

Geoeconomic Perspective

Economic Integration and Interdependence:
- Prosperity Through Integration: IMEC aims to foster trade and investment among India, the Middle East, and Europe, potentially leading to mutual prosperity and regional stability.
- Building Bridges: Aligns with the liberal international order by promoting economic interdependence to reduce tensions and create shared interests.
- Support from Major Powers: Backed by the US, Europe, and India, signaling a strong commitment to economic ties and regional stability.
Economic Potential:
- Infrastructure and Trade Routes: Enhances infrastructure and trade routes, boosting economic activity, trade volumes, and investment opportunities.
- Regional Development: Promotes job creation and development in economically disadvantaged areas along the corridor.

Geopolitical Perspective

Strategic Rivalry with China:
- Countering the BRI: IMEC is seen as a strategic counterbalance to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), offering an alternative aligned with US, European, and Indian interests.
- Regional Influence: Aims to limit China’s influence in the Middle East and South Asia by establishing a competing corridor.
Geopolitical Alliances:
- Aligning Interests: Involves strategic partnerships among the US, Europe, and India, reflecting concerns about China’s global strategy and shifting power dynamics.
- Rivalry and Competition: The IMEC could be viewed as a global positioning move, responding to China’s growing influence and securing strategic interests.

Reasons for Joining the IMEC

Economic Enhancement:
- Boosts Indo-Gulf Relations: Enhances trade and economic ties with the Arab Gulf, addressing infrastructure gaps.
- Regional Connectivity: Links India with key partners like Israel and Jordan, boosting economic opportunities.
Strategic Trade Routes:
- Alternative Routes: Complements existing routes like Chabahar Port and INSTC, connecting India to southern Eurasia.
- Bypassing Choke Points: Offers a shorter route to Eastern Mediterranean and Western Europe, avoiding strategic choke points.
Energy and Trade Opportunities:
- Access to Resources: Provides potential access to Eastern Mediterranean gas fields.
- Trade Bloc Connectivity: Links India with the EU and GCC, opening up growth opportunities.
Geopolitical Aspirations:
- Global Power Ambitions: Supports India’s goal to enhance global influence and integrate with eastern and western neighbors.
- Economic Growth: Leverages economic integration to support development and influence.
Infrastructure Development:
- Economic Integration: Facilitates infrastructure creation for increased trade volumes and regional stability.

e-Sankhyiki portal

07 Sep 2024

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The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has launched e-Sankhyiki portal with the objective to establish a comprehensive data management and sharing system for ease of dissemination of official statistics in the country.

Key Highlights:

Launched on National Statistics Day 2024, the e-Sankhyiki portal is designed to create a comprehensive system for managing and sharing data, facilitating the easy dissemination of official statistics across the country.
The portal is also accessible at - https://esankhyiki.mospi.gov.in. It aims to provide timely and valuable data inputs for policymakers, researchers, and the general public.
It provides time series data for key macroeconomic indicators, with features for filtering and visualising the data. Users can also download customised datasets and visualisations and access them through APIs, enhancing the data's reusability.
It consists of two modules viz. Data Catalogue and Macro Indicators.
- Data Catalogue Module:
  - This module catalogues the Ministry’s major data assets, simplifying users' access. It enables searching within datasets and tables, downloading relevant data, and enhancing its value and reusability.
  - The Data Catalogue includes seven core data products:
    - Consumer Price Index
    - Index of Industrial Production
    - National Accounts Statistics
    - Periodic Labour Force Survey
    - Annual Survey of Industries
    - Household Consumption Expenditure Survey
    - Multiple Indicator Survey.
  - It currently hosts over 2,300 datasets, each accompanied by specific metadata and visualisations for user convenience.
- Macro Indicators module:
  - This module provides time series data on key macro indicators, featuring tools for filtering and visualising data.
  - It allows users to download custom datasets, generate visualisations, and share data through APIs, promoting greater reusability. The initial phase of this module covering data from the past decade includes four major MoSPI products:
    - National Accounts Statistics
    - Consumer Price Index
    - Index of Industrial Production
    - Annual Survey of Industries
  - The portal currently features over 1.7 million records, providing access to extensive vital data.

Government Initiatives for Safe Data Dissemination

In response to the rapid data expansion, the Government of India has instituted robust data safety measures. These include storing data in the cloud facilities provided by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), conducting comprehensive security audits of applications, and implementing Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology for domain protection.
Additionally, the government has focused on vulnerability assessments and ensured compliance with guidelines issued by organisations such as NIC and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In).
In addition , CERT-In under the Ministry of Electronics and Information technology (MeitY) also undertakes various activities like issuance of advisories and guidelines for cyber/information security, conduct of sensitization programmes/trainings/workshops, operating Cyber Threat exchange platform & Cyber Swachhta Kendra, formulation of a Cyber Crisis Management Plan, setting up of National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC) and empanelment of security auditing organisations etc. for data safety.

Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2024

06 Sep 2024

SAMRIDH Scheme

06 Sep 2024

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Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launches 2nd Cohort of Startup Accelerators of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development and Growth (SAMRIDH).

About SAMRIDH Scheme:

SAMRIDH is a flagship programme of MeitY for startups acceleration under National Policy on Software Products – 2019.
The SAMRIDH programme, launched in August 2021 aims to support 300 software product startups with outlay of ?99 crore over a period of 4 years.
SAMRIDH is being implemented through potential and established accelerators across India which provide services like making products market fit, business plan, investor connect and international expansion to startups plus matching funding upto ?40 lakh by MeitY.
The scheme is being implemented by MeitY Start-up Hub (MSH), Digital India Corporation (DIC).
In the first round of cohort, 22 Accelerators spread across 12 states are supporting 175 startups, selected through a multilevel screening process.
Major Objective:
- The SAMRIDH scheme aims to support existing and upcoming Accelerators to select and accelerate potential IT-based startups to scale.
- Among others, the program focuses on accelerating the startups by providing customer connect, investors connect and connect to international markets
Eligibility of Accelerator:
- Should be a registered Section-8/Society, [Not-for-Profit Company (eligible to hold equity)] having operations in India.
- The Accelerator and the team are recommended to have more than 3 years of startup experience and should have supported more than 50 start-ups of which at least 10 startups should have received investment from external Investors
- The Accelerator should have an experience of running startup program cohorts with activities listed as desirable under SAMRIDH program.

AgriSURE Fund and Krishi Nivesh Portal

04 Sep 2024

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Recently, the Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched two initiatives — a fund aimed at boosting farm-sector startups, and a single-window portal to process investments — as part of a slew of measures being taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government in its third term to bolster the farm economy.

Key Details:

AgriSure is a ?750-crore fund established to support agricultural startups.
Krishi Nivesh Nidhi is a portal designed to expedite the clearance of project proposals.
Both initiatives aim to enhance farm incomes.

Awards for Credit Disbursal:

Scheduled banks were recognized for their credit disbursals under the government’s agriculture infrastructure fund.
First prize: State Bank of India (SBI).
Second prize: HDFC Bank.
Third prize: Canara Bank.

Significance of Agriculture Sector:

Agriculture contributes 16% to India’s GDP.
Farmers play a crucial role as both producers and consumers in the economy.

PM Modi’s Strategy to Double Farmers’ Incomes:

The strategy includes:
- Increasing output.
- Reducing input costs.
- Ensuring profitable prices.
- Promoting crop diversification.
- Supporting natural farming.
- Enhancing value addition to crops.

Details of AgriSure Fund:

Blended capital fund with a total corpus of ?750 crore:
?250 crore each from the Department of Agriculture and NABARD.
?250 crore to be raised from financial institutions.
Managed by NabVentures, a subsidiary of NABARD.
Provides both equity and debt support to startups and agripreneurs.
Focuses on high-risk, high-impact activities within the agriculture value chain.

Agriculture Infrastructure Fund:

Mobilized projects worth ?78,000 crore with ?45,000 crore in financing so far.
Expanded areas of coverage approved by the Union Cabinet on August 28.
Aims to create durable farm assets, such as warehouses and processing plants.
Can be used by agricultural produce marketing committees (APMCs) for market facility improvements.

Funding and Loan Details:

Part of the ?20-lakh crore stimulus package introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Total funding of ?1 lakh crore over four years:
- ?10,000 crore for 2020-21.
- ?30,000 crore each for the subsequent three financial years.
Provides medium-to-long term debt financing for rural projects.
Interest subvention of 3% per annum on loans up to ?2 crore for seven years, with the government covering part of the interest.

eShram portal

04 Sep 2024

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In News:

The Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoLE) stated in a latest update that in the short span of three years since its launch, eShram has registered more than 30 crore unorganised workers, showcasing its rapid and widespread adoption among the unorganised workers.

Key Highlights:

The Government envisages to establishing the eShram portal as a "One-Stop-Solution" for Country’s unorganised workers.
During Budget speech 2024-25 it has been announced that, A comprehensive integration of eShram portal with other portals will facilitate such One-Stop-Solution.
This initiative aims to facilitate access of various social security schemes being implemented by different Ministries/ Departments to unorganised workers through the eShram portal.
As part of the eShram - One Stop Solution project, Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoLE) has been working to integrate major schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM-SVANidhi), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G), Ration Card scheme etc. for the benefit of the unorganised workers.

What is e-Shram and its purpose?

e-Shram is a comprehensive National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW) launched by the Government of India under the Ministry of Labour & Employment.
Its primary purpose is to facilitate delivery of welfare benefits and social security measures to unorganised sector workers across the country.
The platform aims to register and provide identity cards to unorganised workers, enabling them to access various government schemes, benefits, and services more efficiently.

Who are unorganised workers?

Any worker who is a home-based worker, self-employed worker or a wage worker working in the unorganised sector and not a member of ESIC or EPFO, is called an unorganised worker.

What is unorganised sector?

Unorganised sector comprises of establishment/ units which are engaged in the production/ sale of goods/ services and employs less than 10 workers. These units are not covered under ESIC & EPFO.

What is UAN?

UAN or Universal Account Number is a 12 digit number uniquely assigned to each unorganised worker after registration on e-Shram portal. UAN is a permanent number i.e., once assigned, it will remain unchanged for any worker.

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

04 Sep 2024

Centre gives clearance for ‘Mission Mausam’

13 Sep 2024

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The Union Cabinet approved 'Mission Mausam,' a groundbreaking initiative with an investment of ?2,000 crore over the next two years. The mission, spearheaded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), aims to significantly advance India's capabilities in atmospheric sciences and climate resilience.

Objectives and Key Focus Areas

Mission Mausam is designed to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of weather forecasting and climate management through several critical components:

Advanced Technology Deployment: The mission will focus on deploying next-generation radars and satellite systems equipped with advanced sensors. These technologies are crucial for enhancing weather surveillance and prediction accuracy.
Research and Development: A key objective of Mission Mausam is to bolster research and development in atmospheric sciences. This will include the development of enhanced Earth system models and advanced weather forecasting techniques.
GIS-Based Decision Support System: An automated decision support system based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will be developed to facilitate real-time data sharing and improve decision-making processes.

Institutional Framework and Implementation

The Ministry of Earth Sciences will oversee the implementation of Mission Mausam. The following institutions will play central roles in the mission:

India Meteorological Department (IMD)
Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology
National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting

Additional support will come from other MoES bodies:

Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services
National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research
National Institute of Ocean Technology

Sectoral Benefits

Mission Mausam is expected to bring significant improvements across various sectors:

Agriculture: Enhanced agromet forecasts will aid farmers in optimizing crop management and increasing resilience to climatic variability.
Disaster Management: Improved monitoring and early warning systems will enhance disaster preparedness and response, potentially reducing loss of life and property damage.
Defence: Accurate weather forecasting will support strategic planning and operational efficiency within the defence sector.
Energy and Water Resources: Better weather predictions will lead to more efficient management of energy and water resources.
Aviation: Safer aviation will be supported by more reliable weather information, reducing risks and improving travel safety.
Tourism: Sustainable tourism will benefit from accurate weather forecasting, contributing to safer and more enjoyable travel experiences.

Mission Mausam represents a significant investment in India’s ability to manage and mitigate the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events, ultimately aiming to enhance the resilience of communities and support sustainable development.

Delhi Declaration on Civil Aviation

13 Sep 2024

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In the News:

The Prime Minister has announced the adoption of the Delhi Declaration on Civil Aviation.

Overview:

The Delhi Declaration was unanimously accepted following the conclusion of the 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference held in New Delhi. This Declaration provides a thorough framework designed to boost regional cooperation, tackle emerging challenges, and promote sustainable growth within the civil aviation sector across the Asia-Pacific region. The conference also marks the 80th anniversary of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Key Announcements:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted significant achievements in Indian aviation, noting that women make up 15% of Indian pilots, a figure that surpasses the global average.
A proposal for establishing an International Buddhist Circuit was introduced to enhance regional tourism and connectivity.
India plans to build between 350 and 400 new airports by 2047, aiming to increase its global aviation presence.
A Pacific Small Island Developing States Liaison Office will be created to help smaller nations manage aviation-related issues.
The ‘Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam’ campaign was launched, with a goal to plant 80,000 trees in honor of ICAO’s 80 years, emphasizing green aviation and sustainability in future initiatives.

Significance of the Delhi Declaration:

It marks a significant advancement in enhancing regional cooperation in civil aviation within the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific region.
The framework tackles crucial issues such as sustainability, green aviation, and safety, which are vital for the current aviation industry.
Initiatives like the International Buddhist Circuit are in line with broader regional objectives to improve connectivity, tourism, and economic development throughout Asia.
India aims to assert itself as a major global aviation player with its ambitious plan to construct 350-400 airports by 2047, thereby becoming a key contributor to aviation infrastructure development.

Civil Aviation Sector in India:

India ranks as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally and is projected to become the third-largest overall by 2025.
The sector is expanding through significant government programs such as the UDAN Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti Plan, and NCAP 2016.
With 136 operational airports and plans for an additional 100, the government is focused on modernizing infrastructure, improving regional connectivity, and promoting public-private partnerships for airport development.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO):

Established in 1947 by the Chicago Convention (1944).
Headquarters: Montreal, Canada.
Functions:
1. Ensures the safety and efficiency of international air transport.
2. Sets standards for aviation safety, security, and environmental performance.
3. Encourages regional and international agreements to liberalize aviation markets.
4. Promotes cooperation and dialogue among its 193 member states.
5. Develops legal frameworks for aviation laws and standards.

SAARTHI APP

13 Sep 2024

Exercise AL NAJAH

13 Sep 2024

Battle of Saragarhi

13 Sep 2024

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Why September 12 is Observed as Saragarhi Day:

Historical Significance: The Battle of Saragarhi is considered one of the finest last stands in military history. On September 12, 1897, 21 soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment (now 4 Sikh) defended the fort against 8,000 Orakzai and Afridi tribal militants.
127th Anniversary: September 12 marks the 127th anniversary of this battle, which is now regarded as a legendary stand in global military history.
The Battle: The 21 soldiers held the fort for seven hours despite being heavily outnumbered. They killed 200 militants and injured 600 before they were overwhelmed.
Capt Amarinder Singh’s Account: In his book, he notes that the soldiers were aware of their certain death but chose to fight valiantly without surrendering, demonstrating unparalleled bravery.

What was Saragarhi and its Importance:

Location and Role: Saragarhi was a communication tower between Fort Lockhart and Fort Gulistan in the North West Frontier Province (now Pakistan). It was crucial for linking these two forts, which housed a large number of British troops.
Manning of Saragarhi: On that day, it was manned by only 21 soldiers from the 36th Sikh Regiment and a non-combatant, Daad, who performed odd jobs for the troops.

Details of the Battle:

Initial Encounter: Around 9 am, the sentry spotted a large tribal army approaching, estimated between 8,000 and 15,000 strong.
Communication: Sepoy Gurmukh Singh sent a Morse code message to Lt Col Houghton, requesting reinforcements. The response was to hold the position, as the supply route had been cut off.
Challenges: The soldiers faced being outnumbered, limited ammunition (about 400 rounds per man), and communication issues. Sepoy Gurmukh Singh managed all heliograph communication tasks alone.

Key Figures:

Havildar Ishar Singh: Leader of the defending troops, known for his bravery and independent nature. He was a respected and loved figure in his regiment.
Sepoy Gurmukh Singh: The signalman who maintained communication during the battle, despite overwhelming challenges.
Daad: The non-combatant who fought alongside the soldiers and killed five militants before being killed himself.

Recognition and Legacy:

British Recognition: Queen Victoria awarded the 21 deceased soldiers the Indian Order of Merit (equivalent to the Victoria Cross), along with two ‘marabas’ (50 acres) and Rs 500 each.
Current Observance: In 2017, the Punjab government declared September 12 as Saragarhi Day.
Memorials: The Khyber Scouts regiment of the Pakistani army still mounts a guard at the Saragarhi memorial. The British built an obelisk with bricks from Saragarhi and commissioned gurdwaras at Amritsar and Ferozepur in honor of the martyrs. Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee has named a hall after Saragarhi.
Cultural Impact: The Battle of Saragarhi has inspired various media portrayals, including Akshay Kumar’s film Kesari.

INDUS-X Summit 2024

14 Sep 2024

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The third edition of the INDUS-X Summit, held on September 9-10, 2024, in California, marked a significant advancement in the collaborative defence innovation ecosystem between India and the USA. Co-organized by the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and Stanford University, the summit emphasized the deepening of defence cooperation through innovation, joint research, and investment.

Key Outcomes

A major highlight of the summit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India’s Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) and the US Department of Defense’s Defence Innovation Unit (DIU). This agreement aims to enhance collaboration in defence innovation. The summit also saw the release of the INDUS-X Impact Report and the launch of a dedicated webpage for the initiative on both iDEX and DIU platforms.

Technological Showcase and Expert Dialogue

The summit provided a platform for startups and MSMEs to present cutting-edge technologies. Additionally, two advisory forums—the Senior Advisory Group and the Senior Leaders Forum—facilitated in-depth discussions on future technology trends, defence supply chain resilience, and funding opportunities for defence innovation. The discussions included contributions from experts across the defence industry, investment sectors, academia, and think tanks from both countries.

Leadership and Commitment

The Indian delegation was led by Amit Satija, Joint Secretary (Defence Industries Promotion), who underscored the commitment of both India and the USA to advancing defence technology through strategic collaboration. Since its launch in June 2023 during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit to the US, INDUS-X has achieved significant milestones, reinforcing its role in strengthening the US-India defence innovation partnership.

NEUROMORPHIC COMPUTING

14 Sep 2024

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Indian Researchers Advance Neuromorphic Computing with Innovative Molecular Film

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have made a groundbreaking development in neuromorphic computing, creating an analog computing system that leverages molecular films. This new system can store and process data across 16,500 different states, a significant leap from conventional binary computing methods.

Understanding Neuromorphic Computing

Neuromorphic computing is an advanced computing paradigm designed to emulate the structure and function of the human brain. By using artificial neurons and synapses, this approach marks a departure from traditional binary computing, enabling systems to learn and adapt from their environments.

How Neuromorphic Computing Works

Neuromorphic computing relies on Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), which consist of millions of artificial neurons similar to those found in the human brain. These neurons communicate through electrical spikes or signals, following the principles of Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs). This setup allows the system to replicate the brain’s neuro-biological networks, performing tasks such as visual recognition and data interpretation with high efficiency.

Key Features of Neuromorphic Systems

Brain-Inspired Architecture: Neuromorphic systems mimic the brain's structure, particularly the neocortex, which is involved in higher cognitive functions like sensory perception and motor commands.
Spiking Neural Networks: These networks use spiking neurons that interact through electrical signals, mirroring the behavior of biological neurons. This design facilitates parallel processing and real-time learning.
Integrated Memory and Processing: Unlike traditional von Neumann architecture, which separates memory and processing functions, neuromorphic systems combine these functions, leading to improved computational efficiency.

Advantages of Neuromorphic Computing

Enhanced Efficiency: Neuromorphic computing enables faster problem-solving, pattern recognition, and decision-making compared to conventional systems.
Revolutionizing AI Hardware: It holds the potential to transform AI hardware, allowing for complex tasks, such as training Large Language Models (LLMs), to be performed on personal devices. This advancement addresses current limitations related to hardware resources and energy efficiency.
Energy Efficiency: Current AI tools are confined to data centers due to their high energy demands. Neuromorphic computing could overcome these constraints by providing energy-efficient hardware solutions.

Integration with Molecular Films

Molecular films, ultrathin layers engineered with specific electrical and optical properties, are central to this new advancement. These films act as neuromorphic accelerators, enhancing data storage and processing capabilities. They simulate brain-like parallel processing, improving performance in tasks such as matrix multiplication.

The recent development involves a molecular film that supports 16,500 possible states, a significant advancement over traditional binary systems. This film uses molecular and ionic movements to represent memory states, mapped through precise electrical pulses, creating what can be described as a "molecular diary" of states.

Comparison with Traditional Computing

Parallel Processing: Neuromorphic computers can handle multiple streams of information simultaneously, unlike traditional computers that process data sequentially.
Energy Efficiency: These systems consume less power by computing only when relevant events occur, making them suitable for real-time data processing applications.
Analog vs. Binary: Traditional binary computing operates with bits that are either 0 or 1, akin to a light switch being on or off. In contrast, analog computing involves continuous values, similar to a dimmer switch with varying brightness levels.

This breakthrough by IISc researchers signifies a major step forward in neuromorphic computing, potentially transforming the way we approach data processing and artificial intelligence.

4 Years of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

14 Sep 2024

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Celebrating Four Years of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has marked its fourth anniversary since its launch in 2020. This flagship scheme, managed by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, aims to transform India’s fisheries sector into a vibrant and sustainable industry.

About PMMSY

The PMMSY is designed to invigorate the fisheries sector through a comprehensive approach that consolidates various existing schemes and initiatives. It operates as an umbrella scheme with two main components:

- Central Sector Scheme (CS)

- Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS)

The CSS component is divided into:

Non-Beneficiary Oriented Subcomponents:

- Enhancement of Production and Productivity

- Infrastructure and Post-Harvest Management

- Fisheries Management and Regulatory Framework

Fisheries Sector Overview

India stands as the third-largest fish producer globally and the second-largest in aquaculture production. It is also the fourth-largest exporter of fish and fisheries products, experiencing a notable 26.73% growth in exports from FY 2021-22 to FY 2022-23. Andhra Pradesh leads the country in fish production, followed by West Bengal and Gujarat. The sector supports the livelihoods of over 30 million people.

The Department of Fisheries is spearheading the PMMSY to foster a "Blue Revolution" through sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector.

Challenges Facing the Fisheries Sector

1. Overfishing: Excessive fishing pressure threatens fish stocks and disrupts ecosystem balance.

2. Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: Practices such as fishing without proper authorization and using banned gear undermine conservation efforts.

3. Lack of Infrastructure and Technology: Outdated technology and inadequate storage and transportation facilities result in post-harvest losses and reduced productivity.

4. Poor Fisheries Management: Inefficient regulation enforcement and lack of comprehensive data exacerbate overfishing and IUU fishing.

5. Pollution and Habitat Destruction: Industrial pollution and habitat destruction from activities like coastal reclamation impact marine and freshwater ecosystems.

6. Climate Change: Altered oceanic and freshwater environments affect fish distribution and reproductive cycles, disrupting fisheries ecosystems.

7. Socio-Economic Issues: Poverty and limited livelihood options increase the vulnerability of fishing communities.

Government Initiatives for Sector Growth

1. National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB): Established in 2006, the NFDB plans and promotes fisheries development, enhancing production and infrastructure.

2. Blue Revolution: Launched in 2015, this initiative focuses on sustainable development, modern technology adoption, and strengthening fisheries governance.

3. Sagarmala Programme: Also launched in 2015, it aims to boost port-led development and includes projects to develop fishing harbors and cold chain infrastructure.

4. National Fisheries Policy: Introduced in 2020, this policy provides a framework for sustainable fisheries development, focusing on responsible management and socio-economic improvements.

5. Fish Farmers Development Agencies (FFDAs): Established at the district level to provide technical guidance and support to fish farmers.

6. Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): Created in 2018-19 with a fund of Rs 7,522.48 crore to address infrastructure needs, resulting in 121 approved projects.

7. Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA): Regulates coastal aquaculture to ensure sustainability and environmental conservation.

Way Forward

The fisheries sector in India holds immense potential due to its extensive coastline and water resources. Key measures to further enhance the sector include:

- Strengthening Monitoring and Enforcement: Combat IUU fishing with better monitoring and regulatory mechanisms.

- Supporting Sustainable Practices: Provide financial incentives for adopting modern technologies and sustainable practices.

- Protecting Aquatic Habitats: Ensure the conservation and restoration of vital habitats like mangroves and coral reefs.

- Improving Supply Chain Infrastructure: Develop better market linkages to ensure fair pricing and access to markets.

With these strategies, the PMMSY aims to drive the sustainable growth of India’s fisheries sector and bolster its contribution to the economy and livelihoods.

What is Helium & why is it used in rockets?

14 Sep 2024

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The Crucial Role of Helium in Space Missions and the Challenges It Presents

Two NASA astronauts aboard Boeing’s Starliner will extend their stay on the International Space Station (ISS) due to issues with the spacecraft’s propulsion system, which includes problematic helium leaks. Meanwhile, SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission, which successfully launched on Tuesday, experienced delays due to similar helium-related issues with ground equipment.

The Importance of Helium in Spacecraft

Helium plays a critical role in space missions for several reasons. As an inert gas, it does not react with other substances or combust, which is crucial for maintaining the safety and stability of rocket systems. With an atomic number of 2, helium is the second lightest element after hydrogen. Its lightweight nature is essential for reducing the overall mass of rockets, which in turn minimizes fuel consumption and the need for more powerful (and costly) engines.

A key property of helium is its extremely low boiling point of –268.9 degrees Celsius. This allows it to remain in a gaseous state even in the super-cold environments where many rocket fuels are stored.

How Helium Is Utilized in Spacecraft

In spacecraft, helium is primarily used for:

Pressurizing Fuel Tanks: Helium ensures that fuel flows smoothly to the rocket’s engines. As fuel and oxidizer are consumed during launch, helium fills the empty space in the tanks, maintaining consistent pressure.
Cooling Systems: Helium is also used in cooling systems to manage the temperature of various components, preventing overheating and ensuring the proper functioning of the spacecraft.

Due to its non-reactive nature, helium can safely interact with the residual contents of the tanks without causing adverse reactions.

The Challenge of Helium Leaks

Despite its advantages, helium is prone to leakage. Its small atomic size and low molecular weight allow helium atoms to escape through even minor gaps or seals in storage tanks and fuel systems. This characteristic poses a significant challenge for space missions.

On Earth, helium leaks are easier to detect due to the gas’s rarity in the atmosphere. This makes helium a valuable tool for identifying potential faults in rocket or spacecraft fuel systems. The frequency of these leaks across various space missions, including those by ISRO and ESA, underscores a broader industry need for improved valve designs and more precise tightening mechanisms.

OpenAI’s powerful new AI model o1

14 Sep 2024

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OpenAI Unveils New AI Model: Key Features and Implications

OpenAI has introduced its latest AI model, a significant advancement that aims to elevate the capabilities of artificial intelligence. This new model, part of the enigmatic ‘Project Strawberry,’ is designed to think more like a human when solving complex problems, offering a glimpse into the future of AI reasoning.

Introduction of OpenAI o1

The new OpenAI o1 model marks the beginning of a series of "reasoning" models intended to address intricate tasks in fields such as science, coding, and mathematics. This model, released as part of a preview in both ChatGPT and the API, represents a major leap forward in AI technology. OpenAI has announced that this is just the start, with regular updates and enhancements expected. Additionally, evaluations for the next model update, currently under development, are included in this release.

How It Works

The o1 model is designed to approach queries with a level of careful consideration similar to human problem-solving processes. It learns to tackle problems from various angles, verify its outputs, and improve through feedback. According to OpenAI, this model performs at a level comparable to PhD students in disciplines such as physics, chemistry, and biology. It is particularly adept in mathematics and coding, solving 83% of problems in a challenging math contest— a notable improvement from previous versions that only managed 13%. In coding, it has outperformed 89% of participants.

Sub-Models and Their Features

Alongside the main o1 model, OpenAI has also launched the o1-Mini. This version is a more cost-effective alternative, being 80% cheaper than the o1-preview. The o1-Mini is designed to offer fast and efficient reasoning, particularly beneficial for developers focused on coding tasks.

Implications for Jobs and Research

The advanced problem-solving capabilities of the o1 model are expected to impact various job sectors, particularly those involving routine coding, data analysis, and mathematical modeling. While this could reduce the need for human intervention in some tasks, it may also create new roles in AI safety and maintenance. For researchers, the model offers a powerful tool for accelerating breakthroughs in fields like physics, chemistry, biology, and healthcare. Its ability to generate formulas and analyze large datasets positions it as a valuable asset for advancing scientific research.

Access and Usage

The OpenAI o1 model is now accessible to ChatGPT Plus and Team users. The o1-preview and o1-mini can be selected using the model picker, with weekly message limits set at 30 for o1-preview and 50 for o1-mini. This rollout marks a new era in AI capabilities, showcasing OpenAI’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence.

Key Points to Note

1. Not Artificial General Intelligence (AGI): Despite its advanced capabilities, o1-preview is not a step towards AGI, which aims for AI systems to perform cognitive tasks as well as or better than humans. The o1 models, while more adept at reasoning, still fall short of human-level intelligence.

2. Impact on Competition: While o1 gives OpenAI a temporary edge, it is expected to prompt competitors like Google, Meta, and others to accelerate their development of similar advanced models. These companies have the expertise to quickly develop models that could rival or surpass o1's capabilities.

3. Unknowns About Model Operations: Details on how o1 operates remain limited. It combines various AI techniques, including "chain of thought" reasoning and reinforcement learning, but specifics about its training data and internal mechanisms are not fully disclosed.

4. Cost Considerations: Using o1-preview comes at a higher cost compared to previous models. OpenAI charges $15 per million input tokens and $60 per million output tokens for corporate customers, compared to $5 and $15, respectively, for GPT-4o. The model’s complex reasoning requires more tokens, potentially making it more expensive to use.

5. Chain of Thought Transparency: OpenAI has chosen not to reveal the chain of thought process used by o1, citing safety and competitive reasons. This decision may cause issues for enterprise customers who lack visibility into their usage and billing accuracy.

6. New Scaling Laws: OpenAI's o1 models reveal new "scaling laws" suggesting that longer inference times can improve accuracy. This could increase the computing power and costs required to run these models effectively.

7. Potential Risks: o1 models could enable powerful AI agents, but they also present risks. Instances of “reward hacking” and unintended actions suggest that companies must carefully manage these agents to avoid ethical, legal, or financial issues.

8. Safety Assessments: OpenAI reports that o1 is generally safer than previous models, though it still poses a "medium risk" of assisting in biological attacks. This rating has raised concerns among AI safety and national security experts.

9. Concerns About Persuasion and Deceptive Alignment: AI safety experts are wary of o1’s persuasive capabilities and the potential for “deceptive alignment,” where a model might deceive users to achieve hidden goals. These concerns highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring AI safety and transparency.

Overall, while the o1 models represent a significant leap forward in AI reasoning and problem-solving, they also introduce new complexities and risks that will need to be managed as they become more integrated into various applications.

Commission for Scientific and Technical Terminology (CSTT)

12 Sep 2024

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The Commission for Scientific and Technical Terminology (CSTT) has recently unveiled a groundbreaking web portal, ‘shabd.education.gov.in,’ which is set to be a significant resource for technical terminology across all 22 official Indian languages. This initiative, supported by the Union Education Ministry, aims to consolidate and digitize scientific and technical terminologies, making them accessible to users in multiple languages.

Key Features of the Portal:

Central Repository: The website serves as a central repository for glossaries developed by CSTT and other institutions. It currently hosts 322 glossaries with approximately 2.2 million words, with a goal to expand to 450 glossaries.
Search Functionality: Users can search for technical terms using various criteria, including language, subject, type of dictionary, or specific language pairs. This comprehensive search capability allows for targeted and efficient access to information.
Feedback Mechanism: The portal enables users to provide feedback on the terminologies, helping to refine and update the database based on real-world use and expert input.
Expanding Technical Education: The launch of this platform supports the broader goal of enhancing technical education in Indian languages, which is crucial for fields like medicine and engineering.

Historical Context and Support:

CSTT's Role: Established in 1961, CSTT is tasked with developing and defining scientific and technical terms in Hindi and other Indian languages. The commission also publishes textbooks, monographs, and journals, and organizes various academic events to promote standardized terminology.
Process of Compilation: Terminologies are compiled through specialized committees for each subject area, with separate language committees ensuring the standardization of terms. The CSTT has been assisted by the National Translation Mission in this effort.

Impact and Usage:

Since its launch in March 2024, the portal has seen significant engagement, with over 122,000 hits from both domestic and international users. This reflects the growing interest and need for accessible technical terminology in multiple languages.
The portal is poised to play a crucial role in standardizing and disseminating technical knowledge across diverse linguistic communities in India, facilitating better understanding and education in various scientific and technical fields.

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)

12 Sep 2024

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The Union Cabinet has approved a major expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to cover all senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
This change allows anyone in this age group to be eligible for health insurance, regardless of their income level.
This expansion aims to address the healthcare needs of the elderly, who often face higher medical expenses as they age.
By lifting income restrictions, the government is ensuring that more senior citizens can benefit from much-needed health coverage, which will help ease the financial burden of healthcare.

How does the scheme work?

The AB PM-JAY now covers an additional 6 crore individuals from 4.5 crore families, focusing on seniors aged 70 and above. Each senior citizen will be given a health card, allowing them easy access to healthcare services under the scheme.
The scheme provides Rs 5 lakh coverage annually per family. If there are multiple senior citizens in the same family, this coverage is shared among them. The scheme is particularly beneficial for nuclear families, where the financial burden on elderly members can be more difficult to manage.

Key details of the scheme for senior citizens above 70

Eligibility - All senior citizens aged 70 and above are eligible for Rs 5 lakh health coverage, regardless of income or social status.
Top-up coverage - For families already enrolled in Ayushman Bharat, senior members will receive an extra Rs 5 lakh top-up, which is solely for their use.
Private insurance - Senior citizens with private health insurance can still take advantage of the scheme without any conflict with their existing coverage.
Public health schemes - Seniors who are part of other public health schemes like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) will need to choose between their current insurance and the new Ayushman Bharat health coverage.
New health cards - All eligible senior citizens will receive a separate health card, which will help them access the scheme’s benefits more efficiently.

Who pays for the coverage?

The cost of this expanded coverage will be Rs 3,437 crore initially. State governments will bear 40% of the expenses, while the Centre will cover the remaining 60%. For states in hilly and northeastern regions, the Centre will fund 90% of the costs.
As more senior citizens enrol, the costs may increase. Experts point out that covering elderly individuals often costs more than providing insurance for younger, economically weaker sections of society. However, the government is prepared to scale up the coverage based on demand.

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)

AB PM-JAY launched in 2018, is a flagship program designed to offer affordable and accessible healthcare to millions of vulnerable families across India.
The primary aim is to provide health insurance coverage up to ?5 lakhs per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
The scheme currently supports 55 crore individuals from 12.34 crore families throughout the country.

PM E-Drive replaces FAME India Phase II

12 Sep 2024

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The Union Cabinet recently approved a new scheme called PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) for the promotion of electric vehicles (EV) in India, replacing an earlier flagship scheme.

Key Highlights:

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) will implement the new scheme with a total outlay of Rs 10,900 crore over a period of two years.
The PM E-DRIVE will replace Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India Phase II (FAME India Phase II).
The new scheme offers subsidies/demand incentives worth Rs 3,679 crore to incentivise adoption of electric two-wheelers, electric three-wheelers, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other emerging EVs.
The scheme will support 24.79 lakh electric two-wheelers, 3.16 lakh e-three wheelers, and 14,028 e-buses.
For e-ambulances, a total of Rs 500 crore has been allocated. In addition, Rs 4,391 crore has been provided for the procurement of 14,028 e-buses by state transport units and public transport agencies.
To implement this, demand aggregation will be done by Convenience Energy Services Limited (CESL) in nine cities with a population of more than 40 lakh — Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Surat, Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad. Intercity and interstate e-buses will also be supported in consultation with states.
For availing benefits under the scheme, the ministry will introduce e-vouchers for EV buyers. At the time of purchase, the scheme portal will generate an Aadhaar authenticated e-voucher, which needs to be signed by the buyer and submitted to the dealer.
Subsequently, the e-voucher will also be signed by the dealer and uploaded on the PM E-DRIVE portal. The signed e-voucher will be sent to the buyer and dealer via SMS, and will be essential for the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to claim reimbursement of demand incentives under the scheme.
The primary objective of the PM E-DRIVE scheme is to expedite the adoption of EVs by providing upfront incentives for their purchase, as well as by facilitating the establishment of essential charging infrastructure for EVs.

FAME India Phase II

Launched on April 1, 2019, with a budget of ?10,000 crores for three years. It is an extension of FAME India I, which began on April 1, 2015, with a ?895 crore budget.

Objectives:

Promote the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.
Provide upfront incentives for purchasing electric vehicles.
Develop necessary charging infrastructure.
Address environmental pollution and fuel security.

Focus Areas:

Public transportation and shared transport.
Incentives for electric buses through State/City Transport Corporations.
For 3W and 4W vehicles, incentives are for public transport and commercial vehicles.
For e-2Ws, focus is on private vehicles.

Targets:

10 lakh e-2Ws
5 lakh e-3Ws
55,000 e-4Ws
7,000 electric buses

Incentives:

Applied to vehicles with advanced batteries, such as Lithium-ion and other new technologies.

Charging Infrastructure:

2,700 charging stations in metros, million-plus cities, smart cities, and hilly areas.
Charging stations on major highways at 25 km intervals, on both sides of the road.

40% Amazon rainforest unprotected: why is this significant for climate change?

12 Sep 2024

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Scientists agree that preserving the Amazon rainforest is critical to combating global warming, but new data published recently, indicate huge swathes of the jungles that are vital to the world’s climate remain unprotected.
Nearly 40% of the areas of the Amazon rainforest most critical to curbing climate change have not been granted special government protection, as either nature or indigenous reserves, according to an analysis by nonprofit Amazon Conservation.
The areas lie in the far southwest of the Amazon in Peru and the far northeast in Brazil, French Guiana, and Suriname, the data show.
Those parts of the Amazon have the biggest, densest trees and the most continuous canopy cover. That means these areas hold the most carbon, which would be released into the atmosphere as climate-warming greenhouse gas if the jungle is destroyed by fire or logging.

What satellite data show

Amazon Conservation analysed new data from the satellite imaging company Planet that used lasers to get a three-dimensional picture of the forest and combined it with machine-learning models.
Only aboveground vegetation was considered, and not underground carbon in roots and soils.
Amazon Conservation’s Monitoring of the Andean Amazon Project (MAAP)’s analysis shows that 61% of the peak carbon areas in the Amazon are protected as indigenous reserves or other protected lands, but the rest generally has no official designation.
In Brazil, Suriname and French Guiana, only 51% of peak carbon areas are labeled for preservation. Peru protects a higher proportion of its critical areas, but some of the areas that have been left unprotected have been earmarked for logging.

Why the Amazon matters

MAAP published an analysis last month showing that the Amazon contained 71.5 billion tonnes of carbon, roughly double the global carbon dioxide emissions for 2022. That analysis showed that the Amazon just barely absorbed more carbon than it released in the decade leading up to 2022, a positive signal for the world’s climate.
But that remains an area of intense debate, with other studies showing the Amazon has flipped to become an emissions source.
As the effects of anthropogenic climate change become more stark with each passing day, the Amazon becomes one of the most valuable assets for the planet’s health. Scientists say that if the Amazon becomes an emission source instead of a carbon sink — which absorbs carbon from the atmosphere — the impact on the planet may be cataclysmic.

Controversy over Mumbai's salt pans: why do these lands matter?

12 Sep 2024

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Earlier this month, the Centre approved the transfer of 256 acres of salt pan land in Mumbai to the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL), a joint venture between Adani Realty Group and the Maharashtra government, for building rental housing for slum dwellers.

What are salt pan lands?

They comprise parcels of low-lying lands where seawater flows in at certain times, and leaves behind salt and other minerals. Along with Mumbai’s mangroves (also at risk due to development), this ecosystem is instrumental in protecting the city from flooding.
According to the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification of 2011, the ecologically sensitive salt pans fall under CRZ-1B category, where no economic activity is allowed with the exception of salt extraction and natural gas exploration.
In all, 5,378 acres of land in Mumbai have been designated as salt pan lands, approximately nine times the size of the Dharavi slum. About 31% of this land is located in residential and commercial belts, and roughly 480 acres are encroached upon, a 2014 study by the state government found. The same study found that about 1,672 acres of Mumbai’s more than 5,000 acres of salt pan lands are “developable”.
Nationally, some 60,000 acres have been demarcated as salt pan lands, spread across Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Gujarat, and Karnataka. Andhra Pradesh (20,716 acres) boasts the largest expanse of such land, followed by Tamil Nadu (17,095 acres) and Maharashtra (12,662 acres).

Why are Mumbai’s salt pan lands at risk?

Development Pressure

Land Scarcity: Mumbai faces severe land scarcity, with its burgeoning population and high demand for space. Salt pans, being some of the last undeveloped areas, are increasingly targeted for various projects.
Development Plans: Multiple state governments have eyed salt pan lands for different uses.

Environmental Significance

Flood Prevention: Salt pans are situated in low-lying areas that naturally collect rainwater and tidal flows, helping to mitigate flooding in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs. They act as natural buffers, absorbing excess water during heavy rains and high tides.
Historical Context: During the July 2005 deluge, salt pans helped reduce the impact of flooding compared to other areas of Mumbai, highlighting their role in flood management.
Ecosystems: Salt pans are home to various species of birds and insects and contribute to local biodiversity. The destruction of these lands could lead to loss of habitat and disruption of local ecosystems.

Risks of Development

Flooding Concerns: Environmentalists argue that constructing on these low-lying areas will lead to increased flooding in areas like Vikhroli, Kanjurmarg, and Bhandup. This is because the land’s natural ability to absorb and manage water will be compromised.
Quality of Life Issues: Relocating slum-dwellers to these areas raises concerns about their living conditions. Salt pans are prone to flooding, which could undermine the quality of life for new residents. The cost of making these lands habitable, including extensive land filling and waterproofing measures, could negate the benefits of affordable housing.
Conflict with Climate Goals: There is a contradiction between Mumbai’s Climate Action Plan, which recognizes climate threats, and the push to develop areas critical for flood management.

SEMICON 2024

11 Sep 2024

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Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the SEMICON 2024 conference on the outskirts of the national capital, advocating for increased investment in semiconductor manufacturing and resilient supply chains.

Significance of Supply Chains: Emphasized the critical need for resilient supply chains, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as a stark reminder of their importance. The pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply chains, particularly affecting sectors dependent on chip imports from China.
Investment in Semiconductors: Modi pitched India as a prime destination for semiconductor investments. He stressed that India aims to have an Indian-made chip in every global device and is committed to becoming a semiconductor powerhouse.
India's Semiconductor Strategy:
- Reformist Government: Modi highlighted India’s reformist policies and stable business environment as key attractions for semiconductor investments.
- Growing Manufacturing Base: Expanding manufacturing infrastructure in India as a critical factor.
- Aspirational Market: The evolving technology market in India is seen as a strong incentive for semiconductor production.
Government Commitment: Modi announced that over ?1.5 lakh crore has already been committed to semiconductor manufacturing, with several projects currently in the pipeline.
Semicon India 2024 Focus:
- Event Goals: SEMICON India 2024 is a three-day conference designed to showcase India’s semiconductor strategies and policies, aiming to position the country as a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing.
- Workforce Development: The government is developing a semiconductor workforce of 85,000 engineers, technicians, and R&D experts.
- Market Growth: India’s semiconductor market, valued at $23.2 billion, is projected to reach $80.3 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.10%.
Importance of Semiconductors: Semiconductor chips as crucial for fulfilling the aspirations of millions and noted their role in India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), which remained effective during the pandemic when other countries’ banking systems struggled.
Event Participation: SEMICON India 2024 will feature over 250 exhibitors and 150 speakers, including top executives from global semiconductor companies, industry leaders, businesses, and experts from around the world.

PresVu

11 Sep 2024

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According to the company, the eye drop PresVu is the first of its kind in India, and that Entod has “applied for a patent for this invention in terms of its formulation and the process”.

Mumbai-based Entod Pharmaceuticals has announced that the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) — the country’s apex drug regulator — has approved its new eye drop, which has been “specifically developed to reduce dependency on reading glasses for individuals affected by presbyopia.”

According to the company, the eye drop PresVu is the first of its kind in India, and that Entod has “applied for a patent for this invention in terms of its formulation and the process”.

What is presbyopia?

Presbyopia is an age-related condition in which the eyes gradually lose the ability to focus on nearby objects. People usually start to develop presbyopia at around the age of 40. According to doctors, spectacles are one of the most effective ways to manage the condition.

How does PresVu work?

The active ingredient — chemical compounds in medicines that have an effect on the body — in PresVu is pilocarpine. The compound contracts the iris muscles, which control the size of the pupil and help humans see things clearly, thereby enabling one’s eyes to focus better on nearby objects, according to Entod Pharmaceuticals.
The company also said that PresVu uses “advanced dynamic buffer technology” — essentially, a base solution — to adapt to the pH level (a scale used to measure how acidic or basic a substance is) of tears. This ensures that the eye drop has “consistent efficacy and safety for extended use, keeping in mind that such drops will be used for years at a stretch”.
PresVu is a prescription-only medicine and, according to doctors, its impact is unlikely to last beyond four to six hours. It should not be used by people who have inflammation of the iris. Regular use of PresVu may lead to itching and redness, eyebrow pain, and muscle spasms in the eyes.

Is this a novel therapy?

Although Entod’s claims make it seem that PresVu is a new therapy, pilocarpine, the main compound used in the eye drop, has been available in India for decades now.
The United States Food and Drug Administration approved a pilocarpine eye drop for presbyopia in 2021.
In India, the government decides on the ceiling price of pilocarpine in 4% and 2% concentrations. PresVu has pilocarpine in 1.25% concentration.

Strengthening India-UAE Relations

11 Sep 2024

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The bilateral relationship between India and the UAE has flourished in recent years, marked by deepening strategic ties and multifaceted collaboration. The recent visit of Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince to India highlights the growing importance of this partnership. The UAE is now India's second-largest export destination, third-largest trading partner, and fourth-largest investor. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), effective from May 2022, has been transformative, boosting total trade by nearly 15% and increasing non-oil trade by 20% in the 2023-24 period.

Significance of the UAE for India

Economic Gateway: The UAE is a crucial entry point for India into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. As India's third-largest trading partner, bilateral trade reached USD 84.5 billion in FY 2022-23. The CEPA, removing tariffs on 80% of Indian exports to the UAE, has led to a 5.8% increase in non-oil trade early in 2023 and is expected to elevate trade to USD 100 billion by 2030. The UAE’s strategic location and infrastructure make it an ideal hub for re-exporting Indian goods to Africa and Europe.
Energy Security: The UAE is India's fourth-largest crude oil supplier, with oil imports surging by 81% in January 2024. The partnership extends to renewable energy projects, aligning with India's goal of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030, underscoring the UAE's role in India's energy transition.
Investment Catalyst: FDI from the UAE to India has increased more than threefold, reaching USD 3.35 billion from USD 1.03 billion in 2021-22. The UAE-India High-Level Joint Task Force on Investments has played a key role, with significant investments like the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority’s Rs 4,966.80 crore in Reliance Retail Ventures Limited.
Strategic Partner: The UAE has become a vital strategic ally for India in counterterrorism and maritime security. The bilateral naval exercise "Zayed Talwar" in 2021 and India's access to the UAE’s Al Dhafra air base highlight the expanding defense cooperation between the two nations.
Remittances and Soft Power: The 3.5 million-strong Indian diaspora in the UAE is a major source of remittances and cultural influence. In 2022, India received nearly USD 111 billion in global remittances, with the UAE as a significant contributor. The diaspora also strengthens cultural ties, as evidenced by the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, symbolizing the UAE’s commitment to religious tolerance.
Tech and Innovation Hub: The UAE-India partnership is increasingly focused on technology and innovation. The I2U2 group (India, Israel, UAE, USA) aims to enhance cooperation in clean energy and food security. The UAE’s USD 2 billion investment in food parks in India and the UAE-India Artificial Intelligence Bridge, launched in 2018, facilitate joint research and position both countries at the forefront of technological advancement.

Areas of Friction

Labor Rights: Persistent labor rights issues for Indian workers in the UAE, including passport confiscation and wage theft, remain a concern.
Geopolitical Tensions: India’s growing ties with Israel and the UAE’s normalization with Israel complicate the geopolitical landscape, potentially entangling India in regional rivalries, especially with Iran. The UAE’s increasing ties with China also add strategic complexity.
Energy Transition: Both nations’ commitments to net-zero targets—India by 2070 and the UAE by 2050—pose challenges to their traditional hydrocarbon-based relationship.
Trade Imbalance: Despite growing trade, India’s trade deficit with the UAE stood at USD 16.78 billion in FY 2022-23. While the CEPA aims to address this, diversifying trade beyond hydrocarbons remains a challenge.
Maritime Security: Coordinating responses to maritime security threats while respecting strategic autonomy is challenging. The UAE’s expanding naval presence and India’s growing maritime footprint require careful coordination.

Enhancing Relations

Digital Diplomacy: India could use its IT capabilities to develop digital platforms for collaboration, including a real-time trade portal and a joint innovation hub, and expand cross-border digital payments.
Green Energy Corridor: Proposing an "India-UAE Green Energy Corridor" could align with both nations’ climate goals through joint investments and research in renewable energy.
Skill Bridge Program: A "Skill Bridge Program" could upskill Indian workers for the UAE job market, focusing on emerging sectors like AI and sustainable technologies.
StartUp Synergy Scheme: Developing a "StartUp Synergy Scheme" could foster collaboration between Indian and UAE startups through joint incubation programs and market access facilitation.
Maritime Cooperation Blueprint: Creating a comprehensive "India-UAE Maritime Cooperation Blueprint" could enhance collaboration in maritime security, blue economy initiatives, and port development, including joint patrols and deep-sea ports.

Polaris Dawn Mission: First Private Spacewalk Attempt

11 Sep 2024

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Recently, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from Florida, carrying American billionaire Jared Isaacman and three other astronauts into orbit for the Polaris Dawn mission. This five-day mission marks a milestone as it aims to achieve the world’s first private spacewalk. Polaris Dawn is the inaugural flight of the Polaris Program, a collaborative effort between Isaacman and SpaceX, led by Elon Musk. The program's goal is to develop innovative technologies for future Mars missions.

What is a Spacewalk?

A spacewalk, or “extravehicular activity” (EVA), involves an astronaut conducting activities outside a spacecraft while in space. The concept of a spacewalk dates back to March 18, 1965, when Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov performed the first EVA during the Space Race. Leonov's spacewalk lasted just 10 minutes.

Modern spacewalks typically occur outside the International Space Station (ISS) and can last between five and eight hours. Astronauts conduct spacewalks for various purposes, such as performing scientific experiments, testing new equipment, or repairing satellites and spacecraft.

During a spacewalk, astronauts wear specially designed spacesuits and use safety tethers to prevent floating away into space. These tethers have one end attached to the astronaut and the other secured to the spacecraft. An alternative safety device is the SAFER (Simplified Aid for EVA Rescue), a backpack with small jet thrusters controlled by a joystick, which helps astronauts maneuver in space.

Objectives of the Polaris Dawn Mission

The Polaris Dawn mission, utilizing SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, aims to reach an altitude of approximately 1,400 km from Earth. This altitude exceeds the previous record set by NASA’s Gemini XI mission in 1966, which reached 1,372 km. At this height, the mission will be deep within the Van Allen radiation belts, which start around 1,000 km altitude and are known for their high levels of radiation. The crew will study the effects of spaceflight and radiation on human health.

Following this high-altitude phase, the Dragon capsule will descend to a lower orbit to facilitate the spacewalk scheduled for the third day of the mission, Thursday. During the spacewalk, the capsule will be depressurized, and the hatch will open, exposing the interior to the vacuum of space. Only two crew members, Isaacman and Gillis, will exit the capsule, while Poteet and Menon will remain inside to manage safety tethers and monitor the mission’s status.

The primary objective of the spacewalk is to test SpaceX’s newly developed EVA spacesuits. These suits, designed specifically for this mission, feature built-in cameras and heads-up displays to provide real-time information about the suit's condition. They also incorporate advanced thermal management systems.

After the spacewalk, Isaacman and Gillis will return to the capsule, which will then be repressurized before resuming its mission activities.

Additional Mission Activities

Throughout the mission, the crew will conduct 40 scientific experiments. These include attempting to capture X-ray images using natural space radiation instead of traditional X-ray equipment. The mission will also test SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network for laser-based communication, allowing satellite-to-satellite communication without relying on ground-based infrastructure.

The grave threat from AMR

11 Sep 2024

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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat globally, with escalating concerns in India. AMR arises when microbes evolve into drug-resistant ‘superbugs’ due to the misuse or overuse of antibiotics. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the September 26 UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on antimicrobial resistance, which highlighted the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent guidance on antibiotic pollution from manufacturing.

AMR and the emergence of "superbugs" have far-reaching implications for healthcare systems, particularly affecting patients with multiple health conditions. According to a survey by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), AMR is on the rise across India, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.

What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?

AMR occurs when pathogens gain the ability to survive and cause infections despite the presence of antimicrobial drugs. This resistance is a result of microbes evolving in response to inappropriate or excessive use of antibiotics. The proliferation of resistant strains can lead to the creation of 'superbugs' that are resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. These resistant pathogens can spread through hospitals, drinking water, and sewage systems, complicating the treatment of infections.

Why is AMR Increasing?

Individual Practices: Many people in India take antibiotics without medical consultation, especially for viral infections like the flu, where antibiotics are ineffective. This misuse contributes to the development of resistance.
Medical Practices: There is a need for improved education among doctors regarding the use of antibiotics. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which target a wide range of infections, are more likely to induce resistance. A survey by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) found that 71.9% of patients in hospitals were prescribed antibiotics, often not to treat existing infections but to prevent potential ones. This overprescription has diminished the efficacy of several antibiotics, such as Norfloxacin, and increased resistance to crucial antibiotics like carbapenems.
Diagnostic Practices: Often, doctors prescribe antibiotics based on symptoms rather than diagnostic tests, leading to empirical treatments with broad-spectrum antibiotics. It is essential for doctors to use diagnostic tests to prescribe targeted antibiotics, minimizing unnecessary resistance development.
Pharmaceutical Industry: The WHO’s recent guidelines on antibiotic pollution highlight the need for better management of wastewater and solid waste from antibiotic manufacturing facilities. Despite known high levels of antibiotic pollution, regulatory oversight remains limited.

Common Resistant Pathogens in India

In India, the most prevalent resistant pathogens include:

E. coli: Responsible for gut infections, with susceptibility to carbapenems decreasing from 81.4% in 2017 to 62.7% in 2023.
Klebsiella pneumoniae: Causes pneumonia and urinary tract infections, showing reduced susceptibility to carbapenems from 58.5% to 35.6% and 48% to 37.6% between 2017 and 2023.
Acinetobacter baumannii: Primarily associated with hospital-acquired infections, with resistance to carbapenems at 88% in 2023.

Key Actions Required

Prevention: Enhance infection prevention through better hygiene, sanitation, and vaccination.
Education: Train doctors on the judicious use of antibiotics, reserving potent antibiotics for severe cases, and ensuring appropriate diagnostic testing.
Regulation: Implement regulations to control antibiotic pollution from manufacturing processes and investigate resistance pathways.

Good Digital Public Infrastructure

08 Sep 2024

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Good digital public infrastructure (DPI) integrates technology with societal needs, ensuring that it is secure, scalable, and inclusive.

India’s achievement of over 80% financial inclusion in just six years has drawn international praise, particularly as a model for the Global South. This accomplishment underscores India’s success in achieving both digital and financial inclusion for over a billion people. Consequently, the G20 summit in New Delhi in 2023 highlighted the critical role of digital public infrastructure.

In response, India’s G20 task force has released a comprehensive report outlining a global strategy for DPI development. This positions India to support other nations in achieving digital sovereignty, financial inclusion, and self-reliance.

The evolving digital landscape is marked by a variety of stakeholders—including private enterprises, government bodies, non-profits, and think tanks—each working to advance their DPI solutions. This raises two key questions: How can we identify genuine and reliable DPIs from the plethora available? And what differentiates a “good DPI” from a “bad DPI”?

Identifying effective DPI involves assessing how well technology meets societal needs while ensuring security, scalability, and inclusivity. Authenticity and adherence to core principles are essential for evaluating DPIs.

The Citizen Stack Model

Citizen Stack, built upon the proven success of India Stack, emerges as a trusted ecosystem in digital infrastructure. India Stack, a robust digital platform, has demonstrated its effectiveness and security on a vast scale, serving over a billion citizens. This strong foundation enhances Citizen Stack’s credibility and reliability. Unlike DPI manufacturers, Citizen Stack functions as a regulatory body or auditor, certifying and authenticating DPIs to ensure they meet high standards of quality and security.

Citizen Stack’s approach is comprehensive, focusing on security, scalability, and inclusivity. The DPI platforms approved by Citizen Stack are designed to meet the diverse needs of large populations while maintaining stringent security measures to protect user data and privacy. As an auditor, Citizen Stack ensures that certified DPIs are dependable, secure, and beneficial to the public.

In an era of abundant digital solutions and promises, distinguishing genuinely reliable platforms is essential. Citizen Stack offers assurance as a gold standard for DPI solutions.

Guiding Principles of a “Good DPI”

Citizen Stack has established five core principles—referred to as sutras—that define a good DPI:

Maintain Citizen Relationships: Ensure that digital infrastructure supports a fair relationship between citizens, the market, and the state, free from undue influence.
Protect Empowerment and Privacy: Implement consent-based data sharing systems that prioritize individual empowerment and privacy.
Prevent Monopolistic Lock-In: Ensure interoperability to avoid citizens being restricted by monopolistic entities.
Combine Techno-Legal Regulation: Integrate technology with legal frameworks to govern ethical tech use, ensuring innovation while safeguarding security and societal rights.
Foster Public-Private Innovation: Encourage collaboration between public and private sectors, while avoiding corporate dominance. The focus should be on public good rather than corporate monopolies, and technology should prevent exploitation by state or corporate actors.

Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant

08 Sep 2024

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Location: Situated in Al Dhafra, Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Specifications:

Reactor Count: Four nuclear reactors.
Annual Output: 40 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity.

Objective and Significance:

Energy Diversification: The plant is a key component of the UAE’s energy diversification efforts, providing clean and efficient power.
Environmental Impact: It is projected to reduce carbon emissions by up to 22 million tons annually, equivalent to removing 4.8 million cars from the roads.

International Nuclear Energy Agreements

Purpose: Nuclear energy agreements are bilateral or multilateral treaties focused on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. They facilitate international cooperation in areas such as technology transfer, fuel supply, safety standards, and non-proliferation.

India’s Nuclear Energy Agreements:

General Overview: India has established civil nuclear cooperation agreements with various countries including France, the United States, Russia, Namibia, Canada, Argentina, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Australia, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom.

Key Agreements:

India-Russia: A longstanding partnership since the Cold War, with Russia significantly contributing to the construction of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu.
India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008): Known as the 123 Agreement, it marked India’s entry into the global nuclear market despite its non-signatory status to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). This agreement enabled India to engage in nuclear trade with the US and other Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) members.
India-France Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008): This agreement allows France to supply nuclear technology and fuel to India, including involvement in the proposed Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project in Maharashtra.
India-Canada Nuclear Cooperation Agreement (2010): This historic deal marked a return to cooperation after a hiatus following Canada's sanctions in 1974, allowing uranium supply for India’s civilian reactors.
India-Japan Nuclear Agreement (2016): This agreement facilitates the export of nuclear technology from Japan to India, reflecting Japan’s confidence in India's non-proliferation commitments.
India-Kazakhstan: Agreements with Kazakhstan for uranium supply, given Kazakhstan’s status as a major uranium producer.
India-Australia Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement: Permits Australia to export uranium for India’s civilian nuclear program. Notably, Australia typically exports uranium only to NPT signatories.
India-United Kingdom Nuclear Agreement (2015): This agreement promotes collaboration on nuclear technology and research between India and the UK.
India-UAE Civil Nuclear Energy Cooperation: Recently, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) formalized their collaboration in civil nuclear energy through an MoU.

National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing innovations (NIDHI) program

08 Sep 2024

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NIDHI is an umbrella programme conceived and developed by the Technology Translation and Innovation (TTI) Division/ National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board, of Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, for nurturing ideas and innovations (knowledge-based and technology-driven) into successful startups.
The NIDHI programme works in line with the current national priorities and goals and its focus would be to build an innovation driven entrepreneurial ecosystem with an objective of national development through wealth and job creation.
NIDHI aims to nurture Startups through scouting, supporting and scaling of innovations by providing them with a series of programme components tailored towards the critical initial phases of the Startup journey.
The key stakeholders of NIDHI include Science & Technology based entrepreneurs, Startup Incubators, academic and R&D institutions, Startup mentors, financial institutions, angel investors, venture capitalists, relevant government & industry bodies and associations.
NIDHI has been developed to suit the national aspirations and on the basis of DST’s three-decade long experience in propelling Startup Incubation centres and Science & Technology based entrepreneurs.
The key components of NIDHI are :-
- NIDHI PRAYAS: Promotion and Acceleration of Young and Aspiring technology entrepreneurs – Support from Idea to Prototype
- NIDHI – EIR: Entrepreneur In Residence – Support system to reduce risk for entrepreneurs.
- NIDHI – TBI : Technology Business Incubator (NIDHI-TBI) – Converting Innovations to start-ups.
- NIDHI – iTBI : Inclusive- Technology Business Incubator – A new variant of the NIDHI-TBI launched in 2022-’23.
- NIDHI – Accelerator : Startup Acceleration Programme – Fast tracking a start-up through focused intervention.
- NIDHI – SSS : Seed Support System – Providing early stage investment
- NIDHI – COE : Centres of Excellence – Globally competitive facilities to help startups go global.
While NSTEDB is the funding agency, the NIDHI programmes are implemented through Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) available around the country.
Note: All the NIDHI-Startup funds and offerings are disbursed to eligible startups only through eligible NSTEDB associated incubators across India

Agni-4 ballistic missile successfully test-fired in Odisha

09 Sep 2024

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India successfully test-fired the Agni-4 ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The test, conducted by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) under India's Nuclear Command Authority (NCA), demonstrated the missile's operational and technical capabilities.

Key Details:

Missile Specifications:
- Range: The Agni-4 missile has a maximum range of 4,000 kilometers.
- Payload: It can carry a payload of up to 1,000 kilograms.
- Length: The missile is approximately 20 meters long.
- Launch Platform: It is designed for deployment on a road-mobile launcher, enhancing its flexibility and mobility.
Historical Context:
- Previous Test (2012): In its earlier test in 2012, Agni-4 successfully covered over 3,000 kilometers within 20 minutes. This was noted as the longest-range mission achieved by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at that time.
- Name Change: The Agni-4 was previously known as Agni-2 Prime.
Development and Capabilities:
- Development: The Agni missiles, including the Agni-4, are developed by the DRDO, showcasing India's advancements in missile technology and strategic capabilities.
- Comparison with Agni-5: The Agni-4 is part of a series of Agni missiles that have progressively enhanced India's missile range and strike capabilities. The Agni-5 represents an even more advanced development in this series.

The successful test of Agni-4 underscores India's commitment to strengthening its strategic defense capabilities and maintaining its deterrence posture.

Swachh Bharat Mission averted 60,000-70,000 infant deaths annually: Study

09 Sep 2024

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Launched on October 2, 2014, the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has been pivotal in advancing sanitation infrastructure in India.
By 2020, the mission had facilitated the construction of over 11 crore household toilets under its Grameen component and over 63 lakh individual and 6.36 lakh community public toilets under its Urban component. This extensive sanitation drive aimed at eradicating open defecation and improving public health.

Impact on Infant Mortality

A recent study published in Nature has highlighted the significant health benefits resulting from SBM. According to the report, titled ‘Toilet Construction under the Swachh Bharat Mission and Infant Mortality in India,’ the initiative may have averted approximately 60,000 to 70,000 infant deaths annually between 2014 and 2020. The study, analyzed data from 35 states and 640 districts from 2011 to 2020, focusing on the infant mortality rate (IMR) and under-five mortality rate (U5MR).

Key Findings

Decrease in Infant Mortality:
- The study established an inverse relationship between toilet access and infant mortality. It noted that districts with increased toilet coverage saw a marked decline in infant deaths.
- In 2003, the average toilet coverage in districts was below 40%, rising to over 60% by 2020. Correspondingly, infant mortality rates fell from an average of 48.9 per 1,000 live births in 2003 to 23.5 per 1,000 live births in 2020.
Significant Decline:
- The research observed a substantial decline in infant mortality rates from 40 per 1,000 live births in 2012 to below 30 per 1,000 live births by 2019.
- The mortality rate for children under five also dropped from about 44 per 1,000 live births in 2012 to below 30 by 2019.
Regional Variations:
- Despite the overall improvement, certain regions like parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh continued to report higher infant mortality rates, ranging between 45-60 per 1,000 live births in 2020.

Conclusion

The SBM has demonstrably improved sanitation in India, with a notable reduction in infant mortality rates attributed to the increased availability of household toilets. While the mission has achieved significant progress, ongoing efforts and investments in broader public health infrastructure are essential to address persistent regional disparities and sustain health gains.

Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Initiative

09 Sep 2024

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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi recently launched the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative via video conferencing from Surat, Gujarat.

Key Points:

Campaign and Objectives:
- Objective: The initiative seeks to bolster water conservation through extensive public and governmental collaboration.
- Scope: About 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures will be constructed across Gujarat.
- Approach: Emphasizes a Whole-of-Society and Whole-of-Government approach to water management.
Significance:
- Cultural Significance: PM Modi highlighted that water conservation is deeply embedded in Indian culture, with water revered as a divine entity and rivers considered Goddesses.
- Policy and Virtue: He stated that water conservation transcends policy and is both an effort and a virtue, reflecting social commitment and cultural consciousness.
- Future Challenges: The Prime Minister acknowledged the exacerbating impact of water scarcity due to climate change, urging a shift to the ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recharge, and Recycle’ mantra for sustainable water management.
Impact of Drought and Water Scarcity:
- Recent Challenges: The drought affecting the Amazon region and other parts of India has highlighted the urgent need for effective water conservation strategies.
- Water Table Decline: Significant declines in river levels, such as the Rio Negro reaching its lowest minimum (12.7 meters) on record, and the death of endangered species due to low water levels underscore the crisis.
Government Initiatives:
- Jal Jeevan Mission: Aims to provide piped water to every home, with significant progress noted from 3 crore households to over 15 crore.
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Focuses on renovation and construction of water sources with widespread public participation.
- Amrit Sarovar: Over 60,000 Amrit Sarovars have been constructed under this campaign, which began during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
Innovative Solutions and Technological Integration:
- Drip Irrigation: Promotion of water-efficient farming techniques like drip irrigation to ensure sustainable agriculture.
- Support for Farmers: Encouragement for cultivating less water-intensive crops such as pulses and millets.
Role of Industries:
- CSR Contributions: Industries have played a significant role in water conservation through initiatives like Net Zero Liquid Discharge Standards and the completion of 10,000 borewell recharge structures in Gujarat.
- Future Plans: The ‘Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan’ aims to create an additional 24,000 recharge structures.
Conclusion and Vision:
- Global Leadership: PM Modi expressed his belief that India can become a global leader in water conservation.
- Public Movement: Stressed the importance of continuing public participation in water conservation to make India a model for global sustainability.

Background: The ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative builds on the success of the earlier Jal Sanchay program by involving citizens, local bodies, and industries in water conservation efforts. The initiative aligns with the vision of water security and aims to mobilize collective action for long-term sustainability.

Key Data:

Construction of 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures.
Significant increase in tap water connections from 3 crore to over 15 crore households.
Creation of more than 60,000 Amrit Sarovars across the country.
Completion of 10,000 borewell recharge structures in Gujarat.

Climate change drives Amazon rainforest's record drought, study finds

09 Sep 2024

Uncommon Cyclones in the Arabian Sea

09 Sep 2024

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Cyclones are intense weather systems with low atmospheric pressure and rotating winds, forming over warm tropical waters. These storms cause severe weather, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges. Cyclones are categorized based on wind speeds, from tropical depressions to severe cyclonic storms. Warm ocean surfaces and high humidity fuel these storms, with atmospheric conditions like wind shear and moisture influencing their strength and formation.

The North Indian Ocean plays a key role in global weather systems, particularly the summer monsoon. Warm waters from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are crucial for moisture generation during monsoon seasons. However, despite the warm ocean surfaces that typically promote cyclones, this region has fewer cyclones compared to other tropical oceans. A mix of factors—both promoting and suppressing cyclone formation—makes the North Indian Ocean a unique and less cyclone-prone area.

The Indian Ocean stands out due to its monsoonal circulation, marked by seasonal wind reversals north of the equator. It also has "oceanic tunnels" connecting it to the Pacific and Southern Oceans, which influence its weather. The Pacific tunnel introduces warm water into the upper layers, while the Southern Ocean brings cooler waters into deeper levels. These oceanographic features contribute to distinct weather patterns, including influencing the formation and behavior of cyclones.

As the pre-monsoon season begins and the Sun moves into the northern hemisphere, the Arabian Sea rapidly warms. The Bay of Bengal, typically warmer, heats further, driving atmospheric convection and rainfall. These warming patterns make the Bay of Bengal more prone to cyclones, while the Arabian Sea, with its cooler waters and stronger wind shear, experiences less cyclone activity. These conditions contribute to significant differences in cyclone formation between the two seas.

Impact of Climate Change on Cyclones in the Indian Ocean

Climate change is amplifying the Indian Ocean’s warming, bringing in more heat from the Pacific Ocean while the Southern Ocean pushes warmer waters into deeper layers. These changes, combined with shifts in winds and atmospheric humidity, are causing the Indian Ocean to warm at a rapid pace. This warming is affecting cyclone formation, increasing the frequency and intensity of storms. The Indian Ocean acts as a "clearinghouse" for ocean warming, impacting global weather patterns and intensifying cyclone activity.

Monsoon and Cyclone Seasons in the North Indian Ocean

The monsoon heavily influences cyclone activity in the region. During the monsoon, strong winds cool the Arabian Sea, reducing the likelihood of cyclone formation. In contrast, the Bay of Bengal sees more low-pressure systems, although many do not become cyclones due to wind shear that weakens their energy.
The North Indian Ocean experiences two distinct cyclone seasons—pre-monsoon and post-monsoon—unlike other regions that typically have just one. Cooler temperatures and stronger wind shear keep cyclone numbers low in the Arabian Sea, compared to the Bay of Bengal.
Cyclone Asna, formed in August 2023, was a rare cyclone for this time of year. It developed from a land-based depression that moved over the Arabian Sea, marking the first August cyclone in the region since 1981. This rare occurrence highlights how rapidly warming oceans, influenced by climate change and El Niño, can drive unexpected cyclone formations.

India, UAE ink pact for civil nuclear cooperation

10 Sep 2024

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Recently, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for civil nuclear cooperation.
The agreement, established between the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC)-led Barakah Nuclear Power Plant Operations and Maintenance, was formalized during the visit of Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to New Delhi.

Background:

This MoU marks the first formal agreement of its kind between NPCIL and ENEC. The collaboration aligns with the broader commitment made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UAE in August 2015, which focused on peaceful nuclear energy applications, including safety, health, agriculture, and science and technology.

Trilateral Cooperation:

The agreement follows a series of discussions on nuclear cooperation between India and the UAE. On September 19, 2022, Foreign Ministers from France, India, and the UAE met in New York during the UN General Assembly and initiated a trilateral cooperation framework. This was further solidified by a phone call on February 4, 2023. The trilateral format aims to promote joint projects in energy, emphasizing solar and nuclear energy.

Additional Agreements:

During the Crown Prince’s visit, several other agreements were also signed:

LNG Supply MoU: An agreement was reached between Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited for long-term LNG supply.
Production Concession Agreement: Urja Bharat and ADNOC signed an agreement for Abu Dhabi Onshore Block 1.
Food Parks Development: The Government of Gujarat and Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company PJSC (ADQ) signed an MoU for developing food parks in India. This initiative aligns with the I2U2 grouping (including Israel and the United States), which envisions food parks in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

Conclusion:

The visit of the Crown Prince and the signing of these agreements reflect the strengthening ties between India and the UAE. This dynamic development coincides with the first India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ meeting held in Riyadh on September 8-9. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted India's growing energy demands and its significant role in future global energy markets during his remarks at the meeting.

Govt dissolves Standing Committee on Statistics

10 Sep 2024

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The recent dissolution of the 14-member Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) by the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has sparked considerable controversy and debate. The committee, which was chaired by Pronab Sen, a renowned economist and former chief statistician of India, was reportedly disbanded after its members raised concerns about the delay in conducting the decennial census.

Key Points:

Dissolution of the Committee:
- The SCoS, formed in July 2023, was responsible for advising the Union government on survey methodology and statistical frameworks. According to the experts the decision to dissolve the SCoS was due to an overlap in functions with the newly formed Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys.
Concerns and Criticism:
- Dr. Pronab Sen and other committee members expressed concerns over the delay in conducting the census, which was due in 2021 but has yet to be carried out. The last census, conducted in 2011, is now outdated, impacting the accuracy of various statistical surveys.
- Members of the SCoS reportedly questioned the delay in census operations during their meetings, leading to speculation that their concerns may have contributed to the committee's dissolution.
Formation of the New Steering Committee:
- The new Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys, chaired by Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, was established following a recommendation by the National Statistical Commission (NSC). The roles of this new committee are said to overlap with those of the SCoS, which the Ministry cited as a reason for disbanding the latter.

Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS)

The Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) was established by renaming and expanding the scope of the Standing Committee on Economic Statistics (SCES), which was originally formed in December 2019.
The SCES, with 28 members, was tasked with reviewing economic indicators related to the industrial sector, services sector, and labor force statistics, including datasets like the Periodic Labour Force Survey, the Annual Survey of Industries, and the Economic Census.

Current Structure and Members: The newly formed SCoS comprises 14 members, including:

Four Non-Official Members
Nine Official Members
One Member Secretary

The committee's total membership can be extended up to 16 based on requirements.

Functions:

1. Review and Address Issues:

o The SCoS reviews the existing frameworks and addresses issues related to all surveys as presented by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). This includes evaluating survey results and methodologies.

2. Advisory Role:

o It advises on various aspects of survey methodology, including sampling frames, sampling designs, and survey instruments. The committee is also responsible for finalizing the tabulation plans and results of surveys.

3. Data Collection and Production:

o The SCoS oversees the design and implementation of all data collection and production efforts. It ensures that data collected by MoSPI adheres to high standards of statistical quality and accuracy.

Typhoon Yagi

10 Sep 2024

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A devastating series of events unfolded in Vietnam, as a bridge collapsed and a bus was swept away by severe flooding, raising the death toll to at least 65. The fatalities are attributed to Typhoon Yagi and the subsequent heavy rains, which have wreaked havoc across the Southeast Asian country.

In Depth:

The typhoon made landfall in Vietnam’s northern coastal provinces of Quang Ninh and Haiphong with wind speeds of up to 149 kilometers per hour (92 miles per hour) on Saturday afternoon.
It raged for roughly 15 hours before gradually weakening into a tropical depression early Sunday morning.
Vietnam’s meteorological department predicted heavy rain in northern and central provinces and warned of floods in low-lying areas, flash floods in streams and landslides on steep slopes.

What is a cyclone?

The term 'Cyclone' is derived from the Greek word 'Cyclos' which means 'Coiling of the Snake'.
Cyclones are created by atmospheric disturbances around a low-pressure area and are usually accompanied by violent storms and severe weather conditions. Basically, a tropical cyclone is a deep low-pressure area.

Sakthan Thampuran

10 Sep 2024

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Minister of State for Tourism and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi pledged to replace a statue of Sakthan Thampuran that was knocked over by a state transport bus in June with a new bronze statue if the Kerala government did not do so within 14 days.

Who was Sakthan Thampuran?

Raja Rama Varma Kunjipillai or Rama Varma IX, better known today as Sakthan Thampuran, ruled over the Cochin kingdom from 1790 to 1805.
He was born in 1751 to Ambika Thampuran and Chendose Aniyan Namboodiri of the Cochin royal family, but was raised by an aunt who called him Sakthan, meaning ‘powerful’.
The word thampuran is believed to be an appropriation of the Sanskrit samrat, meaning emperor.
The Cochin kingdom, which was part of the Late Chera Empire, covered the regions between Ponnani in Malappuram and Thottappally in Alappuzha in today’s Kerala.

Strategist and ruler

Sakthan Thampuran became heir apparent in 1769 as an 18-year-old. He advised his king to maintain friendly relations with both the Dutch and the English, who were vying for a larger share of trade in the region.
Sakthan is said to have orchestrated Mysore’s attempt to invade the Travancore kingdom, which had established relations with the English East India Company. This would result in the Powney treaty which freed the Cochin kingdom from its allegiance to Mysore, and helped formalise its relations with the British.
Sakthan Thampuran put an end to the institution of the Yogiatirippads — the erstwhile spiritual heads of the Vadakkumnathan and Perumanam temples, who had conspired against the previous Cochin king in his wars against the Calicut Zamorin — and entrusted temple management to the government.
He built a fearsome reputation for himself, and is said to have largely freed his kingdom of crime.

Thrissur and Pooram

Sakthan Thampuran transferred the seat of the Cochin kingdom from Thrippunithura to modern-day Thrissur.
The Thekkinkadu Maidanam and the surrounding Swaraj Round became the basis for the city’s elaborate road system and infrastructure.
The king encouraged merchants of all religions and British officials to relocate to the city. He also overhauled and firmed up the kingdom’s finances, personally overseeing revenue management.
Sakthan Thampuran started the Thrissur Pooram in 1797 as an alternative to the Arattupuzha Pooram, then the largest temple festival in the state.
The Thrissur Pooram was conceived as an opportunity for the major temples in Thrissur to come to pay their respects to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity at the Vadakkumnathan Temple.

In a first, critically endangered elongated tortoise spotted in Aravallis

10 Sep 2024

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A critically endangered species, the elongated tortoise (Indotestudo elongata), was spotted in Haryana’s Damdama area during a research survey in the Aravallis.

Key Features:

The tortoise is medium-sized with a yellowish brown or olive shell and distinct black blotches at the centre of each scute.
The tortoise has on its nostril a pink ring, which appears in the breeding season.
Mature individuals of both sexes develop a distinct pinkish colouration surrounding the nostrils and eyes during the season.
Habitat:
- The tortoise, found in the Sal deciduous and hilly evergreen forests, is distributed across Southeast Asia from northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh in the west, eastward through Myanmar, Thailand, and all of Indochina, north to Guangxi Province of China and south to Peninsular Malaysia.
- A disjunct tortoise population exists in the Chota Nagpur plateau in eastern India. It also inhabits lowlands and foothills of up to 1,000 m above sea level.
- There have not been enough surveys to ascertain its presence in Aravallis, but the tortoise is found in the foothills of the Himalayas.
- It inhabits wetter areas and discovering it here is an aberration than a norm, adding it cannot be ruled out that the tortoise was brought by trade.

Conservation Status:

International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Status: Critically Endangered, under criteria A2cd.

Threats:

Currently, I. elongata is heavily exploited for food and traditional medicine throughout its range.
Local people often opportunistically capture tortoises while farming or extracting other forest resources. However, deliberate hunting also occurs and dogs continue to be widely used for finding tortoises.

India-Singapore Relations

04 Sep 2024

World Bank hikes India's economic projection to 7% for FY 2024-25

04 Sep 2024

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The World Bank has forecast a growth of 7% for the Indian economy for the current fiscal year, upping its earlier estimate of 6.6%.
In its report, India Development Update: India’s Trade Opportunities in a Changing Global Context, the World Bank said India’s growth continued to be strong despite a challenging global environment.
The World Bank growth projection is in line with those of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Asian Development Bank (ADB).
- Both the institutions have raised their forecast to 7% for the financial year ending March 2025.
The India Development Update [IDU] observes that India remained the fastest-growing major economy and grew at a rapid clip of 8.2% in FY 23/24.
- Growth was boosted by public infrastructure investment and an upswing in household investments in real estate.
- On the supply side, it was supported by a buoyant manufacturing sector, which grew by 9.9%, and resilient services activity, which compensated for underperformance in agriculture.
Reflecting these trends, urban unemployment has improved gradually since the pandemic, especially for female workers. While female urban unemployment fell to 8.5 % in early FY24/25, the urban youth unemployment remained elevated at 17%.
India’s robust growth prospects, along with declining inflation rate will help to reduce extreme poverty
India can boost its growth further by harnessing its global trade potential. In addition to IT, business services and pharma where it excels, India can diversify its export basket with increased exports in textiles, apparel, and footwear sectors, as well as electronics and green technology products.
A recovery in agriculture will partially offset a marginal moderation in industry and all services will remain robust. The rural private consumption will recover, thanks to the expected recovery in agriculture.
The report also highlights the critical role of trade for boosting growth. The global trade landscape has witnessed increased protectionism in recent years. The post pandemic reconfiguration of global value chains, triggered by the pandemic, has created opportunities for India.
The IDU recommends a three-pronged approach towards achieving the $1 trillion merchandise export target by reducing trade costs further, lowering trade barriers, and deepening trade integration.

23rd Law Commission of India

06 Sep 2024

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Constitution and Tenure:

Notification and Term:
- The 23rd Law Commission of India was notified by the Union government on September 2, with effect from September 1.
- The commission will have a three-year term, concluding on August 31, 2027.
- The tenure of the previous Law Commission, chaired by former Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, ended on August 31.

Role and Importance of the Law Commission:

Purpose:
- The Law Commission is a non-statutory body formed by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice through a gazette notification.
- Its role includes reviewing the functioning of laws, recommending the repeal of obsolete legislation, and providing recommendations on issues referred by the government.
Composition:
- Typically chaired by a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge.
- Includes legal scholars and can also have serving judges.
Impact:
- Over the years, 22 Law Commissions have submitted 289 reports.
- Their recommendations have influenced significant legislation, such as the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC), and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act).

Constitution of the 23rd Law Commission:

Structure:
- The commission will consist of:
  - A full-time chairperson.
  - Four full-time members, including a member-secretary.
  - Up to five part-time members.
  - Ex officio members including the secretaries of the Legal Affairs and Legislative departments.
Appointment and Remuneration:
- Chairperson and full-time members can be serving Supreme Court or High Court judges or other experts chosen by the government.
- The chairperson will receive a monthly salary of ?2.50 lakh, while members will receive ?2.25 lakh.
- The member-secretary must be an officer of the Indian Legal Service of the rank of Secretary.
- Serving judges appointed to the commission will serve until retirement or the end of the commission’s term, without additional remuneration.

Terms of Reference:

Primary Tasks:
- Identify and recommend the repeal of obsolete or irrelevant laws.
- Create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for periodic review and simplification of existing laws.
- Identify laws that are misaligned with current economic needs and suggest amendments.
Directive Principles and Reforms:
- Examine laws in light of Directive Principles of State Policy and suggest improvements and new legislation to achieve constitutional objectives.
- Address laws affecting the poor, conduct post-enactment audits of socio-economic legislation, and review judicial administration for responsiveness.

Previous Commission's Contributions:

Reports and Recommendations:
- The 22nd Law Commission produced 11 reports, including:
  - A report in April 2023 recommending retention of Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (sedition law), with suggested amendments for clarity.
  - A report recommending a new law to protect trade secrets.
  - A report on simultaneous elections, though it was not submitted to the government before the commission’s chairperson assumed office as a Lokpal member.

Upcoming Focus:

The 23rd Law Commission is expected to continue examining key issues, including the implementation of a uniform civil code, which was also considered by the 22nd Commission but whose recommendations remain unpublished.

Addressing Vertical Fiscal Imbalance: The Role of the 16th Finance Commission

06 Sep 2024

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In India, the financial relationship between the Union government and the States is characterized by vertical fiscal imbalance (VFI), where the Union government holds most of the revenue while States shoulder significant expenditure responsibilities. The 16th Finance Commission has a pivotal role in addressing this imbalance. Here's how it should approach the issue:

Understanding Vertical Fiscal Imbalance (VFI)

Current Situation:
- States incur 61% of revenue expenditure but collect only 38% of revenue receipts.
- States rely heavily on transfers from the Union government, leading to a pronounced VFI.
VFI Definition:
- VFI arises when the expenditure responsibilities of States exceed their revenue-raising capabilities, necessitating transfers from the Union.

Reasons to Address VFI

Constitutional Allocation:
- Revenue duties and expenditure responsibilities are constitutionally divided.
- Union government collects Personal Income Tax, Corporation Tax, and part of indirect taxes for efficiency.
- States are better positioned to deliver publicly provided goods and services effectively.
Historical Context:
- The 15th Finance Commission highlighted that India has experienced a rising VFI, exacerbated by crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Finance Commission's Role:
- The Commission addresses VFI by determining how to allocate taxes collected by the Union to the States and how to distribute these among States.

Finance Commission Recommendations

Tax Devolution:
- The Commission recommends devolving a portion of Union taxes to States.
- The 14th and 15th Finance Commissions recommended devolving 42% and 41% of net proceeds, respectively.
- To eliminate VFI, devolution should be around 48.94%.
Grants and Transfers:
- The Commission also suggests grants under Article 275 for specific purposes.
- Transfers under Article 282, such as centrally sponsored and central sector schemes, are tied and include conditionalities, which are not untied resources.

Calculation and Recommendations for VFI

Estimating VFI:
- Ratio = (Own Revenue Receipts + Tax Devolution) / Own Revenue Expenditure.
- A ratio less than 1 indicates insufficient revenue to meet expenditure, showing the VFI deficit.
Empirical Findings:
- To address VFI, the share of net proceeds devolved to States should be around 49%.
- This increase would ensure that States have more untied resources, enhancing their ability to meet local needs and priorities.

Implications of Increased Tax Devolution

Enhanced State Capacity:
- A higher share of tax devolution would empower States with more resources for untied expenditures.
- It would improve the alignment of State expenditures with local needs and priorities.
Improved Efficiency:
- Enhanced devolution would lead to better efficiency in expenditure by allowing States to respond more effectively to jurisdictional requirements.
Strengthened Fiscal Federalism:
- Addressing VFI through increased tax devolution contributes to a more balanced and cooperative fiscal federalism.

Conclusion: The 16th Finance Commission should focus on increasing the share of tax devolution to around 50% to address the vertical fiscal imbalance. This adjustment will provide States with the necessary resources to manage their expenditure responsibilities more effectively and ensure a more equitable distribution of fiscal resources in India’s federal structure.

Can Kerala access funds from the Loss and Damage Fund?

06 Sep 2024

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In light of the recent landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district, the question arises whether subnational entities like Kerala can access the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)’s Loss and Damage Fund (LDF). While the need for compensation is clear, the process of accessing climate funds is complex.

What is the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF)?

Established at COP27 in Egypt, the LDF aims to support regions experiencing economic and non-economic losses from climate change.
- Includes extreme weather events and slow-onset processes like rising sea levels.
Managed by a Governing Board, with the World Bank as the interim trustee.
The Board is developing mechanisms for resource access, such as direct access, small grants, and rapid disbursement options.
- Concerns exist about the speed and accessibility of climate funds, which may affect their effectiveness in immediate disaster recovery.

What has been India’s Role?

India faced over $56 billion in weather-related damages from 2019 to 2023. Despite this, its National Climate Action Policy prioritizes mitigation over adaptation, leading to limited engagement in Loss and Damage dialogues at COP meetings.
- High vulnerability in certain regions could benefit from active participation in these dialogues.
India needs a clear legal and policy framework for climate finance, focusing on locally led adaptation, which is vital for vulnerable communities.
The Union Budget 2024’s introduction of a climate finance taxonomy raises hopes for increased international climate finance.
- Without clear guidelines for accessing loss and damage funds, frontline communities remain at risk.
India should advocate for decentralized fund disbursement methods from the LDF, contrasting with the centralized systems used for other climate funds.

What have been State Interventions?

State governments, such as Kerala, often bear the financial burden of disaster recovery.
- Example: The Rebuild Kerala Development Programme post-August 2018 floods, funded by World Bank and KfW Development Bank loans.
- Focused on infrastructure reconstruction, including roads and bridges.
Lack of a standardized method for comprehensive disaster damage assessments, especially for slow-onset events, may mean significant loss and damage needs go unassessed.
- This could hinder India’s ability to access the LDF.
The Wayanad situation highlights broader challenges in accessing and managing climate finance for loss and damage.
- A clearer domestic policy framework focusing on locally led adaptation and defined guidelines for accessing loss and damage funds is needed for better climate change protection.

Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack

08 Sep 2024

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The Government of India has recently introduced several significant initiatives to advance blockchain technology and its applications.

1. Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack

Purpose: The Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack is designed to offer Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS) with a geographically distributed infrastructure. This stack supports various permissioned blockchain-based applications, enhancing the security and efficiency of digital services.

2. NBFLite

Description: NBFLite is a lightweight blockchain platform intended as a sandbox for startups and academic institutions. It allows for rapid prototyping, research, and capacity building, fostering innovation in blockchain applications.

3. Praamaanik

Purpose: Praamaanik is a blockchain-enabled solution for verifying the origin of mobile apps. This ensures that users can trust the source of their applications, contributing to enhanced digital security.

4. National Blockchain Portal

Function: The National Blockchain Portal serves as a central hub for accessing blockchain technologies and services developed under the National Blockchain Framework (NBF).

5. National Blockchain Framework (NBF)

Overview: The NBF is designed to promote secure, transparent, and trusted digital service delivery. It includes:
- Distributed Infrastructure: Hosted across NIC Data Centers in Bhubaneswar, Pune, and Hyderabad.
- Core Framework Functionality: Provides the backbone for various blockchain applications.
- Smart Contracts & API Gateway: Facilitates interactions with blockchain-based systems.
- Security, Privacy & Interoperability: Ensures robust security and privacy while supporting integration with other systems.
- Applications Development: Supports the creation and deployment of blockchain applications.
Goals: The NBF aims to address challenges such as the need for skilled manpower, vendor lock-in, and issues related to security, interoperability, and performance.

6. Strategic Objectives

Digital Trust and Service Delivery: The framework is part of the government's effort to create trusted digital platforms and improve service delivery to citizens.
Global Leadership: The initiative seeks to position India as a global leader in blockchain technology, driving economic growth, social development, and digital empowerment.
Governance Transformation: Blockchain technology is envisioned to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public services.

7. Collaborative Efforts

Development: The technologies have been developed through the collaborative efforts of organizations including C-DAC, NIC, IDRBT Hyderabad, IIT Hyderabad, IIIT Hyderabad, and SETS Chennai, with support from MeitY.
Research and Patents: The NBF project has already resulted in several patents and research publications, reflecting its innovative and research-driven approach.

8. Future Directions

Scaling Applications: There is an emphasis on scaling blockchain applications across various states and departments.
Exploring New Innovations: Efforts will continue to onboard new applications and innovative components on the NBF stack.

Health Ministry approves new treatment regimen for multidrug-resistant TB

08 Sep 2024

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The recent approval of the BPaLM regimen by India's Union Health Ministry marks a significant advancement in the fight against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). This new treatment combines four drugs—Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid, and Moxifloxacin—and offers several benefits over traditional treatments.

Key Points:

Enhanced Effectiveness: The BPaLM regimen has demonstrated a higher efficacy in treating MDR-TB compared to previous methods.
Shorter Treatment Duration: Unlike traditional treatments, which can take up to 20 months and often come with severe side effects, the BPaLM regimen shortens the treatment period to just six months.
Improved Safety: The new regimen is noted for its safety profile, potentially reducing the risk of adverse effects compared to older treatments.
Cost Savings: By shortening the treatment duration and improving outcomes, the BPaLM regimen is expected to lower overall treatment costs.
Integration into National TB Elimination Programme: This regimen will be incorporated into India’s National TB Elimination Programme, aligning with the country’s ambitious goal to eliminate TB by 2025, which is five years ahead of the global target.
Infrastructure and Testing Facilities: India boasts a comprehensive TB laboratory network, including 7,767 rapid molecular testing facilities and 87 culture and drug susceptibility testing laboratories, which will support the implementation of the new regimen.

This development represents a significant step forward in TB care and aligns with broader global efforts to combat drug-resistant TB more effectively.

Agnibaan - SOrTeD: World’s First 3D-printed Rocket Engine

31 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos on Thursday successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine, after calling off its launch at least four times previously.

What is Agnibaan - SOrTeD?

Agnibaan SOrTeD is a sub-orbital technological demonstrator of the Agnibaan launch vehicle, manufactured by Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos.
- A sub-orbital launch reaches outer space but does not complete an orbit around Earth, intersecting the Earth's atmosphere or surface without becoming an artificial satellite or reaching escape velocity.
This marks Agnikul’s fifth launch attempt since March 22. With this launch, AgniKul became the second private company to achieve a rocket launch in India, following Skyroot's successful flight in 2022.

Features:

It is a customizable, two-stage launch vehicle capable of carrying up to 300 kg into an orbit approximately 700 km above Earth.
Semi-Cryogenic Engine: Utilizes a combination of liquid and gaseous propellants, operating at temperatures higher than cryogenic engines but lower than traditional liquid rocket engines.
- Uses refined kerosene, which is lighter and can be stored at normal temperatures, allowing more propellant to be carried. When combined with liquid oxygen, kerosene provides higher thrust.
The test flight aims to demonstrate in-house, homegrown technologies, gather crucial flight data, and ensure the optimal functioning of systems for AgniKul's orbital launch vehicle, Agnibaan.
The rocket is designed for accessing both low and high-inclination orbits and is completely mobile, enabling launches from more than 10 ports.

Agnibaan Acheivments:

World’s First 3D-Printed Engine: Agnibaan is the first rocket to use a 3D-printed engine.
First Semi-Cryogenic Engine-Powered Rocket Launch: Pioneering the use of semi-cryogenic engines in rocket launches.
India’s First Private Launchpad Rocket Launch: The first Indian rocket launch conducted from a private launchpad.
Unique Engine Configuration: Powered by the only engine in India that uses both gas and liquid fuel (liquid oxygen/kerosene).

Significance:

Typically, rocket engine parts are manufactured separately and assembled later.
The 3D-printed manufacturing process is expected to lower launch costs and reduce vehicle assembly time, offering affordable launch services for small satellites.

About 3D Printing:

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, creates three-dimensional objects from digital models by adding material layer by layer.
This process, which uses materials like plastic, composites, or bio-materials, allows for efficient and customized production, contrasting with traditional subtractive manufacturing methods.

Notable Examples of 3D Printing:

Industry Applications: 3D printing is widely used in industries such as healthcare, automotive, and aerospace.
Aerospace: In May, Relativity Space launched a test rocket made entirely from 3D-printed parts, standing 100 feet tall and 7.5 feet wide.
- However, the rocket experienced a failure shortly after takeoff.
Healthcare: During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, 3D printers were utilized to produce essential medical equipment, including swabs, face shields, masks, and parts for ventilators.

Urban Heat Island Effect

31 May 2024

Recombinant Proteins

31 May 2024

Global Food Policy Report 2024

31 May 2024

Cryonics

31 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

An Australian cryonics company, Southern Cryonics, sparked a widespread debate after successfully freezing their first client, known as ‘Patient One’.

What is Cryonics?

Cryonics is the practice of preserving human bodies in extremely cold or cryogenic temperatures (−196°C) with the hope of reviving them sometime in the future.
Cryonics procedures can begin only after the "patients" are clinically and legally dead.
When a dead body is cryonically preserved, it is packed with ice and injected with anticoagulants, a treatment to stop blood from clotting.
The body is then transported to one of three cryonic centres in the world.
There, in a process known as vitrification, the body is drained of its blood, which is then replaced with chemicals and anti-freeze.
The body is placed in a sleeping bag and housed in a tank of liquid nitrogen at -196 degrees Celsius.
The premise of cryonics is based on a possibility rather than a probability of success.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that it is possible to revive a person back to a living state.
Cryobiologists hope that with future technology, including nanotechnology, they will be able to repair cells and tissues that are damaged during the freezing process.

Is cryonics ethical?

There are some arguments in favour of cryonics, the simplest of which is one of free will and choice.
- As long as people are informed of the very small chance of success of future re-animation, and they are not being coerced, then their choice is an expression of their autonomy about how they wish to direct the disposal of their bodies and resources after death.
- In this light, choosing cryonics can be seen as no different to choosing cremation or burial, albeit a much more expensive option.
However, this case raises several other ethical and problematic concerns.
- There is the issue of potentially exploiting vulnerable people.
- Some might argue vulnerable people are trading hype for hope.
The cryonic process might work, but imperfectly. During the process of re-animation, there may be some brain damage.
That would mean rather than waking up, one might be unconscious or trapped in some disordered, uncontrollable painful stream of consciousness.

It might be heaven but it might also be hell. The key issue is that people must be made aware of the risks as well as the benefits, and are not exploited.

AMRUT scheme

30 May 2024

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Around 36% of India’s population is living in cities and by 2047 it will be more than 50%. The World Bank estimates that around $840 billion is required to fund the bare minimum urban infrastructure over the next 15 years.

About Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT):

AMRUT was launched to enhance the quality of life by providing basic civic amenities, especially benefiting the poor and disadvantaged.
The mission focuses on infrastructure development to deliver better services to citizens.
AMRUT covers 500 cities, including all cities and towns with a population of over one lakh that have notified Municipalities.

About AMRUT 2.0:

AMRUT 2.0 will promote circular economy of water through development of City Water Balance Plan (CWBP) for each city focusing on recycle/reuse of treated sewage, rejuvenation of water bodies and water conservation.
It will help cities to identify scope for projects focusing on universal coverage of functional water tap connections, water source conservation, rejuvenation of water bodies and wells, recycle/reuse of treated used water, and rainwater harvesting.
Based on the projects identified in CWBP, Mission envisages to make cities ‘water secure’ through circular economy of water.

The target in the second phase of AMRUT is to:

- Improve sewage and septic management
- Make cities water-safe
- Ensure no sewage drains into rivers
AMRUT 2.0 focuses on enhancing sewerage and septic management to make all Indian cities water secure.

Aim:

Achieve 100% coverage of water supply to all households in around 4,700 urban local bodies by providing about 2.68 crore tap connections.
Achieve 100% coverage of sewerage and septage in 500 AMRUT cities by providing around 2.64 crore sewer or septage connections.

Principles and Mechanism:

Adopt principles of the circular economy to promote conservation and rejuvenation of surface and groundwater bodies.
Promote data-led governance in water management and leverage the latest global technologies and skills through a Technology Sub-Mission.
Conduct 'Pey Jal Survekshan' to encourage competition among cities for better water management.

Coverage:

Extend coverage from 500 cities in the first phase to 4,700 cities and towns.
Benefit more than 10.5 crore people in urban areas.

Analysis of the AMRUT Scheme:

Performance of the Scheme:

As of May 2024, the AMRUT dashboard reports that ?83,357 crore has been disbursed. This funding has facilitated:
- 58,66,237 tap connections
- 37,49,467 sewerage connections
- Development of 2,411 parks
- Replacement of 62,78,571 LED lights

Criticism of the Sheme:

Despite these achievements, significant issues persist:

Approximately 2,00,000 people die annually due to inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene.
In 2016, India's disease burden from unsafe water and sanitation was 40 times higher per person than China's, with minimal improvement since then.
Large volumes of untreated wastewater increase disease vulnerability.
Around 21 major cities are expected to run out of groundwater. A NITI Aayog report predicts that 40% of India's population will lack access to drinking water by 2030.
Nearly 31% of urban households lack piped water, and 67.3% are not connected to a piped sewerage system.
The average urban water supply is 69.25 litres per person per day, far below the required 135 litres.
Air quality in AMRUT cities and other urban areas continues to worsen.
While the National Clean Air Programme was launched in 2019 to address air quality, AMRUT 2.0 focuses primarily on water and sewerage issues.

Challenges:

The AMRUT scheme has faced several fundamental challenges:

Project-Oriented Approach: The scheme adopted a project-oriented rather than a holistic approach.
Lack of City Participation: It lacked significant involvement from elected city governments, being driven instead by bureaucrats, parastatals, and private companies.
Governance Issues: Governance was dominated by non-elected officials, violating the 74th constitutional amendment.
- The apex committee was led by the MOHUA secretary, and state committees were headed by chief secretaries, excluding people's representatives.
Private Nexus: The scheme favored a private nexus of consultants and professionals, sidelining local elected officials.
Water Management: Effective water management in cities requires consideration of climate, rainfall patterns, and existing infrastructure, which the scheme did not adequately address.
Inefficient Sewage Treatment: Sewage treatment plants were inefficiently designed, with faecal matter traveling longer distances than the average worker's commute.
Urban Planning: Driven by private players and real estate developers, urban planning often led to the disappearance of water bodies, disrupted stormwater flows, and a lack of proper stormwater drainage systems.

Way Forward:

To improve the AMRUT scheme:

Nature-Based Solutions: Implement nature-based solutions.
Comprehensive Methodology: Adopt a comprehensive methodology that integrates all aspects of urban development.
People-Centric Approach: Focus on a people-centric approach, involving local communities in decision-making.

Empower Local Bodies: Empower local bodies to take a leading role in governance and implementation.

New Light-based Tool to Detect Viral Infections

30 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

A viral infection can stress cells and change their shapes and sizes. Researchers have built a tool to detect these changes.

About the new Tool:

A team of researchers has developed an innovative method to detect viral infections in cells using only light and principles of high-school physics.
- The key insight is that viral infections can stress cells, causing changes in their shapes, sizes, and other features.
- As the infection progresses and the body becomes diseased, these changes become more pronounced.
The researchers have found a way to translate these cellular changes into recognizable patterns that can indicate whether a cell is uninfected, virus-infected, or dead.
- For example, virus-infected cells tend to be elongated and have clearer boundaries compared to uninfected cells.
By analyzing the patterns of light interacting with cells, this method can non-invasively differentiate between uninfected, virus-infected, and dead cells.
This approach has the potential to revolutionize viral disease diagnosis and monitoring, providing a simple, cost-effective, and powerful tool for detecting viral infections at the cellular level.

Significance:

This light-based approach to detecting viral infections offers several significant advantages over the current standard methods:
Accuracy: The new light-based technique can detect viral infections with equal or even greater accuracy compared to existing standard methods that rely on chemical reagents.
Cost-effectiveness: The equipment required for this new method costs only around one-tenth of the $3,000 (approximately Rs 2.5 lakh) needed for the standard chemical-based approach, making it a far more affordable option, especially for resource-constrained settings.
Rapid results: The light-based method can identify virus-infected cells in just about two hours, significantly faster than the 40 hours required by the current standard method.
- This time efficiency can be crucial in situations where rapid detection is essential, such as during a virulent disease outbreak.
Early detection: By enabling the early detection of viral infections at the cellular level, this new technique could prove invaluable in containing the spread of highly contagious viral diseases, such as a severe influenza outbreak.

What are Viruses?

Viruses are microscopic organisms capable of infecting various hosts such as humans, plants, animals, bacteria, and fungi.
Structurally, they consist of genetic material (DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protective shell called a capsid, with some viruses also possessing an envelope.
Unable to reproduce independently, viruses rely on host cells to replicate by utilizing the cell's machinery.
Common types include influenza viruses, human herpesviruses, coronaviruses, human papillomaviruses, enteroviruses, flaviviruses, orthopoxviruses, and hepatitis viruses.
Viruses are responsible for causing illnesses such as flu, the common cold, and COVID-19.

Dag Hammarskjold Medal

30 May 2024

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An Indian peacekeeper who lost his life serving under the UN flag is among over 60 military, police and civilian peacekeepers to be honoured posthumously with a prestigious medal for their service and supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

What is Dag Hammarskjold Medal?

The Dag Hammarskjold medal is a prestigious honour commemorating the ultimate sacrifice made by United Nations peacekeepers.
Established in 1997, it pays tribute to those who have lost their lives while serving in UN peacekeeping missions under the organization's operational control and authority.
This posthumous award is presented annually on Peacekeeper's Day at a solemn ceremony held at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
Each member state that has had military or police personnel perish during peacekeeping duties receives the medal in recognition of their fallen compatriots.
The medal bears the name of Dag Hammarskjold, the second Secretary-General of the United Nations, whose own life was tragically cut short in 1961 while working to resolve the Congo crisis.
In naming this honour after him, the UN commemorates both his exceptional leadership and the courageous individuals who have followed in his footsteps by making the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of global peace and security.

India’s Role in Peacekeeping:

India is currently the second largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping after Nepal.
India is followed by Uganda with 5,764 personnel, and Bangladesh with 5,393.
These personnel are deployed across 12 UN peacekeeping missions across the world.
Traditionally, India has always been among the biggest contributors of UN peacekeepers.
Since 1950, approximately 2, 86,000 Indian soldiers have served in the UN across the globe.
UN peacekeeping missions are mandated under Article 99 by which the Secretary-General is granted the authority to independently address potential global conflicts or threats.
Also seen as a very robust diplomatic tool, it is also a way in which the Secretary-General flags the issue to the UN Security Council.
The functions of UN peacekeeping operations range from maintaining peace and security to escorting humanitarian relief, upholding human rights, supporting the fight against gender-based violence to assist in the restoration of the rule of law and facing the complex crises of today from climate change to pandemic.

Microcephaly

30 May 2024

eMigrate Project

30 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

External Affairs Ministry, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Common Services Centers eGovernance Services India Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding today to provide the eMigrate services through CSC in the country.

What is the eMigrate Project?

eMigrate project is undertaken to assist mainly the blue-collar workers going to Emigration Check Required (ECR) countries.
The project was conceptualized to address issues faced by migrant workers by making the emigration process online seamless and also to bring foreign employers registered recruitment agents and insurance companies on one common platform aimed at promoting safe and legal migration.
- Over the years, the number of Indians going abroad for employment has been increasing as well as the contribution of remittances sent by them has been significant.
Under this MoU, the eMigrate Portal of MEA would be integrated with CSC’s portal, to provide the following eMigrate services to the citizens through CSCs:
- Facilitate registration of applicants on the eMigrate portal through CSCs.
- Facilitation of uploading and processing of the required documents for the applicants on the eMigrate portal through CSCs.
- Facilitate and support booking for medical and other services required by migrant workers or applicants registered on the eMigrate portal through CSC.
- Creating awareness about eMigrate services amongst citizens across India.

About Common Service Centre (CSC):

Common Services Centers (CSCs) are an integral part of the Digital India mission.
The CSCs are frontend service delivery points for the delivery of digital services to the citizens, especially in rural and remote areas across the country.
This helps in contributing towards the fulfilment of the vision of Digital India and the government’s mandate for a digitally and financially inclusive society.
Currently, more than 5.50 lakh CSCs are delivering more than 700 digital services to citizens in assisted mode with enhanced ease and convenience.
Apart from delivering essential government and public utility services, CSCs also deliver a range of social welfare schemes, financial services, educational courses, skill development courses, healthcare, agriculture services, digital literacy, etc.

Landslides in India

29 May 2024

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At least 36 people were killed in heavy rains and landslides in four northeastern states on Tuesday under the impact of Cyclone Remal while normal life came to a grinding halt in all the eight states of the region with road and rail links affected.

What are Landslides?

Landslides in India are one of the major hydro-geological hazards affecting large parts of the landmass of the country.
It refers to the gravitational movements of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope.
Landslides are a type of "mass wasting," which denotes any down-slope movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity.
As per a report from the Geological Survey of India (GSI), 13% of the total land area in India is prone to landslides.
This covers almost all the hilly regions in the country.
About 0.18 million square km, or 42% of this vulnerable area is in the Northeastern region, where the terrain is mostly hilly.

What Causes a Landslide in India?

Deforestation: Removal of trees reduces the binding properties of soil and rocks. This enables the water to seep into the sub-surface, making the topsoil vulnerable.
- For example, the Himalayan region has become more vulnerable to landslides due to the indiscriminate cutting of trees.
Shifting Cultivation: Shifting cultivation is common in hilly regions and Northeast areas. Every year, residents burn the forests for cultivation purposes.
- However, this deteriorates the quality of topsoil, causing erosion during heavy rainfall. This makes such regions more vulnerable to landslides.
Heavy Rainfall and Earthquakes: Heavy rainfall and earthquakes often cause landslides.
- For example, heavy rain caused landslides in Talai village of Maharashtra in 2021.
Mining: Human activities like mining or quarrying remove the vegetation cover and soil gravel. This lowers the groundwater retention capacity. Also, it increases the risk of flooding.
- Therefore, landslides occur due to loose debris or excess floods during an earthquake and heavy rainfall, respectively.
Urbanisation: Intensive urbanisation and urbanization activities such as establishing commercial housing projects and road construction reduce the vegetation cover which leads to an increasing frequency of landslides.

What Are the Different Types of Landslides?

Landslides in India are divided into four categories:

Topples: This occurs due to fractures in rocks. It causes tilting for gravitational pull without collapsing.
Falls: This involves the collapse of rocks or debris from a cliff or slope. It results in the collection of debris at the base of a hill.
Spread: It occurs in gentle slopes where soft debris or other materials are widely available.
Slides: It occurs when debris, rocks or soil slide through a slope.

What Are the Impacts of Landslides in India?

Mud, debris and rocks slide from the slope during landslides.
- This restricts human movement and creates a traffic barrier on highways and railway lines.
Loss of human lives is one of the severe effects.
- Landslide is the primary factor behind the Joshimath sinking crisis which led to mass evacuation in January 2023.
It damages houses, roads and buildings.
- This further creates a financial burden for rebuilding infrastructure to rehabilitate the masses.
The debris sliding down from slopes blocks the river channel fully or partially.
- This makes it difficult for locals to get the water supply.
Landslides also increase the risk of floods. This is because the debris increases the river sediment.
- As a result, irregular course rivers become frequent, resulting in floods.

What Are the Measures Required to Prevent Landslides?

An increase in forest cover is a must in community lands to reduce the hazard of landslides.
People must store the excess water in catchment areas.
- It will reduce the effect of flash floods and also recharge groundwater levels.
People must restrict the grazing of their animals.
Reduce the urbanisation activities such as building dams or other commercial projects.

Implementation of public awareness regarding preventive measures during landslides and other hazard management is necessary.

Kaza TFCA (Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area) Summit

29 May 2024

Magellan Mission

29 May 2024

Vivekananda Rock Memorial

29 May 2024

Golden Rice

29 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

A court in the Philippines recently revoked biosafety permits for commercial propagation of genetically modified golden rice and Bt eggplant.

What is Golden Rice?

In the late 1990s, German plant scientists Ingo Potrykus and Peter Beyer developed Golden Rice to combat vitamin A deficiency, a leading cause of infant blindness and increased mortality from infectious diseases like measles.
Golden Rice is a type of rice that produces beta-carotene, giving it a golden colour, unlike white rice, which lacks these nutrients.
- Vitamin A deficiencies are prevalent in countries where rice is a staple food.
The widespread use of Golden Rice is expected to improve health by reducing rates of preventable blindness and mortality, especially among children and pregnant women.

Golden Rice and Vitamin A Deficiency:

Potrykus and Beyer added two genes to white rice in 2004, creating Golden Rice, which they donated to impoverished nations as a solution to vitamin A deficiency (VAD).
Governments approve Golden Rice cultivation only after ensuring it is safe for the environment, humans, and animals.
Golden Rice can replace the daily intake of white rice without adverse effects, providing a natural source of vitamin A and beta-carotene to combat VAD.

Efficacy of Golden Rice:

Adequate vitamin A levels in mothers support vision, immune health, and fetal development through the placenta and breastfeeding.
Vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of childhood blindness and weakens the body’s ability to fight common diseases, leading to high mortality rates among young children and their mothers.
- Natural sources of vitamin A include animal products like milk, butter, cheese, eggs, and liver, while plants do not contain vitamin A directly, they contain beta-carotene, which the body can convert into vitamin A.
White rice is rich in carbohydrates but lacks beta-carotene, an antioxidant and precursor to vitamin A.
Golden Rice, containing beta-carotene, can help prevent millions of deaths and alleviate suffering from VAD and micronutrient malnutrition in impoverished regions.

Additionally, expanding the cultivation of genetically modified, bio-fortified crops like Golden Rice could further address vitamin deficiencies in developing countries.

Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes

28 May 2024

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Denotified and Nomadic Tribes, a group of marginalised communities across Andhra Pradesh, have been silently suffering neglect and caste-based discrimination for centuries.

Who are Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes?

Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes are among the most vulnerable and deprived communities in India.
Denotified Tribes (DNTs): These communities were labelled as 'born criminals' under British colonial laws, starting with the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871.
- The Independent Indian Government repealed these Acts in 1952, thereby 'de-notifying' these tribes.
Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes: These groups are characterized by their mobility, moving from place to place rather than settling permanently.
- Historically, they have not had access to private land or home ownership.

Social and Historical Context:

Categorization: Many DNTs are classified within Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), but some remain uncategorized in these groups.

Historical Commissions:

Criminal Tribes Inquiry Committee (1947): Investigated the status of these tribes in the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh).
Ananthasayanam Ayyangar Committee (1949): Led to the repeal of the Criminal Tribes Act.
Kaka Kalelkar Commission (1953): The first OBC Commission.
B.P. Mandal Commission (1980): Made recommendations concerning these communities.
National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (NCRWC, 2002): Highlighted the wrongful stigmatization and exploitation of DNTs, chaired by Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah.

Population and Distribution:

South Asia: Hosts the largest nomadic population in the world.
India: Approximately 10% of the population is comprised of Denotified and Nomadic Tribes.
- There are about 150 Denotified Tribes and around 500 different Nomadic Tribes in India.

Challenges Faced by Nomadic Tribes:

Lack of Basic Infrastructure: Nomadic tribes often lack access to essential facilities such as drinking water, shelter, sanitation, healthcare, and education.
Stigma and Treatment: Historically labelled as criminals, these communities still face discrimination and harsh treatment from local authorities and police.
Lack of Social Security: Due to their frequent movement, nomadic tribes do not have permanent settlements, which makes it difficult for them to obtain social security documents like Ration Cards and Aadhaar Cards.
- This exclusion prevents them from accessing government welfare schemes.
Unclear Caste Categorization: The classification of these tribes varies across states, with some being categorized as Scheduled Castes (SC) and others as Other Backward Classes (OBC).
- Many individuals lack caste certificates, hindering their ability to benefit from government programs.

Developmental Efforts for Nomadic Tribes:

Dr Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship for DNTs: Launched in 2014-15, this centrally sponsored scheme supports DNT students not covered under SC, ST, or OBC categories.
- The pre-matric scholarship promotes education among DNT children, especially girls.
Nanaji Deshmukh Scheme of Construction of Hostels for DNT Boys and Girls: Also launched in 2014-15, this scheme is implemented through state governments, UT administrations, and central universities.
- It provides hostel facilities for DNT students not covered under SC, ST, or OBC categories, enabling them to pursue higher education.
Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs: Aim to offer free competitive exam coaching, health insurance, housing assistance, and livelihood initiatives.
- Allocates Rs. 200 crores to be spent over five years starting from 2021-22.

The Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC) is responsible for its implementation.

Onset of Monsoon

28 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The southwest monsoon is progressing normally, and conditions are suitable for its onset on the Kerala coast in the next five days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday (May 27).

What does the ‘onset of monsoon’ Mean?

The onset of the monsoon over Kerala marks the beginning of the four-month, June-September southwest monsoon season over India, which brings more than 70% of the country’s annual rainfall.
The onset of the monsoon is a significant day in India’s economic calendar.
According to the IMD, the onset of the monsoon marks a crucial transition in the large-scale atmospheric and ocean circulations in the Indo-Pacific region, and the Department announces it only after certain defined and measurable parameters, adopted in 2016, are met.

Onset & Advance of Monsoon:

Broadly, the IMD checks for the consistency of rainfall over a defined geography, its intensity, and wind speed.
Rainfall: The IMD declares the onset of the monsoon if at least 60% of 14 designated meteorological stations in Kerala and Lakshadweep record at least 2.5 mm of rain for two consecutive days at any time after May 10. In such a situation, the onset over Kerala is declared on the second day, provided specific wind and temperature criteria are also fulfilled.
- The 14 enlisted stations are Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kasaragod, and Mangaluru.
Wind field: The depth of westerlies, prevailing winds that blow from the west at midlatitudes — should be up to 600 hectopascals (1 hPa is equal to 1 millibar of pressure) in the area bound by the equator to 10ºN latitude and from longitude 55ºE to 80ºE.
- The zonal wind speed over the area bound by 5-10ºN latitude and 70-80ºE longitude should be of the order of 15-20 knots (28-37 kph) at 925 hPa.
Heat: According to IMD, the INSAT-derived Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) value (a measure of the energy emitted to space by the Earth’s surface, oceans, and atmosphere) should be below 200 watts per sq m (wm2) in the box confined by 5-10ºN latitude and 70-75ºE latitude.
Northern Limit of Monsoon (NLM): Southwest monsoon normally sets in over Kerala around 1st June.
- It advances northwards, usually in surges, and covers the entire country around the 15th of July.
- The NLM is the northernmost limit of monsoon up to which it has advanced on any given day.

In general, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands start receiving monsoon rainfall between May 15 and May 20 every year, and it usually starts raining along the Kerala coast in the last week of May.

Mundra Port

28 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) on Sunday said its flagship Mundra Port has created yet another record by welcoming the largest container ship to call at an Indian port.

About Mundra Port:

Mundra Port is the largest private and container port in India.
It is situated on the northern shores of the Gulf of Kutch, near Mundra in the Kutch district of Gujarat.
It is a deep-draft, all-weather port and a designated special economic zone (SEZ).
Mundra Port handles 33% of India's container traffic and is a critical hub for the nation's trade.

Ownership and Operations:

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ), India's largest commercial port operator, oversees nearly one-fourth of the country's cargo movement.

Handling Capacity:

Capacity: The port has a capacity of 260 million metric tons (MMT) and handled over 155 MMT in the fiscal year 2022-23, which represents nearly 11% of India’s maritime cargo.
Facilities: Equipped with 26 berths and two single-point moorings, Mundra Port can accommodate a diverse range of vessels and cargo types, including containers, dry bulk, break bulk, liquid cargo, and automobiles.
Coal Terminal: It hosts the country's largest coal import terminal, ensuring rapid cargo processing with minimal turnaround time.
Connectivity: The port's rail network connects seamlessly with the national rail system, facilitating cargo transportation to any location in India.

What is MSC Anna?

MSC Anna is the largest container ship ever to dock at an Indian port.
- Size: The vessel measures 399.98 meters in length, approximately the length of four football fields, making it one of the largest container ships globally.
- Capacity: MSC Anna can carry up to 19,200 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units).

With an arrival draft of 16.3 meters, it can only be accommodated at Adani Ports' Mundra Port, as no other port in India has the capability to berth such a deep-draft vessel.

ZIG Currency

28 May 2024

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To address its long-standing economic instability, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has launched a new gold-backed currency called the ZiG, short for Zimbabwe Gold, replacing the Zimbabwean dollar on April 5, 2024.

What is a ZiG Currency?

Zimbabwe Gold, or ZIG, is the world's newest currency that was introduced by Zimbabwe to replace the Zimbabwe dollar in April.
It is backed by the country's gold reserves and was launched in an effort to reduce currency instability and hyperinflation.
It is the sixth currency Zimbabwe has used since the 2009 collapse of the Zimbabwe dollar amid hyperinflation of 5 billion per cent.

Features of ZiG currency:

Gold-Backed: The ZiG is unique as it is backed by gold reserves, ensuring its value is supported by the physical gold held by the government.
Denominations: ZiG notes and coins are issued in denominations of 1ZiG, 2ZiG, 5ZiG, 10ZiG, 20ZiG, 50ZiG, 100ZiG, and 200ZiG. This gold backing aims to provide stability and prevent currency devaluation.

Reasons for Launching a New Currency:

High Inflation: Zimbabwe has struggled with extreme inflation, with rates exceeding 500% in recent years.
Currency Instability: The Zimbabwean dollar, introduced in 1980, lost its value due to hyperinflation. The country's reliance on various foreign currencies, mainly the US dollar, has limited economic control.
Historical Collapse: The collapse of the Zimbabwean dollar in 2009, with hyperinflation peaking at 5 billion per cent, is one of the worst currency crashes in history.

Economic Control: Converting the previous national currency, the Zimbabwe dollar, into ZiGs is intended to simplify monetary matters and provide certainty and predictability in the financial system.

Eucalyptus Tree

28 May 2024

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The Kerala government issued an order allowing the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to plant eucalyptus trees for its financial sustenance in 2024-2025.

What is the Eucalyptus Tree?

Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree, one of the most widely cultivated trees native to Australia.
- In Australia, they are commonly referred to as gum trees or stringybark trees.
The eucalyptus, which is an invasive species of flora, was planted in large numbers by the British in the areas surrounding Nilgiris.
Many eucalyptus species are cultivated globally as shade trees and in forestry plantations.

Features:

Bark: Eucalyptus trees have gum-infused bark.
Leaves: They feature long stems and circular leaves, which are difficult to digest if eaten whole.
Flowers: Small flowers grow on eucalyptus trees, available in various colours including white, yellow, and shades of red.
Capsules: Eucalyptus produces small woody capsules that contain seeds.

Uses of Eucalyptus:

Medicinal Properties: Eucalyptus is widely valued for its medicinal benefits. Some species' leaves contain oil with a strong aroma, primarily composed of cineole (eucalyptol), along with flavonoids and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Respiratory Relief: Eucalyptus oil is well-known for relieving congestion and easing breathing during colds.
Pain Relief: The oil is also used as a topical treatment for sore muscles, aching joints, and rheumatism, improving blood circulation when applied.
Wood: Eucalyptus wood is tough and durable, making it ideal for building furniture and fences.

Eucalyptus Plantations in India:

Species: The most widely planted eucalypts in India are Eucalyptus tereticornis and Eucalyptus hybrid.
Regions: It is extensively grown in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Mysore, Kerala, and the Nilgiri Hills.
Growing Conditions: Eucalyptus thrives in deep, fertile, well-drained loamy soil with adequate moisture.

Dangers of Eucalyptus Tree:

Water: Eucalyptus trees have a terrible reputation as extensive water users and significant contributors to soil depletion.
- While they do need copious quantities of water, their colossal taproot can find moisture even in the most barren areas.
- This voracious appetite helps maintain their incredibly rapid growth.
Toxicity: Eucalyptus plant foliage is toxic to animals and humans if ingested.
Exploding: Eucalyptus oil gives off flammable fumes, and these fumes can be ignited by lightning, flying sparks, and cinders, causing the tree to explode.

Fireballs: During brush or forest fires, the eucalyptus species releases great quantities of flammable gas that mix with air to produce fireballs full of sparks and embers exploding out in front of the fire.

WHO Pandemic Treaty

27 May 2024

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Health officials from the 194 member states of the World Health Organization hope next week to complete more than two years of negotiations on new rules for responding to pandemics when they gather in Geneva.

What is the Pandemic Treaty?

The "Pandemic Treaty" or "Pandemic Accord" refers to an ongoing process at the World Health Organization (WHO) to negotiate an international agreement or convention on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response.
The idea was proposed in late 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthen global coordination and solidarity in addressing future pandemic threats.
The WHO already has binding rules known as the International Health Regulations (2005) which set out countries’ obligations where public health events have the potential to cross national borders.
- These include advising the WHO immediately of a health emergency and measures on trade and travel.
- Adopted after the 2002/3 SARS outbreak, these regulations are still seen as functional for regional epidemics such as Ebola but inadequate for a global pandemic.

Key points about the proposed Pandemic Treaty/Agreement:

Objective: To establish a global framework and rules to ensure better cooperation, data sharing, and coordinated response during future pandemics.
Legal Status: It would be a legally binding international instrument, like a treaty or convention, requiring ratification by WHO member states.
Core Elements: Likely to include provisions on equitable access to countermeasures, strengthening health systems, information sharing, One Health approach (human-animal-environment interface), and funding mechanisms.
Negotiation Process: In December 2021, the World Health Assembly established an intergovernmental negotiating body to draft and negotiate the instrument through a member-state-led process.
The goal is to learn from COVID-19 experiences and create a binding global framework that facilitates a more coherent, better-coordinated international response to potential future pandemic threats.

How will the Global Health Rules change?

The updates to the International Health Regulations (IHR) include:
- A new alert system to provide different risk assessments for future outbreaks, addressing criticisms that the current system delayed the COVID-19 response.
- Introducing an intermediary alert stage called “early action alert,” in addition to the existing Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
- Considering a “pandemic emergency” designation for the most severe health threats, filling a gap in the current system which does not use the term "pandemic."
- Strengthening state obligations to inform the WHO of public health events, changing the language from “may” to “should.”

How Do Countries View the Pact?

Negotiations have been marked by significant differences between wealthy and poor countries.
The talks missed a key May 10 deadline, nearly collapsing and prompting WHO Director-General Tedros to call an emergency meeting to boost morale. Contentious issues include:
- The sharing of drugs and vaccines.
- Financing, with debates over setting up a dedicated fund versus using existing resources like the World Bank’s $1 billion pandemic fund.
- Political pressure, particularly from right-wing groups and politicians concerned about sovereignty, which the WHO denies.

What Happens Next?

The new IHR rules and the pandemic accord are intended to complement each other, but opinions vary on whether one can exist without the other.
Sources indicate that IHR negotiations are more advanced and likely to pass, with changes taking effect automatically after 12 months unless countries opt-out.
In contrast, the pandemic treaty requires ratification, potentially taking years.

Virupaksha Temple Hampi

27 May 2024

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The historical Saalu Mantap (pillar line), located on the premises of the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, collapsed after heavy rain lashed the region on Tuesday night.

What is the Historical Significance of Virupaksha Temple?

The Virupaksha temple gained prominence and underwent extensive expansion in the 14th century during the Vijayanagara Empire (1336 to 1646).
- Founded by Harihara I of the Sangama dynasty, the Vijayanagara Empire expanded from a strategic position on the banks of the Tungabhadra River to become one of the most powerful kingdoms of its time.
The temple was built by Lakkan Dandesha, a nayaka (chieftain) under the ruler Deva Raya II, also known as Prauda Deva Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire.
The temple flourished under the patronage of the Vijayanagara rulers, who were great builders and patrons of art.
- It became a vital centre for the religious and cultural activities of its time.
It is a prime example of Dravidian temple architecture, characterised by its grand gopurams (towering gateways), the shikhara towering over the sanctum sanctorum, its intricate carvings and pillared halls.
Richly adorned with carvings and sculptures, the gopuram depicts various deities, mythological scenes and animals.
The sanctum sanctorum houses the Shiva lingam, the main object of worship.
Historians say all temples had pavilions where traders sold articles, such as those used in worship.
- Sometimes devotees visiting the temple also camped under the pavilions.
With several other temples and structures located there, Hampi was the empire’s capital city and stands today as evidence of what is known as the last ‘great Hindu empire’ of South India.
UNESCO also recognised its uniqueness and categorised the Group of Monuments at Hampi as a World Heritage Site.

Zero Debris Charter

27 May 2024

Astronomical Transients

27 May 2024

Small Island Developing States

27 May 2024

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The Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS-4) will be convened from May 27-30, 2024.

About Small Island Developing States (SIDS):

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are a distinct group of 39 States and 18 Associate Members of United Nations regional commissions that face unique social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities.
The three geographical regions in which SIDS are located are:
- The Caribbean
- The Pacific
- The Atlantic, Indian Ocean and South China Sea (AIS)
SIDS were recognized as a special case both for their environment and development at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The aggregate population of all the SIDS is 65 million, slightly less than 1% of the world’s population, yet this group faces unique social, economic, and environmental challenges.
SIDS face a host of challenges including for many, their remote geography.
As a result, many SIDS face high import and export costs for goods as well as irregular international traffic volumes.
For SIDS, the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)—the ocean under their control—is, on average, 28 times the country’s land mass.
Thus, for many SIDS the majority of the natural resources they have access to comes from the ocean.
- Factors like small population size, remoteness from international markets, high transportation costs, vulnerability to exogenous economic shocks and fragile land and marine ecosystems make SIDS particularly vulnerable to biodiversity loss and climate change because they lack economic alternatives.
Climate change has a very tangible impact on SIDS.
Slow onset events such as sea level rise pose an existential threat to small island communities, requiring drastic measures such as relocation of populations, and the related challenges this poses.
These challenges are compounded by limited institutional capacity, scarce financial resources and a high degree of vulnerability to systemic shocks.
Industries like tourism and fisheries can constitute over half of the GDP of small island economies.
However, the importance of these natural resources extends beyond the economy; biodiversity holds aesthetic and spiritual value for many island communities.
- For centuries, these communities have drawn benefits from biodiversity in the form of food supply, clean water, reduced beach erosion, soil and sand formation, and protection from storm surges.
At the regional level, SIDS are also supported by inter-governmental organisations, primarily the?Caribbean Community (CARICOM),?the?Pacific Islands Forum (PIF)?and the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC).

Kazi Nazrul Islam

25 May 2024

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One hundred and twenty-five years ago on May 25, 2024, a ‘rebel poet’ was born in undivided Bengal who would go on to create about 4,000 songs and several stories to remind his warring and impoverished country folks of the power of humanity to tide over hunger, poverty and disintegration of society.

Who was Kazi Nazrul Islam?

Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976) was a Bengali poet, writer, and musician whose oeuvre, Nazrulgeeti (Songs of Nazrul), constitutes a musical genre that is perhaps second in popularity to only Rabindrasangeet, the compositions of Rabindranath Tagore.
- He enjoys iconic status in West Bengal, Bangladesh, and the Bengali diaspora around the world, and is revered as the National poet of Bangladesh.
Nazrul is known as the Bidrohi Kobi (Rebel Poet) because most of the more than 4,000 songs that he wrote and composed are songs of protest and revolution, which inspired the freedom fighters of Bengal in their struggle against colonialism and imperialism.
- In 1923, the British arrested Nazrul because of the strongly anti-British content of a magazine that he founded and edited.
His first poem was published when he was still in Karachi, in the Bangiya Mussalman Sahitya Patrika.
- Some of the poems he had composed and contributed in Moslem Bharat included Shatil Arab, Moharram, Korbani, Fatiha, Doazdaham, Badal Prater Sharab, and Kheya Parer Tarani, amongst others.
The political conditions in which Nazrul Islam eventually began his career as a writer were ones conditioned by extreme tensions and conflict including the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and launch of the Non-Cooperation Movement following the special session of the Indian National Congress, and especially in the context of the “divide and rule” policy which was adopted by the British.
- Several issues that the populace of the subcontinent had to deal with included economic backwardness, racial prejudices, and social inequality.
- In such circumstances, he joined a Bengali newspaper called Naba-Yug (New Era).
- His writings were later compiled and published as a book Yugabani (Message of the Age) which was immediately banned by the British government.
Apart from writing and working for several other newspapers of the times, including Sevak, he had also started his own political weekly in 1922, named, Dhumketu (The Comet).
- The paper explicitly voiced their opinions against the British government and played an important role in steering the rebellious attitude and voices of the populace.
- As a result, Nazrul was charged with charges of sedition and he was sentenced to 1 year of rigorous imprisonment in 1923.
- On this occasion, Rabindranath Tagore had also dedicated a newly composed dance-drama Basanti to Nazrul, which was performed in Calcutta.
Nazrul Islam was a prolific poet and composed several poems on various themes including themes of social messages, and resistance against the colonial government.
- He had effectively used his poems as a literary conduit to voice his opinions against British colonial rule.
- The highest point of his career as a poet was when he composed the poem Bidrohi (The Rebel).
- The poem was highly appreciated and established him as a well-respected poet.
- The poem was characterized by a revolutionary spirit and rife with heroic sentiments.
- It portrayed a revolutionary who had called upon the marginalized sections of the society to rise up and face the British despots.
The compositions of Kazi Nazrul Islam in the form of songs, poems, and other forms of literature formed a very strong and powerful weapon against British colonial rule.
The revolutionary themes which were explicit in his writings played an important role during the freedom movement.
He consistently raised his voice against communalism, imperialism, fundamentalism and exploitation.
His literary legacy is remembered and acknowledged to this date.
He had earned the respect of not only his contemporaries but also of the later generations.
His contributions thus are not limited to the efflorescence of Bengali literature but also extended to the cause of freedom during the Indian Independence Movement.

Gliese 12b

25 May 2024

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Recently, scientists have discovered a new planet that they say could "potentially support human life."

What is Gliese 12b?

Gliese 12 b is a rocky planet just 40 light-years away from Earth.
It orbits around a star called Gliese 12, a cool red dwarf in the constellation Pisces.
This star is only 27 per cent of the size of our sun, with about 60 per cent of its surface temperature.
But it's this lower temperature that makes Gliese 12 b theoretically habitable for humans.
Gliese 12 b is one of the few known rocky planets where humans could theoretically survive according to scientists.
The planet was discovered by an international team, in collaboration with NASA and the European Space Agency, using data from NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and ESA's Characterizing Exoplanet Satellite (CHEOPS).
Gliese 12 b falls into this "Goldilocks zone," with an average temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit and a size somewhere between Venus and Earth.
The researchers hope that by learning more about Gliese 12 b's atmosphere we may be able to answer questions about the evolution of our own solar system and other habitable planets.

About the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS):

TESS is a NASA mission dedicated to discovering exoplanets around nearby bright stars.
It was launched on April 18, 2018, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral.
TESS operates in a unique high Earth orbit with a period of 12 to 15 days.
- This orbit is designed to keep the telescope's view largely unobstructed by Earth and the Moon.
The prime mission concluded on July 4, 2020, but TESS continues to operate on an extended mission.
TESS has identified a wide range of exoplanets, from small rocky worlds to giant planets, highlighting the diversity of planetary systems in our galaxy.
TESS uses the transit method to find exoplanets. It monitors stars for periodic dips in brightness, which occur when a planet crosses in front of the star along our line of sight.
- The size of the dip indicates the planet's diameter and the duration of the transit provides information about the planet's orbit.
The transit method allows scientists to determine the diameter and orbital size of exoplanets.
- Orbits within certain ranges fall into the "habitable zone," where conditions may allow liquid water to exist on the surface of Earth-like worlds.

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Meeting 2024

25 May 2024

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The Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge was adopted at the Diplomatic Conference held under the aegis of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) at its headquarters in Geneva recently.

What is the WIPO Meeting 2024?

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Meeting 2024 focuses on final-stage negotiations for a proposed treaty on intellectual property, genetic resources, and associated traditional knowledge.
The aim is to protect the rights of communities that conserve genetic resources and hold traditional knowledge of their use.
The main goal of the treaty is to enhance the efficacy, transparency, and quality of the patent system regarding genetic resources and traditional knowledge.
- It aims to prevent patents for non-novel or non-inventive inventions and ensure proper disclosure of genetic resources and traditional knowledge in patent applications.

Key challenges in the negotiations:

Key challenges include reaching a consensus on mandatory disclosure requirements, addressing biopiracy, deciding on the inclusion of DSI in the treaty, and defining traditional knowledge.
- Countries like the United States, Japan, and South Korea generally oppose mandatory disclosure requirements, adding complexity to the negotiations.

What are genetic resources and traditional knowledge associated?

Genetic resources are genetic material of actual or potential value found in plants, animals, and microorganisms.
- These resources are essential in fields like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.
Traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources refers to the knowledge, practices, and innovations of indigenous and local communities, developed and passed down through generations.
- This knowledge is often related to the use and conservation of genetic resources.

What is Biopiracy?

Biopiracy refers to the unauthorized use and patenting of genetic resources and traditional knowledge without proper compensation or acknowledgement to the communities that developed and conserved them.
- The treaty seeks to address biopiracy by requiring the disclosure of genetic resources and traditional knowledge in patent applications and aligning with international agreements like the Nagoya Protocol.

What is Digital sequence information (DSI)?

Digital sequence information (DSI) refers to the digital representation of genetic material.
- The treaty currently excludes DSI from its scope, which is a point of contention as it affects the management and protection of genetic resources.
- Including DSI in the treaty is under debate to ensure comprehensive protection.

Outcomes and Significance of this Meeting:

Expected outcomes include finalizing the treaty's text, agreeing on substantive intellectual property provisions, and administrative issues.
- Once finalized, the treaty will be open for signature and aims to provide a robust framework for protecting genetic resources and traditional knowledge.
The treaty also aims to protect the rights of indigenous and local communities by ensuring they receive fair compensation and recognition for their genetic resources and traditional knowledge.
- It also promotes the sustainable use and conservation of these resources, benefiting both global and local communities.
The treaty has broader implications for international intellectual property law, biodiversity conservation, and the rights of indigenous and local communities.
- It aims to balance the interests of patent holders with the need to protect and sustainably use genetic resources and traditional knowledge.

India’s Role:

India plays a significant role in the negotiations by advocating for strong disclosure requirements and a clear definition of traditional knowledge.
- India's participation helps ensure that the treaty provides sufficient policy space for countries to maintain their current stronger disclosure requirements under national laws.

Taiwan Strait/Formosa Strait

25 May 2024

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China ended two days of war games around Taiwan, in which it simulated attacks with bombers and practised boarding ships, and Taiwan's defence ministry detailed on Saturday the surge of Chinese warplanes and warships involved.

About the Taiwan Strait:

Geography: The Taiwan Strait, also known as the Formosa Strait, is a 180 km-wide body of water separating mainland China from the island of Taiwan.
- It lies between the coast of Fujian Province in China and Taiwan.
Location: The strait is part of the South China Sea and connects to the East China Sea in the north.
- The seafloor is primarily a continental shelf extending from the Asian continent, with Taiwan situated on the outer edge.
- The strait is relatively shallow, with an average depth of about 490 feet and a minimum depth of 82 feet.
Islands: Major islands on the Taiwan side include Penghu (or Pescadores), Kinmen, and Matsu.
- On the Chinese side, Xiamen and Pingtan are significant islands.
- While Xiamen and Pingtan are administered by the People's Republic of China, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu are governed by the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Shipping Corridor: The Taiwan Strait is a vital global shipping route, with nearly 50 per cent of global container shipping passing through the Taiwan Strait.
- Key ports in the region include Amoy in mainland China and Kao-hsiung in Taiwan.
Historical Significance: The strait has been a site of military confrontations between the People's Republic of China and Taiwan since 1949, following the Chinese Civil War.
- The Kuomintang forces, led by Chiang Kai-shek, retreated across the strait and established their government in Taiwan.
Median Line: The median line is an informal dividing line in the Taiwan Strait, established during the Cold War to reduce the risk of military clashes between China and Taiwan.
- Although not formalized by any treaty, it served as a tacit boundary until 2019, when Chinese military aircraft began crossing it.
- Beijing has since increasingly challenged the existence of the median line by frequently sending warplanes over it.

World Health Assembly 2024

25 May 2024

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The World Health Assembly will convene from May 27 to June 1 to discuss amendments to the International Health Regulations, aimed at improving the ability of countries to respond to public health emergencies and prepare a potential new pandemic agreement.

What is the World Health Assembly?

The World Health Assembly is the decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations (UN) agency dedicated to promoting the global population's health and access to the highest levels of healthcare provision.
Its main functions are to determine WHO's policies, elect the Organization's Director-General, supervise financial policies, and review and approve the proposed WHO budget.
Delegates from WHO member states come together at an annual assembly held at the UN headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, to focus on a specific healthcare agenda created by the organization's Executive Board.
The Executive Board comprises 34 technically qualified members, each elected for a three-year term.
- They meet every year in January to agree on the agenda and any resolutions that will be put before the World Health Assembly for consideration.
Now in its 76th session, the theme for this year’s event is “Health For All: 75 Years of Improving Public Health”.

What does the Assembly do?

Delegates at the annual World Health Assembly discuss the Executive Board's policy agenda for the coming year and decide which health goals and strategies will guide the WHO's public health work.
Other functions include voting to appoint the organization's Director-General to serve a five-year term.
- Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus holds the post currently, having been re-elected in 2022 to serve a second term as head of the world's leading public health agency.

Why is it important?

Since its inauguration, the Assembly has presided over WHO policies that have helped eradicate deadly diseases like smallpox and the poliovirus and helped foster international collaborations to develop and distribute vaccines for diseases like malaria and COVID-19.

About International Health Regulations (IHR):

First adopted by the World Health Assembly (WHA) in 1969, the IHR was last revised in 2005. These regulations aim to maximize collective efforts in managing public health events while minimizing disruptions to travel and trade.
The IHR has 196 State Parties, including all 194 WHO Member States, plus Liechtenstein and the Holy See.
The IHR provide a comprehensive legal framework that outlines countries' rights and obligations in managing public health events and emergencies with the potential to cross borders.
The regulations introduce crucial safeguards to protect the rights of travellers and others, covering the treatment of personal data, informed consent, and non-discrimination in the application of health measures.
Legally Binding Instrument: As an instrument of international law, the IHR is legally binding on 196 countries.

Sweet Sorghum

24 May 2024

Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM)

24 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Securing water for the future as the mantra, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) in the latest intervention has taken up the Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM) model on a pilot basis in the city.

What is an Aquifer?

An aquifer is a body of porous rock or sediment that is saturated with groundwater.
Groundwater enters an aquifer through precipitation that seeps down through the soil.
It can then move through the aquifer and emerge at the surface via springs and wells.
Aquifers are classified into two types:
- Deep Aquifers
- Shallow Aquifers

What is Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM)?

In 2022, the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) launched a Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM) pilot program in ten cities across nine states:
- Bengaluru (Karnataka), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Dhanbad (Jharkhand), Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh), Hyderabad (Telangana), Jaipur (Rajasthan), Kolkata (West Bengal), Pune and Thane (Maharashtra), and Rajkot (Gujarat).
The SAM pilot is overseen by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) and supported by the Advanced Center for Water Resources Development and Management (ACWADAM) in Pune and the Biome Environmental Trust in Bengaluru.
Under SAM, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has identified five municipal parks for implementation this year.

How does it work?

The project involves drilling shallow water injection borewells to depths of 100-120 feet to extract water from shallow aquifers.
This process helps recharge the underlying layers during rainfall events by collecting water from the surrounding watershed and directing it through recharge pits.
Consequently, underground water layers are replenished, leading to a rise in the water table.

Tropical Cyclone Remal

24 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The first cyclone in the Bay of Bengal this pre-monsoon season, Cyclone Remal, is expected to make landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Bangladesh's Khepupara on Sunday midnight.

About Cyclone Remal:

The IMD has forecasted that a depression in the Bay of Bengal is likely to concentrate into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh around May 26 midnight.

Name of the cyclone:

If the cyclone is formed, it will be named 'Remal', which means 'sand' in Arabic.
The cyclone has been named ‘Remal’, according to a system of naming cyclones in the Indian Ocean region.
A standard naming convention is followed for tropical cyclones forming in the North Indian Ocean, including the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
As the IMD is a part of the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centres (RSMCs), it gives names to the tropical cyclones after consulting 12 other countries in the region.
The name 'Remal' has been suggested by Oman which means 'sand' in Arabic.

What is a Tropical Cyclone?

A tropical cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a low-pressure centre, strong winds, and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms that produce heavy rain.
These cyclones develop over warm tropical or subtropical waters and can cause significant damage due to high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges.

How a Tropical Cyclone is Formed?

Tropical cyclones form over warm ocean waters near the equator.
The process begins when warm, moist air rises from the ocean surface, creating an area of low pressure.
This causes surrounding air with higher pressure to move toward the low-pressure area, warming up and rising as well.
As this air rises and cools, the moisture condenses to form clouds.
The system of clouds and wind starts to spin and grow, fueled by the ocean's heat.
When the wind speeds increase sufficiently, an eye forms in the centre of the cyclone.

Characteristics of a Tropical Cyclone:

Calm Center: The eye of the cyclone is calm and clear, with very low air pressure.
High Wind Speeds: The average wind speed of a tropical cyclone is around 120 km/h.
Closed Isobars: These are lines on a weather map that connect areas of equal atmospheric pressure, leading to greater wind velocity.
Oceanic Origin: Tropical cyclones develop over oceans and seas.
Movement: They typically move from east to west under the influence of trade winds.
Seasonal: Tropical cyclones are seasonal phenomena.

How are Cyclones Classified?

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) classifies cyclones based on wind speeds:
- Depression: Wind speeds between 31–49 km/h
- Deep Depression: Wind speeds between 50-61 km/h
- Cyclonic Storm: Wind speeds between 62–88 km/h
- Severe Cyclonic Storm: Wind speeds between 89-117 km/h
- Very Severe Cyclonic Storm: Wind speeds between 118-166 km/h
- Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm: Wind speeds between 166-221 km/h
- Super Cyclonic Storm: Wind speeds above 222 km/h

Global Species Action Plan (GSAP) SKILLS Platform

24 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

In response to the escalating biodiversity crisis, the Global Species Action Plan (GSAP) is designed to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).

About GSAP SKILLS Platform:

The Global Species Action Plan (GSAP) SKILLS platform, standing for (Species Conservation Knowledge, Information, Learning, Leverage, and Sharing), brings the GSAP’s content online and enables real-time updates of technical tools and resources.
This platform aims to facilitate global collaboration and partnership by connecting decision-makers, species conservation practitioners, and experts at all levels.
It ensures accessibility and relevance by providing real-time updates on technical tools and resources.
Each target within the Global Biodiversity Framework is accompanied by a summary and rationale for species conservation interventions, actions, and sub-actions, along with the actors involved and the technical tools and resources required, facilitating the scaling-up of implementation efforts.
Managed proactively by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the platform meets the needs of governments and stakeholders to take decisive action for species conservation.
The development of the GSAP SKILLS platform has been principally supported by the Ministry of Environment, Republic of Korea, with additional resources from the Tech4Nature Initiative, launched by IUCN and Huawei in 2020.

What is the Global Species Action Plan?

It has been developed to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and to address the increasing biodiversity loss worldwide.
It outlines strategic interventions and actions to conserve and sustainably manage species while ensuring equitable benefits.

About Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework:

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) is an outcome of the 2022 United Nations Biodiversity Conference.
- Its tentative title had been the "Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework".
The GBF was adopted by the 15th Conference of Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on 19 December 2022.
- It has been promoted as a "Paris Agreement for Nature".
It is one of a handful of agreements under the auspices of the CBD, and it is the most significant to date.
It has been hailed as a "huge, historic moment" and a "major win for our planet and for all of humanity."
UN Secretary-General António Guterres speaking at the 2022 biodiversity conference in Montreal which led to this treaty
The Framework is named after two cities, Kunming, which was scheduled to be the host city for COP15 in October 2020 but postponed and subsequently relinquished the hosting duties due to China's COVID policy, and Montreal, which is the seat of the Convention on Biological Diversity Secretariat and stepped in to host COP15 after Kunming's cancellation.

The League of Arab States (LAS)/Arab League

24 May 2024

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The Arab League called recently for a UN peacekeeping force in the "occupied Palestinian territories" at an international summit dominated by the war between Israel and Hamas.

What is the Arab League?

The League of Arab States was formed in Cairo on 22 March 1945 with six members: Egypt, Iraq, Transjordan (later renamed Jordan), Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Syria, with Yemen joining on 5 May 1945.
- It currently has 22 member states; Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordon, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian Authority, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
Four countries have been admitted as observers: Brazil, Eritrea, India and Venezuela.
Each member state has one vote in the League Council, while decisions are binding only on those states that have voted for them.
The official language of the Arab League and its 22 member states is Arabic.
The league seeks to promote the political, social, and military interests of its members.
The head of the league is known as the secretary-general.
- The secretary-general is appointed to a five-year term by a two-thirds majority of league members.
Headquarters: Cairo, Egypt.

Goals:

The overall aim of the league is to promote Arab interests.
Its main goals are to strengthen and coordinate the political, cultural, economic, and social programs of its members and to try to settle disputes among them or between them and third parties.
In 1950 the members also agreed to provide military support to help defend each other.

The Arab League Council:

The League Council is the highest body of the Arab League and is composed of representatives of member states, typically foreign ministers, their representatives, or permanent delegates.
- Each member state has one vote.
The Council meets twice a year, in March and September. Two or more members may request a special session if they desire.
The general secretariat manages the daily operations of the league and is headed by the secretary-general.
The general secretariat is the administrative body of the league, the executive body of the council, and the specialized ministerial councils.

El Niño and La Nina

23 May 2024

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Last month, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted above-normal rain in the upcoming monsoon season in India, with “favourable” La Nina conditions expected to set in by August-September.

What are El Niño and La Nina?

El Niño (meaning “little boy” in Spanish) and La Nina (meaning “little girl” in Spanish) are climate phenomena that are a result of ocean-atmosphere interactions, which impact the temperature of waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean which affects global weather.
The Earth’s east-west rotation causes all winds blowing between 30 degrees to the north and south of the equator to slant in their trajectory.
- As a result, winds in the region flow towards a southwesterly direction in the northern hemisphere and a northwesterly direction in the southern hemisphere which is known as the Coriolis Effect.
Due to this, winds in this belt (called trade winds) blow westwards on either side of the equator.
- Under normal ocean conditions, these trade winds travel westwards along the equator from South America towards Asia.
- Wind movement over the ocean results in a phenomenon called upwelling, where cold water beneath the ocean surface rises and displaces the warm surface waters.
At times, the weak trade winds get pushed back towards South America and there is no upwelling.
- Thus, warmer-than-usual sea surface temperatures are recorded along the equatorial Pacific Ocean, and this is known as the emergence of El Niño conditions.
Conversely, during La Nina, strong trade winds push warm water towards Asia.
- Greater upwelling gives rise to cold and nutrient-rich water towards South America.
- Thus, climatologically, El Niño and La Nina are opposite phases of what is collectively called the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle.
- It also includes a third neutral phase.
El Niño events are far more frequent than La Nina ones.
- Once every two to seven years, neutral ENSO conditions get interrupted by either El Niño or La Nina.
- Recently, La Nina conditions prevailed between 2020 and 2023.

How could the incoming La Nina impact global weather?

La Niña, driven by the cooling of ocean waters due to the ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation) cycle, can significantly influence global weather patterns.
The air circulation loop in the region, affected by these temperature changes, impacts precipitation levels in neighbouring areas and can alter the Indian monsoon.
Currently, the El Niño event that began in June last year has significantly weakened.
Neutral ENSO conditions are expected to be established by June.
Following this, La Niña conditions are anticipated to emerge, with its effects likely becoming apparent from August.

La Nina’s Impact on India:

With above normal rain forecast, the seasonal rainfall is expected to be 106 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA), which is 880mm (1971-2020 average).
Except in east and northeast India, all remaining regions are expected to receive normal or above-seasonal rainfall.
- Heavy rains could result in some regions witnessing riverine and urban flooding, mudslides, landslides and cloudbursts.
East and northeast India region, during La Nina years, receive below average seasonal rainfall.
- Therefore, there may be a shortfall in water reserves there this year.
During La Nina years, incidents of thunderstorms generally increase.
- “The east and northern India regions could experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.
With increased farming activities undertaken during the July and August rainy months, which coincides with the season’s enhanced lightning and thunderstorms, there is a high risk of fatalities in these regions.
In addition to ENSO, there are other parameters that can impact the monsoon.
However, in a La Nina year, a deficit monsoon over India can be easily ruled out.

La Nina’s Impact on the World:

Similar to India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and their neighbouring countries receive good rainfall during a La Nina year.
- This year, Indonesia has already witnessed floods.
On the other hand, droughts are common in southern regions of North America, where winters become warmer than usual.
- Canada and the northwestern coast of the United States see heavy rainfall and flooding.
- Southern Africa receives higher than usual rainfall, whereas eastern regions of the continent suffer below-average rainfall.
ENSO has a huge impact on hurricane activity over the Atlantic Ocean.
During a La Nina year, the hurricane activity here increases.
- For instance, the Atlantic Ocean churned out a record 30 hurricanes during the La Nina year 2021.

Is Climate Change Affecting ENSO?

Over India, El Niño is known to suppress the southwest monsoon rainfall and drive higher temperatures and intense heat waves, like the present summer season.
In the past, monsoon seasons during years following an El Niño were 1982-1983 and 1987-1988, with both 1983 and 1988 recording bountiful rainfall.
- At present too, a similar situation could play out.
The 2020-2023 period witnessed the longest La Nina event of the century.
Thereafter, ENSO neutral conditions developed, which soon gave way to El Niño by June 2023 which has been weakening since December last year.
Scientists say that climate change is set to impact the ENSO cycle.
Many studies suggest that global warming tends to change the mean oceanic conditions over the Pacific Ocean and trigger more El Niño events.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has also said that climate change is likely to affect the intensity and frequency of extreme weather and climate events linked to El Niño and La Nina.

Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)

23 May 2024

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The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) will now be open to new members and observers after a historic first charter of the grouping came into force on 20 May.

What is BIMSTEC?

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a multilateral regional organization that brings together seven member states located in the littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of Bengal, forming a contiguous regional unity.
Aims: The primary aim of BIMSTEC is to accelerate shared growth and cooperation among littoral and adjacent countries in the Bay of Bengal region.
Formation: The organization was initially founded as BIST-EC in June 1997, following the adoption of the Bangkok Declaration.
- The founding members included Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
With Myanmar's entry in late 1997, the organization evolved into BIMST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Economic Cooperation).
In 2004, the inclusion of Nepal and Bhutan led to the formation of BIMSTEC, as we know it today.
The current member states comprise five South Asian nations: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, and two Southeast Asian nations: Myanmar and Thailand.
BIMSTEC's Permanent Secretariat is situated in Dhaka, Bangladesh, serving as a hub for regional cooperation and coordination among member states.

Areas of cooperation:

BIMSTEC functions as a sector-driven cooperative organization, initially focusing on six key sectors: Trade, Technology, Energy, Transport, Tourism, and Fisheries.
Over time, the scope of cooperation has expanded, and as of now, BIMSTEC has identified 14 priority areas of cooperation.
The inclusion of Climate Change in 2008 marked the 14th priority area.
Within these priority areas, each member country takes responsibility for leading specific sectors.
This allows for focused efforts and utilization of regional expertise.
- India, for example, is the leading country in several crucial areas, including Transport & Communication, Tourism, Environment & Disaster Management, and Counter-Terrorism & Transnational Crime.
This leadership role involves coordinating initiatives, sharing best practices, and driving collaborative efforts within these sectors to enhance regional development and cooperation.

Planetary Alignment

23 May 2024

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Next month, on June 3, there will be a planetary alignment that may actually allow you to witness six planets align in the sky.

What is a Planetary Alignment?

Planetary alignment is a term used to describe the positioning of planets in the solar system such that they appear to be in a straight line or close to one when viewed from a specific vantage point, for us that's Earth.
It is an astronomical event that happens when, by coincidence, the orbits of several of the planets of the Solar System bring them to roughly the same side of the Sun at the same time.
This phenomenon is more an illusion of perspective rather than the planets being in a perfect line in space.
It’s important to emphasise that the planets aren’t forming a straight line in space – that’s a much rarer astronomical event called a syzygy.
- However, because all the planets, including the Earth, orbit around the Sun in roughly the same orientation (moving in which we call the “Plane of the Ecliptic”), when they’re on the same side of the Sun as each other, they appear to form a line in the sky when we view them from Earth.”
Planetary alignments are rather common within themselves, especially when two, three, or even four planets align in the sky.
- Five or more planets aligning, however, is less common.
April 8, 2024, was the last time the planets were all in alignment.

Which planets will align?

Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will form a near-straight line, offering an extraordinary opportunity to witness this cosmic phenomenon.

Which planets will be visible?

While six planets align, not all of them will be visible to the naked eye, due to their vast distance from Earth.
Meanwhile, the Moon will also play a spoilsport as it distorts the visibility.
Mercury and Jupiter will be tricky to see in the sky due to their proximity to the Sun in their orbit.
However, Mars and Saturn will be visible to the naked eye, though very dim.
Meanwhile, keen observers will need telescopes or high-powered binoculars to spot the distant planets Uranus and Neptune.

Economic Capital Framework (ECF)

23 May 2024

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The Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved a record surplus transfer of Rs 2.11 lakh crore to the Central government for the fiscal year 2023-24, determined based on the Economic Capital Framework (ECF).

What is the Economic Capital Framework (ECF)?

The Economic Capital Framework (ECF) is an objective, rule-based, transparent methodology for determining the appropriate level of risk provisions (fund allocation to capital reserve) that is to be made under Section 47 of the Reserve Bank of India Act.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) developed an Economic Capital Framework (ECF) for determining the allocation of funds to its capital reserves so that any risk contingency can be met as well as to transfer the profit of the RBI to the government.
There are two clear objectives for the ECF.
- First, the RBI as a macroeconomic institution has the responsibility to fight any disorder especially a crisis in the financial system. Here, to meet such a crisis, the RBI should have adequate funds attached under the capital reserve.
- Second, is transferring the remaining part of the net income to the government.
The process of adding funds to the capital reserve is a yearly one where the RBI allots money out of its net income to the capital reserve.
How much funds shall be added to the capital reserve each year depends upon the risky situation in the financial system and the economy.
The process of allocation of funds is technically called as provisioning (risk provisioning etc.,) to the reserves.
After allotting money to the capital reserve, the remaining net income of the RBI is transferred to the government as profit.
Since the government is the shareholder of the RBI, the latter’s income (means profit) should be transferred to the Government (Section 47 of the RBI Act).
Previously, there were several attempts to frame an ECF for the RBI. However, under the changed circumstances, the RBI central board constituted a new committee (under Bimal Jalan) to design an ECF in 2018.

What is a Bimal Jalan Committee?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in November 2018 had constituted a six-member committee, chaired by former governor Dr Bimal Jalan, to review the current economic capital framework (ECF), after the Ministry of Finance asked the central bank to follow global practices.

What did the Bimal Jalan Committee Recommend?

According to the Committee, a better distinction between the two components of RBI's economic capital, realised equity and revaluation balances, was needed.
- The realised equity can be used as a buffer in meeting losses, whereas the revaluation balances will be used only during market risks as they are unrealised valuation gains and cannot be distributed.
The Committee has recommended the adoption of Expected Shortfall (ES) under stressed conditions for measuring the RBI’s market risk and asked to adopt a target of ES 99.5 per cent confidence level.
It also asked to maintain a Contingent Risk Buffer (CRB) within 6.5 per cent and 5.5 per cent of RBI's balance sheet.
The Jalan Committee recommended a surplus distribution policy that follows the realised equity maintained by the RBI.
The panel also suggested that the RBI’s ECF should be reviewed every five years.
In August 2019, the Central Board of the RBI, chaired by Governor Shaktikanta Das, finalised the RBI’s accounts for 2018-19 using the revised framework to determine risk provisioning and surplus transfer. According to the reports, the RBI had over Rs 9 trillion of surplus capital with it.

Personality Rights

23 May 2024

International Criminal Court (ICC)

21 May 2024

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International Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor recently announced that he has applied for arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for crimes against humanity in the ongoing Gaza war.

What is the International Criminal Court (ICC)?

The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague (Netherlands) is a permanent global court established in 2002.
The ICC was created as a result of the Rome Statute, a treaty established at a United Nations conference in Italy and signed in 1998 by 120 countries — giving the ICC its power.
- The ICC is independent of the United Nations (UN) but is endorsed by the UN General Assembly.
- It also maintains a cooperation agreement with the UN.
It has the power to prosecute individuals and leaders for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes.
Unlike the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which is an organ of the UN, the ICC does not prosecute states.

The Court does not have universal jurisdiction:

Its jurisdiction only applies to crimes committed by nationals of States Parties or Non-States Parties that have recognized its jurisdiction through declaration and crimes committed in such States.
The Court may also exercise its jurisdiction for crimes that have been referred to it by the United Nations Security Council, in accordance with a resolution adopted under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations.

The Court’s jurisdiction is governed by the principle of complementarity:

It does not relieve States of their primary responsibility and only intervenes when the States have been unable or did not wish, to try crimes under their jurisdiction.
The Court is not a United Nations body. However, it is part of the international system to fight against impunity and prevent and handle crises.

How is the ICC governed?

The Rome Statute created three bodies:
- The International Criminal Court
- The Assembly of States Parties
- The Trust Fund for Victims
The Assembly of States Parties (ASP) is made up of representatives of States Parties.
It provides general guidelines while respecting the independence of the Court and makes decisions relating to how it operates (in particular by electing judges and the Prosecutor and by approving the ICC’s budget).
The Trust Fund for Victims was created by the ASP to grant individual reparations to victims by executing reparations orders handed down by the Court.
- It also contributes to their rehabilitation through psychological and physical recovery and material support.
- The Fund has financed projects in Uganda, the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The International Criminal Court is made up of four bodies:

The Presidency (made up of three judges) is responsible for external relations with States, organizes the Divisions’ judicial work and supervises the administrative work of the Registry;
The Judicial Divisions – the Pre-Trial Division, the Trial Division and the Appeals Division – carry out judicial proceedings;
The Office of the Prosecutor carries out preliminary analyses, investigations and prosecutions;
The Registry carries out non-judicial activities related to safety, interpretation, information and outreach or support to lawyers for the defence and victims.

The recruitment process for judges at the ICC:

Every three years, the ASP elects six new judges, a third of the 18 ICC judges, for a term of nine years.
The candidates for the position of judge at the ICC are presented by the States Parties.
The election of judges is governed by a unique procedure that aims to ensure, insofar as possible, that there is a balanced bench with regard to legal expertise, geographical representation and gender.

How does the International Criminal Court differ from the International Court of Justice?

International Criminal Court:

1. Part of the United Nations (UN)?

Ans. No, The International Criminal Court is independent but co-operates closely with the UN.

2. What is its aim?

Ans. To try individuals who are suspected of the crime of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity or the crime of aggression.

3. Where is it located?

Ans. The Hague

International Court of Justice:

1. Part of the United Nations (UN)?

Ans. No, The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.

2. What is its aim?

Ans. To settle legal disputes between states,and to advise the UN on legal questions.

3. Where is it located?

Ans. The Hague

AI Agents

22 May 2024

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Known as ‘AI agents’, GPT-4o and Project Astra have been touted as far superior to conventional voice assistants such as Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant.

What are AI Agents?

AI agents are sophisticated AI systems that can engage in real-time, multi-modal (text, image, or voice) interactions with humans.
Unlike conventional language models, which solely work on text-based inputs and outputs, AI agents can process and respond to a wide variety of inputs including voice, images, and even input from their surroundings.
AI agents are designed to perceive their environment and take actions in order to achieve specific goals.
- They perceive their environment through sensors, process the information using algorithms or models, and then take actions using actuators or other means.
AI agents can range from simple systems that follow predefined rules to complex, autonomous entities that learn and adapt based on their experiences.
They're utilized in various fields, including robotics, gaming, virtual assistants, autonomous vehicles, and more.
These agents can be reactive (responding directly to stimuli), deliberative (planning and making decisions), or even have learning capabilities (adapting their behaviour based on data and experiences).

How are they Different From Large Language Models?

While large language models (LLMs) like GPT-3 and GPT-4 have the ability only to generate human-like text, AI agents make interactions more natural and immersive with the help of voice, vision, and environmental sensors.
- Unlike LLMs, AI agents are designed for instantaneous, real-time conversations with responses much similar to humans.
LLMs lack contextual awareness, while AI agents can understand and learn from the context of interactions, allowing them to provide more relevant and personalised responses.
Also, language models do not have any autonomy since they only generate text output.
AI agents, however, can perform complex tasks autonomously such as coding, data analysis, etc.
When integrated with robotic systems, AI agents can even perform physical actions.

What are the Potential Uses of AI Agents?

AI agents can serve as intelligent and highly capable assistants.
They are capable of handling an array of tasks, from offering personalised recommendations to scheduling appointments.
AI agents can be ideal for customer service as they can offer seamless natural interactions, and resolve queries instantly without actually the need for human interventions.
In the field of education and training, AI agents can act as personal tutors, customise themselves based on a student’s learning styles, and may even offer a tailored set of instructions.
In healthcare, they could assist medical professionals by providing real-time analysis, diagnostic support, and even monitoring patients.

Risks and Challenges Associated With AI Agents:

While AI agents showcase immense potential for the future, they are not without risks.
Privacy and security are a key area of concern as AI agents gain access to more personal data and environmental information.
Just like any AI model, AI agents can carry forward biases from their training data or algorithms, leading to harmful outcomes.

As these systems become more common, appropriate regulations and governance frameworks should be laid out to ensure their responsible deployment.

Doppler Radar Speed Guns

22 May 2024

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The Consumer Affairs Ministry has invited public comments by June 11 on draft rules for microwave Doppler radar equipment used to measure vehicle speeds on roads, according to a circular issued by the ministry.

What are Doppler Radar Speed Guns?

Doppler radar speed guns are tools that use the Doppler effect to measure the speed of moving objects, such as vehicles.
They consist of a radio transmitter and receiver that send out a narrow beam of radio waves.
When these waves bounce off a moving object, their frequency changes due to the Doppler effect.
This phenomenon occurs when the frequency of a wave changes as its source moves relative to an observer.

The Doppler Effect

The Doppler effect refers to the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer moving relative to the wave source.
In the case of a radar speed gun, the waves in question are radio waves.

How do Doppler Radar Speed Guns work?

As the object moves toward or away from the radar gun, the frequency of the reflected waves is altered.
- If the object is approaching the radar, the frequency increases
- If it's moving away, the frequency decreases
The radar speed gun analyzes these changes to calculate the object's speed using the following equation:
- v = Δf/f × c/2
- where v is the object's speed, Δf is the frequency shift, f is the transmitted frequency, and c is the speed of light.
Doppler radar speed guns are commonly used by law enforcement to monitor vehicle speeds, ensuring safety on the roads.
They can also be found in various other applications, such as aviation, navigation, and meteorology.

Advantages

Non-Contact Measurement: Measures speed without needing to be in contact with the vehicle.
Quick and Accurate: Provides rapid speed measurements with high accuracy.
Versatile: Can be used in various conditions and for different types of moving objects.

Census Begins for Blue Sheep and Himalayan ibex

22 May 2024

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Wildlife authorities in Himachal Pradesh’s high altitude, cold desert district of Lahaul & Spiti have started surveys as part of the census to estimate the population of blue sheep or bharal and the Himalayan ibex, the main prey of the iconic snow leopard.

About Himalayan Ibex:

The Himalayan ibex, a subspecies of the Siberian ibex, is native to the Himalayan regions of India, Pakistan, Tibet, and Nepal.
These sure-footed, sturdy wild goats belong to the genus Capra in the family Bovidae and are typically found in mountainous regions across Europe, Asia, and northeastern Africa.
Scientific Name: Capra sibirica hemalayanus
Habitat: Himalayan ibex inhabit the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including the Trans-Himalayan areas, at elevations between 3,000 and 5,800 meters.
In India, they are primarily found in the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Features:

Size: Adult Himalayan ibex weighs about 90 kg and stands around 40 inches tall.
Sexual Dimorphism: Males are larger than females and have large, curved horns with front notches that grow each year.
Coat: Their coat varies from light brown to reddish-brown with a white belly and distinctive black and white markings on their legs.
- The coat is thick and woolly in winter, shedding in early summer. A darker dorsal stripe is also present.
Behaviour: They are typically found in small herds, sometimes numbering up to 50 individuals.
- They are agile and can run at speeds of up to 50 km/h.

Conservation Status:

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened

About Blue Sheep/Bharal:

The blue sheep, also known as the bharal, is a caprine species native to the high Himalayas.
Its scientific name is Pseudois nayaur, and it is the sole member of the genus Pseudois.

Distribution:

The bharal is found in several countries, including India, Bhutan, China (specifically in Gansu, Ningxia, Sichuan, Tibet, and Inner Mongolia), Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.

Features:

Size: Medium-sized caprids, measuring 115 to 165 cm (45 to 65 in) in length, with tails ranging from 10 to 20 cm (3.9 to 7.9 in).
They stand 69 to 91 cm (27 to 36 in) at the shoulder.
Sexual Dimorphism: Males are slightly larger than females.
Coat: Their short, dense coat is slate grey, often with a bluish shine. The underparts and backs of the legs are white, while the chest and fronts of the legs are black.
Horns: The horns grow upwards, curve out, and then back, resembling an upside-down arc.
Behaviour: Bharal are diurnal, alternating between feeding and resting on grassy mountain slopes.

Conservation Status:

IUCN Red List: Least Concern
Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule ICoat: Their short, dense coat is slate grey, often with a bluish shine. The underparts and backs of the legs are white, while the chest and fronts of the legs are black.
Horns: The horns grow upwards, curve out, and then back, resembling an upside-down arc.
Behaviour: Bharal are diurnal, alternating between feeding and resting on grassy mountain slopes.

Conservation Status:

IUCN Red List: Least Concern
Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule I

Aircraft Turbulence

22 May 2024

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A passenger died and many were injured when a Singapore Airlines’ Boeing 777 headed from London to Singapore “severe turbulence” en route.

What is the Aircraft Turbulence

Turbulence means disruption of airflow over the wings of an aeroplane, which causes it to enter irregular vertical motion.
These pockets of disturbed air can have many causes, most obviously the unstable weather patterns that trigger storms.
It is caused by the relative movement of disturbed air through which an aircraft is flying.

There are at least seven kinds of turbulence that an aircraft can run into:

Wind Shear: It happens when there is a sudden change in wind direction, whether vertically or horizontally.
- Typically occurs close to thunderstorms, jet streams, etc.; tricky for pilots as tailwinds suddenly change to headwinds or vice versa.
Frontal: Created in the frontal zone when warm air is lifted by a sloping frontal surface and friction between opposing air masses.
- Most palpable when warm air is moist; intensity increases with thunderstorms. Most commonly close to thunderstorms.
Convective: When land surface temperature rises, the air above the ground heats up and rises, creating air pockets around it.
- Convection currents cause difficulties during approach as they tend to affect the rate of descent.
Wake: It forms behind an aircraft when it flies through air-creating wingtip vortices.
Mechanical: This type of turbulence occurs when tall solid objects such as mountains or highrise constructions disrupt the normal airflow, causing the air for planes to fly through to become dirty.
Clear Air: It occurs when an aircraft crosses from one air mass to another, which has a different direction.
- Clear air turbulence could also happen when an aircraft moves out of a jet stream. Clear air turbulence is mainly caused by wind or jet streams.
Mountain View: It is one of the most severe; these are oscillations that form on the downwind side of mountains when strong winds flow towards mountains in a perpendicular fashion.
- Aircraft tracking perpendicularly across, or downwind of a mountain, may experience a sudden loss of altitude followed by a sudden reduction in airspeed.

Are turbulence incidents dangerous?

It depends on their nature and intensity.
Aircraft undergo some form of turbulence on a regular basis and pilots are trained to deal with these.
However, there have been several instances when turbulence has brought down modern jetliners.

Even in these cases, while intense turbulence has been the main cause of an accident, several other factors — such as lack of proper training, and poor dissemination of weather or wind-related information — have contributed to the accident.

Paris Principles on NHRIs

21 May 2024

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For the second year in a row, an organisation affiliated with the UN human rights office has deferred accreditation for India’s human rights body, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

What are the Paris Principles?

The Paris Principles, formally Principles Relating to the Status of National Human Rights Institutions, which were adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 20, 1993, set out minimum standards that NHRIs must meet in order to be considered credible and to operate effectively.
The Paris Principles lay down six main criteria to determine which NHRIs are functioning effectively and would receive accreditation from GANHRI.
They are
- broad mandate based on universal human rights norms and standards
- autonomy from the government
- independence guaranteed by the statute or Constitution
- pluralism, including membership that broadly reflects their society
- adequate resources and
- adequate powers of investigation
These Principles also say that NHRIs should be equipped to receive complaints and cases brought by individuals, third parties, NGOs, trade unions, or other organisations representative of professionals such as lawyers and journalists.

Accreditation:

Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), which represents about 120 national human rights institutions, is responsible for reviewing and accrediting these institutions in compliance with the Paris Principles every five years.
GANHRI acts through its Subcommittee on Accreditation (SCA), which categorises member NHRIs into two groups, ‘A’ and ‘B’. As of November 29, 2023, 120 NHRIs were accredited by GANHRI, 88 of which were given an ‘A’ rank, indicating full compliance with the Paris Principles; the remaining 32 were put under ‘B’, indicating partial compliance.

Why has India’s Accreditation Been Put on Hold?

India’s accreditation status was put on hold after the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) meeting on May 1 in Geneva.
- The SCA, which meets twice a year, scrutinizes each country’s human rights institution.
The May 1 meeting, chaired by New Zealand with participation from South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Spain, highlighted several concerns about the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India.
Issues raised include a lack of transparency in NHRC appointments, conflicts of interest with police overseeing investigations, and no minority or female representation on the panel.
Additionally, nine human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, expressed concerns about India’s human rights record, citing increasing restrictions on civic space and discrimination against minorities.
UN human rights experts also highlighted “attacks on minorities, media, and civil society” in India.

What Happens if India Loses Accreditation?

If India loses its 'A' status accreditation, its National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) will face significant limitations. With 'A' status, NHRIs can participate in the UN Human Rights Council, its subsidiary bodies, and some UNGA bodies and mechanisms, and hold full membership in the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) with voting and governance rights.
With 'B' status, NHRIs can attend GANHRI meetings but cannot vote or hold governance positions. Without proper accreditation, India’s NHRC cannot represent the country at the UN Human Rights Council, vote, or hold governance roles.
India’s review has been deferred, and a final decision is yet to be made.

What is India’s Record of Accreditation with GANHRI?

India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established in 1993 and first accredited by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) in 1999.
It achieved 'A' status in 2006 and retained it in 2011.
- However, in 2016, accreditation was deferred due to issues like the appointment of political representatives and lack of gender balance and pluralism in the NHRC staff.
- Despite these concerns, the NHRC regained 'A' status in 2017.
In 2023, the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) withheld India’s accreditation again, citing six reasons, including the NHRC’s inability to operate without government interference and the presence of too many government officials and individuals affiliated with the ruling party in the commission.

Rangelands in India

21 May 2024

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A new report by the United Nations paints a concerning picture of the world’s rangelands, with up to 50 per cent estimated to be degraded.

What are Rangelands?

A rangeland is an open area that is suitable for grazing livestock.
Rangelands are home to grass and grass-like plants, shrubs, and scattered trees.
They are, however, unfit for growing crops due to their aridity and poor soil quality.
Rangelands cover 80 million square kilometres, or over 54 per cent of the terrestrial surface, constituting the largest land cover/use type in the world but accounting for one-sixth of global food production and representing nearly one-third of the planet’s carbon reservoir.
According to the Rangelands Atlas, livestock production systems in rangelands cover 45 per cent of the global land surface, almost half of which is situated in drylands.
In India, rangelands occupy about 121 million hectares and the area used for grazing is estimated at around 40 per cent of the total land surface of India, including grasslands (17 per cent), and forests (23 per cent).

Key Characteristics of Rangelands in India:

Vegetation: Rangelands in India is primarily covered with grasses and shrubs, such as Dichanthium annulatum (gamhar), Cenchrus ciliaris (buffel grass), and Ziziphus nummularia (ber).
- The presence and type of vegetation vary based on rainfall and soil conditions, with trees being scattered or sometimes entirely absent.
Climate: These areas experience semi-arid to arid climates with significant seasonal variations in rainfall.
- Droughts are a frequent challenge.
Soil: Rangeland soils are typically thin and less fertile than those found in agricultural areas.
Land Use: Rangelands are mainly used for grazing by domestic animals like cattle, sheep, and goats.
- Some of these lands also support wildlife herbivores.

The Significance and Management of Rangelands in India:

Rangelands play a pivotal role in India's ecosystem, serving as primary grazing areas for livestock, maintaining biodiversity, and providing ecological services such as soil erosion prevention, water flow regulation, and carbon storage.
These lands are also a crucial source of livelihood for millions through pastoralism, dairy production, and wool production.
However, rangelands face multiple challenges, including overgrazing, climate change, and encroachment, which negatively impact their health and productivity.
To address these issues, several management strategies have been employed:
Rotational Grazing: This approach allows for controlled grazing periods, enabling vegetation to recover and promoting long-term sustainability.
Reseeding: By reintroducing native grasses and shrubs, the quality of rangelands can be significantly enhanced.
Community-Based Management: Engaging local communities in the decision-making process fosters sustainable practices and ensures the well-being of both the rangelands and the people relying on them.
Understanding the significance of rangelands in India is essential for maintaining their vitality, supporting the livelihoods of those dependent on them, and ensuring the continued provision of vital ecological services.

Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)

21 May 2024

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A five-year-old girl from Malappuram district in Kerala who had been undergoing treatment for amoebic meningoencephalitis at the Government Medical College Hospital Kozhikode has died.

What is the Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis?

Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare brain infection that is caused by Naegleria fowleri.
- It is a free-living amoeba or a single-celled living organism.
Naegleria fowleri lives in warm fresh water and soil around the world and infects people when it enters the body through the nose.
Higher temperatures of up to 115°F (46°C) are conducive to its growth and it can survive for short periods in warm environments.
- The amoeba can be found in warm freshwater, such as lakes and rivers, swimming pools, splash pads, surf parks, or other recreational venues that are poorly maintained or minimally chlorinated.

How does Naegleria fowleri infect people?

Naegleria fowleri enters the body through the nose, usually when people are swimming. It then travels up to the brain, where it destroys the brain tissue and causes swelling.
Notably, people cannot get infected with Naegleria fowleri from drinking water contaminated with the amoeba.
PAM is also non-communicable.

Symptoms of PAM:

In the initial stage, the symptoms include headache, fever, nausea and vomiting.
Later on, the patient may have a stiff neck and experience confusion, seizures, hallucinations and slip into a state of coma.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Most people with PAM die within 1 to 18 days after symptoms begin.
It usually leads to coma and death after 5 days.”

What is the treatment for primary amoebic meningoencephalitis?

As earlier reported, scientists haven’t been able to identify any effective treatments for the disease yet.
At present, doctors treat it with a combination of drugs, including amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone.

Copernicus Emergency Management Service (CEMS) Programme

21 May 2024

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As part of a multi-agency effort to locate a helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi that crashed in East Azerbaijan province recently, the European Union activated its emergency satellite mapping service at Iran’s request as adverse weather and darkness hampered search and rescue operations.

What is the Copernicus Emergency Management Service (CEMS)?

The Copernicus Emergency Management Service (CEMS) is part of the Copernicus Programme, the European Union’s Earth Observation Programme.
CEMS is managed directly by the European Commission via the Joint Research Centre.
CEMS supports all actors involved in the management of natural or manmade disasters by providing geospatial data and images for informed decision-making.
CEMS constantly monitors Europe and the globe for signals of an impending disaster or evidence of one happening in real-time.
The service immediately notifies national authorities of their findings or can be activated on-demand and offers to provide them with maps, time series or other relevant information to better manage disaster risk.
- CEMS products are created using satellite, in-situ (non-space) and model data.
CEMS comprises two components:
- On-demand Mapping
- Early Warning & Monitoring
Copernicus EMS Early Warning and Monitoring offers critical geospatial information at European and global levels through continuous observations and forecasts for floods, droughts and forest fires.
It includes the European Flood Awareness System (EFAS), the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) and the European Drought Observatory (EDO).
It also links to the global versions of the early warning systems and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) for tropical cyclones.
- These versions cover the overseas areas of Europe that are often affected by extreme events.
The service is provided free of charge to all users either in rush mode, for emergency management activities that require immediate response and/or non-rush mode, to support emergency disaster management activities not related to immediate response, analysing pre-disaster risk assessment and population and asset vulnerability or post-disaster recovery and reconstruction.
- It can be activated only by designated authorised users.

R21/Matrix-M Vaccine

21 May 2024

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Vaccines manufacturer Serum Institute of India (SII) recently said it has started exports of the 'R21/Matrix-M' malaria vaccine to Africa as part of the global fight against the disease.

What is R21/Matrix-M Vaccine?

The R21/Matrix-M vaccine is a newly approved preventive measure against malaria in children, marking the second malaria vaccine recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) after the RTS, S/AS01 vaccine in 2021.
Developed by the Jenner Institute at Oxford University and the Serum Institute of India, the vaccine received support from the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), the Wellcome Trust, and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
This low-cost, high-efficacy vaccine is already licensed in several African countries.

How the R21/Matrix-M Vaccine Works?

Vaccines work by presenting an antigen—a component of the virus or bacteria that the immune system can recognize and respond to—to immune cells.
The R21/Matrix-M vaccine targets the plasmodium 'sporozoite', the initial form of the malaria parasite entering the human body.
Infected mosquitoes inject only a few sporozoites (10-100) before the parasite multiplies, making them an ideal target for a vaccine.
R21 is a subunit vaccine that delivers parts of a protein secreted by the sporozoite, combined with a component of the hepatitis B virus known to trigger a strong immune response.
Additionally, the vaccine contains Matrix-M, an "adjuvant" that enhances the immune system’s response, making it more potent and long-lasting.

Key Facts about Malaria:

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
There are five parasite species that cause malaria in humans, with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax posing the greatest threat.
Malaria is prevalent in tropical areas where it’s hot and humid.
- In 2020, there were an estimated 241 million malaria cases worldwide, resulting in approximately 627,000 deaths. Sub-Saharan Africa bears the heaviest burden, accounting for about 95% of malaria cases and 96% of deaths, primarily among children under five.
Children under 5 years of age are the most vulnerable group affected by malaria.
Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, nausea, and muscle pain, which can progress to severe illness and death if untreated.
- Cerebral malaria, the most severe form, can lead to coma and represents about 15% of deaths in children and nearly 20% of adult deaths.
Malaria is preventable and curable; early treatment often results in full recovery.
Treatment involves various antimalarial drugs, including chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, primaquine, artemisinin-based therapy, and atovaquone-proguanil.
The type of parasite determines the specific medication used.
Continued efforts are essential to control and ultimately eradicate malaria, with vaccines like RTS, S/AS01 (Mosquirix) and R21/Matrix-M offering promising advances in prevention, especially for children in high-risk regions.

Contaminated Blood Scandal

20 May 2024

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An independent inquiry report on the UK’s contaminated blood scandal, to be published Monday (May 20), indicates Britain may pay over 10 billion pounds ($12.70 billion) in compensation to thousands infected with HIV or hepatitis.

What is the Contaminated Blood Scandal?

During the 1970s and 1980s, thousands of people who had the blood-clotting disorder haemophilia were given blood donated or sold by people who were infected with the HIV virus and hepatitis.
- Tainted blood was also given to people who needed blood transfusions after childbirth or surgery.
In the early 1970s, the NHS (Britain’s National Health Service) started using a new treatment for haemophilia called Factor VIII.
- This was a processed pharmaceutical product that was created by pooling plasma from many donors.
- Factor VIII was considered to be a “wonder drug” for patients with classical haemophilia and Von Willebrand Syndrome (which is a bleeding disorder in which the patient’s blood cannot clot fully), more efficient and convenient than earlier treatments.
The nature of Factor VIII was such that even one infected donor could compromise the entire batch of the protein.
The product used by the NHS was imported from the United States, where a large volume of donated plasma at the time came from prisoners and users of intravenous drugs who were paid for their blood.
The inquiry report has estimated that more than 30,000 people were infected with HIV, hepatitis C or, as in the case of 1,250 haemophiliacs, both.
Most hepatitis C infections were seen in transfusion recipients, and as many as 380 children were infected with HIV.
Nearly two-thirds of those who were infected with HIV later died of AIDS-related illnesses, and an unknown number transferred HIV to their partners.
The report said that 2,400-5,000 recipients of blood developed hepatitis C, with the exact figure not known yet, as symptoms can show up years later.

How did the government react after the scandal was widely known?

It was only after 1985 that all Factor VIII products were heat-treated to kill the HIV virus.
- However, UK blood donations were not routinely screened for hepatitis C until 1991.
Evidence provided to the inquiry suggests that the British government chose to turn a blind eye to the situation, mainly due to financial considerations.
- Official documents from the 1990s revealed that due to cost concerns, the NHS did not pursue adequate testing or awareness campaigns, despite warnings in the mid-1970s about the risks of viral infections from US blood donations.
As early as 1953, the World Health Organisation (WHO), had warned of the hepatitis risks associated with the mass pooling of plasma products.
- It urged that dried plasma should be prepared from pools of between 10 to 20 donors to reduce the risk of contamination.
In 1974, the UN agency warned Britain not to import blood from countries with a high prevalence of hepatitis, such as the US.
Another warning of the risk of contracting HIV from blood products was issued in 1982.
The following year, The Lancet and WHO said haemophiliacs should be told about the dangers of donated plasma.

Calcium Carbide

20 May 2024

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Food regulator FSSAI has asked traders and food business operators not to use the banned product 'calcium carbide' for ripening of fruits.

What is Calcium Carbide?

Calcium carbide is a hazardous chemical that can have adverse effects on human health.
It is a colourless, odourless substance that reacts with moisture to produce acetylene gas, which is a known carcinogen.
- This gas can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and even skin burns.
In addition, calcium carbide also contains traces of arsenic and phosphorus, which are toxic substances that can lead to serious health complications.
Calcium carbide is a commonly used chemical compound in the agriculture industry, especially for ripening fruits.
It is a cheap and easily available substance that is widely used by fruit vendors and farmers in India to speed up the ripening process of fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and papayas.
Due to these dangers, the use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits has been banned under the Regulation of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011.
- This regulation explicitly states, "No person shall sell or offer or expose for sale or have in his premises for sale under any description, fruits which have been artificially ripened by use of acetylene gas, commonly known as carbide gas".

Ethylene gas as a safer alternative:

Considering the issue of rampant use of banned calcium carbide, FSSAI has permitted the use of ethylene gas as a safer alternative for fruit ripening in India.
Ethylene gas can be used at concentrations up to 100 ppm, depending upon the crop, variety and maturity.
- Ethylene, a naturally occurring hormone in fruits, regulates the ripening process by initiating and controlling a series of chemical and biochemical activities.
The treatment of unripe fruits with ethylene gas triggers the natural ripening process until the fruit itself starts producing ethylene in substantial quantities.
Further, the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB & RC) have approved Ethephon 39 per cent SL for the uniform ripening of mangoes and other fruits.

Nucleosynthesis

20 May 2024

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Stellar nucleosynthesis is the process by which stars forge elements inside their cores.

What is Nucleosynthesis?

Nucleosynthesis is the process by which atomic nuclei undergo nuclear reactions and decay to form new nuclei.
It is responsible for the production of new elements in the universe.
Nucleosynthesis occurs in various environments, such as during the Big Bang, in the cores of stars through nuclear fusion, and in black hole accretion disks through nuclear burning.
The process is temperature-dependent, and the rates of nuclear reactions are influenced by the temperature of the environment.
- The Big Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN) model is a fundamental theory that explains the evolution of the early universe and predicts the abundance of light elements.
Nucleosynthesis plays a crucial role in understanding the composition of the universe and can provide insights into physics beyond the standard model.

Types of nucleosynthesis:

Nucleosynthesis occurs in several different environments and phases of the universe's evolution, including:
Stellar Nucleosynthesis: This occurs within stars and is responsible for producing most of the chemical elements heavier than hydrogen and helium.
- As stars age and undergo various stages of nuclear fusion, they synthesize elements up to iron in their cores, and heavier elements during supernova explosions at the end of their life cycles.
Big Bang Nucleosynthesis: This took place during the early moments of the universe's existence, shortly after the Big Bang.
- t primarily produced the lightest elements, hydrogen, and helium, along with trace amounts of lithium, beryllium, and boron.
Cosmic Ray Spallation: High-energy cosmic rays interacting with interstellar matter can cause fragmentation of atomic nuclei, resulting in the production of lighter elements and isotopes.

Bacterial Pathogens Priority List (BPPL)

20 May 2024

Project Astra

20 May 2024

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Recently, during the company's annual developer conference, Google unveiled an early version of Project Astra.

What is Project Astra?

Project Astra is an experimental “multimodal” AI assistant developed by Google DeepMind.
It's designed to be a versatile tool that can understand and respond to information from the real world through various means, like text, voice, images, and even videos.
This makes it different from current AI assistants that mostly rely on internet searches and user input.
Building on Google’s Gemini language model, Astra has multimodal capabilities to perceive visuals, sounds, and other real-world inputs.
The aim is to create a universal AI helper that seamlessly assists us in daily life by comprehending the actual environment through sight and sound, not just text.
Astra represents Google’s vision for next-gen AI assistants.

Key Features of Google's Project Astra:

Visual Understanding: Astra can interpret and analyze visual input from its camera feed.
- It identifies objects, reads text, and describes scenes and environments in detail, allowing users to show Astra something and ask questions about it.
Voice Interaction: Astra supports natural conversation without the need to repeatedly use wake words.
- It comprehends context and facilitates back-and-forth dialogue, even allowing users to interrupt its responses.
Remembering Context: Astra retains memory of previous conversation parts, objects it has seen, and information provided by the user.
- This contextual awareness enhances the fluidity of interactions.
Multimodal Integration: Astra integrates visual and auditory inputs to form a comprehensive understanding of the current situation, correlating what it sees and hears to fully grasp the context.
Real-Time Assistance: Astra delivers real-time assistance by rapidly processing sensor data and queries, ensuring a responsive and interactive user experience.

What are Multimodal AI Models?

Multimodal AI models are advanced artificial intelligence systems that process and integrate multiple types of data inputs, such as text, images, audio, and video, to develop a comprehensive understanding of context.
By combining these different modalities, these models enhance their ability to interpret complex scenarios more accurately than unimodal systems.
- For instance, in autonomous vehicles, multimodal AI uses data from cameras, lidar, radar, and GPS for better navigation.
- In healthcare, these models integrate medical images with patient history for improved diagnostics.
Applications also include virtual assistants, which understand and respond to spoken commands while recognizing objects in images, and educational tools that combine text, video, and interactive content for richer learning experiences.
Multimodal AI models are often implemented using deep learning techniques, which allow the model to learn complex representations of the different data modalities and their interactions.
As a result, these models can capture the rich, diverse information present in real-world scenarios, where data often comes in multiple forms.

Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)

18 May 2024

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The ONDC Startup Mahotsav was held in New Delhi recently in collaboration between the Startup India initiative and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

About the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC):

The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is a network based on open protocol and will enable local commerce across segments, such as mobility, grocery, food order and delivery, hotel booking and travel, among others, to be discovered and engaged by any network-enabled application.
The platform aims to create new opportunities, curb digital monopolies support micro, small and medium enterprises and small traders and help them get on online platforms.
It is an initiative of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Features of ONDC:

ONDC, a UPI of e-commerce, seeks to democratise digital or electronic commerce, moving it from a platform-centric model to an open network.
- Through ONDC, merchants will be able to save their data to build credit history and reach consumers.
The proposed government-backed platform aims to create a level playing field for e-commerce behemoths such as Amazon, Flipkart, and offline traders who have been crying foul at the unfair trade practices of these e-tailers.
- The platform will also be compliant with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and designed for compliance with the emerging Personal Data Protection Bill.
In this system, ONDC plans to enable sellers and buyers to be digitally visible and transact through an open network, regardless of what platform or application they use.
- It will also empower merchants and consumers by breaking silos to form a single network to drive innovation and scale, transforming all businesses from retail goods, food to mobility.
The new framework aims at promoting open networks developed on open-sourced methodology, using open specifications and open network protocols independent of any specific platform.
It is expected to digitise the entire value chain, standardise operations, promote inclusion of suppliers, derive efficiencies in logistics and enhance value for consumers.
According to the government's official statement, ONDC shall take all measures to ensure confidentiality and privacy of data in the network.
- ONDC shall not mandate the sharing of any transaction-level data by participants with ONDC.
- It will work with its participants to publish anonymised aggregate metrics on network performance without compromising on confidentiality and privacy.
Presently, ONDC is in its pilot stage and the government has set up a nine-member advisory council, including Nandan Nilekani from Infosys and National Health Authority CEO R S Sharma, on measures needed to design and accelerate the adoption of ONDC.

Plunging Region of a Black Hole

18 May 2024

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For the first time, astronomers have observed the area right at the edge of a black hole where matter stops orbiting and plunges straight in at near-light speed.

What is the Plunging Region of a Black Hole?

The plunging region of a black hole is an area where matter ceases to orbit the celestial object and instead falls directly into its incalculable depths.
- This phenomenon was initially predicted by Albert Einstein's groundbreaking theory of general relativity, which continues to shape our understanding of the cosmos.
As matter approaches a black hole, it is torn apart and forms a rotating ring known as an accretion disc.
According to general relativity, there exists an inner boundary within this disc, beyond which nothing can maintain its orbit around the black hole.
- Instead, the material is drawn towards the black hole at nearly the speed of light, marking the beginning of the plunging region.
This region, situated just outside the event horizon, represents the point of no return for matter falling into a black hole.
Despite the challenges posed by studying these enigmatic structures, researchers believe that investigating plunging regions could unveil new insights into the formation and evolution of black holes.
Additionally, these studies may offer valuable information about the fundamental properties of space-time, potentially transforming our understanding of the universe and its most mysterious inhabitants.

What is a Black Hole?

A black hole is a celestial phenomenon that arises from the remnants of a massive star that has exhausted its nuclear fuel and undergone gravitational collapse.
It is characterized by an unfathomably dense core, known as a singularity, which is enveloped by a boundary called the event horizon.
The event horizon serves as a point of no return; any matter or light that crosses this boundary is irrevocably drawn towards the singularity, making it impossible to escape the immense gravitational pull.

Black holes are classified into three categories based on their size and formation process:

Stellar-mass black holes: These form when a massive star collapses at the end of its life cycle. They typically have masses ranging from approximately five to several dozen times that of our Sun.
Supermassive black holes: Found at the centre of most galaxies, including our own Milky Way, these colossal structures boast masses that can reach billions of times the mass of the Sun.
Intermediate-mass black holes: With masses between those of stellar mass and supermassive black holes, these entities are thought to form through the merger of smaller black holes or the collapse of dense clusters of stars.
Due to their extreme nature, black holes have been the subject of extensive research and fascination in the scientific community.
The study of these enigmatic structures continues to yield invaluable insights into the fundamental principles governing our universe.

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day

18 May 2024

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To commemorate the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, C-DOT, the premier Telecom R&D Centre of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) celebrates and announces special Initiatives “NIDHI” & “STAR Program” for the development of indigenous telecom solutions & technologies.

What is World Telecommunication and Information Society Day?

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is celebrated every year in May to honour the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on May 17, 1969.
The day can be traced back to commemoration of the two significant events in the history of global communication.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) commemorates two significant events in the history of global communication.
- Firstly, it marks the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865, when the first International Telegraph Convention was signed.
Followed by, in November 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) called upon the United Nations General Assembly to also declare May 17th as World Information Society Day.
- And then in 2006, the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference in Antalya, Turkey, agreed to combine the two events as World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
This year’s World Telecommunications and Information Society Day 2024 focuses on the theme, “Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development,” underlying how digital innovation may help link everyone and create sustainable prosperity for all.

About the International Telecommunication Union (ITU):

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs).
Established in 1865, it is the oldest among the UN’s 15 specialized agencies.
ITU is responsible for allocating global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, developing technical standards to ensure network interconnectivity, and improving ICT access for underserved communities.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, ITU is part of the UN Development Group and operates 12 regional offices worldwide.
It functions as an intergovernmental public-private partnership with 193 member states and around 800 sector members. India, a member since 1952, was re-elected to the ITU Council for the 2019-2022 term.

Mitogenome

18 May 2024

Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI)

18 May 2024

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The DCGI recently issued a directive to all medical device license holders and manufacturers, instructing them to report any adverse events associated with life-saving medical equipment on the government's Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI) platform.

What is the Materiovigilance Programme of India?

The Materiovigilance Programme of India was launched on July 6, 2015, that monitors and evaluates the safety of medical devices across the country.
It aims to systematically collect and scientifically analyze data on adverse events related to medical devices, offering guidance on their safe usage and supporting regulatory decision-making processes.

Objectives and Importance:

The primary goal of the Materiovigilance Programme is to enhance patient safety in India by carefully recording, assessing, and determining the root causes of adverse events or risks associated with medical devices, including in-vitro diagnostics.
By coordinating the reporting and analysis of such events, the programme seeks to inform regulatory bodies and healthcare professionals, promoting the appropriate use of medical devices and ultimately improving patient safety.

Governance and Regulation:

Since 2018, the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has served as the National Coordination Centre (NCC) for the programme.
The Materiovigilance Programme is regulated by the Central Drugs Standards Control Organization (CDSCO), operating under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
- The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and Medical Device Rule, 2017, currently govern all medical devices in India.
Given that the country is 80% dependent on imports for medical devices, the programme's role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of these essential healthcare tools is crucial.

About Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI):

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) leads the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), ensuring the quality of drug supply nationwide.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

Functions:

Approving new drugs and overseeing clinical trials.
Establishing standards for drug manufacturing, sales, import, and distribution in India.
Granting licenses for specific drug categories such as blood products, IV fluids, vaccines, and sera.
Ensuring uniform implementation of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940, and its associated rules to safeguard patient safety, rights, and well-being.

Baobab Tree

17 May 2024

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A new study has uncovered the origins of baobabs, the tall and uniquely shaped deciduous trees that are famously spotted on the island of Madagascar.

What are Baobab Trees?

Baobabs are known for their great heights, with some extending up to 50 metres, and exceptionally long lifespans going up to 2,000 years.
In India too, a few baobab trees exist, including one near the Golconda Fort in Andhra Pradesh that is believed to be more than 400 years old.
The trees have trunks with large circumferences and thin, spindly branches.
In local cultures, the trees are also revered because of the multiple uses their parts have, with the fruits and seeds being edible, the seed oil used for cooking and the bark fibre for clothing.
They are also called “upside down” trees because of their tops resembling an uprooted plant turned upside down.

Essential for the ecosystem:

Baobab trees are fundamental to the entire dry African savanna ecosystem.
They help keep soil conditions humid, aid nutrient recycling, and slow soil erosion with their massive root systems.
As a succulent, the tree absorbs and stores water from the rainy season in its massive trunk, producing a nutrient-dense fruit in the dry season, which can grow up to a foot long.
- The fruit contains tartaric acid and Vitamin C, serving as a vital nutrient and food source for many species.
They are also an essential source of water and shelter for hundreds of animals, including birds, lizards, monkeys, and even elephants – which can eat their bark for moisture when there is no water nearby.

In human culture:

For humans, the baobab’s fruit pulp can be eaten, soaked in water to make a refreshing drink, preserved into a jam, or roasted and ground to make a coffee-like substance.
The bark can be pounded to make everything from rope, mats, and baskets to paper and cloth.
Leaves are also used, they can be boiled and eaten, or glue can be made from their flower’s pollen.

What Did the Study Find?

The study highlighted the threats facing baobab trees and examined their genetic makeup.
- It reported that three Madagascar species of baobab trees are threatened with extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
The study identified various threats, including residential and commercial development and livestock farming, which require land clearing.
- However, even species not currently endangered show declining populations, suggesting that more rigorous conservation strategies are needed to ensure their long-term survival.
- This necessitates a detailed understanding of the baobabs' genetics.
Genomic sequencing revealed a consensus on the monophyly of the Malagasy lineage from Madagascar.
- According to DNA studies, baobab trees first arose in Madagascar 21 million years ago, with their seeds later carried by ocean currents to Australia and mainland Africa, where they evolved into distinct species.
The study also warned that climate change poses severe threats to Adansonia suarezensis from Madagascar, predicting its possible extinction by 2080.
- Due to their unique ecological roles and low genetic diversity, these species are likely to have reduced resilience to environmental changes and habitat fragmentation.

Leopard Cat

17 May 2024

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The leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), a small wild cat native to South, Southeast and East Asia, was recently spotted in Maharashtra’s Pench, in what is being billed as Central India’s first sighting of the species.

About Leopard Cat:

The Leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) is a small wild cat native to continental South, Southeast, and East Asia.
With its distinctive leopard-like colouring, this small wildcat is known for its remarkable adaptability and extensive distribution across Asia.

Habitat and Distribution:

Leopard cats can be found in a variety of environments, ranging from the Amur region in Russia to the Korean Peninsula, China, Indochina, the Indian Subcontinent, northern Pakistan, and as far south as the Philippines and the Sunda Islands of Indonesia.
Although they can inhabit agriculturally used areas, leopard cats prefer forested habitats, including tropical evergreen rainforests, subtropical deciduous and coniferous forests, and plantations at various altitudes.

Physical Characteristics:

Size and appearance vary considerably across their range, with a length of 45 to 75 cm (18 to 30 inches), excluding their 23-35 cm (9-13.8 inches) tail.
Their colouration ranges from pale tawny to yellow, red, or grey, with white underparts and distinctive spots.
Most leopard cats have four black stripes running from their forehead to the nape, breaking into short bands and elongated spots on their shoulders.

Behaviour and Diet:

As solitary and nocturnal carnivores, leopard cats primarily feed on rodents, tree shrews, and hares, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems.

Conservation Status:

Listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, leopard cats face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Continued monitoring and conservation efforts are essential to protect this species and its vital role in Asia's diverse ecosystems.

Facts about Pench Tiger Reserve:

Location: Situated in the southern reaches of the Satpura hills, the Pench Tiger Reserve spans Seoni and Chhindwara districts in Madhya Pradesh and extends into Nagpur district in Maharashtra as a separate Sanctuary.
- It derives its name from the Pench River, which flows from north to south through the Reserve.
The reserve encompasses the Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park, the Pench Mowgli Sanctuary, and a buffer zone.
The area served as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's renowned work, "The Jungle Book."
Vegetation: The undulating topography supports a diverse range of vegetation, from moist, sheltered valleys to open, dry deciduous forests.
Flora: Pench Tiger Reserve boasts a rich variety of flora, including teak, saag, mahua, and various grasses and shrubs.
Fauna: Renowned for its wildlife diversity, the reserve is home to large herds of Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Gaur (Indian Bison), and wild boar.
- Key predators include the tiger, leopard, wild dogs, and wolf. Additionally, the reserve supports over 325 species of resident and migratory birds, including the Malabar Pied Hornbill, Indian Pitta, Osprey, Grey Headed Fishing Eagle, and White Eyed Buzzard.

Deda Method of Preserving Seeds

17 May 2024

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In his 50s, Madakam Unga, a Muria tribal farmer who migrated from Chhattisgarh and settled in the dense forests of the Godavari Valley, is still practising ‘deda’, a traditional method of preserving seeds that his ancestors handed over to his family.

What is the Deda Method?

The Deda Method is an ancestral seed preservation technique passed down through generations.
This unique method involves the use of natural materials to create a protective, airtight environment for the seeds, ensuring their viability for future planting.

Preservation Process:

Seeds are packed tightly and wrapped in leaves to form a sturdy bundle resembling a boulder.
The seed-filled leaf packages are then woven together with Siali leaves (Bauhinia vahlii), locally known as 'addakulu,' forming the distinctive deda structure.
A deda consists of three layers:
- The innermost layer contains wood ash spread over Siali leaves.
- The ash is then covered with lemon leaves, creating a protective casing.
- Lastly, seeds are preserved within this casing and sealed, with each deda supporting up to 5kg of seeds.

Advantages:

The Deda Method effectively protects seeds from pests and worms, ensuring their quality and viability.
Seeds preserved using this technique can be used for cultivation for up to five years.
This method is particularly useful for preserving the seeds of various pulses, such as green gram, red gram, black gram, and beans.
By utilizing the Deda Method, farmers can maintain a reliable, diverse collection of seeds, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and supporting long-term food security.

Facts About Muria Tribe:

Location: The Muria tribe is found in the states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
Language: They speak Koya, a Dravidian language.
Population and Status: In Andhra Pradesh, the Muria, also known as 'Gutti Koyas' by native tribes, are internally displaced people (IDPs) with a population of around 6,600.
Cultural Practices: The Muria have a progressive outlook on marriage and life.
- A notable example is the Ghotul, a communal dormitory that provides an environment for Muria youth to explore and understand their sexuality.

Recognition: While most Gutti Koya belong to the Gond or Muria communities, which are recognized as Scheduled Tribes in Chhattisgarh, they lack such recognition in Telangana.

Synchrotron

17 May 2024

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China's latest scientific achievement, the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS), is poised to become Asia's first fourth-generation synchrotron light source which is scheduled to commence operations by the end of this year.

What is a Synchrotron?

A synchrotron is a type of circular particle accelerator where particles travel in a loop.
It functions by accelerating charged particles, typically electrons, through sequences of magnets until they approach the speed of light.

How Does It Work?

Acceleration: Charged particles are accelerated through magnets.
Production of Light: These high-speed electrons generate extremely bright light, known as synchrotron light.
- This light, predominantly in the X-ray region, is millions of times brighter than conventional sources and 10 billion times brighter than the sun.
Beamlines and Workstations: The intense light is directed down beamlines to experimental workstations for research purposes.

Applications:

Research: Scientists use synchrotron light to study tiny matter such as atoms and molecules.
By examining how a sample scatters, diffracts, absorbs, or reemits the synchrotron light, they can uncover details about its structure and chemical composition.

Global Presence:

There are approximately 70 synchrotrons worldwide in various stages of development.
They have varying technical specifications and uses, ranging from practical applications to fundamental theoretical research.

In India:

India has a synchrotron facility known as the "Indus Synchrotron."
It is located at the Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
The Indus Synchrotron is a third-generation synchrotron radiation source that is used for various research applications in fields such as materials science, biology, and environmental science.

What is the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS)?

HEPS (High Energy Photon Source) is recognized as the brightest synchrotron X-ray source in Asia.
Location: The HEPS facility is situated in Huairou, China, approximately 50 kilometres from Beijing.
Acceleration Capabilities: HEPS is designed to accelerate electrons up to energies of 6 gigaelectron volts within its 36-kilometer circumference storage ring, producing high-energy X-rays for research purposes.
Nanoscale Investigations: The high-energy X-rays generated by HEPS can penetrate deep into samples, allowing researchers to study intricate details at the nanometer scale.
Diverse Research Applications: HEPS will cater to various research fields, including energy, condensed matter physics, materials innovation, and biomedicine, by providing access to 14 specialized beamlines.
Superiority to Existing Synchrotrons: Compared to China's current most advanced synchrotron, the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility (with a circumference of 432 meters), HEPS will offer a time resolution 10,000 times better.

PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment) Mission

17 May 2024

Digital Arrest

16 May 2024

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With the cases of extortion and ‘digital arrest’ frauds on the rise, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) working under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs issued an advisory asking the citizens to be alert about such frauds.

What is ‘Digital Arrest’?

‘Digital arrest’ is a new and innovative tactic employed by cybercriminals to defraud gullible victims and extort money.
The modus operandi in this cybercrime method is that fraudsters pose as law enforcement officials such as police, Enforcement Directorate, and CBI, among others, and manipulate them into believing that they have committed some serious crime.
The cyber fraudsters deceive the victim into believing that he or she has been put under ‘digital arrest’ and will be prosecuted if they do not pay the scamsters a huge amount of money.
The fraudster often uses the tactic of instilling fear and a sense of urgency in the victims, ensuring they part with their money before realizing it's a scam.
The cyber criminals often force the naive victims to self-arrest or self-quarantine themselves, by tricking them into believing that they have been put under ‘digital arrest’ and cannot leave their house unless they pay up.

Modus Operandi of Digital Arrest Scams:

Initial Engagement: Fraudsters initiate contact with unsuspecting individuals through various digital communication channels, such as phone calls, WhatsApp, or Skype.
Fear and Urgency Manipulation: The scammers employ psychological tactics to instil fear and a sense of urgency in their victims.
- They present fabricated evidence and falsely claim that the victim is embroiled in criminal activities or is facing an imminent arrest warrant.
Elaborate Scams: To enhance the legitimacy of their scheme, the scammers create elaborate setups, including simulated police stations, virtual interrogations, and video calls with individuals posing as senior police officers.
Layered Interrogations: Victims are subjected to multiple rounds of “interrogations,” with the scammers assuming different roles, such as a “constable,” a “sub-inspector,” and finally a “DCP-level officer.”
- This layered approach aims to convince victims of the gravity of the situation and increase their susceptibility to the scam.
Financial Exploitation: Under the imminent threat of arrest, victims are coerced into transferring substantial sums of money into designated accounts.
- The scammers deceitfully claim that these funds are necessary to clear the victim’s name or resolve the alleged criminal charges.

Actions Taken by the Centre:

Intelligence agencies have determined that the incidents are part of a coordinated online economic crime network operated by transnational crime syndicates.
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs, has collaborated with Microsoft to block over 1,000 Skype IDs associated with such illicit activities.
- Additionally, efforts are underway to block SIM cards, mobile devices, and "mule" accounts utilized by cybercriminals.
Money mules, also known as "smurfers," are individuals unwittingly used by fraudsters to launder stolen or illegal money through their bank accounts.
- Following reports of such incidents, these individuals often become the focus of police investigations due to their involvement, as highlighted in a security advisory by HDFC Bank.
The Home Ministry is collaborating with other ministries, their agencies, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and various organizations to combat these criminal activities.
- I4C is actively providing technical support and inputs to the police forces of states and union territories to identify and investigate cases.
- I4C has leveraged its social media platform Cyberdost, along with its presence on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, to disseminate infographics and videos aimed at raising awareness about cybercrime.
Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and help spread awareness about cybercrime.
- They are encouraged to report any such incidents promptly to the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or through the website http://www.cybercrime.gov.in.
- Additionally, filing a complaint and notifying the local police is advised.

India VIX

16 May 2024

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India VIX, which is an indicator of the market’s expectation of volatility over the near term, surged past the 21 mark recently.

What is India VIX?

India VIX is a volatility index computed by the NSE based on the order book of NIFTY Options.
For this, the best bid-ask quotes of near and next-month NIFTY options contracts, which are traded on the F&O segment of NSE are used.
India VIX indicates the investor’s perception of the market’s volatility in the near term i.e. it depicts the expected market volatility over the next 30 calendar days.
- The higher the India VIX values, the higher the expected volatility and vice versa, as per NSE.
‘VIX’ is a trademark of the CBOE, and Standard & Poor’s has granted a license to NSE, with permission from the CBOE, to use such a mark in the name of the India VIX and for purposes relating to the India VIX.

What is the Volatility Index?

The Volatility Index, VIX or the Fear Index, is a measure of the market’s expectation of volatility over the near term.
- Volatility is often described as the ‘rate and magnitude of changes in prices’ and in finance often referred to as risk.
- Usually, during periods of market volatility, the market moves steeply up or down and the volatility index tends to rise.
- As volatility subsides, the Volatility Index declines.
The Volatility Index is a measure of the amount by which an underlying index is expected to fluctuate in the near term, (calculated as annualised volatility, denoted in percentage e.g. 20 per cent) based on the order book of the underlying index options.
The Chicago Board of Options Exchange (CBOE) was the first to introduce the volatility index for the US markets in 1993 based on S&P 100 Index option prices.
- In 2003, the methodology was revised and the new volatility index was based on S&P 500 Index options.
Since its inception, it has become an indicator of how market practitioners think about volatility.
Investors use it to gauge market volatility and base their investment decisions accordingly.

Global Report on Internal Displacement 2024 (GRID-2024)

16 May 2024

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Floods, cyclones, earthquakes and other disasters triggered over half a million internal displacements in India in 2023, according to Geneva-based Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).

About Global Report on Internal Displacement 2024:

The Global Report on Internal Displacement (GRID) 2024, published by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) based in Geneva, Switzerland.
It is the authoritative source for data and analysis on the state of internal displacement for the previous year.
Each year, IDMC presents the validated estimates of internal displacements by conflict and disasters, and the total cumulative numbers of IDPs worldwide.
The GRID also provides an overview of the year’s most significant internal displacement situations, highlighting potential measures to address the issue across the humanitarian, development, disaster risk reduction and climate change agendas.
The 2024 Global Report on Internal Displacement (GRID) report presents the data and analysis behind the 75.9 million people living in internal displacement as of the end of 2023.
- It is the ninth edition of the GRID and includes global and regional insights into the risk, scale and impacts of internal displacement.

Highlights of the GRID 2024:

Rising Numbers of (IDPs): In 2023, the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) reached 75.9 million, up from 71.1 million the previous year.
Causes of Displacement: Disasters contributed to 7.7 million displacements, with earthquakes being responsible for one-fourth of these.
- Conflict and violence led to 68.3 million displacements.
High-Displacement Countries: Sudan, Syria, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Colombia, and Yemen account for almost half of the world's IDP population.
Significant Increases: Sudan had the highest number of IDPs recorded for a single country in 2023, reaching 1 million.
- The majority of new displacements occurred in Sudan, the Palestinian territories, and the DRC, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all cases.
South Asia Displacement: Approximately 3 million people across South Asia experienced internal displacement due to conflict and violence, with 80% of them located in Afghanistan.
- Manipur violence resulted in 67,000 displacements, marking the highest number of conflict and violence-related displacements in India since 2018.
Impact of Natural Disasters: There was a notable decrease in internal displacement due to natural disasters in India in 2023, dropping from 2.5 million in 2022 to 528,000.

About Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC):

Established in 1998, the IDMC is the leading source of information and analysis on internal displacement.
It was created to address a significant gap in knowledge on global patterns and scales of internal displacement.
IDMC defines internal displacement as the number of forced movements of people within their own country over a given year.
The IDMC is a part of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), an independent, non-governmental humanitarian organization.
Primary Roles: The IDMC serves as a global monitor and advocate for evidence-based policy and action.
- It aims to influence governments, UN agencies, donors, international organizations, and NGOs.
As the official repository of data and analysis on internal displacement, the IDMC's GRID provides critical insights into the global internal displacement crisis and aids in developing informed solutions.

Extra-pulmonary TB

16 May 2024

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Approximately 20% of tuberculosis (TB) patients suffer from Extra-pulmonary TB, yet the majority remain undiagnosed. Even among those diagnosed, access to appropriate care is limited to specialized health facilities, posing a challenge to effective treatment.

What is Extra-pulmonary TB?

Extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) is a form of tuberculosis (TB) that affects organs outside the lungs, such as the lymph nodes, pleura, bones, joints, and central nervous system.
EPTB accounts for a significant portion of active TB cases, ranging from 20% to 40%, and occurs more frequently in immunosuppressed individuals and young children.
In HIV-positive individuals, EPTB is present in more than 50% of cases.
EPTB diagnosis remains challenging due to the difficulty in accessing affected sites and the low sensitivity of diagnostic tests.
A combination of mycobacteriology and histopathologic examinations, along with molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, can aid in the diagnosis.
- Biochemical markers, like adenosine deaminase or gamma interferon, can be useful adjuncts in diagnosing TB-affected serosal fluids.

Treatments:

Treatment of EPTB typically involves standard anti-TB drug therapy, but the ideal regimen and duration have not yet been established.
While the disease usually responds to treatment, complications and paradoxical responses may occur, necessitating the distinction from other causes of clinical deterioration.
Surgery may be required to obtain diagnostic specimens or manage complications.

Challenges with EPTB:

EPTB infections may leave disease markers lingering even after treatment, posing concerns about relapse.
Standardized diagnosis and treatment protocols for various affected organs are lacking, complicating management.
A lack of awareness among both patients and physicians, along with the absence of precise diagnostic and treatment criteria, adds to the challenge.
Even after completing anti-TB therapy, some EPTB patients may experience lingering effects of the disease.
The existing INDEX-TB guidelines, formulated over a decade ago, require updating to incorporate the latest insights and experiences.

Kadar Tribe

16 May 2024

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The recent death of a Kadar tribesman in Tamil Nadu’s Anamalai Tiger Reserve in an elephant attack has left the indigenous community and conservationists in shock as Kadars are known to co-exist with wild elephants for ages.

About Kadar Tribes:

The Kadar tribes are a small indigenous tribal community residing in South India, primarily along the hilly border between Cochin in Kerala and Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu.
Traditionally, they are forest dwellers who rely on forest resources for their livelihood, opting not to practice agriculture.
- Their shelters are typically thatched with leaves, and they frequently shift locations based on their employment needs.
Rather than subsisting solely on gathered food, they prefer rice obtained through trade or wages.
With a long history of specialization, the Kadars are known for collecting various forest products like honey, wax, sago, cardamom, ginger, and umbrella sticks, which they trade with merchants from the plains.
They maintain a symbiotic relationship with nature, emphasizing the coexistence of Kadar and Kaadu (forest), and have established traditional protocols for the sustainable use of forest resources.
Every resource collection practice, such as honey extraction, firewood gathering, resin tapping, or herb picking, is conducted with regeneration time in mind.
The population of the Kadars was estimated to be around 2,000 individuals in the early 21st century, and they primarily speak Dravidian languages like Tamil and Kannada.
Their religious beliefs include worshipping jungle spirits, a kindly creator couple, and local forms of Hindu deities.
While recognized as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in Kerala, they do not hold the same status in Tamil Nadu.

About Anamalai Tiger Reserve:

Anamalai Tiger Reserve is a protected area located in the Anamalai Hills of Pollachi and Coimbatore District of Tamil Nadu, India.
Annamalai Tiger Reserve was originally called Anamalai Wild Life Sanctuary notified in the year 1974 and established in the year 1976.
- Later, it was renamed as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park in honour of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's visit in 1961.
According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the sanctuary was declared as Anamalai Tiger Reserve in 2007.
The sanctuary presently includes a core area of 958.59 sq. km and a buffer area of 521.28 sq. km forming a total area of 1479.87 sq. km.
It is located at an altitude of 1400 m in the Anamalai Hills of the Western Ghats.

Solar Storms

15 May 2024

Humboldt Glacier

15 May 2024

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Venezuela is thought to be the first nation in modern times to have completely lost all of its glaciers.

About Humboldt Glacier:

Venezuela's Humboldt Glacier, also known as La Corona, held great significance as the country's last remaining glacier.
Located in the Sierra Nevada de Mérida mountain range in the Andes, at an altitude of approximately 5,000 meters, the Humboldt Glacier was part of a group of six glaciers that once covered an area of 10 square kilometres.
- However, due to the accelerated melting caused by climate change, five of these glaciers had vanished by 2011, leaving Humboldt as the sole remnant.
Humboldt Glacier's deterioration continued at an alarming pace in subsequent years.
Recent studies conducted by the International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI), a scientific advocacy organization, revealed that the glacier had shrunk to an area of less than 2 hectares.
- As a result, it was downgraded from a glacier to an ice field, marking Venezuela as the first country in modern history to lose all of its glaciers.
The demise of Humboldt Glacier serves as a stark warning of the global consequences of climate change.
It exemplifies the rapid loss of ice in tropical regions, which not only impacts local ecosystems and water resources but also contributes to rising sea levels and exacerbates the effects of climate change worldwide.

About the International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI):

International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI) was formed in 2009 following COP-15 in Copenhagen.
It is a network of senior policy experts and researchers working with governments and organizations to create, shape and implement initiatives designed to preserve as much of the Earth’s cryosphere as possible.
CCI's work focuses on three major areas of the cryosphere:
- The Arctic
- The Antarctic
- High mountain regions
By connecting cutting-edge science to a variety of policy-making forums and supporting integrated projects worldwide to protect the cryosphere, ICCI advances climate action.
ICCI programs target the unique climate dynamics at work in the cryosphere, while at the same time lending increased urgency to global climate efforts aimed at CO2 and other greenhouse gases by communicating the unexpected rapidity and global implications of cryosphere warming.

NISAR Satellite Can Monitor Earth’s Tectonic Movements

15 May 2024

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ISRO Chairman S. Somanath recently announced that the NISAR satellite has the capability to accurately monitor tectonic movements and complete full mappings of the Earth twice a month.

About the NISAR Satellite:

NISAR is a joint Earth-observing mission between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
It is a Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite with two bands.
It will be launched into a polar Sun-synchronous dawn-dusk orbit.
One is the S-band and the other is the L-band.
- The S-band payload has been made by the ISRO and the L-band payload by the U.S.
The U.S. will contribute to the large deployable antenna.
This being a dual-band polarizable radar, it can do a lot of things.
- First, because it has a large deployable antenna with an 18-metre diameter, it has a very high swath.
- It can fully cover the earth in approximately 14 to 15 days, according to radar.
- It can monitor various aspects in very high resolution.
  - For example, it can monitor the tectonic movements to centimetre accuracy.
- It can do measurements of water bodies accurately.
- It can look at water stressing on the earth, wherever there is a deficiency of water.
- It can ground-penetrate to a certain depth.
- It is capable of monitoring the vegetation cover and snow cover.
- It, therefore, basically looks at the whole of the earth in terms of surface, water, greenery and all of that.
- It measures accurately and gives repetitive, full coverage of the earth two times a month.
It means it is capable of a lot of observation and this data will be available to both India and the U.S.
We can study the water-stressing, climate change-related issues, and agricultural changes through patterns, yield, desertification and continental movements precisely with respect to annual water cycle movements.
It can measure tectonic plate movements accurately.
So a lot of geological, agricultural and water-related observations can be obtained from this satellite.

Mission Objectives:

The primary goal of NISAR is to provide precise measurements of tectonic plate movements, enabling comprehensive observations in geology, agriculture, and water-related domains.
Additionally, it aims to analyze water stress, climate change impacts, agricultural shifts, desertification, and continental shifts with accuracy, particularly concerning annual water cycle variations.
NISAR's data will facilitate global resource and hazard management, while also aiding scientists in comprehending climate change dynamics and its effects.

Launch Schedule:

Initially planned for July, the launch is now expected in October-November due to issues on the U.S. side requiring corrections.

Memory of the World (MoW) Programme

15 May 2024

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Three Indian literary works, Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sah?dayaloka-Locana, were added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register during the tenth meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP).

About Memory of the World Programme:

The Memory of the World (MoW) Programme is an international initiative by UNESCO launched in 1992 aimed at preserving and recognizing the world's significant documentary heritage.
The program's objective is to identify and protect important documents in a manner similar to how UNESCO's World Heritage Convention and World Heritage List recognize significant natural and cultural sites.

The Memory of the World Programme aims to:

- Facilitating the preservation of documentary heritage, particularly in conflict-affected areas or regions impacted by natural disasters.
- Enabling universal access to documentary heritage worldwide.
- Enhancing public awareness about the significance of documentary heritage among the wider public.

Governance Body:

The International Advisory Committee (IAC) serves as the main governing body for the MoW Programme, providing guidance to UNESCO on its planning and implementation.
The IAC comprises 14 members appointed by UNESCO's Director-General, who are chosen for their expertise and authority in the field of documentary heritage.

Nominations for MoW:

Nominations for inscription on the Asia Pacific Register are called every two years, alternating with the International Register.
- In even-numbered years, nominations are accepted for the Asia Pacific Register.

India has three items included in the Memory of the World Register:

Ramcharitmanas: Written by Tulasidas in the 16th century in the Awadhi dialect, this text holds immense cultural and literary significance in the regions of Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya.
Panchatantra: This ancient Indian collection of fables, originally written in Sanskrit, consists of five sections that revolve around specific principles.
- It is widely believed to have been authored by Vishnu Sharma.
Sah?day?loka-Locana: A Sanskrit commentary on the Dhvanyaloka, Sah?day?loka-Locana holds significant historical and literary value within India's rich cultural landscape.
Through the Memory of the World Programme, UNESCO continues to protect and celebrate the diverse documentary heritage of humanity, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for future generations.

Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)

15 May 2024

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The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), in collaboration with Microsoft, has blocked more than 1,000 Skype IDs involved in blackmail, extortion, and “digital arrests” by cybercriminals posing as police and law enforcement authorities.

About Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C):

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) is a comprehensive initiative to address cybercrime in India.
It has been established under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) Govt. of India.
With a focus on improving coordination between various Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and stakeholders, I4C serves as a nodal point in the fight against cybercrime.
It is located in New Delhi.

Its primary functions include:

Acting as the central hub for tackling cybercrime and coordinating efforts among LEAs.
Identifying research needs and collaborating with academia and research institutes within India and abroad to develop new technologies and forensic tools.
Preventing the misuse of cyberspace by extremist and terrorist groups.
Suggesting amendments to cyber laws to keep pace with evolving technologies and fostering international cooperation.
Coordinating activities related to the implementation of Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLAT) with other countries concerning cybercrimes, in consultation with the concerned nodal authority in MHA.

Key Components of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C):

The I4C is comprised of several specialized units designed to tackle various aspects of cybercrime:
National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (TAU): Regularly reports on cybercrime threats and provides crucial insights to support the nation's cybersecurity efforts.
National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP): Offers a unified platform for citizens to report various cybercrime complaints around the clock from anywhere in India.
National Cybercrime Training Centre (NCTC): Imparts essential training to government officials, primarily focusing on state law enforcement agencies.
National Cybercrime Research and Innovation Centre: Conducts research and develops indigenous tools for preventing cybercrimes.
Platform for Joint Cyber Crime Coordination Team: Facilitates coordination, sharing of cybercrime modus operandi, and data/information exchange among state/UT LEAs.
Cybercrime Ecosystem Management Unit: Focuses on creating mass awareness regarding cyber hygiene and prevention of cybercrimes.
National Cybercrime Forensic Laboratory (Investigation) Ecosystem: Assists LEAs in cyber forensics investigations.
In addition to these components, the I4C also fosters collaboration between academia, industry, the public, and government entities in the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of cybercrimes.
Through the Cyber Crime Volunteers Program, the I4C unites passionate citizens who are committed to serving the nation and contributing to the fight against cybercrime.

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

14 May 2024

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Technical experts from across the world are gathered at the United Nations headquarters in Kenya in preparation for the 16th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16).

About the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), known informally as the Biodiversity Convention, is a multilateral treaty that has the main objective of developing national strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.
It is a multilateral treaty established in 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (also known as the Earth Summit) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Signed by 150 government leaders, the Convention on Biological Diversity is dedicated to promoting sustainable development.
Conceived as a practical tool for translating the principles of Agenda 21 into reality, the Convention recognizes that biological diversity is about more than plants, animals and microorganisms and their ecosystems – it is about people and our need for food security, medicines, fresh air and water, shelter, and a clean and healthy environment in which to live.

The CBD has so far produced two important international agreements:

The Cartagena Protocol on biosafety entered into force in 2003, seeks to protect the environment from the potential risks of Genetically Modified (GM) organisms.
- The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity is an international treaty governing the movements of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology from one country to another.
- It aims to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of living-modified organisms (LMOs) that may have adverse effects on biological diversity, taking into account human health, especially focusing on transboundary movements.
- The protocol was adopted in January 2000 in Cartagena, Colombia, and entered into force on September 11, 2003.
The Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources entered into force in 2014, aims at sharing the benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources in a fair and equitable way.
- The Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization is a supplementary agreement to the Convention on Biological Diversity.
- It provides a legal framework for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources, with a particular focus on ensuring that benefits are shared with the countries and communities that provide those resources.
- The protocol aims to promote the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity while also respecting the rights of indigenous and local communities over their traditional knowledge and genetic resources.
- It was adopted in Nagoya, Japan, in 2010 and entered into force in 2014.
The Conference has also implemented many positive decisions that have contributed to the promotion of environmental integrity and the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.
In 2010, the conference in Nagoya adopted a Strategic Plan for Biodiversity, including the Aichi Biodiversity Targets for the 2011-2020 period.
The convention provides a framework for member countries to develop national strategies and action plans for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.
As of now, 196 countries have ratified the convention, making it a widely accepted and crucial international agreement for addressing global environmental issues.

Silk Cotton Tree

14 May 2024

OpenAI’s GPT-4o

14 May 2024

International Bullion Exchange (IIBX)

14 May 2024

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The State Bank of India (SBI) recently announced that it has secured the distinction of being the first bank to become a trading-cum-clearing (TCM) Member of the India International Bullion Exchange at the GIFT City in Gujarat.

What is the International Bullion Exchange (IIBX)?

India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) is India's first International Bullion Exchange.
It is situated within the Gujarat International Finance Tech City (GIFT City) IFSC in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Conceptualized to serve as a premier platform for importing bullion into India, IIBX aims to establish a world-class ecosystem for bullion trading, fostering investment in bullion financial products, and providing top-tier vaulting facilities.

What is Bullion?

Bullion refers to high-purity physical gold and silver, typically stored in the form of bars, ingots, or coins.
While sometimes recognized as legal tender, bullion primarily serves as a reserve for central banks and institutional investors.

Key Features:

Transparent Price Discovery: IIBX prioritizes transparent price discovery mechanisms, ensuring fair and equitable transactions.
Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Integrity: Emphasizing ethical practices, IIBX upholds responsible sourcing and supply chain integrity standards.
Quality Assurance and Standardization: IIBX maintains rigorous quality assurance protocols and standardized practices to uphold the integrity of traded bullion.

Regulation and Oversight:

Under the governance of the International Financial Services Centers Authority (IFSCA), IIBX operates under a unified regulatory framework dedicated to the development and oversight of financial products, services, and institutions within IFSCs.

Competitive Advantage:

Offering a diverse array of products and cutting-edge technology, IIBX provides cost-effective solutions unparalleled by Indian exchanges and global counterparts in major financial hubs like Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, London, and New York.

What is the International Financial Services Centers Authority (IFSCA)?

The International Financial Services Centers Authority (IFSCA) is a regulatory body established in India to oversee and regulate financial products, services, and institutions operating within International Financial Services Centers (IFSCs).
IFSCA was formed to develop and promote the financial ecosystem within IFSCs, ensuring compliance with international standards and best practices.
It regulates various entities such as banking, insurance, securities markets, and other financial intermediaries to foster growth and innovation in the financial sector within IFSCs.
IFSCA's jurisdiction includes Gujarat International Finance Tech City (GIFT City) IFSC in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, which serves as a hub for international financial activities in India.

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNDOC)

14 May 2024

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The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime released the 2024 World Wildlife Crime Report on May 13, 2024.

About the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC):

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global organization that operates under the umbrella of the United Nations and serves as a leading authority in the fight against illicit drugs, organized crime, corruption, and terrorism.
UNODC works to promote justice, security, and integrity in various areas related to crime prevention and criminal justice.

Objectives:

The primary objectives of UNODC are to assist member states in their efforts to combat drug trafficking, reduce drug abuse and its associated health and social consequences, dismantle transnational organized criminal networks, prevent and address corruption, counter terrorism, and promote the rule of law and effective criminal justice systems.

History of UNODC:

It was established in 1997 through the merger of two precursor entities:
- The United Nations Drug Control Programme (UNDCP) - It was founded in 1991 as a response to the growing global drug problem.
  - Its primary focus was to coordinate and support international efforts in combating illicit drug production, trafficking, and drug abuse.
- The Centre for International Crime Prevention (CICP) - The CICP, established in 1992, aimed to address a broader range of transnational crimes, including organized crime, corruption, and terrorism.
The merger of these two entities resulted in the creation of UNODC, which brought together expertise and resources in the fields of drug control and crime prevention under a unified structure.
- Since its inception, UNODC has expanded its mandate and activities to encompass a wide range of global challenges related to drugs, crime, corruption, and terrorism.

The mandate of UNODC:

The mandate of UNODC is derived from several United Nations General Assembly resolutions and international conventions.
The organization operates within the framework of the United Nations principles and aims to support member states in implementing these conventions and addressing the various aspects of crime and drug-related challenges.

Funding:

It relies on voluntary contributions, mainly from governments, to carry out the majority of our work.
Headquarters: Vienna, Austria

The Main Areas of UNODC's:

Fighting Drugs: Implementing global drug control conventions, aiding in prevention and treatment, disrupting trafficking networks, and fostering international cooperation.
Tackling Organized Crime: Helping states build legal frameworks, dismantle criminal networks, strengthen border control, and analyze emerging threats.
Anti-Corruption Efforts: Supporting UNCAC implementation, establishing commissions, recovering stolen assets, and promoting integrity in public and private sectors.
Strengthening Criminal Justice: Enhancing law enforcement, judiciary, and prison systems, improving access to justice, supporting rehabilitation, and promoting international legal standards.
Combating Terrorism: Assisting in legal frameworks, enhancing law enforcement capacities, countering terrorist financing, and addressing online radicalization.
Addressing Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling: Developing strategies, strengthening legislation, aiding victim protection, and fostering international cooperation.

What is the World Wildlife Crime Report?

The World Wildlife Crime Report, now in its third edition (2024), continues the tradition established by earlier editions published in 2016 and 2020.
It delves into trends related to the illegal trafficking of protected wildlife species, providing comprehensive analyses of the harms and impacts of wildlife crime.
Furthermore, it investigates the driving factors behind wildlife trafficking trends and assesses the effectiveness of various interventions aimed at addressing this complex issue.

Xenotransplantation

13 May 2024

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The first recipient of a modified pig kidney transplant passed away recently, around two months after the surgery was carried out.

What is Xenotransplantation?

Xenotransplantation is the transplantation of organs from different species, such as pigs to humans.
It is a procedure that involves the transplantation, implantation or infusion into a human recipient of either (a) live cells, tissues, or organs from a nonhuman animal source, or (b) human body fluids, cells, tissues or organs that have had ex vivo contact with live nonhuman animal cells, tissues or organs.
Essentially, it is the use of animal cells and organs to heal humans.
- Xenotransplantation involving the heart was first tried in humans in the 1980s.
The need for such a procedure was felt because of the significant gap between the number of transplants needed by patients and the availability of donor organs.

How Does Xenotransplantation Happen?

The process of implanting a pig kidney into a recipient is akin to a standard transplant procedure, including the use of post-surgery immunosuppressant drugs.
However, several critical additional steps are involved.
Firstly, the chosen animal organ undergoes genetic modifications to prevent rejection by the human body.
Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology, specific pig genes responsible for producing antibodies reactive to the human immune system are removed. Simultaneously, certain human genes are introduced to enhance the kidney's compatibility with human recipients.
Even after the surgery, vigilant monitoring is essential to assess the body's response to the transplanted organ.

Why are pigs often used for xenotransplantation?

Pig heart valves have been used to replace damaged valves in humans for over 50 years now.
The pig’s anatomical and physiological parameters are similar to those of humans, and the breeding of pigs on farms is widespread and cost-effective.
Also, many varieties of pig breeds are farmed, which provides an opportunity for the size of the harvested organs to be matched with the specific needs of the human recipient.

What are the Complications of Xenotransplantation?

Rejection: Despite genetic modifications, the recipient's immune system may still recognize the transplanted organ as foreign and mount an immune response, leading to rejection.
Infection: Xenotransplantation introduces the risk of transmitting infectious diseases from the donor animal to the recipient, including viruses and bacteria that may not typically affect humans.
Immunological Challenges: The interaction between the recipient's immune system and the transplanted organ may trigger inflammatory responses, leading to complications such as inflammation and tissue damage.
Ethical Concerns: Xenotransplantation raises ethical dilemmas related to animal welfare, genetic engineering, and the potential exploitation of animals for human benefit.
Long-term Health Risks: The long-term effects of xenotransplantation on recipient health, including the development of chronic conditions and the risk of cancer, are still not fully understood and require further research.

Vibrant Village Programme (VVP)

13 May 2024

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The government is likely to spend over ?2 crore on each kilometre of road to be constructed along the China border in Uttarakhand and Sikkim under the Vibrant Village Programme (VVP), according to the project’s details.

What is the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP)?

Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme approved on 15th February 2023 for the financial years 2022-23 to 2025-26.

Objective:

For comprehensive development of the select villages in 46 blocks in 19 districts abutting the northern border in the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and UT of Ladakh.
It will aid in raising the standard of living for residents of designated border communities and encouraging them to remain there, reversing the outmigration from these villages and enhancing border security.
Action plans for identified villages would be prepared by the district administration with assistance from the proper mechanisms at the block and panchayat levels, in order to guarantee complete saturation of federal and state programmes.
Road connectivity, drinking water, power (including solar and wind energy), mobile and internet access, tourist attractions, multipurpose facilities, healthcare infrastructure, and wellness centres are the intervention areas with the highest priority for village development.

Scheme implementation:

Scheme implementation involves identifying and fostering economic drivers in border villages along the northern border, following a "Hub and Spoke Model" to establish growth centres.
- This includes promoting social entrepreneurship, empowering youth and women through skill development and entrepreneurship, leveraging local tourism potential, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable eco-agribusinesses.
Vibrant Village Action Plans will be developed by district administrations in collaboration with Gram Panchayats, ensuring full coverage of Central and state schemes.

Expected outcomes:

Key outcomes that have been attempted are connectivity with all-weather roads, drinking water, 24x7 electricity – Solar and wind energy to be given focussed attention, and mobile and internet connectivity.
Tourist centres, multi-purpose centres and health and wellness Centers.

Rat-Hole Mining

13 May 2024

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A one-member panel appointed by the High Court of Meghalaya to handle coal-related issues has flagged the lack of progress in restoring the environment damaged by rat-hole coal mining in the northeastern State.

What is Rat-hole Mining?

Coal reserves are concentrated in Eastern India, spanning states such as Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal, with significant deposits also found in the North-Eastern regions like Assam and Meghalaya.
- However, commercial mining isn't prevalent in the North-East due to unsuitable terrain and the nature of coal deposits.
- Open mining faces additional challenges, and the coal in this region often contains high sulfur content, reducing energy efficiency and classifying it as low-quality coal.
A rat-hole mine involves digging of very small tunnels, usually only 3-4 feet deep, in which workers, more often children, enter and extract coal.
Once the pits are dug, miners descend using ropes or bamboo ladders to reach the coal seams.
The coal is then manually extracted using primitive tools such as pickaxes, shovels, and baskets.
A major portion of these employees are children, who are preferred because of their thin body shape and ease of accessing depths.
This practice has become very popular in Meghalaya.
Here there are majorly hilly terrains, which make coal mining very difficult.
Also, digging a big hole is very difficult because a big hole demands pillars and support.
Since it’s a good opportunity to extract coal from there for big as well as local investors, because it involves less investment and good returns, people are drawn towards this dangerous business.
The practice is to not make any professional tunnels, install pillars, and ensure safety measures, but to just dig a small tunnel and put children and labour to work.
Rat-hole mining is primarily practised only in Meghalaya.
- Such cases are not witnessed in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh because the coal seems to be thick in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh while in Meghalaya coal seems to be very thin.
So, economically it is not a good idea to do open mining, and therefore, they prefer rat-hole mining.

Types of rat-hole mining:

The rat-hole mining is broadly of two types.
- In the side-cutting procedure, narrow tunnels are dug on the hill slopes and workers go inside until they find the coal seam.
- In the other type of rat-hole mining, called box-cutting, a rectangular opening is made, varying from 10 to 100 sqm, and through that a vertical pit is dug, 100 to 400 feet deep.
- Once the coal seam is found, rat-hole-sized tunnels are dug horizontally through which workers can extract the coal.

Environmental and Safety Concerns:

Since rat-hole mining is illegal, it is practised behind closed doors, and therefore, no one is ready to invest in infrastructure development.
Coal is stored near rivers because of a shortage of space which leads to pollution around water bodies.
The water in the Kopili River (which flows through Meghalaya and Assam) has turned acidic.
The entire roadsides in and around mining areas are for piling coal.
This is a major source of air, water and soil pollution.
Off-road movement of trucks and other vehicles in the area causes further damage to the ecology of the area.
Due to rat-hole mining, during the rainy season, water gets flooded into the mining areas resulting in the death of many workers due to suffocation and hunger.
If water has seeped into the cave, the worker can enter only after the water is pumped out.
Also, the mines are typically unregulated, lacking safety measures such as proper ventilation, structural support, or safety gear for the workers.

When Was It Banned?

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned rat-hole mining in 2014 and retained the ban in 2015.
The ban was on grounds of the practice being unscientific and unsafe for workers.
The NGT order bans not only rat-hole mining but all “unscientific and illegal mining.”
But orders of the Tribunal have been violated without exception since The State Government has failed to check illegal mining effectively.

Caenorhabditis Elegans

13 May 2024

ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)

13 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The 4th joint committee meeting for the review of AITIGA (ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement) was held in Putrajaya, Malaysia recently.

About ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA):

The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is a trade deal between the ten member states of ASEAN and India.
ASEAN and India signed the Agreement at the 7th ASEAN Economic Ministers-India Consultations in Bangkok, Thailand in 2009.
The Agreement, which came into effect in 2010, is sometimes referred to as the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement.
The Agreement has led to steadily increasing trade between ASEAN and India since its signing.
- In 2019-20, trade between India and ASEAN was worth US$86 billion.
- Though this represented a decline from US$97 billion in 2018-19 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was an increase from US$81.3 billion in the 2017-18 financial year.
It covers trade in physical goods and products and it does not apply to trade in services.
ASEAN and India signed a separate ASEAN-India Trade in Services Agreement in 2014.

About the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN):

The Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a geopolitical and economic organization established to accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development among its ten (10) member states.
It also aims to promote peace and stability in the region, active collaboration and mutual assistance on matters of common interest, Southeast Asian studies, and maintain close and beneficial cooperation with other regional and international organizations.
It was established on 8 August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration by the founding members of ASEAN, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
Brunei Darussalam then joined in 1984, Viet Nam in 1995, Lao PDR and Myanmar in 1997, and Cambodia in 1999, making up the current 10 Member States of ASEAN.
The ASEAN Secretariat was set up in February 1976 and is based in Jakarta, Indonesia.

PS4 Engine

11 May 2024

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Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully tested a liquid rocket engine made with the help of additive manufacturing technology — commonly known as 3D printing.

About PS4 Engine:

ISRO has successfully conducted a long-duration test of its PS4 engine, re-designed for production using cutting-edge additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, also known in common parlance as 3D printing, and crafted in the Indian industry.
The PS4 engine is the uppermost stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), comprising two Earth-storable liquid engines.
The engine uses the earth-storable bipropellant combinations of Nitrogen Tetroxide as oxidiser and Mono Methyl Hydrazine as fuel in pressure-fed mode.
- It was developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
  - LPSC redesigned the engine making it amenable to the Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) concept thereby gaining considerable advantages.
The manufacturing of the engine was done by the Indian industry partner, Wipro 3D, and the engine was hot tested at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.

Why did ISRO use 3D printing to build the PS4 engine?

The technology helped ISRO bring down the number of parts in the engine from 14 to a single piece.
The space agency was able to eliminate 19 weld joints and saved 97% of the raw material.
It also reduced the overall production time by 60%.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing is a process that uses computer-created design to make three-dimensional objects layer by layer.
It is an additive process, in which layers of a material like plastic, composites or bio-materials are built up to construct objects that range in shape, size, rigidity, and colour.

How is 3D printing done?

To carry out 3D printing, one needs a personal computer connected to a 3D printer.
- All they need to do is design a 3D model of the required object on computer-aid design (CAD) software and press ‘print’.
- The 3D printer does the rest of the job.
3D printers construct the desired object by using a layering method, which is the complete opposite of the subtractive manufacturing processes.
The (3D) printers act generally the same as a traditional inkjet printer in the direct 3D printing process, where a nozzle moves back and forth while dispensing a wax or plastic-like polymer layer-by-layer, waiting for that layer to dry, then adding the next level.
It essentially adds hundreds or thousands of 2D prints on top of one another to make a three-dimensional object.
Notably, these machines are capable of printing anything from ordinary objects like a ball or a spoon to complex moving parts like hinges and wheels.
We can print a whole bike, handlebars, saddle, frame, wheels, brakes, pedals and chain–ready assembled, without using any tools.
It’s just a question of leaving gaps in the right places.

Heatstroke

11 May 2024

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The Union Health Ministry has issued standardised guidelines for confirming heatstroke and heat-related deaths in the country.

What is a Heatstroke?

Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke, is a medical emergency resulting from the body overheating due to exposure to high temperatures and humidity or prolonged physical exertion in hot conditions.
Individuals experiencing heat exhaustion may exhibit symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, and increased heart rate.

Criteria for Heatstroke:

Heatstroke is characterized by body temperatures of 40°C (104°F) or higher, accompanied by delirium, seizures, or coma, posing a potentially fatal condition.

Heatstroke Deaths in India:

According to analysis of data from the National Crime Records Bureau, over 11,000 people in India died due to heatstroke between 2012 and 2021.

Government Initiatives:

The Health Ministry released a National Action Plan on Heat-Related Illness in July 2021, outlining strategies to address health challenges posed by heat waves.
The India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) aims to mitigate heat impacts by ensuring sustainable cooling and thermal comfort for all by 2037-38.

First Aid Measures for Heatstroke:

- Move the affected person to a cool, shaded area.
- Offer water or a rehydrating drink if the person is conscious.
- Fan the person to promote cooling.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, persist, or if the person loses consciousness.
- Avoid giving alcohol, caffeine, or carbonated beverages.
- Apply a cool, wet cloth to the person's face or body.
- Loosen clothing to improve ventilation.

Key Points from the Guidelines:

Rationale for the Guidelines: Between 2013 and 2022, there was an 85% increase in estimated annual heat-related mortality compared to 1991–2000, driven by global warming and changing demographics.
Without significant adaptation progress, annual heat-related deaths could surge by 370% by mid-century if global temperatures continue to rise towards 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
In light of these projections, enhancing our understanding and surveillance of heat-related health issues is imperative.

Preparation and Authorship:

The guidelines were developed by the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) in collaboration with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

Objective:

The guidelines aim to assist hospitals in identifying criteria for categorizing deaths as heat-related or due to heat stroke, promoting evidence-based medical decision-making.

Autopsy Considerations:

Decisions regarding autopsy should be based on factors such as the circumstances of death, the age of the deceased, and available resources.
Where feasible, collecting blood, urine, etc., for toxicological examination is recommended, contingent on the condition of the body.

Challenges in Diagnosing Heat-Related Deaths

Diagnosing heat-related deaths post-mortem presents several challenges, including:
Frequently unavailable pre-terminal or terminal body temperatures.
Non-specific autopsy findings vary based on the duration of survival after heat exposure.
Reliance on-scene investigation for diagnosing hyperthermia, a condition resulting from the body's inability to regulate heat.
Consideration of circumstances of death and exclusion of alternative causes.
It's noted that autopsies are not mandatory for heat-related deaths.

Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act

11 May 2024

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The Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act has been notified in a gazette and has been enforced with effect from May 10, the Defence Ministry said recently.

About Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act:

During the Monsoon Session of 2023, both houses of Parliament passed a bill aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency and coordination of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs).
These organisations comprise personnel from the Army, Air Force, and Navy, such as joint training institutions like the National Defence Academy, National Defence College (NDC), Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), and the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC).

Key Provisions of the ACT:

Inter-Services Organisation Establishment: Existing Inter-Services Organisations will be considered constituted under the Act.
- The central government may establish an Inter-Services Organisation comprising personnel from at least two of the following services: the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Control of Inter-Services Organisations: The Act empowers the Commander-in-Chief or Officer-in-Command of an Inter-Services Organisation to exercise command and control over its personnel.
- They are responsible for maintaining discipline and ensuring the proper discharge of duties by service personnel.
- Supervision of an Inter-Services Organisation will be under the purview of the central government.
Commander-in-Chief Eligibility: Officers eligible for appointment as Commander-in-Chief or Officer-in-Command include:
- A General Officer of the regular Army (rank above Brigadier),
- A Flag Officer of the Navy (rank of Admiral of the Fleet, Admiral, Vice-Admiral, or Rear-Admiral), or
- An Air Officer of the Air Force (a rank above Group Captain).
Commanding Officer Appointment: The Act establishes a Commanding Officer responsible for leading a unit, ship, or establishment within the Inter-Services Organisation.
- The Commanding Officer carries out duties assigned by the Commander-in-Chief or Officer-in-Command.
- They have the authority to initiate disciplinary or administrative actions for personnel within the Inter-Services Organisation.

Need for the Act:

Theaterisation Drive: The enactment aligns with the ongoing push for theaterisation, a vital military reform aimed at optimizing resources for future combat scenarios.
Existing Framework Challenges: Currently, armed forces personnel are governed by separate laws— the Air Force Act, 1950, the Army Act, 1950, and the Navy Act, 1957—resulting in disjointed disciplinary powers.
- Under the current setup, only officers from the same service possess disciplinary authority over personnel governed by the respective Act, leading to command, control, and discipline challenges.
Financial Implications: The present framework entails time-consuming processes and financial expenditures for personnel transfers.
- The proposed legislation seeks to remedy these challenges by enhancing discipline enforcement, expediting case resolutions, and potentially saving public funds.

Auroras

11 May 2024

‘Hanooman’ GenAI Platform

11 May 2024

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Homegrown generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) platform Hanooman went live in 98 global languages, including 12 Indian languages recently.

What is the ‘Hanooman’ Platform?

Hanooman is India's Gen AI platform, launched in 98 languages including 12 Indian languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Kannada, Odia, Punjabi, Assamese, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Sindhi.
Abu Dhabi-based AI investment firm 3AI Holding Limited and SML India have built this indigenous platform.
Named after the revered Hindu deity Hanuman, known for his unparalleled strength, wisdom, and devotion, Hanooman embodies the core principles of intelligence, agility, and resilience.
The development of Hanooman was driven by a vision to create an AI platform that combines human-like intelligence with advanced machine-learning capabilities to tackle complex problems and drive innovation across diverse domains.

Key Features and Capabilities:

Natural Language Understanding (NLU): Hanooman boasts advanced NLU capabilities that enable it to understand and interpret human language with remarkable accuracy.
- Whether it's processing text, speech, or multimedia content, Hanooman can analyze and extract meaningful insights to facilitate intelligent decision-making.
Contextual Awareness: Hanooman is equipped with contextual awareness technology that allows it to understand the context of a given situation and adapt its responses accordingly.
- This enables Hanooman to provide personalized recommendations, anticipate user needs, and deliver tailored experiences across various applications and interfaces.
Deep Learning and Neural Networks: Leveraging state-of-the-art deep learning algorithms and neural networks, Hanooman is capable of learning from vast amounts of data and continuously improving its performance over time.
- This enables Hanooman to tackle complex problems, such as image recognition, natural language processing, and predictive analytics, with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency.
Multi-Modal Learning: Hanooman supports multi-modal learning, allowing it to process and integrate information from multiple sources, including text, images, and audio.
- This enables Hanooman to understand and analyze complex data sets more comprehensively, leading to more informed decision-making and actionable insights.

Applications and Uses:

Healthcare: Hanooman can be used to analyze medical imaging data, diagnose diseases, and develop personalized treatment plans based on individual patient profiles.
Finance: It can analyze market trends, predict financial risks, and optimize investment strategies to maximize returns and minimize losses.
Manufacturing: It can optimize production processes, detect anomalies in manufacturing equipment, and improve quality control measures to enhance operational efficiency and reduce downtime.
Retail: It can analyze customer data, personalize marketing campaigns, and optimize inventory management to drive sales and increase customer satisfaction.

Oleander

10 May 2024

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Two Kerala government-controlled temple boards, which together manage 2,500-odd temples in the state, have banned the use of oleander flowers (locally known as arali) in temple offerings after a 24-year-old woman died after accidentally chewing some oleander leaves.

What is Oleander?

Nerium oleander, commonly known as oleander or rosebay, is a plant cultivated worldwide in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions.
Known for its drought tolerance, the shrub is often used for ornamental and landscaping purposes.
In Kerala, the plant is known by the names of arali and kanaveeram and is grown along highways and beaches as a natural, green fencing.
There are different varieties of oleander, each with a flower of a different colour.

How is oleander used in traditional medicine?

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), a government document that describes the quality, purity, and strength of drugs used in Ayurveda, mentions oleander.
- According to API, an oil prepared from the root bark can be used to treat skin diseases.
The plant has been “frequently described in Brihattrayi, Nighantus and other classical Ayurvedic texts.
- Charka [Charak Samhita] has prescribed the leaves of white-flowered variety externally for chronic and obstinate skin diseases of serious nature including leprosy.

How toxic is oleander?

Even though it is prescribed in some ayurvedic formulations, oleander’s toxicity has also long been recognised across the world.
The plant has been “exploited therapeutically and as an instrument of suicide since antiquity.
Moreover, ingestion or inhalation of smoke from burning oleander can also be intoxicating.
- This is due to the properties of cardiac glycosides (a type of chemical) including oleandrin, folinerin, and digitoxigenin, which are present in all parts of the plant.
Cardiac glycosides are steroidal compounds capable of exerting pharmacological effects on cardiac muscle.
- The primary therapeutic value of these glycosides lies in their ability to exert profound tonic effects on the heart.
- However, the therapeutic window is small and overdose/toxicity is frequently encountered when using these drugs.
Effects of oleander toxicity include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, rashes, confusion, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, slow heartbeat, and, in extreme cases, death.
Symptoms last for 1 to 3 days and may require a hospital stay.

World Migration Report 2024

10 May 2024

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According to the recently released World Migration Report 2024, which is published by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), India has consistently been the top recipient of remittances globally.

Key Highlights of the World Migration Report 2024:

Resilience Amidst COVID-19: Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, international migration remains a vital driver of human development and economic progress.
- Notably, there has been a remarkable over 650 per cent surge in international remittances from 2000 to 2022, soaring from USD 128 billion to USD 831 billion.
- This growth defied predictions of a substantial decrease in remittances due to COVID-19.
Remittances to Low and Middle-income Countries: Out of the total remittances, which amounted to USD 831 billion, a significant portion of USD 647 billion was sent by migrants to low and middle-income countries.
- These remittances play a crucial role in the GDPs of these nations, surpassing foreign direct investment globally.
Persistent Challenges: While international migration continues to foster human development, the report underscores enduring challenges.
- The global population of international migrants has reached approximately 281 million, while the number of individuals displaced by conflict, violence, disasters, and other factors has surged to a record high of 117 million.
- Urgent action is imperative to address displacement crises effectively.
Misinformation and Politicization: Despite the fact that most migration is regular, safe, and regionally focused, public discourse has been clouded by misinformation and politicization.
- It is essential to provide a clear and accurate depiction of migration dynamics to counteract this trend.

About the International Organization for Migration (IOM):

Established in 1951, IOM, the UN Migration Agency, is the leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration and works closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners.
IOM works to help ensure the orderly and humane management of migration, promote international cooperation on migration issues, assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems and provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need, including refugees and internally displaced people.
Membership: Currently, IOM counts 175 Member States and 8 states with Observer status.
India joined as an IOM Member State on June 18, 2008.
Headquarters: Situated in Geneva, Switzerland, IOM's headquarters serves as a hub for its global operations.

UN Counter-Terrorism Trust Fund

10 May 2024

Maillard Reaction

10 May 2024

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The Maillard Reaction elucidates the intricate chemical processes responsible for the diverse array of flavours, aromas, and textures found in foods.

What is Maillard's Reaction?

The Maillard reaction is a complex chain of chemical reactions that occurs when heat is exposed to amino acids and reducing sugars.
The Maillard Reaction, named after the French scientist Louis-Camille Maillard, is a chemical phenomenon observed when amino acids, essential components of proteins, and sugars undergo heating.
This reaction influences the taste, scent, and consistency of food items.
It characterizes a non-enzymatic browning process in food, where colour alterations manifest without the involvement of enzymes.

How does the Maillard Reaction Induce Browning in Food?

The Maillard reaction initiates a complex chemical process that yields various products. Chemist J.E. Hodge first delineated its steps in 1953 to simplify its understanding.
- An array of foods, from meats to bread to vegetables and coffee beans, contain both sugars and protein components.
- When subjected to heat, these sugars and proteins undergo a condensation reaction, forming an unstable compound known as Schiff base.
This Schiff base undergoes rearrangement and dehydration, yielding diverse intermediate compounds.
- These intermediates further react to generate essential flavour components, enriching the food's aroma.
- Some intermediates undergo rearrangement, resulting in a more stable product. These products serve as vital precursors to melanoidins, pivotal in imparting the food's characteristic brown hue.
Continued transformation, including condensation and polymerization, culminates in the formation of melanoidins—nitrogen-containing compounds responsible for the food's distinctive brown colouration.

What are the Factors Affecting the Reaction?

The pace and magnitude of the Maillard reaction hinge on various elements, including temperature, acidity, moisture levels, and the composition of proteins and sugars in the food.
Optimal Temperature: Temperatures typically fall within the range of 110 to 170 degrees Celsius, with levels surpassing this threshold potentially resulting in food burning and imparting bitter flavours.
- Elevated temperatures generally expedite the reaction, whereas acidic environments and moisture content can impede it.
Hence, foods tend to brown more rapidly at higher temperatures, and dry items like bread crusts often acquire a rich brown hue during baking.

Non-market Economy Status

10 May 2024

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Vietnam has been pushing the President Joe Biden administration to quickly change its “non-market economy” classification to “market economy”, in a bid to avoid high taxes imposed by the US on the goods imported from the Southeastern country.

Why does Vietnam Want to Get the ‘Market Economy’ Status?

Vietnam has argued that in recent years it has implemented enough economic reforms that get its name off the non-market economies list.
The country does meet a number of criteria for the status to be changed.
- For instance, Vietnam allows foreign investment, wages are determined by free negotiations between workers and management, and most of the means of production are not owned by the state.
The change in status will also help Vietnam get rid of the anti-dumping duties, making its products more competitive in the US market.
Vietnam’s Center for WTO and International Trade has said that the method of calculating anti-dumping duties is flawed as it causes “the dumping margin to be pushed up very high” and does not actually reflect the situation of Vietnamese companies.

About Non-market Economy Status:

Non-market economy status refers to a designation applied to countries by international trade authorities, particularly the World Trade Organization (WTO), based on their economic structure and policies.
In a non-market economy, the allocation of resources, production decisions, and pricing mechanisms are predominantly influenced by the government rather than by market forces.
- This can include state ownership of key industries, government intervention in setting prices, and restrictions on foreign investment and trade.
For trade purposes, countries classified as non-market economies may face different treatment in anti-dumping investigations and trade disputes.
- This designation can affect how trade regulations and tariffs are applied to goods originating from these countries.
The US designates a country as a non-market economy based on several factors which are:
- If the country’s currency is convertible
- If wage rates are determined by free bargaining between labour and management
- If joint ventures or other foreign investments are allowed whether the means of production are owned by the state; and
- If the state controls the allocation of resources and price and output decisions.
- Other factors like human rights are also considered.
The non-market economy label allows the US to impose “anti-dumping” duties on goods imported from designated countries.

Market Economies:

Market economies operate based on the interactions between consumers and businesses, guided primarily by the law of supply and demand, rather than by central government policies.
Theoretical Foundation: Developed by classical economists like Adam Smith, David Ricardo, and Jean-Baptiste Say, market economies emphasize the role of free markets in allocating resources efficiently.
Modern Market Economies: Often referred to as mixed economies, modern market economies may still involve some government interventions, such as price-fixing, licensing, quotas, and industrial subsidies, but the majority of decisions are market-driven.
- Examples include countries like India, the USA, and the UK, where market forces play a significant role in shaping economic activities.

What is Anti-dumping Duty?

An anti-dumping duty is a protectionist tariff that a domestic government imposes on foreign imports that it believes are priced below fair market value.
In order to protect their respective economy, many countries impose duties on products they believe are being dumped in their national market; this is done with the rationale that these products have the potential to undercut local businesses and the local economy.
While the intention of anti-dumping duties is to save domestic jobs, these tariffs can also lead to higher prices for domestic consumers.
In the long term, anti-dumping duties can reduce the international competition of domestic companies producing similar goods.
The World Trade Organization (WTO)–an international organization that deals with the rules of trade between nations–also operates a set of international trade rules, including the international regulation of anti-dumping measures.?

Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM)

09 May 2024

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India is working with like-minded countries to promote regulated tourism in Antarctica as a steady increase in the number of tourists threatens to harm the fragile ecology in the White Continent.

About the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting:

The Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) is the annual meeting of the Parties to the 1959 Antarctic Treaty.
The meeting serves as a platform for the exchange of information, discussion of common interests, and promotion of the principles and purposes of the Antarctic Treaty.
The first ATCM was held in 1961, and initially occurred every other year, though the frequency has since increased.
During the ATCM, representatives of the member countries address various issues related to Antarctica, such as environmental protection, scientific research, and tourism regulation.
- Key agenda items include strategic planning for sustainable management of Antarctica and its resources, policy, legal, and institutional operations, and biodiversity prospecting.
The ATCM is organized by the Antarctic Treaty Secretariat, which is headquartered in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was established in 2004.
- The Secretariat is responsible for facilitating communication and information exchange among the parties involved in the Antarctic Treaty System.
In recent years, the ATCM has been hosted by various countries, with India hosting the 46th meeting in 2024.
- The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India, through the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and the Secretariat of the Antarctic Treaty will jointly organise the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM 46) from 20 to 30 May 2024 at the Lulu Bolgatty International Convention Centre (LBICC) in Kochi, India.

What is the Antarctic Treaty?

The Antarctic Treaty is an international agreement that aims to preserve and protect the Antarctic continent and its surrounding waters for scientific research and peaceful purposes.
Signed on December 1, 1959, by 12 countries, the treaty came into effect on June 23, 1961.
The treaty establishes Antarctica as a natural reserve devoted to scientific research, and it designates the area south of 60°S latitude as a region free of military and nuclear activities.

Key aspects of the treaty include:

- Freedom of scientific research and exploration, with cooperation among signatory nations
- Exchange of scientific information and personnel between treaty member nations
- Prohibition of military activities, such as the establishment of military bases or weapons testing
- Prohibition of nuclear explosions and disposal of radioactive waste
- Acknowledgement that no new territorial claims can be made on the continent
- Designation of Antarctica as a "Special Conservation Area" to protect its ecosystems and native species
Currently, 54 countries have ratified the Antarctic Treaty, and 29 of these countries have Consultative Party status.
- Consultative Parties have the right to participate in decision-making processes related to the management and governance of the Antarctic region, while Non-Consultative Parties are encouraged to engage in scientific research and exchange information.
On 12 September 1983, India became the fifteenth Consultative Member of the Antarctic Treaty.
It participates in the decision-making process along with the other 28 Consultative Parties to the Antarctic Treaty.
India’s first Antarctic research station, Dakshin Gangotri, was established in 1983.
At present, India operates two year-round research stations: Maitri (1989) and Bharati (2012).
The permanent research stations facilitate Indian Scientific Expeditions to Antarctica, which have been ongoing annually since 1981.
In 2022, India enacted the Antarctic Act, reaffirming its commitment to the Antarctic Treaty.

Global Electricity Review 2024

09 May 2024

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In 2023, India overtook Japan to become the world’s third-highest producer of solar power, according to a report by international energy analytics agency Ember recently.

About Global Electricity Review 2024:

The Global Electricity Review is published by Ember, a leading climate and energy think tank focused on accelerating the global transition to clean energy.
The Global Electricity Review 2024 offers an in-depth analysis of the global electricity landscape in 2023.
Drawing from a vast dataset encompassing 80 countries representing 92% of global electricity demand, and historical data from 215 countries, the report provides a robust and comprehensive examination of the current state of the electricity sector.
The report's objective is to evaluate the progress made in transitioning the world's electricity systems towards cleaner, low-carbon sources, with a focus on limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Key Findings from the Report:

Record Solar Energy Generation: Solar energy accounted for a record 5.5% of global electricity in 2023, solidifying its position as the fastest-growing electricity source for the nineteenth consecutive year.
Renewables Surge: Renewable sources accounted for 30% of global electricity, marking a significant increase from 19% in 2000. Solar and wind power drove this expansion, with low-carbon sources contributing to nearly 40% of global electricity generation in 2023.
Fossil Fuel Decline Forecast: The report predicts a decline in fossil fuel generation in 2024 and beyond, indicating a possible peak in global fossil fuel production in 2023.
China's Dominance: China emerged as a significant contributor to renewable energy, accounting for 51% of the global solar generation increase and 60% of new global wind generation in 2023.

India-Specific Insights from the Report:

India's Rise in Solar Generation: In 2023, India surpassed Japan to become the world's third-largest solar power generator, climbing from its ninth position in 2015.
- While India's installed solar capacity ranks fifth globally, its rapid growth demonstrates significant progress in harnessing solar energy.
Share of Solar Energy in India's Electricity Mix: India generated 5.8% of its electricity from solar energy in 2023.
- This substantial contribution highlights the increasing role of solar power in meeting the country's energy demands.
India's Contribution to Global Solar Growth: India experienced the world's fourth-largest surge in solar generation in 2023, adding 18 TWh to its capacity.
- Alongside China, the United States, and Brazil, India accounted for 75% of global solar growth in that year.
Solar Generation Growth Since 2015: Global solar generation in 2023 was six times higher than in 2015, with India witnessing a remarkable seventeen-fold increase.
India's Renewable Energy Target: India has committed to tripling its renewable capacity by 2030, aiming for 500 GW of installed renewable energy capacity.
- This ambitious target will require a significant acceleration in annual capacity additions.

AlphaFold 3

09 May 2024

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Google Deepmind has unveiled the third major version of its “AlphaFold” artificial intelligence model, designed to help scientists design drugs and target diseases more effectively.

About AlphaFold 3:

AlphaFold 3 is a major advancement in artificial intelligence created by Google's DeepMind in collaboration with Isomorphic Labs.
It's essentially a powerful tool that can predict the structures and interactions of various biological molecules such as:
Predict structures of biomolecules: Unlike previous versions that focused on proteins, AlphaFold 3 can predict the 3D structure of a wide range of molecules, including DNA, RNA, and even small molecules like drugs (ligands).
- This is a significant leap in understanding how these molecules function.
Model molecular interactions: AlphaFold 3 goes beyond just structure prediction.
- It can also model how these molecules interact with each other, providing valuable insights into cellular processes and disease mechanisms.

The potential applications of AlphaFold 3 are vast. It has the potential to revolutionize fields like:

Drug discovery: By understanding how drugs interact with their targets, researchers can design more effective medications.
Genomics research: AlphaFold 3 can help scientists understand the function of genes and how mutations can lead to disease.
Materials science: By modelling the interactions between molecules, scientists can design new materials with specific properties.
AlphaFold 3 is a significant breakthrough and is freely available for non-commercial use through AlphaFold Server.
This makes this powerful tool accessible to researchers around the world, potentially accelerating scientific advancements.

Widal Blood Test

09 May 2024

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The Widal test's tendency to produce inaccurate results is clouding the understanding of India's typhoid burden, leading to increased costs, and exacerbating antimicrobial resistance risks.

What is the Widal Blood Test?

A Widal test is a serological diagnostic test for typhoid fever.
It helps evaluate the level of antibodies produced by the body in response to the Salmonella bacterial infection that causes typhoid fever in patients.
Widal blood test is also known as a typhoid blood test report, as it is widely used for diagnosing typhoid fever.
- The symptoms of typhoid fever may be similar to those of other diseases, which can make the diagnosis of typhoid difficult without proper testing.
Typhoid fever is a severe illness caused by a bacterium called Salmonella Typhi.
This bacterium affects the gastrointestinal system and causes a range of symptoms such as high fever, diarrhoea or constipation, headache, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, and red spots.
The bacteria usually enter the body through contaminated food or water.
- Typhoid requires prompt treatment to prevent further complications such as severe intestinal perforation or bleeding.
The Widal blood test is a quick and easy serological test that can help confirm or rule out whether a fever is due to a typhoid infection.
Typically, typhoid symptoms appear within 6 to 30 days of exposure to the bacterial infection.
The Widal test is designed to detect antibodies against O (somatic) and H (flagellar) antigens that cause the infection and typhoid fever.
Infection through these antigens produces specific antibodies in response.
The Widal blood test analyses the interaction between these two antigens and the antibodies produced in the patient's body through a blood sample.
- Detecting the presence of these antibodies in the Widal blood test indicates a bacterial infection.
However, it has several limitations and has been phased out in many countries due to its potential for inaccuracy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) advises against relying heavily on the Widal Test because various factors can influence its results.
- For example, a single positive result does not definitively confirm an active typhoid infection and a negative result does not necessarily rule it out.
Additionally, obtaining an accurate diagnosis requires testing at least two serum samples taken 7-14 days apart, which can be time-consuming and often impractical.
In areas with a continuous high burden of typhoid, baseline antibody levels may already be elevated, complicating the interpretation of results without knowing the appropriate cut-off values.
- Furthermore, cross-reactivity with antibodies produced against other infections or vaccinations can lead to false positives.
- Prior antibiotic therapy can also impact antibody levels, resulting in false negatives.
Despite its accessibility and historical significance, the Widal Test's limitations emphasize the need for more accurate and reliable diagnostic methods for typhoid fever.

African Union (AU)

09 May 2024

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The African Union condemned Wednesday the Israeli military's moves into southern Gaza's Rafah, calling for the international community to stop "this deadly escalation" of the war.

About the African Union (AU):

The African Union (AU) is a continental organization comprising 55 member states, representing the countries of the African continent.
Established in 2002, it succeeded the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which was founded in 1963.
The primary objective of the AU is to promote unity, cooperation, and development among African nations while advancing the continent's global interests.
Guided by a vision of "An Integrated, Prosperous, and Peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena," the AU plays a critical role in fostering collaboration and progress across the continent.
To realize its objectives and attain the Pan-African Vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, the AU developed Agenda 2063, a strategic framework for Africa's long-term socio-economic and integrative transformation.
- This ambitious agenda emphasizes the importance of collaboration and support for African-led initiatives to ensure the aspirations of the African people are achieved.
The African Union is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where it functions as a central hub for decision-making and policy development.

The African Union (AU) operates through a structured framework aimed at efficient decision-making and implementation. Its key components include:

Assembly: Comprising the heads of state and government of member countries, the Assembly serves as the highest decision-making body within the AU.
Executive Council: Comprised of foreign affairs ministers, the Executive Council focuses on policy matters and offers recommendations to the Assembly.
AU Commission: Headquartered in Addis Ababa, the AU Commission serves as the administrative arm responsible for executing the decisions of both the Assembly and the Executive Council.
Peace and Security Council: This council is entrusted with the vital task of preserving peace and security across the continent, addressing conflicts and promoting stability.
Additionally, the AU structure fosters the active involvement of African citizens and civil society through institutions such as the Pan-African Parliament and the Economic, Social & Cultural Council (ECOSOCC), ensuring broader participation and representation in the union's endeavours.

West Nile Fever

08 May 2024

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The Kerala health department has issued an alert after cases of West Nile fever were reported in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thrissur districts.

What is West Nile Fever?

West Nile Fever is a viral infection transmitted primarily by mosquitoes, caused by the West Nile virus (WNV).
The virus is commonly found in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and West Asia.
Most people infected with the West Nile virus don’t experience any symptoms.
- About 20% of people who become infected with WNV will develop West Nile fever.
However, for some, particularly the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, symptoms can range from mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, fatigue etc.
Transmission occurs when mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds, and then bite humans.

Why is it named West Nile Fever?

West Nile Virus was first isolated in a woman in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), It was identified in birds in the Nile Delta region in 1953,

Symptoms:

West Nile Fever can manifest with a range of symptoms, although the majority of individuals infected with the West Nile virus (WNV) remain asymptomatic.
For those who do exhibit symptoms, they typically appear within 2 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue, which are similar to those of the flu.
- Additionally, individuals may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and swollen lymph glands.
- Skin rash and swollen joints are also reported in some cases.
In more severe instances, West Nile Fever can lead to neurological complications.
- These may include meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
- Signs of neurological involvement may include severe headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, seizures, paralysis, and coma.

Treatment:

While there is no specific treatment for West Nile Fever, supportive care such as pain management, fluids, and rest can help alleviate symptoms and aid recovery.
Prompt medical attention is crucial, especially for those experiencing neurological symptoms, as these can be life-threatening.

Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)

08 May 2024

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Scientists utilized a CRISPR-Cas9 tool to restore vision in individuals, including adults and children, afflicted with congenital blindness termed Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA).

What is Leber Congenital Amaurosis?

Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA) is a rare genetic eye disorder where affected infants experience severe vision loss or blindness at birth.
The condition results from the impaired function of light-gathering cells (rods and cones) in the retina.

Prevalence and Cause:

LCA affects approximately one in 40,000 people.
It is caused by a gene mutation that disrupts the proper function of the CEP290 protein, which is critical for vision.

Recent Development:

Scientists have employed CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to develop a novel therapy called EDIT-101.
In a clinical trial called "BRILLIANCE," participants received a single dose of EDIT-101.
The treatment involves cutting out the mutation in the CEP290 gene and replacing it with healthy DNA, restoring the normal function of the CEP290 protein and allowing the retina to detect light.
This groundbreaking approach offers a promising treatment for individuals affected by LCA.

What is CRISPR-Cas9?

CRISPR-Cas9 is a unique technology that enables geneticists and medical researchers to edit parts of the genome by removing, adding or altering sections of the DNA sequence.
It is currently the simplest, most versatile and precise method of genetic manipulation.

How does CRISPR-Cas9 work?

The CRISPR-Cas9 system operates through two primary molecules:
- Cas9, an enzyme often likened to "molecular scissors," which can precisely cut both strands of DNA at a designated location in the genome.
- Guide RNA (gRNA), a segment of RNA containing a specific pre-designed sequence (about 20 bases long) within a longer RNA scaffold.
- The scaffold binds to DNA, while the pre-designed sequence guides Cas9 to the intended genomic location, ensuring accurate DNA cleavage.
The guide RNA is tailored to identify and bind to a particular sequence in the DNA, with RNA bases that complement those of the target DNA sequence.
- This specificity ensures that the guide RNA binds solely to the target sequence and avoids other genomic regions.
Once bound, Cas9 cuts across both DNA strands at the targeted location.
- Subsequently, the cell's repair mechanisms recognize the DNA damage and attempt to rectify it.
Scientists exploit this DNA repair process to introduce alterations to one or more genes within the genome of a selected cell.

Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS)

08 May 2024

Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)

08 May 2024

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The Positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), also known as the Indian Nino, could potentially resurface for the second consecutive year during the latter part of 2024.

What is the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)?

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is defined by the difference in the sea surface temperature between the two equatorial areas of the Indian Ocean – a western pole near the Arabian Sea (in western Indian Ocean) and an eastern pole closer to the Bay of Bengal (in eastern Indian Ocean).
The IOD affects the climate of Southeast Asia, Australia and other countries that surround the Indian Ocean Basin.
- The Indian Monsoon is invariably influenced by the IOD.
IOD is simply the periodic oscillation of sea surface temperatures, from ‘positive’ to ‘neutral’ and then ‘negative’ phases.
If the sea surface temperature of the western end rises above normal (0.4°C) and becomes warmer than the eastern end, it leads to a positive IOD.
- This condition is favourable for the Indian Monsoon as it causes a kind of barrier in the eastern Indian Ocean and all the southwesterly winds blow towards the Indian sub-continent.
Accordingly, the waters in the eastern Indian Ocean cool down, which tends to cause droughts in adjacent land areas of Indonesia and Australia.
Conversely, during a negative IOD period, the waters of the tropical eastern Indian Ocean are warmer than water in the tropical western Indian Ocean.
- This results in increased rainfall over parts of southern Australia.

Effects on India:

A positive IOD can boost India's southwest monsoon performance depending on its development timing.
- Example: In 2019, a strong IOD event improved a 30% rainfall deficit during the late monsoon season.
Benefits for agriculture through recharging water sources and reservoirs.
The development of IOD likely benefits India's agricultural sector, particularly in areas with precarious water storage levels.

Difference between El Nino and IOD:

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and the El Nino are independent climatic phenomena but often co-occur.
- Both IOD and El Nino result in changes in global wind patterns. To know about the change of wind patterns, click here.
However, the cycle of IOD is shorter, while El Nino condition could last for even two years.
IOD commences in the month of May and ends with the withdrawal of the Southwest Monsoon in the Indian sub-continent.

LockBit Ransomware

08 May 2024

Carbon Farming

07 May 2024

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Carbon farming offers a versatile solution applicable across diverse agro-climatic regions, simultaneously addressing issues such as soil degradation, water scarcity, and climate variability challenges.

What is Carbon Farming?

Carbon farming refers to a set of agricultural practices designed to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in the soil.
The primary goal is to mitigate climate change by enhancing carbon capture and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Through strategic land management, farmers can play a crucial role in offsetting carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability.

Principles of Carbon Farming:

Carbon Sequestration: The core principle involves capturing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and storing it in the soil.
- This is achieved by promoting the growth of plants and trees that absorb carbon from the atmosphere.
Reduced Emissions: Carbon farming emphasizes practices that minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
- This includes optimizing fertilizer use, adopting no-till farming, and reducing reliance on synthetic inputs.
Biodiversity Conservation: Integrating diverse crops and promoting agroforestry practices contribute to biodiversity conservation.
- This enhances ecosystem resilience and supports sustainable agricultural systems.
Soil Health: Improving soil health is fundamental to carbon farming.
- Practices like cover cropping and rotational grazing not only sequester carbon but also enhance soil structure, water retention, and nutrient cycling.

Benefits of Carbon Farming:

Climate Change Mitigation: The primary benefit is the significant contribution to mitigating climate change.
- Carbon farming helps offset carbon emissions, acting as a natural solution to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Improved Soil Fertility: The focus on soil health leads to increased fertility and productivity.
- Healthy soils contribute to better crop yields, reduced erosion, and enhanced resilience to climate-related challenges.
Biodiversity Enhancement: Carbon farming practices support biodiversity by creating habitats for diverse plant and animal species.
- This contributes to ecological balance and resilience in the face of environmental changes.
Economic Opportunities: Farmers engaged in carbon farming may access new revenue streams through carbon offset programs.
- These initiatives incentivize sustainable practices and provide financial benefits to farmers.

Challenges in Carbon Farming:

Transition Period: Implementing carbon farming practices often requires a transition period, during which farmers may face initial costs and adjustments to new techniques. Financial support and education are crucial during this phase.
Market Access: Connecting farmers to carbon offset markets can be challenging. Developing transparent and accessible markets for carbon credits is essential for the success of carbon farming initiatives.
Education and Awareness: Many farmers may not be familiar with carbon farming practices.
- Education and awareness programs are necessary to disseminate information, build capacity, and encourage widespread adoption.

Conclusion

Carbon farming is a dynamic and evolving approach to agriculture that holds immense promise in the fight against climate change. By understanding its principles, benefits, and challenges, farmers and stakeholders can actively contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future. The key terms associated with carbon farming provide a foundation for navigating this innovative landscape and embracing practices that benefit both the environment and agriculture.

Wildlife Corridors

07 May 2024

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To revive the population of tigers in Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) — the lone tiger reserve in the Maharashtra western region — the state’s forest department will soon translocate tigers from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Chandrapur district.

What are Wildlife Corridors?

Corridors are essentially habitats and pathways that connect wildlife populations, which are fragmented by human settlements and infrastructure works.
They are crucial for the long-term survival of the tiger population as they help guard against localised extinctions and ensure the exchange of gene flow, which helps in population diversity.
Tigers have large home ranges and often travel long distances in search of mates and food.
- In doing so, they make use of these wildlife corridors and cross several human-dominated landscapes.
The role played by corridors in conservation is a well-established one and has been incorporated into policy decisions as well.
Mitigation measures such as underpasses, and wildlife crossings are now routinely ordered to safeguard tigers and other wildlife in projects where linear infrastructure projects fragment habitats.
Litigation, advocacy, and policymaking have all contributed to this.
- The construction of an overpass on the National Highway- 7 to protect the migratory route of tigers underneath between the Kanha and Pench Tiger Reserves is one instance of embedding mitigation measures to protect corridors.
Tigers routinely use the space beneath the elevated stretch of the highway to cross the forests.
- In 2014-15, the National Tiger Conservation Authority and Wildlife Institute of India (WII) mapped 32 major tiger corridors in the country across four broad tiger landscapes – Shivalik Hills and Gangetic plains, Central India and Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats, and the North East Hills.

Is Translocation the Best Approach for Tiger Recovery?

Tiger translocation projects have been undertaken in India since 2008.
- Sariska Tiger Reserve, in 2008, and Panna Tiger Reserve, in 2009, have witnessed successful tiger reintroduction and translocation projects.
There have also been failures and shelving of reintroduction plans, like in the case of Satkosia Tiger Reserve in Odisha, which was the country’s first inter-state translocation project.
However, before choosing translocation, other available options such as habitat improvement, prey augmentation, strengthening of tiger corridors, and vigilance improvement should be assessed.
Even after translocations, one must ensure that corridors are strengthened and they are free of major disturbances.
- This will ensure the dispersal of tigers to other source population areas.

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)

07 May 2024

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Delhi LG V K Saxena recently recommended a (NIA) probe against jailed Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly receiving political funding from Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a New York-based pro-Khalistan organisation that is banned in India.

What is Sikhs for Justice (SfJ)?

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) formed in 2007, is a US-based group seeking a separate homeland for Sikhs, a “Khalistan” in Punjab.
Its founder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a law graduate from Panjab University and currently an attorney at law in the US, is the face of SFJ and its legal adviser.
Panun had launched the secessionist Sikh Referendum 2020 campaign, an initiative that eventually became defunct.
- He was among the nine individuals designated as “terrorists” by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
‘Referendum 2020’, claimed it wanted to “liberate Punjab from Indian occupation”.
In Pannun’s words, “SFJ in its London Declaration (in August 2018) had announced to hold the first-ever non-binding referendum among the global Sikh community on the question of secession from India and re-establishing Punjab as an independent country.”

Banned in India:

India refers to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun as a terrorist, and has banned SFJ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
The Home Ministry’s 2019 notification issuing the ban says: “In the garb of the so-called referendum for Sikhs, SFJ is actually espousing secessionism and militant ideology in Punjab, while operating from safe havens on foreign soils and actively supported by inimical forces in other countries.”
Currently, almost a dozen cases are registered against Pannun and SFJ in India.

FLiRT

07 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

There’s a new group of COVID-19 variants within the Omicron JN.1 lineage “which have demonstrated increased transmissibility and immune resistance” recently detected in the United States.

What is the New Covid-19 Variant FLiRT?

FLiRT variants are sub-lineages of the Omicron COVID-19 variant.
Detected in the United States, this variant group has been named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) FLiRT variant KP.2 and is a spinoff of JN.1.11.1.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), FLiRT has led to increased hospitalisation rates, although it has not significantly raised mortality rates.
- Its primary impact is on the upper respiratory tract.
The rapid emergence and diversification of the JN.1 variant and its descendant, KP.2, which shows significant alterations in spike (S) protein structure and increased resistance to existing vaccines, underscore the necessity for further research to understand the implications for public health and vaccine development.

Where does the name come from?

The letters of FLiRT variation are derived from the technical names of the mutations:
- F and L are included in one, and R and T which is included in another.

What are the emerging symptoms?

Symptoms associated with FLiRT are similar to those of other Omicron subvariants, including sore throat, cough, fatigue, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, fever, and possible loss of taste and smell

Transmissibility:

This variant is highly transmissible and can impact immunity and overall health.
This variant spreads via respiratory droplets of the person to others or touching infected surfaces such as faucets, furniture, elevator buttons, and kitchen countertops, or coming in close contact with the person who is sick with this variant

Is there a concern for India?

Currently, there are no reported cases of FLiRT variants in India, and our immunity is acquired.
Thus far, no new vaccine is recommended.

Fusobacterium nucleatum

07 May 2024

Boeing Starliner

06 May 2024

Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) Technology

06 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Indian Navy has initiated trials to modernize its conventional submarine fleet by issuing a Rs 60,000 crore tender for the acquisition of highly advanced submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology.

What is an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP)?

Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) is a propulsion system used in submarines that allows them to operate underwater for extended periods without the need to surface or snorkel for air.
Unlike traditional diesel-electric submarines, which rely on diesel engines for surface propulsion and battery-powered electric motors for submerged propulsion, AIP-equipped submarines use a supplementary propulsion system that generates power independently of atmospheric oxygen.
AIP systems typically employ technologies such as fuel cells, closed-cycle diesel engines, Stirling engines, or other innovative methods to generate electricity or mechanical power for propulsion while submerged.
- Closed Cycle Diesel Engines: These engines use stored liquid oxygen and an inert gas, such as argon, to run the diesel engine while submerged.
- Closed Cycle Steam Turbines: These systems generate steam using stored liquid oxygen and a fuel source, such as diesel or bioethanol, to power a turbine and produce electricity.
- Stirling Cycle Engines: This technology utilizes a closed-cycle heat engine to generate power using a temperature difference between a hot and cold source.
- Fuel Cells: These devices convert chemical energy from a fuel, such as hydrogen, and an oxidizing agent, like stored liquid oxygen, into electrical energy through an electrochemical reaction.
These systems produce minimal noise and exhaust, allowing submarines to operate quietly and stealthily underwater, making them less vulnerable to detection by sonar and other detection systems.
The implementation of AIP technology significantly enhances the stealth and endurance capabilities of submarines, enabling them to conduct longer-duration covert missions and remain submerged for extended periods, thereby enhancing their overall operational effectiveness.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is pioneering fuel cell-based AIP systems, unique for their hydrogen generation capabilities.
Developed by the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) of DRDO, these systems offer flexibility in operation modes to meet diverse user requirements.

China’s Chang’e-6 Mission

06 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently, China launched its second mission to the far side of the Moon. If successful, it will be the world’s first mission to bring back samples from the part of the Moon that the Earth never gets to see.

What is Chang’e-6 Mission?

China's Chang'e-6 spacecraft launched recently, on a mission to collect samples from the far side of the Moon.
The mission aims to grab samples containing material ejected from the lunar mantle and thus provide insight into the history of the Moon, Earth, and Solar System.
It is a 53-day-long mission. After reaching the Moon’s orbit, the mission’s orbiter will circle the natural satellite while its lander will descend into the 2,500-kilometre-wide South Pole-Aitken basin on the lunar surface.
The impact that created the basin, among the largest in the history of the solar system, is thought to have dug up material from the lunar mantle.
If that material can be retrieved, scientists can learn more about the history of the Moon’s insides.
After collecting samples through scooping and drilling, the lander will launch an ascent vehicle, which will transfer the samples to the orbiter’s service module.
- This module will then return to the Earth.
China is the only country to achieve a soft landing on the far side of the Moon.
- In 2019, its Chang’e-4 mission landed on the region and explored the Moon’s Von Karman crater with the help of a rover.

Why is the Far Side of the Moon Important?

The Moon’s far side is often referred to as the dark side because it cannot be seen from the Earth, not because it does not catch the Sun’s rays.
- The Moon is tidally locked with the Earth and therefore, we see only one side of the Moon, also known as the near side.
The far side has been under the spotlight in recent years as it is very different from the near side.
It has a thicker crust, more craters and fewer maria, or plains where lava once flowed.
Examining the samples from the far side can help scientists solve mysteries about the origin and evolution of the Moon — till now, scientists have only been able to analyse samples from the near side.
The far-side samples can also give answers to the longstanding question: why is it different from the near side?
Going to the far side, getting samples and doing different kinds of geophysical measurements is really important to figuring out this really long, long-standing mystery.

Anthropocene Epoch

06 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

For digital democracies, it is imperative to recognise the potential for self-inflicted social impoverishment by overlooking these long-term challenges of the Anthropocene.

What is an Epoch?

Epochs form part of the Earth’s official timeline.
All 4.6 billion years are split into Eons, Eras, Periods, Epochs and Ages - as designated by the International Commission on Stratigraphy.
- The Earth’s current epoch, the Holocene, started at the end of the last ice age, around 12,000 years ago.
In comparison, the current Eon (in British English Aeon) is the Phanerozoic, which started some 540 million years ago.

What is the Anthropocene Epoch?

The Anthropocene Epoch is an unofficial unit of geologic time, used to describe the most recent period in Earth’s history when human activity started to have a significant impact on the planet’s climate and ecosystems.
The term, coined by biologist Eugene Stormer and chemist Paul Crutzen in 2000, combines the Greek words "anthropo" (man) and "cene" (new) to signify the dawn of a new human-centric era.
Various phenomena characterize this proposed epoch, including global warming, sea-level rise, ocean acidification, mass-scale soil erosion, deadly heat waves, and the deterioration of the biosphere.
These environmental changes highlight the unprecedented influence of human actions on the Earth's systems.

What is the Geological Time Scale?

The geological time scale is based on the geological rock record, which includes erosion, mountain building and other geological events.
Over hundreds to thousands of millions of years, continents, oceans and mountain ranges have moved vast distances both vertically and horizontally.
- For example, areas that were once deep oceans hundreds of millions of years ago are now mountainous desert regions.
To understand the context of the Anthropocene Epoch, it is essential to explore the geological time scale.
From longest to shortest, these divisions are called eons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages.
The study of the correlation between strata and fossils is known as stratigraphy.

Current Epoch and Debate:

Officially, the current epoch is the Holocene, which started 11,700 years ago after the last major ice age.
- However, there is ongoing debate within the scientific community regarding the distinction between the Holocene and the Anthropocene.
The International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) has yet to formally adopt the term Anthropocene as an official epoch.
- The critical question the IUGS needs to address is whether human influence has significantly altered the Earth's systems to the extent that it is reflected in the rock strata.
As the debate continues, the Anthropocene Epoch serves as a reminder of the profound impact of human activity on the planet and the urgent need to address environmental challenges for the sake of Earth's future.

GOLDENE

06 May 2024

Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower

04 May 2024

World Press Freedom Index 2024

04 May 2024

Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)

04 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

“GPT-4 is the dumbest model any of you will ever have to use again,” said the OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman at a time when his company is going big on superintelligence or Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).

What Is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)?

Artificial general intelligence (AGI) is a team used to define the concept of development of AI to a level that can almost be capable of human intelligence and able to solve complex problems.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad field that encompasses various domains and applications, such as computer vision, natural language processing, machine learning, robotics, and more.
AGI is a fictional Super Intelligence system that can match human intelligence.
In Normal terms, AGI is also called strong AI, full AI, or general intelligent action.
AGI systems are expected to have human-like or superhuman cognitive abilities, such as reasoning, planning, learning, communication, creativity, and problem-solving.
AGI systems would be able to perform any task that humans can do, and even tasks that humans cannot do.

What is the Difference Between AI & AGI?

AI systems are trained to perform specific tasks that require some level of intelligence, such as recognizing faces, translating languages, playing games, or diagnosing diseases.
However, these systems are not able to generalize their skills and knowledge to other domains or tasks that they were not trained for.
- This is where artificial general intelligence (AGI) comes in.
Artificial intelligence is an Umbrella containing the science of developing systems and processes that can replicate human intelligence.
It's an umbrella containing multiple subdomains specifically built to develop such intelligence systems.
Artificial General Intelligence is more like the system's ability to learn by itself, and behave like human intelligence. It's an evolved system with the help of heavily trained AI over time.

How can AGI Help Humanity?

In theory, AGI has innumerable positive implications.
- For instance, in healthcare, it can redefine diagnostics, treatment planning, and personalised medicine by integrating and analysing vast datasets, far beyond the capabilities of humans.
In finance and business, AGI could automate various processes and enhance overall decision-making, offering real-time analytics and market predictions with accuracy.
When it comes to education, AGI could transform adaptive learning systems that work towards the unique needs of students.
- This could potentially democratise access to personalised education worldwide.

Blue Corner Notice

04 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is likely to issue a Blue Corner notice against absconding Janata Dal (Secular) MP Prajwal Revanna.

What is Interpol’s Colour-coded Notices?

A Blue or a Blue Corner notice is a part of Interpol’s elaborate system of colour-coded notices, which enable countries to “share alerts and requests for information [on wanted persons/crimes] worldwide”.
This sharing of critical crime-related information is crucial for tackling internationally spread-out criminal activities.
There are seven types of notices — Red Notice, Yellow Notice, Blue Notice, Black Notice, Green Notice, Orange Notice, and Purple Notice. Each has a different implication.
- Red Notice: To seek the location and arrest of persons wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence.
- Yellow Notice: To help locate missing persons, often minors, or to help identify persons who are unable to identify themselves.
- Blue Notice: To collect additional information about a person’s identity, location or activities in relation to a criminal investigation.
- Black Notice: To seek information on unidentified bodies.
- Green Notice: To provide a warning about a person’s criminal activities, where the person is considered to be a possible threat to public safety.
- Orange Notice: To warn of an event, a person, an object or a process representing a serious and imminent threat to public safety.
- Purple Notice: To seek or provide information on modus operandi, objects, devices and concealment methods used by criminals.
These notices are issued by Interpol’s General Secretariat at the request of a member country’s Interpol National Central Bureau and are made available for all member countries.

What is Interpol?

Interpol, or the International Criminal Police Organization, is an intergovernmental organization that facilitates global police cooperation and crime control.
Founded in 1923, Interpol enables member countries to share data and collaborate on investigating cross-border crimes, such as terrorism, drug trafficking, cybercrime, and human trafficking.
Interpol is composed of a network of 194 member countries, each having a National Central Bureau (NCB) that serves as the point of contact for international investigations. Key functions of Interpol include:
- Providing a secure communication system for member countries to exchange information on criminal activities.
- Facilitating operational support and assistance for member countries in managing crime-related crises and emergencies.
- Coordinating training and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies.
- Issuing colour-coded notices (e.g., Red Notice for wanted persons) to alert member countries about international criminals and activities.
- Providing access to databases containing vital data on known criminals, fingerprints, DNA profiles, and stolen and lost travel documents.
Interpol functions within the framework of international law and operates in accordance with the principle of neutrality, ensuring that it does not interfere in the political, military, religious, or racial affairs of member countries.
Its main objective is to provide a platform for international police cooperation and create a safer world for all.

Oxytocin

04 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently, the Delhi High Court called for action against the 'rampant use of Oxytocin' in dairy colonies.

What is Oxytocin?

Oxytocin also known as the ‘love hormone’ is secreted by the pituitary glands of mammals during sex, childbirth, lactation, or social bonding.
It is normally produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary.
It can be chemically manufactured and sold by pharma companies for use during childbirth.
It is administered either as an injection or a nasal solution.

Side effects of oxytocin:

A few side effects of oxytocin in humans would include:
- Allergic reactions on the skin like rashes Itching, hives Swelling, lips, tongue, or throat
- Changes in the heart rhythm causing fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded
- Pain in the chest
- Breathlessness and trouble breathing
- Nausea Vomiting
- Severe headache
- Blurred vision
- Pounding in the neck or ears
- Jaundice Seizure
According to doctors, prolonged use of oxytocin injections also causes fertility disorders like poor oestrus signs, reduced lactation period, lower conception rate, and high embryonic mortalities.
Oxytocin injection given to cattle to boost the delivery of milk production is one of the reasons for the early onset of puberty among girls, the development of breasts in males, and the lack of testosterone production due to hormonal imbalance.

Affects fertility in both men and women:

Milk adulterated with oxytocin is to be avoided by pregnant women as it can cause abortion and babies may be born with deformities.
It also increases the risk of haemorrhage in mothers after birth and can also inhibit breastfeeding.
- However, boiling milk can help eliminate traces of oxytocin.

What are Hormones?

Hormones are special chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system that act as messengers in the body, regulating various physiological processes like growth, metabolism, reproduction, and mood.
They travel through the bloodstream to target organs and tissues, where they exert their effects by binding to specific receptors and influencing cellular activity.

Shaksgam Valley

03 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

India recently said it has lodged a strong protest with China for carrying out construction activities in the Shaksgam Valley in an "illegal" attempt to alter the situation on the ground.

Context:

Recently, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the Shaksgam Valley is a part of the territory of India amid reports of China building infrastructure in the valley.
The Shaksgam Valley strategically located region that is now part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal recently said that India "never accepted the so-called China-Pakistan Boundary Agreement of 1963 through which Pakistan unlawfully attempted to cede the area to China".
Lodging a strong protest with China for carrying out construction activities, India called it an "illegal" attempt to alter the situation on the ground.

Where is the Shaksgam Valley Located?

The Shaksgam Valley, or the Trans Karakoram Tract, is part of the Hunza-Gilgit Region of PoK.
It is bordered by the Xinjiang Province of the People's Republic of China to the north.
The northern areas of PoK are to its west and south.
And the Siachen Glacier region to the east.

How did Pakistan cede Shaksgam valley to China?

In 1963, Pakistan ceded the Shaksgam Valley to China when it signed a border agreement with Beijing to settle their border disputes.
But, Article 6 of the 1963 agreement clearly stated that “the two Parties have agreed that after the settlement of the Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India, the sovereign authority concerned will reopen negotiations with the Government of the People's Republic of China, on the boundary as described in Article 2 of the present Agreement, to sign a formal Boundary Treaty to replace the present agreement.”
The agreement laid the basis for the construction of the Karakoram Highway, which was jointly built by Chinese and Pakistani engineers during the 1970s.

What is the History of Shaksgam Valley?

When the British asked the Mir of Hunza, a vassal of the Maharaja of Kashmir, to give up his rights to the Taghdumbash Pamirs and the Raskam valley in 1936, the Shaksgam valley to the south-west had remained in his possession.
This remained the traditional frontier of British India until independence and was inherited by India following Jammu & Kashmir's accession in 1947.
And, this was the border that Pakistan compromised in its 1963 agreement with China.
Pakistan established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1951.
- Back then, Pakistan was viewed as a member of the non-Soviet block due to its membership in two anti-communist military pacts -- SEATO and CENTO -- led by the United States.
- China was on the opposite side.
- After Chinese troops invaded Tibet in 1950, Pakistan even offered transit facilities to US aircraft so they could supply equipment to Tibetan rebels.
Chinese troops began to cross the border in eastern Hunza after the Partition of India.
This started in 1953 and in 1959 they took some livestock out of the area.
This prompted a furious response from Pakistan, which was determined to protect its borders.
The then President of Pakistan, Ayub Khan, however, saw an opportunity to appease the Chinese in the late 1950s as India-China relations were rapidly deteriorating.
Subsequently, Beijing developed closer ties with Islamabad after the India-China War of 1962.
- China went on to support Pakistan diplomatically during the 1965 India-Pakistan war.
Amid these developments, Pakistan chose to downgrade historical claims made by the Mir of Hunza and signed over the Shaksgam Valley to China in 1963.

What was the Consequence?

In granting China's claim to a border along the Karakoram Range, Pakistan compromised India's traditional frontier along the KunLun Range to the northwest of the Karakoram Pass.
It also allowed China to extend a claim eastward along the Karakoram in Ladakh.
This enabled China to claim all of Aksai-Chin.

Electrolysers

03 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Developing a domestic manufacturing infrastructure for electrolyzers is expected to reduce the cost of green hydrogen and strengthen India's competitive advantage.

What are Electrolysers?

Electrolysers are devices that produce hydrogen through a chemical process called electrolysis, which splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen molecules using electricity.

How do They work?

These devices consist of a stack of conductive electrodes separated by a membrane, to which a high voltage and current are applied.
This induces an electric current in the water, causing it to decompose into its constituents: hydrogen and oxygen.
The generated oxygen is either released into the atmosphere or stored for future use as a medical or industrial gas.
The hydrogen produced can be stored as a compressed gas liquefied for industrial use or utilised in hydrogen fuel cells, which power various transportation vehicles like trains, ships, and aircraft.

Types of Electrolysers:

Alkaline Electrolysers: This technology, predominantly used by the fertiliser and chlorine industries, employs thick membranes and nickel-based electrodes.
- It currently represents a significant portion of global electrolyser capacity.
Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Electrolysers: Operating at high pressure, PEM electrolysers utilise thin perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes.
- Though they require gold and titanium-plated electrodes and catalysts like platinum, iridium, and ruthenium, they produce high-purity hydrogen and are easy to cool, making them a popular choice.
Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC) Electrolysers: These devices utilise heat to produce hydrogen from steam and are ideal for locations with available heat sources such as nuclear or industrial facilities.
- Operating at high temperatures ranging from 500 to 850 degrees Celsius.
Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) Electrolysers: Operating at significantly lower temperatures of 50 to 60 degrees Celsius, AEM electrolysers combine the less harsh conditions of alkaline electrolysers with the simplicity and high efficiency of PEM electrolysers.

Electrolyzers and Green Hydrogen Production:

Green hydrogen is renewable hydrogen produced using water electrolysis technology and electricity generated from renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind.
It is gaining unprecedented momentum globally, and it is believed that it is a key component in accelerating the shift to clean energy.
The commercialization of electrolyzers can make green hydrogen more readily available and enable energy systems across the globe to undergo fundamental transformations to lower emissions and reduce their negative impact on the environment.

Diplomatic Passport

03 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

After allegations of sexual abuse by Janata Dal (Secular) MP Prajwal Revanna came to light, the politician fled to Germany on a diplomatic passport.

What is a Diplomatic Passport?

Diplomatic passports are issued to people holding diplomatic status or deputed by the Government of India for official duty abroad.
Unlike normal passports, which are valid for 10 years and have a dark blue cover, diplomatic passports are valid for five years or less and have maroon covers.
Diplomatic passports, also known as 'Type D' passports.
A diplomatic passport has 28 pages.
Holders of such passports are entitled to certain privileges and immunities as per international law, including immunity from arrest, detention, and certain legal proceedings in the host country.

Issuing Authority:

The Ministry of External Affairs’s (MEA) Consular, Passport & Visa Division issues diplomatic passports (‘Type D’ passports) to people falling in broadly five categories:
- Those with diplomatic status;
- Government-appointed individuals travelling abroad for official business;
- Officers working under the branches A and B of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), normally at the rank of Joint Secretary and above; and
- Relatives and immediate family of officers employed in IFS and MEA.
- Select individuals who are authorised to undertake official travel on behalf of the government”.
The MEA issues visa notes to government officials going abroad for an official assignment or visit.

What are the Benefits of Having a Diplomatic Passport?

Official identification: The diplomatic passport serves as an official identification document for individuals representing the Indian government on diplomatic missions.
- It helps in establishing their identity and official status.
Diplomatic immunity: Diplomatic passport holders are typically entitled to certain privileges and immunities as per international law.
- This includes immunity from arrest, detention, and certain legal proceedings in the host country, safeguarding their ability to perform official duties without hindrance.
Visa facilitation: Diplomatic passports often enjoy certain privileges when it comes to visa facilitation.
- Many countries offer expedited visa processing or waive visa requirements altogether for diplomatic passport holders, simplifying travel arrangements for official purposes.
Access to diplomatic channels: The diplomatic passport grants access to diplomatic channels and services provided by Indian embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic missions worldwide.
- This includes assistance with consular services, protection, and support while abroad.
Priority services: Diplomatic passport holders may receive priority services at airports and during immigration procedures.
- This can include dedicated immigration counters or expedited security and customs clearance, saving time during travel.
Official representation: The diplomatic passport signifies the official representation of the Indian government and confers a sense of authority and credibility while dealing with international counterparts, foreign officials, and diplomatic communities.

Can Diplomatic Passports be Revoked?

According to The Passports Act, 1967, the passport authority may cancel a passport or travel document, with the previous approval of the Central government.
The passport authority can impound or revoke a passport if the authority believes that:
- The passport holder or travel document is in wrongful possession
- If the passport was obtained by the suppression of material information or based on wrong information provided by the individual
- If it is brought to the notice of the passport authority that the individual has been issued a court order prohibiting his departure from India or has been summoned by the court.
A diplomatic passport can be revoked upon orders from a court during proceedings with respect to an offence allegedly carried out by the passport holder before a criminal court.

Monkeypox (Mpox)

03 May 2024

Five Eyes Intelligence-sharing Network

03 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported that “Indian spies” had been “kicked out of Australia” after being caught trying to steal secrets about sensitive defence projects and airport security, as well as classified information on Australia’s trade relationships”.

What is the Five Eyes?

The Five Eyes is an intelligence alliance comprising Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States, formed in 1946.
The alliance is based on a series of bilateral agreements on surveillance and intelligence-sharing.
- These arrangements are commonly known as the United Kingdom-United States Communication Intelligence Act (UKUSA) agreement.
The UKUSA agreement is a secret pact that, since 1946, has allowed the two countries to share intelligence with each other.
- The UKUSA agreement was so secret that its existence wasn't even acknowledged until 2005.
Each of the Five Eyes states pursues interception, collection, and decryption activities and shares all intelligence information obtained with the others by default.
These countries share information with each other through the ultra-sensitive STONEGHOST network, which has been claimed to contain "some of the Western world's most closely guarded secrets".
The Five Eyes states share integrated programmes, staff, and bases.

Origins of the Five Eyes

During World War II, informal secret meetings between British and American code-breakers laid the groundwork for establishing the FE alliance.
After the Cold War, the information-sharing arrangement became formalised under the ECHELON surveillance system in the 1960s.

How does the Five Eyes Alliance operate?

The alliance facilitates the sharing of signals intelligence among the five countries.
The countries agree to exchange by default all signals intelligence they gather.
The bedrock of the Five Eyes Alliance is based on the joint abilities of the United Kingdom's Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) and the USA's National Security Agency (NSA) to intercept intelligence.
- These agencies collect and decrypt signal intelligence, called SigInt, which involves internet, telephone, radio and satellite data from across the world.
The UKUSA Agreement, which was made public in 2010, states:
- "It will be contrary to this agreement to reveal its existence to any third party whatsoever" and "each party will seek the agreement of the other to any action with third parties and will take no action until its advisability is agreed upon."

Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) System

02 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently tested a next-generation torpedo release system aimed at boosting the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

What is a SMART System?

The SMART system, designed to bolster the Indian Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities, represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and indigenous innovation.
With its supersonic capabilities and torpedo release mechanism, the SMART system offers a formidable deterrent against potential submarine threats, enhancing the Indian Navy's operational readiness and maritime defence posture.
The SMART system comprises a mechanism by which the torpedo is launched from a supersonic missile system with modifications that would take the torpedo to a far longer range than its own.
- For example, a torpedo with a range of a few kilometres can be sent a distance to the tune of 1000 km by the missile system from where the torpedo is launched.
The system also gives flexibility in terms of the missile system’s launch platform.
A number of DRDO laboratories including Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI), both in Hyderabad; Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra; and Naval Science and Technology Laboratory (NSTL) Visakhapatnam have developed the technologies required for SMART.

Key Features of SMART Anti-submarine Missile System:

It is a canister-based, long-range anti-submarine missile system.
It has been developed by the DRDO for the Indian Navy.
The objective behind the project is to develop a quick reaction system that can launch a torpedo from a standoff distance.
The missile has a range of 643 km carrying a lightweight torpedo of range 20 km with a 50 kg high explosive warhead.
SMART uses a two-way data link connected to airborne or ship-based submarine detection and identification systems.
It can be launched from a surface ship or a truck-based coastal battery.
The missile is powered by a dual-stage solid-propellant rocket and utilizes electro-mechanical actuators for course correction.
The missile utilizes sea skimming to reduce detection range.
The first successful test of SMART was done on 5 October 2020 from Abdul Kalam Island.

Significance:

This missile-based mechanism to launch lightweight torpedoes can target submarines hundreds of kilometres away — far beyond the conventional range of lightweight torpedoes.
It will be particularly employed in the absence of other assets for immediate action when an enemy submarine is detected.

Red Colobus

02 May 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Red colobus, a rare group of imperilled monkeys spread across Africa, is the primary indicator of biodiversity decline in the continent’s tropical forests.

What is Red Colobus?

Red colobus monkeys (Piliocolobus spp.), a rare and imperilled group of primates endemic to Africa, serve as crucial indicators of the continent's biodiversity.
They are part of the broader colobine family, which predominantly consists of leaf-eating species, distinguishing them from the omnivorous cercopithecines.
Alongside Africa's red colobus monkeys, the colobine group also encompasses langurs found in South and Southeast Asia.
These distinctive primates are distributed across diverse habitats, ranging from the forests of Senegal to the Zanzibar Archipelago.
- Despite their ecological significance, red colobus monkeys face a dire threat of extinction, with more than half of the known 18 distinct forms listed as Endangered or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Their survival is imperilled by various factors, primarily driven by human activities.
Hunting for both trade and local consumption poses a significant threat, as does the relentless encroachment on their habitats.
- Habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation result from activities such as logging, mining, charcoal production, and the conversion of forests into agricultural lands.
- These threats collectively endanger the existence of red colobus monkeys, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to safeguard their future.

Conservation of Red Colobus Monkeys:

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission Primate Specialist Group and the African Primatological Society have come together to initiate the Red Colobus Conservation Action Plan.
- This collaborative effort focuses on making red colobus monkeys a priority target in conservation, ultimately contributing to the preservation of Africa's tropical forests and addressing unsustainable hunting practices.
To effectively implement the action plan, a Red Colobus Working Group (RCWG) has been established.
- This group will provide guidance and ensure that the plan's objectives are met. Additionally, a Red Colobus Conservation Network (RCCN) has been created to promote communication, capacity-building, and monitoring of the conservation efforts for red colobus monkeys.
Through this joint venture, the IUCN and the African Primatological Society aim to secure the future of red colobus monkeys while safeguarding the ecosystems they inhabit.

Ajrakh from Kutch

02 May 2024

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The recent addition of Ajrakh from Kutch to the list of GI-tagged fabrics is a proud moment for India's rich textile heritage.

What is Ajrakh?

The Ajrakh fabric is a traditional hand-block printing technique that originated in Kutch, Gujarat.
It uses natural dyes and intricate patterns to create beautiful textiles, which are then used to make sarees, dupattas, stoles, and other garments.
The unique feature of Ajrakh is its use of geometric patterns and rich earthy colours like indigo, madder, and mustard.
This fabric has been an integral part of the Kutchi culture for centuries and has now gained recognition on a global level with its GI tag.

What is a GI tag?

The GI tag is a certification that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographical location and possessing unique qualities due to that region's traditional knowledge and expertise.
It not only adds value to the product but also protects it from imitation or misuse.
- Ajrakh's GI tag was granted by the Geographical Indications Registry after a long process of documentation and verification of its origin and production techniques.

Some other Indian textiles have received similar recognition.

Banarasi Silk: The luxurious Banarasi silk sarees from Varanasi have been coveted by women all over the world for their exquisite designs and fine quality.
- This fabric has been granted a GI tag for its uniqueness in design, weaving technique, and use of pure silk and zari.
- The intricate designs of Banarasi silk sarees, inspired by Mughal and Persian art, make them stand out in the sea of Indian textiles.
Chanderi Fabric: Chanderi, a small town in Madhya Pradesh, is known for its delicate and lightweight fabric.
- Chanderi sarees and suits are made from a combination of cotton and silk, giving them a sheer and lustrous appearance.
- This fabric has been granted a GI tag for its traditional handloom weaving technique, which dates back to the 13th century.
- The motifs used in Chanderi fabrics are inspired by nature and are intricately woven using golden zari.
Kanjeevaram Silk: The Kanjeevaram sarees from Tamil Nadu are famous for their vibrant colours, fine silk, and intricate zari work.
- This fabric has been granted a GI tag for its traditional weaving technique that uses three shuttles to weave the body, border, and pallu of the saree separately and then join them together.
- The rich gold zari work on Kanjeevaram sarees makes them a must-have in every Indian woman's wardrobe.
Kota Doria: One of the many varieties of sari clothing produced in Muhammadabad Gohna, Mau in Uttar Pradesh and the surrounding area, as well as in Kota, Rajasthan, is kota doria.
- Pure cotton and silk are used to make sarees, which are adorned with square-like designs called khats.
- Since these sarees were woven in Mysore, they were originally known as Masuria.
- The GI tag was given to Kota Doria in July 2005. Kota Doria cotton sarees are regarded as the lightest in India because of their transparency and low weight.
Odisha Ikat: One type of ikat, which is a resist dyeing method, comes from Odisha and is called Orissa Ikat.
- It is sometimes referred to as "Bandha of Orissa" and has been an Orissan product since 2007.
- To produce the design on the loom before weaving, the warp and weft threads are tie-dyed.

Antares

02 May 2024

Booker Prize

02 May 2024

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The Booker Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in the literary world, has recently come under fire for the historical links to slavery of its original sponsor, Booker Group.

What is the Booker Prize?

The Booker Prize was founded in 1969, initially just for writers from the Commonwealth, but later opened to writers globally.
Each year, the prize is awarded to a single work of fiction in the English language.
- In 2004, a separate International Booker Prize was instituted for translated works.
The prize was co-founded by publishers Tom Maschler and Graham C Greene, and from 1969 to 2001, it was sponsored by, and named after Booker Group Ltd, a British wholesale foods company, established in 1835 as a shipping and trading company, and now owned by Tesco.
In 2002, British investment management firm Man Group became the prize’s sponsor, and thus it came to be known as The Man Booker Prize.
After Man Group ended its sponsorship in 2019, American charity Crankstart took over, and reverted the award’s name to its original ‘Booker Prize’.
- Irish author Paul Lynch wins the 2023 Booker Prize for his novel 'Prophet Song'.

About the International Booker Prize:

The International Booker Prize (formerly known as the Man Booker International Prize) was launched in 2005.
It was originally awarded every two years to a living author who has published fiction either originally in English or whose work is generally available in translation in the English language.
It was an award for the body of work of the author, rather than awarded for an individual novel.
Beginning in 2016, the award changed. It is now given annually to a single book in English translation, with a £50,000 prize for the winning title, shared equally between author and translator.
- Georgi Gospodinov and Angela Rodel have won the International Booker Prize 2023 for the novel ‘Time Shelter’.
- ‘Tomb of Sand’ Geetanjali Shree, translated by Daisy Rockwell Winner 2022 winner.

Nutrient-based Subsidy

01 May 2024

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Capping consumption of urea and DAP to correct worsening plant nutrient imbalance is likely to be on the priority list of the government post the Lok Sabha polls.

What is Meant by the Term "Balanced Fertilization"?

Fertilisers are basically food for crops, containing nutrients necessary for plant growth and grain yields.
Balanced fertilisation means supplying these primary (N, phosphorus-P, and potassium-K), secondary (sulphur-S, calcium, magnesium), and micro (iron, zinc, copper, manganese, boron, molybdenum) nutrients in the right proportion, based on soil type and the crop’s own requirement at different growth stages.

What is a Nutrient-based Subsidy?

Nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) is a system started in 2010 to help farmers use the right amount of nutrients in fertilizers.
Instead of giving a subsidy for each type of fertilizer, the government decided to give subsidies based on nutrients like Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), and Sulfur (S) in the fertilizers.
The idea was to encourage farmers to use fertilizers with a balanced mix of nutrients, instead of just focusing on certain types like urea, DAP, and MOP.
- These balanced fertilizers contain a mix of N, P, K, S, and other nutrients in the right amounts.
At first, this plan seemed to work. Between 2010 and 2012, farmers started using more balanced fertilizers and less of the ones with just one or two nutrients.
- But there was a problem: urea, which is heavily used by farmers, was not included in this plan.
Since the government controlled the price of urea and only went up a little bit after the NBS was introduced, farmers kept using it more and more.
This means that even though the NBS helped with other fertilizers, it didn't do much to reduce the use of urea.

Challenges:

The challenges arise from recent changes in fertilizer pricing and consumption patterns.
Earlier, companies set prices for non-urea fertilizers, with the government providing subsidies based on their nutrient content.
- However, in the past few years, even non-urea fertilizers have come under price control, especially since January 2024, possibly due to upcoming elections.
This shift has led to imbalances in nutrient usage.
- For example, the current price of DAP is lower than certain NPKS complex fertilizers, even though it contains less nitrogen and phosphorus.
As a result, farmers tend to overuse DAP, similar to urea. On the other hand, the price of MOP does not incentivize its use, leading to its reduced incorporation into fertilizers, despite its importance for crop immunity and nitrogen uptake.
To address these issues, it's crucial to establish a proper price hierarchy among non-urea fertilizers.
DAP should be priced highest, followed by complexes, with MOP priced the lowest. Additionally, DAP usage should be limited to rice and wheat, while other crops can fulfil their phosphorus needs through complexes and SSP.
Improving the acceptability of SSP, despite its lower price, can be achieved by marketing it in granular form, which is less prone to adulteration and ensures a slower release of phosphorus without drift during application.

Goldman Environmental Prize

01 May 2024

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Chhattisgarh-based environment and forest activist Alok Shukla has been honoured with the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize for his efforts and exemplary community campaign in safeguarding the biodiversity-rich forests in the mineral-rich state.

About Goldman Environmental Prize:

The Goldman Environmental Prize recognizes grassroots environmental heroes from roughly the world’s six inhabited continental regions:
- Africa
- Asia
- Europe
- Islands & Island Nations
- North America
- South & Central America
It is also called the Green Nobel.
The Prize recognizes individuals for sustained and significant efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment, often at great personal risk.
The Goldman Prize views “grassroots” leaders as those involved in local efforts, where positive change is created through community or citizen participation.
Through recognizing these individual leaders, the Prize seeks to inspire other ordinary people to take extraordinary actions to protect the natural world.

History:

Reflecting a lifetime commitment to philanthropy and environmental issues, the Goldman Environmental Prize was founded in 1989 by Richard and Rhoda Goldman.
The duo envisioned the Prize as a way to demonstrate the international nature of environmental problems and draw public attention to the global need for action.
By rewarding ordinary individuals for their outstanding environmental achievements, the Goldmans hoped to inspire others to emulate the examples set by the Prize recipients.
The first Goldman Environmental Prize ceremony took place on April 16, 1990, and it was timed to coincide with Earth Day.
The recipients of the Goldman Environmental Prize are announced annually in a live ceremony timed to coincide with Earth Day.
The Prize is awarded in the city of San Francisco, California.
Prize winners each receive a bronze sculpture in the shape of an Ouroboros.
- Common to many cultures around the world, the Ouroboros, which depicts a serpent biting its tail, is a symbol of nature’s power of renewal.

Patachitra Painting

01 May 2024

Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014

01 May 2024

Look Out Circulars (LOCs)

01 May 2024

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The Bombay High Court has held that public sector banks (PSBs) cannot recommend or request the issuance of Look Out Circulars (LOCs) against loan defaulters and has set aside the provisions of the central government’s Office Memoranda (OM) that empowered PSBs to do so.

What are Look Out Circulars (LOCs)?

Look Out Circulars (LOCs) is a governmental directive to immigration authorities, instructing them to regulate and restrict the physical movement of individuals.
Law enforcement agencies utilize them to prevent individuals wanted by the police or under suspicion from leaving or entering the country through designated ports of entry, including land, air, and sea ports.
Typically issued by police, intelligence agencies, or other authorized government bodies under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), LOCs are not explicitly backed by legislation but are governed by executive directives, such as the Office Memorandum issued by the MHA in 2021.
This memorandum outlines consolidated guidelines for opening LOCs against both Indian citizens and foreigners.
The guidelines dictate that LOCs can only be opened in criminal or penal cases, with the reason for the circular clearly indicated.
- However, in exceptional circumstances, LOCs may be issued for reasons detrimental to the sovereignty, security, or integrity of India, bilateral relations with other states, or the strategic and economic interests of India.
Basic details, including name, parentage, passport number, and date of birth, must be available before issuing an LOC, and the process requires constant monitoring to minimize inconvenience to genuine travellers.
- Additionally, agencies responsible for requesting LOCs must review their requests quarterly and annually, with the results reported to the MHA.
While the legal consequences of issuing an LOC lie with the originating agency, the power to issue such directives is derived from The Passports Act, 1967, which governs the grant of passports, travel documents, and endorsements to travellers during emigration or immigration processes.

'Egg Shell Skull' Rule

30 Apr 2024

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Underlining that the state and central consumer courts incorrectly applied the ‘eggshell skull’ legal principle, the Supreme Court recently restored the compensation of Rs 5 lakhs awarded by the district consumer forum in a medical negligence case.

What is the ‘Eggshell Skull’ Rule?

The eggshell skull rule is a common law principle applied in civil litigation.
Essentially, when the offender would be liable for all injuries that might be intensified due to the peculiar conditions of the injured person that the offender might not have known.
Simply put, the defendant would be held responsible for injuries caused to a person when he hit him on the head, even if the victim had a particularly delicate skull or an ‘eggshell’ for a skull.
- A person who has an eggshell skull would be more severely impacted by an act, which an otherwise “normal person” would be able to withstand.
The rule is applied for claiming an enhanced compensation, for damage that is more than what could have been ordinarily anticipated to be caused by the defendant.

Origin of the ‘Eggshell Skull’ Rule:

The 'eggshell skull' rule, also known as the 'thin skull rule,' is a legal doctrine that holds a defendant liable for all consequences resulting from their negligent or intentional actions, even if the victim's pre-existing vulnerability worsens the outcome.
The rule's origins can be traced back to an 1891 US case, Vosburg v. Putney, in which a boy kicked another's shin without knowing about his prior injury, leading to complications.
- The Wisconsin Supreme Court held that the defendant was responsible for the subsequent harm, even though he did not intend to cause such severe damage.
A similar case in England a decade later involved a pregnant woman who experienced severe shock and gave birth to a disabled child after a horse van was negligently driven into a public house where she worked.
- The King's Bench upheld the principle that defendants are liable for the harm caused to victims, regardless of pre-existing vulnerabilities.
The eggshell skull rule has been applied in various legal cases across different jurisdictions, emphasizing that defendants are accountable for the consequences of their actions, even when victims' unique vulnerabilities contribute to more significant harm.

What was the Jyoti Devi Medical Negligence Case?

In 2005, Jyoti Devi underwent an appendix removal surgery in Himachal Pradesh, India.
However, her abdominal pain persisted, leading to a four-year ordeal and multiple hospital visits.
Eventually, doctors discovered that a 2.5 cm needle had been left in her abdomen during the initial surgery, requiring another operation to remove it.
Jyoti sought compensation for medical negligence and was initially awarded Rs 5 lakhs by the district consumer forum.
The hospital appealed, leading to the state consumer forum reducing the compensation to Rs. 1 lakh, and the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) increasing it to Rs. 2 lakhs.

What did the SC Rule?

The Supreme Court (SC) restored the original Rs 5 lakh compensation, criticizing the lower compensation amounts as "paltry" and "unjust."
The SC ruled that the 'eggshell skull' rule did not apply in Jyoti's case since there was no evidence of a pre-existing vulnerability or medical condition that contributed to her suffering.
The court cited two factors for increasing the compensation: Jyoti's prolonged pain over five years and the decade-long legal battle she endured.

Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance

30 Apr 2024

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The European Society for Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) and the Global Leaders Group (GLG) on AMR jointly organized a high-level event, ‘Forging partnerships between science and policy’, on April 26, 2024, in Barcelona, Spain.

About Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance:

Established in November 2020, the Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance is a collaborative effort of world leaders and experts from various sectors working together to accelerate political action against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The Group serves as an independent global advisory and advocacy entity, striving to maintain public support, political momentum, and visibility of AMR on the global health and development agenda.
Background: The Group emerged from a recommendation by the Interagency Coordination Group on Antimicrobial Resistance, aiming to strengthen global leadership and political action against AMR.
The first meeting of the Group was held in January 2021.

Secretariat Support:

The Quadripartite Joint Secretariat (QJS) on Antimicrobial Resistance, a joint effort by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), provides secretariat support for the Group.
Through its collaborative and multisectoral approach, the Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance is committed to addressing the growing threat of AMR and promoting responsible and sustainable access to antimicrobials.

What is antimicrobial resistance (AMR)?

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) refers to the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to develop resistance to the effects of antimicrobial drugs, such as antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics.
As a result, the medications become less effective or even ineffective at treating infections caused by these resistant microorganisms.
AMR occurs when microorganisms undergo genetic changes that enable them to survive exposure to antimicrobial drugs.
These changes can be shared between different microorganisms, leading to the spread of resistance genes.
Over time, the increased use and misuse of antimicrobial drugs have accelerated the development of AMR.

Common factors contributing to AMR include:

- Overprescription of antimicrobials
- Non-adherence to prescribed treatment regimens
- Misuse of antimicrobials in agriculture and livestock farming
- Poor sanitation and hygiene practices
- Lack of access to clean water
The rise of AMR poses a significant threat to public health, as it makes the treatment of common infections more difficult and increases the risk of complications.
Additionally, AMR has implications for global health security, as resistant infections can spread rapidly across regions and become a major public health challenge.

Taam Ja' Blue Hole

30 Apr 2024

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Recently, scientists have uncovered a massive sinkhole off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

What is Taam Ja' Blue Hole?

Taam Ja' Blue Hole is the world's deepest known underwater sinkhole, recently discovered in Chetumal Bay off Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.
The blue hole extends approximately 420 meters (1,380 feet) below sea level, making it significantly deeper than the previous record holder, the Dragon Hole in the South China Sea.
The nearly circular sinkhole covers an area of around 13,660 square meters and features steep sides covered in biofilms, sediments, limestone, and gypsum ledges.
Named "Taam Ja'," meaning "deep water" in the Mayan language, the blue hole was initially discovered by a local diver in 2003 but only recently gained scientific attention.
Further research is ongoing to explore the unique marine life and geological features within this remarkable underwater cavern.

What is a Blue Hole?

A blue hole is a large, underwater sinkhole or cavern with a submerged opening that appears dark blue from above due to the depth and clarity of the water.
- The name "blue hole" originates from the striking contrast between the dark blue, deep water within the hole and the lighter blue shallower water surrounding it.
These unique geological formations are typically formed through a combination of erosion and dissolution of limestone bedrock, resulting in circular or ovular depressions in the seafloor.
- Over time, blue holes can develop distinct ecosystems hosting a variety of marine life, including unique and rare species that have adapted to the specific conditions within these habitats.
Blue holes can be found in various parts of the world, both in oceanic and inland settings.
- Some famous examples include the Great Blue Hole in Belize, the Dean's Blue Hole in the Bahamas, and the Taam Ja' Blue Hole in Mexico.

Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS)

30 Apr 2024

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Global pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca has said that its AZD1222 vaccine against Covid-19, which was made under license in India as Covishield, could cause low platelet counts and formation of blood clots in “very rare” cases.

What is Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS)?

Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) is characterised by thrombosis formation (blood clots) combined with thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) with symptoms typically presenting in the 4-42 days after vaccination.
- Platelets are small cells that help blood to clot, so having too few of them can be dangerous.
It often involves unusual blood clot locations, such as in the brain (cerebral venous sinus thrombosis) or abdomen.
- The condition was observed in people who received adenoviral vector COVID-19 vaccines, such as Vaxzevria, Covishield (AstraZeneca), and the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine.
TTS seems to occur because the body's immune system reacts to the vaccine by making antibodies that attack a protein involved in blood clotting.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), TTS is classified into 2 tiers based on the location of thrombosis and severity of symptoms.

Tier 1:

Rare blood clots, like in the brain or gut, sometimes alongside more typical ones in the legs or lungs.
Low platelet count (below 150,000 per microliter).
Positive anti-PF4 ELISA tests can help confirm diagnosis but aren't always needed.
Tier 1 cases are usually more severe and riskier.
This is more common in younger people.

Tier 2:

Common blood clots, like in the legs or lungs.
Low platelet count (below 150,000 per microliter).
A positive anti-PF4 ELISA test is necessary for diagnosis.

Symptoms of TTS:

Symptoms of TTS can include severe headaches, stomach pain, swelling in the legs, trouble breathing, and problems with thinking or seizures.

Great Rift Valley

30 Apr 2024

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A dam burst near a village in the Rift Valley region of southern Kenya in the early hours of April 29, 2024. Some 45 people have been killed according to the police chief of Nakuru County, where the incident took place.

About the Great Rift Valley:

The Great Rift Valley, part of the larger East African Rift System (EARS), is a significant geological feature extending across East Africa, from Jordan in southwestern Asia to central Mozambique's coast along the Indian Ocean.
Running through numerous countries including Eritrea, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique, the valley is one of Earth's most expansive rifts.

Formation:

Resulting from tectonic plate movements about 40 million years ago, the Great Rift Valley's formation is linked to the East African Rift's emergence.
Geologically active, the region experiences frequent earthquakes, volcanoes, hot springs, and geysers.

Notable Features:

A series of approximately 30 lakes dot the Great Rift Valley, including Lake Tanganyika (the world's second-deepest lake) and Lake Victoria (the second-largest freshwater lake by surface area).
Many of Africa's highest mountains, such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and Mount Margherita, form part of ranges fronting the valley.

What is a Rift Valley?

A rift valley is a lowland region that forms where the Earth's tectonic plates move apart or rift.
- Rift valleys are a result of the tectonic processes that shape the Earth's surface, specifically in regions where tectonic plates are diverging or pulling away from each other.
Rift valleys are characterized by a long, narrow depression, often with steep sides, running along the length of the rift.
- The depression is caused by the sinking of the ground between the two diverging plates as they pull away from each other.
- The thinning of the Earth's crust leads to subsidence and the formation of a valley.
Rift valleys can be found on land as well as on the ocean floor.

Some notable examples of rift valleys include:

The Great Rift Valley in East Africa is part of the larger East African Rift System.
The Red Sea Rift separates the African and Arabian tectonic plates.
The Rhine Valley in Europe was formed by the divergence of the European and African plates.
Rift valleys are geologically active areas often associated with volcanic activity, earthquakes, and the formation of hot springs, geysers, and other hydrothermal features.

Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI)

29 Apr 2024

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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is preparing to defend the government’s human rights processes at a meeting in Geneva this week, where a decision on whether India’s human rights body will retain its “A status” is expected to be made.

About Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI):

The Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) is a representative body of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) from across the world.
It assists in the establishment and strengthening of independent and effective NHRIs, which meet the international standards set out in the Paris Principles.
GANHRI encourages joint activities and cooperation among NHRIs, organises international conferences, liaises with the United Nations and other international organisations, assists NHRIs under threat, and assists governments in establishing NHRIs.
The Asia Pacific Forum of National Human Rights Institutions (APF) and other member institutions continue to make a significant contribution to the operations and human rights initiatives of GANHRI.
The organisation is incorporated as a non-profit organisation under Swiss law.
Its Statute, adopted in March 2009, sets out its objectives and how it operates.

Membership:

NHRIs that comply fully with the Paris Principles – and which have been granted 'A status' by GANHRI – are eligible to become voting members of GANHRI and to hold governance positions.
NHRIs that only partially comply with the Paris Principles – and which have been granted 'B status' by GANHRI – can participate in meetings of GANHRI but are not eligible to vote or to hold governance positions.

Bureau:

The operations of GANHRI are managed by its Bureau, which is comprised of representatives from each of the four regional groupings:
- Africa, the Americas, Europe, and the Asia Pacific.
Each regional grouping is represented by elected representatives from four 'A status' NHRIs.
- The APF is currently represented on the GANHRI Bureau by Australia, India, Korea, and Qatar.
A key role of the Bureau is to assess applications for membership in the ICC.
It also reviews and determines the accreditation status of NHRIs, following a recommendation from the Sub-Committee on Accreditation.
In addition, the Bureau collaborates with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), in particular the National Institutions and Regional Mechanisms Unit, to facilitate the participation of NHRIs in the United Nations Human Rights Council.
Bureau meetings are usually held twice a year; the first is in conjunction with the first quarter session of the UN Human Rights Council and the second is in conjunction with one of the NHRI regional network's meetings.
A meeting is also held in conjunction with the bi-annual International Conference.

International Conference:

The International Conference involves NHRIs, as well as representatives of United Nations agencies, international organisations, and civil society.
The purpose of the International Conference is to strengthen cooperation between NHRIs, to discuss human rights issues of shared concern, and to ensure follow-up at the national level.
The International Conference is held every two years, alternating between Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Asia Pacific.

Officials:

The positions of GANHRI Chairperson and Secretary are served on a rotational basis by representatives nominated by the four regional coordinating committees: Europe, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific.
The current GANHRI Chairperson is Maryam Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee of Qatar (NHRC), representing the Asia Pacific region.
The current GANHRI Secretary is Amina Bouayach, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Council of Morocco (CNDH), representing the African region.

Secretariat:

The National Institutions and Regional Mechanisms Unit of OHCHR acts as the GANHRI secretariat.
GANHRI has a permanent representative in Geneva to support and facilitate the participation of NHRIs in the UN Human Rights Council and its human rights mechanisms.

Critical Minerals Summit

29 Apr 2024

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Ministry of Mines today organized a summit to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and drive innovation in the field of critical mineral beneficiation and processing in New Delhi.

About Critical Minerals Summit:

The Critical Minerals Summit was organized by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, in collaboration with the Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation (Shakti), the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), and the Indian Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD).
It aims to promote collaboration and innovation in critical mineral beneficiation and processing.
This event brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, startups, government officials, scientists, academics, and policy experts from both India and abroad.

Key Objectives:

Tackling Demand: The summit seeks to address the growing demand for Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) needed for renewable energy systems and electric vehicles as part of India's strategic development goals.
Focus on Key Minerals: The Ministry of Mines has identified eight crucial minerals for focus, including Glauconite (Potash), Lithium – Rare Earth Elements (Laterite), Chromium, Platinum Group, Graphite, Tungsten, Rare Earths (RE), and vanadium-associated with Graphite.
Diverse Participation: The summit offers a platform for a diverse group of stakeholders to collaborate, share knowledge, and drive innovation in the field of critical minerals.

What are Critical Minerals?

Critical minerals are metallic or non-metallic elements essential for modern technologies, economies, and national security, with potentially vulnerable supply chains.
Their 'criticality' changes over time due to shifting supply and societal needs.
Applications: Critical minerals are vital for manufacturing advanced technologies like mobile phones, computers, semiconductors, and renewable energy systems such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, solar panels, and batteries.
They are also used in common products like stainless steel and electronics.
- Examples of Critical Minerals are antimony, beryllium, cobalt, copper, gallium, germanium, lithium, vanadium, and more.
Top Producers: Countries like Chile, Indonesia, Congo, China, Australia, and South Africa lead in critical mineral production.
Critical Minerals in India: The Indian government has identified 30 critical minerals, including antimony, beryllium, cobalt, copper, gallium, graphite, hafnium, indium, lithium, molybdenum, nickel, niobium, phosphorous, potash, rare earth elements, rhenium, silicon, strontium, tantalum, tellurium, tin, titanium, tungsten, vanadium, zirconium, selenium, and cadmium.
To meet the rising demand for critical minerals and ensure a stable supply, the Indian government is actively working on auctioning critical mineral blocks and fostering industry partnerships.
These efforts are crucial for the country's economic development and energy transition goals.

Green Taxonomy

29 Apr 2024

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The RBI and the Finance Ministry could draw inspiration from the ASEAN region's evolving green taxonomy, continually updated with sectoral insights, to enhance sustainability efforts.

What is Green Taxonomy?

Green taxonomy is a pivotal framework designed to delineate environmentally sustainable investments, providing clarity on which economic activities and assets qualify as "green" or environmentally sound.
It plays a crucial role in advancing global sustainability objectives, particularly in the context of combating climate change and transitioning towards a low-carbon economy.

What is Green Taxonomy?

At its core, green taxonomy serves as a comprehensive tool for classifying economic activities and assets based on their environmental sustainability.
It is crafted by governments, regulators, and stakeholders with a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions and fostering sustainable development.

Significance of Green Taxonomy:

The significance of green taxonomy lies in its multifaceted role:
Preventing Greenwashing: By establishing clear criteria and standards, green taxonomy helps prevent greenwashing, a deceptive practice wherein investments are portrayed as environmentally friendly when they may not be.
Informing Investment Decisions: Investors are empowered to make informed decisions by utilizing the taxonomy as a guide. It offers transparency and guidance, enabling investors to align their investment strategies with environmental objectives.
Directing Investments Towards Sustainability: The taxonomy serves as a tool for channeling investments towards sustainable economic activities and assets. By identifying and classifying green investments, it encourages the allocation of capital to projects that contribute positively to environmental goals.

Common Features of Green Taxonomies:

Green taxonomies typically include objectives related to climate mitigation and adaptation, with some also incorporating additional environmental goals such as biodiversity conservation.
To qualify as green, an activity must substantially contribute to at least one of these environmental objectives.
Furthermore, green taxonomies often integrate "do no significant harm" criteria, ensuring that activities considered green do not compromise other environmental objectives.
Additionally, they emphasize compliance with social safeguards, including human rights considerations.

Nuanced Approaches in Green Taxonomies:

Some taxonomies adopt a nuanced approach, such as the "traffic light" system utilized by the Indonesian and proposed Singaporean taxonomies.
Under this approach, economic activities are categorized into different tiers (green, amber, or red) based on their environmental sustainability.
This system offers a more nuanced understanding of the environmental impact of various activities, allowing for tailored assessments and decision-making.

What Is Greenwashing?

Greenwashing is the process of conveying a false impression or misleading information about how a company’s products are environmentally sound.
Greenwashing involves making an unsubstantiated claim to deceive consumers into believing that a company’s products are environmentally friendly or have a greater positive environmental impact than they actually do.
In addition, greenwashing may occur when a company attempts to emphasize sustainable aspects of a product to overshadow the company’s involvement in environmentally damaging practices.
Performed through the use of environmental imagery, misleading labels, and hiding tradeoffs, greenwashing is a play on the term “whitewashing,” which means using false information to intentionally hide wrongdoing, error, or an unpleasant situation in an attempt to make it seem less bad than it is.

National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG)

29 Apr 2024

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A central government delegation is on a three-day visit to Bangladesh beginning Sunday to further boost bilateral ties on governance matters, according to an official statement.

About the National Centre for Good Governance:

The National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) was set up in 2014 by the Government of India as an apex–level autonomous institution under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
The Centre traces its origin to the National Institute of Administrative Research (NIAR), which was set up in 1995 by the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), the Government of India's topmost training institute for civil services.
- NIAR was subsequently rechristened and subsumed into NCGG.
NCGG deals with a gamut of governance issues from local, state to national levels, across all sectors.
The Centre is mandated to work in the areas of governance, policy reforms, capacity building, and training of civil servants and technocrats of India and other developing countries.
It also works as a think tank.
Since its inception, the Centre has been extensively working in areas such as primary and elementary education, decentralized planning at district and block levels, capacity building of Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs), participatory models of learning and action, rural development, cooperatives, and public sector management, etc.
In addition, it focuses on issues related to good governance, social accountability, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), among other sectors.
The Centre encapsulates the essence of good governance and weighs on the importance of the rule of law, bringing in transparency, working to promote public participation in governance, service delivery, and reforms, as well as in developing accountable institutions, access to information, etc.

Raja Ravi Varma

29 Apr 2024

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The first true copy of the painting Indulekha by legendary artist Raja Ravi Varma will be unveiled at the Kilimanoor Palace, where the eminent artist was born in 1848, on the occasion of his 176th birth anniversary celebrations.

Who was Raja Ravi Varma?

Raja Ravi Varma was an Indian painter and artist.
He is considered among the greatest painters in the history of Indian art.
His works are one of the best examples of the fusion of European academic art with a purely Indian sensibility and iconography.
Additionally, he was notable for making affordable lithographs of his paintings available to the public, which greatly enhanced his reach and influence as a painter and public figure.
His lithographs increased the involvement of common people with fine arts and defined artistic tastes among common people.
He was part of the royal family of erstwhile Parappanad, Malappuram district.
He is also celebrated for inventing the first oleograph press in Ghatkopar, Mumbai.
His paintings depicting Hindu gods and goddesses had a significant influence on their portrayal in art and cinema for many years.
His artworks found popularity not only among Europeans but also among laymen, who appreciated his work for its simplicity.
- In a time when lower castes were barred from temples, they found solace in Varma's work.
In addition to Indian mythology, he was admired for highlighting the beauty of South Indian women.
Viceroy Lord Curzon honored him with the 'Kaisar-i-Hind' Gold Medal for his service.
His paintings can be broadly classified into three categories: portraits, portrait-based compositions, and theatrical compositions based on myths and legends.
Some of his popular paintings include 'A Family of Beggars,' 'A Lady Playing Swarbat,' 'Draupadi Dreading to Meet Kichaka,' 'Girl in Sage Kanwa's Hermitage (Rishi-Kanya),' 'Jatayu,' and 'Indulekha' among others.

About Indulekha Painting:

The painting by Raja Ravi Varma draws inspiration from the novel as he creates an oil painting of Indulekha, who is depicted holding a letter addressed to her lover, Madhavan, the hero of the novel, with the salutation 'Dear Madhavan...' dated 1892.
The painting, characterized by an over-the-top sense of symmetry and precise attention to micro-details, dates back to the 19th century.
Another belief suggests that the famous painting 'Reclining Lady' by Ravi Varma was modeled on Indulekha.
Recently, the painting was restored by Madhan S. of the Heritage Conservation and Research Academy.

Expanding Glacial Lakes in the Indian Himalayas: ISRO

27 Apr 2024

Haritha Karma Sena (HKS)

27 Apr 2024

Symbol Loading Units (SLUs)

27 Apr 2024

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Recently, the Supreme Court rejected the plea for full verification of VVPAT slips against EVM counts and directed the ECI to seal the Symbol Loading Unit (SLU) for 45 days post-election results announcement.

What is a Symbol Loading Unit (SLU) and How Does it Work?

Symbol Loading Units (SLUs) were introduced around the same time as VVPATs, a little over a decade ago.
VVPATs help voters verify their votes, they see a slip with a printed image of the party symbol they voted for.
But for the VVPAT to print a symbol correctly, information pertaining to the list of candidates and their symbols must be loaded onto the VVPAT machine in the correct order.
This is where the Symbol Loading Unit, or SLU, comes in.
The introduction of VVPATs necessitated the use of SLUs.
The SLU is used to load the symbols of the candidates onto the VVPAT.
It is a matchbox-sized device that is first connected to a laptop or personal computer, from where a symbol-loading application is used to load a bitmap file containing the candidates’ names, serial numbers, and symbols.
The SLU is then connected to the VVPAT to transfer that file onto the paper audit machine.
This is done under the supervision of a district election officer.

At Which Point in the Election Process Are SLUs Used?

The SLUs come into the picture only a few days before polling in a particular seat, when the EVMs are being commissioned and the list/ order of contesting candidates is decided and set on the ballot unit and the VVPAT.
Candidate-setting can happen at any time from five to two days before voting at a seat.
Once the SLU is used to load symbols onto the VVPAT, the EVM is ready for use.
After this, the SLU is of no relevance to the actual voting process.

What Happens to an SLU After Symbols Are Loaded?

Typically, a small number of SLUs are enough to load symbols onto all VVPATs for a seat.
According to EC officials, it takes an SLU two to three minutes to load each VVPAT.
Once the symbol-loading is complete, the SLUs are handed over to the concerned district election officer for safekeeping.
They remain in the officer’s custody until the day after voting. Afterward, the SLUs are released to the engineers of the two EVM manufacturers, Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) or Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL), so they can be used to load symbols onto VVPATs for other seats in subsequent phases.
Thus, in a multi-phase election like the ongoing one for the 18th Lok Sabha, an SLU is typically reused after one phase of polling to load symbols onto VVPATs meant for other seats in subsequent phases.

Bambi Bucket

27 Apr 2024

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Recently, an Indian Air Force MI 17 V5 helicopter, equipped with a Bambi Bucket, was deployed to combat the forest fires in Nainital district, Uttarakhand.

What is a Bambi Bucket?

Bambi Bucket is a specialised aerial firefighting tool that has been in use since the 1980s.
It is essentially a lightweight collapsible container that releases water from underneath a helicopter to targeted areas.
The water is released by using a pilot-controlled valve.
One of its key features is that it can be quickly and easily filled.
The bucket can be filled from various sources, including a lake, river, pond, and swimming pool, which allows firefighters to swiftly refill it and return to the target area.
Bambi Bucket is available in a variety of sizes and models, with capacities ranging from 270 liters to more than 9,840 liters.

How was the Bambi Bucket Invented?

The Bambi Bucket was invented by Don Arney, a Canadian business, in 1982.
Arney came up with the idea after he realised that the aerial firefighting water buckets in use at the time were not efficient and had a high failure rate.
- These water buckets were generally made of “solid fiberglass, plastic, or canvas with metal frames” and were “too rigid to fit inside the aircraft” and had to be “trucked to fire sites or flown in on the hook of a helicopter thereby slowing the aircraft down.
- Another issue was that the water dropped from these containers used to get dispersed into a spray thereby reducing impact.
Bambi Bucket does not have these limitations.
- One, it can be stored within the helicopter until development.
- Two, it discharges a solid column of water, “resulting in a more accurate and effective water dump, less evaporation on the descent, and greater impact force.
It was an instant success and began to be widely used for firefighting.
Today, Bambi Bucket is used in more than 115 countries around the world by more than 1,000 helicopter operators.

Carnation Revolution

27 Apr 2024

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Recently, Portugal commemorated its 50th anniversary of Portugal's Carnation Revolution – the peaceful uprising that toppled a dictatorship and ended a decade of colonial war.

About the Carnation Revolution:

The Carnation Revolution, also known as the 25th of April, was a pivotal event in Portugal's history that marked the transition from an authoritarian regime to a democratic government.
- On April 25, 1974, a group of military officers orchestrated a nearly bloodless military coup, overthrowing the Estado Novo dictatorship that had ruled Portugal for over four decades.
The revolution aimed to accelerate decolonization, end ongoing wars through negotiations, and improve socio-economic conditions within Portugal.
- This event not only transformed Portugal's political landscape but also had significant implications for the nation's African colonies.
Several factors contributed to the success of the Carnation Revolution, including widespread discontent with the authoritarian regime, a costly and unpopular colonial war, and the growing desire for democracy and improved living conditions.
- The coup leaders, known as the Armed Forces Movement (MFA), garnered support from various factions, including the Communist Party, socialists, and moderate democrats.
The Carnation Revolution was named after a Lisbon flower seller who offered red carnations to soldiers, which were then placed in the barrels of their rifles.
- This iconic gesture symbolized the peaceful nature of the coup and solidified the carnation as a symbol of Portugal's democratic movement.
The 50th anniversary of the Carnation Revolution celebrated on April 25, 2024, signifies the enduring impact of this historic event on Portugal's political trajectory and its relationship with its former colonies.

Bathymetry

26 Apr 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

26 Apr 2024

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The rising incidence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) across the globe has become a concern for doctors, while early diagnosis is lacking, diagnosis in itself is challenging considering that other conditions could mimic IBD.

What is IBD?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a recurring and long-term (chronic) condition that affects the digestive tract.
IBD causes inflammation of the stomach, small intestine, and colon.
IBD is a progressive disease that can become worse over time and cause other damage if not properly diagnosed and treated.
There are two types of IBD: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Crohn’s disease: leads to inflammation anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract, however, it commonly affects the end of the small intestine (the ileum) and the beginning of the large intestine (the right colon).
  - Crohn’s disease can also affect the entire thickness or alternating areas of the bowel wall.
- Ulcerative colitis: causes inflammation in the large intestine or colon.
  - This form of IBD inflames the innermost lining of the colon and creates tiny open sores (ulcers).

What causes IBD?

The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but IBD is the result of a weakened immune system. Possible causes are:
The immune system responds incorrectly to environmental triggers, such as a virus or bacteria, which causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
There also appears to be a genetic component.
- Someone with a family history of IBD is more likely to develop this inappropriate immune response.

Symptoms of IBD:

Although Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are different conditions, IBD conditions have similar symptoms, such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Vomiting
- Weight loss

How Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Treated?

While there is no curative treatment for IBD, it is managed through medication, dietary changes, and occasionally surgery.
The treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, mitigate complications, prevent future flare-ups, and potentially promote the healing of inflamed intestines.

Indian Historical Records Commission (IHRC)

26 Apr 2024

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Recently, the Indian Historical Records Commission (IHRC) has adopted a new logo and motto.

About Indian Historical Records Committee (IHRC):

The Indian Historical Records Committee (IHRC) is a national forum established in 1919, comprising creators, custodians, and users of records.
Its primary purpose is to advise the Government of India on matters related to record management and their utilization for historical research.

Secretariat:

The National Archives of India, New Delhi, serves as the Secretariat for the IHRC, formerly known as the Indian Historical Records Committee since 1911.

Leadership and Membership:

Led by the Union Minister of Culture, the IHRC consists of 134 members, including government agencies, government-appointed nominees, representatives from State/UT Archives, universities, and learning institutions.
Over the years, the IHRC has convened 62 sessions.

Committee Structure: The IHRC operates with two adjunct bodies:

Editorial Committee: Responsible for reviewing and approving papers based on archival sources for presentation at committee sessions.
Standing Committee: Tasked with reviewing the implementation of committee recommendations and providing input on meeting agendas.
- The Secretary of the Ministry of Culture chairs the Standing Committee of IHRC.
The Indian Historical Records Commission (IHRC) has adopted a new logo and motto recently.
The logo signifies the theme and uniqueness of IHRC entirely.
- The pages in the shape of lotus petals represent IHRC as the resilient nodal institution for maintaining historical records.
- The Sarnath pillar in the middle represents India's glorious past.
- Brown as the colour theme reinforces the organization's mission of preserving, studying, and honouring India's historical records.
The motto translates as "Where history is preserved for the future."
- The IHRC plays a vital role in identifying, collecting, cataloging, and maintaining historical documents, manuscripts other sources of historical information.
- By doing so the Commission ensures that valuable historical knowledge is conserved for future generations.
The motto, therefore, reflects the Commission's commitment to ensuring the safeguarding of historical documents and making these accessible for the benefit of present and future generations.

Nephrotic Syndrome

26 Apr 2024

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On the heels of recent news reports on how keratin-based hair-straightening products containing glycolic acid derivatives led to severe kidney injury in women, researchers from Kerala have reported a series of cases wherein, the use of fairness creams has been linked to nephrotic syndrome.

What is Nephrotic Syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome causes scarring or damage to the filtering part of the kidneys (glomeruli).
This causes too much protein to be lost from the blood into the urine.

People with nephrotic syndrome often have:

- Low levels of protein in the blood (hypoalbuminemia)
- Very high levels of protein in the urine (proteinuria)
- Swelling (edema), especially around the eyes, feet, and hands
- High cholesterol

What causes nephrotic syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome results from damage to the kidneys' glomeruli.
- These are the tiny blood vessels that filter waste and excess water from the blood and send them to the bladder as urine.
- The glomeruli keep protein in the body. When they are damaged, protein leaks into the urine.
- Healthy kidneys allow less than 1 gram of protein to spill into the urine in a day.
- In nephrotic syndrome, the glomeruli let 3 grams or more of protein leak into the urine during 24 hours.
Nephrotic syndrome may happen with other health problems, such as kidney disease caused by diabetes and immune disorders.
It can also develop after damage from viral infections.
The cause of nephrotic syndrome is not always known.

What are the symptoms of nephrotic syndrome?

The symptoms of nephrotic syndrome include:
- Swelling or edema, typically in the ankles, feet, or legs
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight gain
- Foamy urine

Treatment:

The treatment of nephrotic syndrome varies depending on its cause.
However, it typically includes medications to treat the underlying cause, as well as changes in diet.
Dietary changes that might help in treating nephrotic syndrome include Source:
- limiting sodium
- eating less protein
- reducing the intake of saturated fat and cholesterol

Complications of nephrotic syndrome:

Serious complications of nephrotic syndrome include kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Dialysis may be needed if kidney failure develops which can happen in extreme cases.

Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS)

26 Apr 2024

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The United States has confirmed providing long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Ukraine to aid its war effort against Russia.

What is the ATACMS System?

The Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) is one of the most potent missile systems built by US-based arms manufacturer Lockheed Martin.
This is a surface-to-surface artillery weapon system.
Its biggest strengths are the long-range of attack, the ability to fire cluster munitions, and the weapon system’s mobility.
Range: There is a mid-range version of the ATACMS, called Block 1, and a long-range version, Block 1A.
- ATACMS Block 1 has a range of 165 kilometres. Ukraine was provided these systems last year and used them to attack targets in October.
- ATACMS Block 1A, on the other hand, has a maximum range of 300 km. However, this depends on the kind of munition the missile carries.
With such a range, the long-range ATACMS Block 1A is capable of striking targets well beyond the range of existing Army cannons, rockets, and other missiles.
Mobility: ATACMS missiles are fired from the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) platforms. Both of these launching systems are highly mobile automatic systems.

Why Ukraine can’t use ATACMS to Target Russian Territories?

Despite territories deep inside Russia now being within the range of the ATACMS, Ukraine cannot use it to hit targets in these locations.
Ukraine has committed to only use the weapons inside Ukraine, not in Russia.
The US administration has made it clear that the weapons cannot be used to hit targets inside Russia.
The Biden administration is concerned that if Ukraine strikes deep into Russian territory, it will anger Moscow and escalate the conflict.

Microsoft Phi-3-Mini

25 Apr 2024

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A few days after Meta unveiled its Llama 3 Large Language Model (LLM), Microsoft recently unveiled the latest version of its ‘lightweight’ AI model – the Phi-3-Mini.

What is Phi-3-Mini?

Phi-3 refers to a series of language models developed by Microsoft, with Phi-3-mini being a notable addition.
Phi-3-mini is a 3.8 billion parameter language model trained on 3.3 trillion tokens, designed to be as powerful as larger models while being small enough to be deployed on a phone.
Despite its compact size, Phi-3-mini boasts impressive performance, rivaling that of larger models such as ChatGPT-3.5.
Furthermore, Phi-3-mini can be quantized to 4 bits, occupying approximately 1.8GB of memory, making it suitable for deployment on mobile devices.
The model’s training data, a scaled-up version of the one used for Phi-2, is composed of heavily filtered web data and synthetic data, contributing to its remarkable capabilities.

Advantages and Challenges of Phi-3-Mini:

Phi-3-mini exhibits strengths in its compact size, impressive performance, and the ability to be deployed on mobile devices.
- Its training with high-quality data and chat-finetuning contribute to its success. This allows it to rival larger models in language understanding and reasoning.
However, the model is fundamentally limited by its size for certain tasks.
- It cannot store extensive “factual knowledge,” leading to lower performance on tasks such as TriviaQA.
- Nevertheless, efforts to resolve this weakness are underway, including augmentation with a search engine and exploring multilingual capabilities for Small Language Models.
Safety: Phi-3-mini was developed with a strong emphasis on safety and responsible AI principles, in alignment with Microsoft’s guidelines.
- The approach to ensuring safety involved various measures such as safety alignment in post-training, red-teaming, and automated testing.
- It also involved evaluations across multiple categories of responsible AI (RAI) harm.

How is Phi-3-Mini Different From LLMs?

Phi-3-mini is the Small Language Model (SLM). Simply, SLMs are more streamlined versions of large language models.
When compared to Large Language Model (LLM), smaller AI models are also cost-effective to develop and operate, and they perform better on smaller devices like laptops and smartphones.
SLMs are great for “resource-constrained environments including on-device and offline inference scenarios.
Such models are good for scenarios where fast response times are critical, say for chatbots or virtual assistants.
Moreover, they are ideal for cost-constrained use cases, particularly with simpler tasks.
While LLMs are trained on massive general data, SLMs stand out with their specialisation.
Through fine-tuning, SLMs can be customised for specific tasks and achieve accuracy and efficiency in doing them.
Most SLMs undergo targeted training, demanding considerably less computing power and energy compared to LLMs.
SLMs also differ when it comes to inference speed and latency.
Their compact size allows for quicker processing and their cost makes them appealing to smaller organisations and research groups.

Ross Ice Shelf

25 Apr 2024

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New research has found a "missing piece of the puzzle" of West Antarctic Ice Sheet melt, revealing that the collapse of the ice sheet in the Ross Sea region can be prevented—if we keep to a low-emissions pathway.

About Ross Ice Shelf:

The Ross Ice Shelf is a floating mass of land-ice, with a front between 15 and 50 meters high. ?
It is the largest ice shelf in Antarctica.
Situated in the Ross Sea, it extends off the coast into the ocean, covering an impressive 487,000 square kilometers, roughly the size of France.
Despite its vast surface area, only 10% of the ice shelf is visible above the water, mostly concealed beneath hundreds of meters of ice.
The thickness of the Ross Ice Shelf varies significantly, ranging from about 100 meters to several hundred meters at its thickest points near the areas where the shelf connects to the Antarctic continent.
The formation of the Ross Ice Shelf is the result of snow accumulation and compaction over time, which ultimately transforms into ice.
It is continuously fed by glaciers draining from both the East and West Antarctic Ice Sheets, creating a balance as new ice is added while existing ice is removed through melting at the base and calving at the front.
This massive ice shelf plays a critical role in stabilizing the Antarctic ice sheet.

About the Ross Sea:

Location and Size: The Ross Sea is a vast, remote bay located just 320 km from the South Pole, positioned south and slightly east of New Zealand.
It covers an area of approximately 370,000 square miles (960,000 square km), making it the largest polar marine ecosystem in the world.
The sea's dynamics are significantly shaped by the coastal East-Wind Drift, which establishes a vast clockwise gyre, complemented by deepwater upwelling phenomena.
Notably, it holds the distinction of being Antarctica's first protected area, serving as a habitat for a plethora of penguin species and numerous whale species.
Depth: Despite its vast size, the Ross Sea is relatively shallow, with an average depth of approximately 530 meters.
Historical Exploration: The sea is named after British explorer Sir James Clark Ross, who first visited the area in 1841 during his expedition to Antarctica.
The Ross Sea's importance to both the scientific community and global conservation efforts cannot be overstated, as it provides valuable insights into the effects of climate change on polar ecosystems.

Global Tiger Conservation Coalition

25 Apr 2024

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At the Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference, Bhutan and the Tiger Conservation Coalition pledged to mobilize $1 billion for tiger conservation efforts.

About the Tiger Conservation Coalition:

The Tiger Conservation Coalition is a group of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that have worked for many years with partners to conserve tigers.
It brings together leading tiger biologists and experts in wildlife crime, human-wildlife coexistence, policy, finance, development, and communications with unprecedented alignment on achieving tiger conservation at scale.
- Its member organizations include the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), Fauna & Flora, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), Panthera, TRAFFIC, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
It is an independent group of organizations that combines and shares the vast knowledge, on-the-ground experience, and data of its members and partners to support Tiger Range Countries in developing and implementing effective approaches to tiger conservation.
The Coalition was founded on strong relationships among eminent tiger experts already working together on major tiger assessments, including the latest assessment by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species released in 2022, and the forthcoming Green Status Assessment, and coalesced around a common vision for tiger recovery.
By engaging national and local civil society organizations from the region, and continuing to support the Global Tiger Initiative Council and the Global Tiger Forum, the coalition aims to further strengthen partnerships and impactful outcomes for tigers.
In January 2022, the Tiger Conservation Coalition released its vision for tiger recovery through 2034, the next Year of the Tiger.
- “Securing a Viable Future for the Tiger” presents a set of measurable goals and high-level strategic approaches to achieve the long-term presence of viable and ecologically functional populations of wild tigers.
Its suggested actions, grounded in the latest science and results, would lead to increasing numbers of tigers secure in current and expanded protected habitats, with distribution and connectivity across their indigenous range.
Tiger Conservation Coalition members co-developed Tiger Conservation Landscapes 3.0, an integrated habitat modeling system to measure and monitor changes in tiger habitat at range-wide, national, biome, and landscape scales in near real-time.
This work serves as a model for objective, range-wide, habitat monitoring as countries work to achieve the goals laid out in the 30x30 agenda, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2024

25 Apr 2024

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Nearly 282 million people faced high levels of acute food insecurity in 59 countries in 2023, with extreme weather being the second most significant factor driving food crisis, revealed the 2024 Global Report on Food Crisis (GRFC) released April 24, 2024.

About Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2024:

The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2024, released annually by the Food Security Information Network (FSIN), provides a comprehensive analysis of global food crises and their causes.
Launched by the Global Network Against Food Crises, a multistakeholder initiative involving United Nations agencies, the European Union, the United States Agency for International Development, and various non-governmental agencies, the report highlights the alarming state of food insecurity worldwide.

Key findings from the GRFC 2024 include:

Analysis of 1.3 billion people in 59 countries in 2023, with nearly 282 million facing high levels of acute food insecurity.
Identification of 2023 as the fifth consecutive year of rising numbers of people suffering acute food insecurity, defined as life or livelihood-threatening food deprivation.
Conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic shocks have been identified as the primary drivers behind worsening food crises globally.
Conflict hotspots like Palestine's Gaza Strip and Sudan experienced a significant escalation in food crises during 2023, with conflict and insecurity becoming the main drivers in 20 countries, directly affecting 135 million people.
The Gaza Strip emerged as the area with the most severe food crisis over the past eight years of GRFC reporting, while Sudan is facing one of the worst food crises globally, with nearly one-third of its population in need of emergency food assistance.
Weather extremes were the main driver in 18 countries, causing over 72 million people to face high levels of acute food insecurity.
The 10 countries experiencing the largest food crises in 2023 included the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Sudan, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Yemen, Syria, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Myanmar.
On a positive note, the food crisis improved in 17 countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine.
The GRFC 2024 report emphasizes the urgent need for coordinated global efforts to address the root causes of food crises and enhance the resilience of vulnerable populations.
By understanding and responding to these challenges, we can work towards a more food-secure future for all.

International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI)

25 Apr 2024

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Countries must build “resilient infrastructure” against natural disasters that are becoming more frequent and severe, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently.

About the Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI):

The Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) is a global partnership comprising national governments, UN agencies and programs, multilateral development banks, private sector entities, and academic institutions.
Established during the United Nations Climate Action Summit in 2019 in New York, CDRI is dedicated to addressing the challenges associated with building resilience in infrastructure systems and development processes.

Objectives:

CDRI aims to enhance the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks, thereby promoting sustainable development.
It seeks to expedite the development and retrofitting of resilient infrastructure to meet the imperatives of the Sustainable Development Goals, including universal access to basic services and fostering prosperity and decent work.
Serving as an inclusive multi-stakeholder platform, CDRI is led and managed by national governments. It facilitates the exchange of knowledge on various aspects of infrastructure resilience.
CDRI brings together diverse stakeholders to create mechanisms assisting countries in upgrading their capacities, systems, standards, regulations, and practices related to infrastructure development, tailored to their risk contexts and economic needs.

Membership:

Since its inception, 39 countries, 7 international organizations, and 2 private sector organizations joined as members.
International organizations include:
- The Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- World Bank Group
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
- European Union
- European Investment Bank, and
- The Private Sector Alliance for Disaster-Resilient Societies (ARISE)
The CDRI is the second major coalition launched by India outside of the UN, the first being the International Solar Alliance.

Secretariat:

CDRI's secretariat is based in New Delhi, India.

Golden trevally Fish

24 Apr 2024

State of the Climate in Asia 2023 Report

24 Apr 2024

Psychoanalysis

24 Apr 2024

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Sudhir Kakar, a pioneering Indian psychoanalyst, author, and cultural critic, passed away on Monday at the age of 85.

What is Psychoanalysis?

Psychoanalysis is a set of psychological theories and therapeutic methods that focus on the unconscious mind, as well as the role of repressed emotions and desires in shaping behavior and mental health.
Developed by Sigmund Freud in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, psychoanalysis is based on the idea that many of our thoughts, feelings, and actions are influenced by unconscious motives and conflicts, often rooted in childhood experiences.
Psychoanalysis has three core components:
- A method of investigation of the mind and the way one thinks.
- A systematized set of theories about human behavior.
- A method of treatment for psychological and emotional issues.
Key concepts in psychoanalysis include the id, ego, and superego (the structural model of the psyche), the Oedipus complex, defense mechanisms (such as repression, denial, and projection), and dream interpretation.
During psychoanalysis therapy, a patient works closely with a therapist to explore and understand unconscious thoughts and feelings, often by discussing dreams, memories, and other experiences.
The goal is to bring repressed emotions to the surface and address any underlying conflicts in order to alleviate mental distress and improve overall well-being.
While psychoanalysis has had a significant influence on psychology and mental health treatment, it remains a controversial approach due to its lack of scientific rigor and emphasis on subjective interpretation.
Nevertheless, many of its concepts have been adapted or integrated into other forms of therapy, and psychoanalysis remains an important part of the history and development of psychology.

Significance:

It has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology and mental health treatment, as well as culture, literature, and the arts. Its significance can be understood through the following points:
Foundational Role: Psychoanalysis provided a groundbreaking approach to understanding the human mind and behavior, shifting the focus from conscious experiences to unconscious mental processes.
Influence on Psychology: Many concepts introduced by psychoanalysis, such as the unconscious mind, defense mechanisms, and the influence of early childhood experiences, have been adopted and adapted by various schools of psychology, including cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic approaches.
Therapeutic Approach: Psychoanalysis revolutionized the way mental health issues were treated, moving away from a purely medical model and emphasizing the importance of talking therapy in addressing psychological problems.
Cultural Impact: The ideas of psychoanalysis have permeated culture, literature, and the arts, influencing our understanding of human motivations, relationships, and emotions. Concepts like Freudian slips, dream interpretation, and the Oedipus complex have become part of everyday language.
Interdisciplinary Applications: The principles of psychoanalysis have been applied in fields beyond psychology, including sociology, anthropology, literature, and film studies.
Despite criticisms and revisions, psychoanalysis remains a significant and influential theory that has shaped our understanding of the human mind and behavior.
It continues to contribute to the development of psychological theories and therapeutic approaches, enriching our comprehension of mental health and human nature.

Crystal Maze-2 Missile

24 Apr 2024

Marburg virus disease (MVD)

24 Apr 2024

Project Nimbus

23 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Google's employees staged protests against the company's collaboration with the Israeli government on "Project Nimbus", a $1.2 billion cloud computing initiative.

What is Project Nimbus?

Google’s Project Nimbus is a $1.2 billion cloud computing initiative with the Israeli government.
The project aims to provide public cloud services to address challenges within various sectors in Israel, including healthcare, transportation, and education in Israel.
- However, the project has sparked controversy leading to protests and layoffs within the company.
Project Nimbus involves Google establishing a secure instance of Google Cloud on Israeli soil.
- This would allow the Israeli government to perform large-scale data analysis, AI training, database hosting, and other forms of powerful computing using Google’s technology.
- The project is a joint contract between Google and Amazon signed in 2021.
As part of the agreement, Google Cloud will work with the public sector on the formulation of best practices for cloud migration, integration, and optimization of cloud services.
According to the official announcement in the year 2021, Google Cloud will also provide training to the country’s technical government employees and senior leaders to enhance digital skills.

What is the Controversy Surrounding Project Nimbus?

Despite the potential benefits, Project Nimbus has sparked controversy due to concerns about the potential misuse of AI and other technologies.
Employees fear that the technology developed under Project Nimbus could be used in harmful ways.
There have been reports suggesting that Israel is using AI to eliminate its targets.
- Israeli outlets +972 Magazine and Local Call claimed that two AI systems, "Lavender" and "Where's Daddy?" were used to identify 37,000 Hamas operatives.
- However, there's no official confirmation regarding any connection between Project Nimbus and these AI systems.
The use of AI also causes concern as it is still a relatively new technology on the battlefield and is yet to be regulated by governments across the globe.

Google Response to the Accusations Regarding Project Nimbus?

Google clarified that the project is intended for use by Israeli government ministries in areas such as finance, healthcare, transportation, and education, emphasizing that it is not aimed at handling highly sensitive or classified military operations related to weaponry or intelligence services.

Netzah Yehuda Battalion

23 Apr 2024

Star Campaigners

23 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

In the current general elections, political parties are selecting 'star campaigners' to lead their campaigns.

What are Star Campaigners in Election?

Star campaigners are popular individuals with significant fan followings and are chosen by political parties to contest or campaign during elections.

Legal Provisions:

The Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RPA) governs the expenditure incurred by 'leaders of a political party,' commonly referred to as star campaigners.
- A recognized political party (National or State) can appoint a maximum of 40-star campaigners.
- A registered unrecognized political party can appoint up to 20.
The names of star campaigners must be communicated to the Election Commission (EC) and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) within seven days from the date of election notification.
For multi-phase elections, political parties can submit separate lists of star campaigners for different phases.

Expenses and Apportionment:

If a star campaigner seeks votes for contesting candidates or shares the dais with them, rally/meeting expenses are apportioned to the election expenditure of those candidates.
Boarding/lodging expenses incurred by the star campaigner while campaigning for candidates are included in the expenditure accounts of those candidates.
If candidates travel with the star campaigner, 50% of the star campaigner's travel expenditure is apportioned to those candidates.

Special Cases:

When a Prime Minister or former Prime Minister serves as a star campaigner, the government bears the expenditure on security, including bullet-proof vehicles.
However, if the Prime Minister is accompanied by another star campaigner, the candidate must bear 50% of the expenditure on security arrangements.

Tundra Ecosystem

23 Apr 2024

Survey of India (SoI)

23 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Tamil Nadu government filed its objections in the Supreme Court recently, about the Survey of India (SOI) report on the construction of the mega car parking project near the Mullaiperiyar dam, and sought rejection of the report.

What is the Survey of India (SoI)?

The Survey of India (SoI) serves as the National Survey and Mapping Organization of India, operating under the Department of Science and Technology.
Established in 1767, it holds the distinction of being the oldest scientific department within the Government of India.
Tasked with the critical role of being the country's primary mapping agency, SoI bears the responsibility of thoroughly exploring and mapping India's terrain to furnish foundational maps for comprehensive and efficient development initiatives.
Originally comprising only five directorates in 1950, primarily focused on catering to the mapping requirements of the Defense Forces in the Northwest and Northeast regions, the department has since expanded to encompass 18 directorates spread across the nation, ensuring comprehensive map coverage essential for national development.
SoI's expertise is widely utilized by various ministries and government undertakings for diverse purposes, including delineating international borders, and state boundaries, and facilitating the planned development of previously underserved areas.
Moreover, SoI actively contributes to numerous national scientific endeavors in fields such as geophysics, remote sensing, and digital data transmission.
Functioning as a key advisor to the Government of India on all survey-related matters, including geodesy, photogrammetry, mapping, and map reproduction, SoI fulfills a multitude of duties and responsibilities, which include:
- Conducting all geodetic control, geodetic, and geophysical surveys.
- Undertaking topographical control, surveys, and mapping within India.
- Producing geographical maps and aeronautical charts.
- Conducting surveys for developmental projects.
- Mapping forests, cantonments, large-scale city surveys, guide maps, cadastral surveys, etc.
- Engaging in surveys and mapping for specialized purposes.
- Demarcating India's external boundaries, depicting them on published maps, and advising on inter-state boundary demarcation.
- Conducting research and development in cartography, printing, geodesy, photogrammetry, topographical surveys, and indigenization.
- Predicting tides at 44 ports, including 14 foreign ports, and publishing tide tables one year in advance to support navigational activities.
- Reviewing and certifying India's external boundaries and coastline on maps published by other entities, including private publishers.
Headquartered: Dehradun (Uttarakhand)

Zero Shadow Day

22 Apr 2024

National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO)

22 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Each organ transplant case will receive a distinctive National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) ID assigned to both the donor and the recipient.

Highlights of the News:

The Union Health Ministry has mandated the cessation of commercial organ transactions, particularly those involving foreign nationals, and emphasized the need for stringent oversight by local authorities.
For deceased donor transplants, a NOTTO-ID is required for organ allocation, while in living donor transplants, the ID must be generated within 48 hours post-surgery through the NOTTO website by the hospital.

What is the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO)?

NOTTO is a national organization established under the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

It serves as the central coordinating hub for:

Organ and tissue procurement and distribution.
Maintaining a registry of organ and tissue donation and transplantation activities across the country.

NOTTO comprises two divisions:

National Human Organ and Tissue Removal and Storage Network:
- Acts as the primary center for nationwide coordination of organ and tissue procurement, distribution, and registry.
- Established in accordance with the Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act 2011.
National Biomaterial Centre (National Tissue Bank):
- This center focuses on filling the gap between demand and supply while ensuring quality assurance in tissue availability.
- The Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act 2011 has expanded NOTTO's scope to include tissue donation and registration of tissue banks.

Activities performed by NOTTO include:

- Coordinating tissue procurement and distribution
- Donor tissue screening
- Tissue removal and storage
- Tissue preservation
- Laboratory screening of tissues
- Tissue tracking
- Sterilization
- Record maintenance
- Data protection and confidentiality
- Quality management in tissues
- Patient information on tissues
- Developing guidelines, protocols, and standard operating procedures
- Training and assistance in registering other tissue banks

BFI Biome Virtual Network Program

22 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) has joined the Blockchain for Impact (BFI) Biome Virtual Network Program to accelerate transformative healthcare solutions through biomedical innovation.

About BFI Biome Virtual Network Program:

The BFI-Biome Virtual Network Program is a pioneering initiative uniting incubators and research institutes under a single umbrella.
This fosters collaborations among the stakeholders in the translational pipeline, the process of transforming research discoveries into real-world applications.
Through this program, BFI will allocate over 200,000 USD over the course of three years, leveraging C-CAMP’s expertise to develop essential programs for healthcare-based startups.
C-CAMP being an organization to foster deep science research and innovation for societal impact, the goals and mandates of both partners naturally align and complement each other.
The partnership is expected to blur disciplinary boundaries in approaching biotech R&D, promote cross-integration of expertise and infrastructure, and provide multidisciplinary insights into need identification, problem-solving, and solution implementation.

What is C-CAMP?

Centre for Cellular And Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) is an initiative of the Dept of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, with a mandate to be an enabler of cutting edge Life Science Research and Innovation.
C-CAMP is also a member of the Bangalore Life Sciences Cluster (BLiSC).
It facilitates Bioscience Research and Entrepreneurship by providing Research, Development, Training, and Services in state-of-the-art Technology Platforms.
As a part of C-CAMP's mandate of promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, C-CAMP has created and fostered an entrepreneur-friendly culture in and around the Academic/Research environment through its involvement in Seed Funding Schemes for Startups, Entrepreneur Mentorship program, and Bio-Incubation facility.
It has established State-Of-The-Art Platform Technologies which are essential requirements for success and leadership in the field of Life Sciences.
C-CAMP allows Investigators to use Techniques as tools and not be limited by Technological barriers while pursuing challenging scientific questions.

Global Financial Stability Report (GFSR)

22 Apr 2024

World Earth Day 2024

22 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

On World Earth Day 2024, a global network promoting local food and traditional cooking has called for practical measures to cut down on plastic use in the food chain and to safeguard the environment.

About World Earth Day:

World Earth Day, also known as International Mother Earth Day, is a globally recognized event dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the sustainability of our planet.
Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 in the United States and on either April 22 or the day the spring equinox occurs throughout the rest of the world.
Theme: The theme for World Earth Day 2024 is “Planet vs Plastics”.
- The theme aims to bring attention to the serious issue of plastic pollution and how it harms nature.

Earth Day History:

The origin of Earth Day can be traced back to 1970.
The idea behind the event originated from Gaylord Nelson, a US senator, and Denis Hayes, a Harvard student.
- They were both deeply disturbed by the deteriorating environment in the United States and the massive January 1969 oil spill in Santa Barbara, California.
Deeply disturbed by the environmental impacts, Gaylord Nelson wanted to infuse the energy of student protests into an emerging public consciousness about air and water pollution.
- He recruited Denis Hayes, a young activist, to manage the campus teach-ins and to scale the idea of environment conservation to a broader public.
They choose April 22, a weekday between Spring Break and Final Exams, to increase student participation.
Its immediate success was evident with a massive turnout of 20 million people across the US.
By 1990, Earth Day became a global event transcending national borders.

Earth Day Significance:

Earth Day symbolizes the need to protect our mother nature.
The day encourages every individual to think about environmental conservation and act accordingly.
It speaks about the need to reduce carbon footprints, conserve natural resources, and protect wildlife and natural habitats.
The day also serves as a platform to advocate for policy changes that can have a positive impact on the environment.

Ethylene Oxide

20 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has issued a recall on Indian spice brand Everest’s fish curry masala after detecting an ‘excessive’ amount of ethylene oxide–a pesticide–in it.

What is Ethylene Oxide?

Ethylene oxide is a colorless and flammable gas with a slightly sweet odor and It dissolves easily in water.
It is widely used in various industries due to its versatile properties.
Its primary applications include the production of other chemicals, such as ethylene glycol for antifreeze and polyester, as well as the sterilization of medical equipment.
It also has minor applications in agriculture.
- In this sector, it's used as a fumigant to control insect pests in stored agricultural goods, such as food commodities, to protect them from infestation.
- This usage makes up less than 1% of its applications, and it is combined with other gases to minimize potential toxicity to humans and the environment.
While ethylene oxide plays a significant role in many industrial processes, it also poses health risks to those exposed to it.
Potential health effects range from mild symptoms like headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues, to more severe problems such as cancer and reproductive harm.
To minimize exposure risks, industries and facilities that use ethylene oxide are subject to environmental regulations and required to implement safety measures.
- These measures include emission-reducing and monitoring devices, on-site testing, site-specific operating parameters, and regular reporting and record-keeping.
Despite these precautions, workers in factories that produce or use ethylene oxide, as well as people living near these facilities, may still face potential health risks.

How Do Pesticides Harm Our Bodies if Present in Food?

Pesticides, designed to ward off unwanted organisms in agriculture, can pose extensive risks to human health if they find their way into our food chain.
Even a brief exposure to some of them can cause acute poisoning and symptoms, including diarrhea, dehydration, and skin irritation.
Some insecticides like Resmethrin, Cypermethrin, and Fenvalerate have been connected to chronic health issues, which include reproductive complications, immune system disruption, pores, and skin infection, and interference with the endocrine system.
Even low-level exposure over the years can cause critical health implications.

How Long-term Issues Can be Combated?

Some steps can be taken to mitigate the risks associated with pesticides and ethylene oxide exposure.
- It’s critical to prevent the runoff of insecticides into storm drains, which can contaminate water sources.
- While using insecticides, it’s essential to consider the characteristics of the application site to minimize unintended exposure.
- Attention to the geological factors and groundwater depth can prevent pesticide seepage into water reservoirs.
By implementing these measures and maintaining strict regulations, we can minimize the health risks posed by these chemical substances.

Salas y Gómez

20 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

An international team of scientists last week announced they discovered 160 species when exploring 10 seamounts and two islands on the 2,900-kilometre-long ocean ridge Salas y Gómez.

What is ‘Salas y Gomez’?

Salas y Gómez is a remarkable underwater mountain chain in the Southeastern Pacific Ocean.
This 2,900-kilometer-long range stretches in a west-east orientation, connecting the East Pacific Rise and the Nazca Ridge.
The western end of the chain lies within Chile's Exclusive Economic Zone near the Easter Islands, while the eastern part extends into areas beyond national jurisdiction and touches upon the national waters of Chile and Peru.
The region is characterized by unique ecosystems isolated by the Atacama Trench, the Humboldt Current System, and an extreme oxygen minimum zone.
Salas y Gómez and Nazca ridges are known for their extraordinary biodiversity, hosting some of the highest levels of marine endemism on Earth.
Given the ecological significance of this underwater mountain range, there is a growing interest in designating Salas y Gómez and its surrounding areas as high-seas marine protected areas upon the ratification of the UN High Seas Treaty.
This initiative aims to safeguard the region's unique ecosystems and contribute to global marine conservation efforts.

About the United Nations High Seas Treaty:

The United Nations High Seas Treaty is a legal framework, or a set of legal tools, designed to protect the oceans that are beyond any country’s territory.
- The high seas are defined as the waters that are 200 nautical miles from any national jurisdiction; they are international open waters that all countries can use for marine business such as shipping, fishing, and marine research.
The treaty’s formal name is the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty, or BBNJ Treaty for short.

Key Facts About the High Seas Treaty:

The treaty was to be negotiated under the United Nations Convention on Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982.
It took 19 years to reach an agreement on it.
Before now, laws to protect ocean waters and biodiversity beyond countries’ territorial boundaries only protected 1.2% of the high seas.

World Craft Council International

20 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The World Crafts Council International (WCCI), a Kuwait-based organization working on the recognition and preservation of traditional crafts across the globe, has picked Srinagar for mapping its craft clusters before its final nomination as the World Craft City (WCC) from India this year.

About World Crafts Council:

World Crafts Council AISBL is an international non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the preservation, promotion, and advancement of global craftsmanship and traditional crafts.
It was founded by Ms. Aileen Osborn Vanderbilt Webb, Ms. Margaret M. Patch, and Smt Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay at the 1st World Crafts Council General Assembly in New York on June 12, 1964.
Since its inception, the World Crafts Council AISBL has been affiliated with UNESCO under Consultative Status for many years.
Its mission is to empower artisans, celebrate cultural diversity, and contribute to sustainable development by supporting the rich tapestry of global craftsmanship and preserving languishing crafts from extinction.
Headquarters: The current headquarters for the term (2021-2024) is located in Kuwait.

Objectives:

The main objective of the World Crafts Council AISBL is to strengthen the status of crafts in cultural and economic life.
The Council aims to promote fellowship among craftspersons by offering them encouragement, help, and advice.
It fosters and assists cultural exchange through conferences, international visits, research studies, lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and other activities.
The WCC also seeks to foster wider knowledge and recognition of the craftspeople's work with due regard to the diversified cultural and national backgrounds and traditions of its members.
In carrying out these principles, the Council shall consult with governments, national and international institutions, societies, and individuals.?

India has only 3 cities designated as World Craft City:

Mysuru (Kinnal paintings, Sandalwood carvings, Rosewood Inlay, etc.)
Mamallapuram (Stone Carving continuing since the Pallava dynasty (275 CE to 897 CE)
Jaipur (Kundan Jadai (Gem setting), Meenakari Jewellery, Lac-based craft, Gotta Patti Work, etc.)

About the World Craft City Programme:

The World Craft City Programme, initiated in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International), recognizes the significance of local authorities, artisans, and communities in global cultural, economic, and social advancement.
By establishing a vibrant network of craft cities worldwide, it embraces the ideals of the creative economy and acknowledges the valuable contributions of local entities to comprehensive development.
Notably, Jaipur (Rajasthan), Mamallapuram (Tamil Nadu), and Mysore have already been designated as craft cities under this initiative in India.

National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024

20 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

For the first time ever, the Central government has released a curriculum advisable to be taught to children aged three to six years old, thus giving an impetus to pre-school learning in 14 lakh anganwadis across the country.

About National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024:

The National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024 introduces Aadharshila, a comprehensive 48-week curriculum tailored for children aged three to six years attending anganwadis.
Developed through collaboration among the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Department of School Education and Literacy, the Ministry of Education, the NCERT, the Institute of Home Economics at Delhi University, and civil society organizations, Aadharshila serves as a foundational learning framework.

??Key Features:

The curriculum introduces a weekly play calendar, initiating with four weeks of academic activities facilitating the transition from home to Anganwadi centers through engaging play.
Over the subsequent 36 weeks, children engage in diverse activities such as storytelling, rhymes, arts, and crafts, fostering exploration, free play, conversation, creation, and appreciation.
Storytelling themes promote values like conflict resolution, responsibility, and cooperation.
Children delve into topics including colors, shapes, numbers, senses, family, and friends, enhancing skills in listening, following instructions, counting, and recognizing sounds, alongside exploring themes like seasons and festivals.
The final eight weeks focus on reinforcing previous learnings through worksheets and performance observation.
Activities and timetables are age-specific, with detailed material requirements, variations, teacher notes, curricular goals, and competency assessments.
The curriculum spans three years, targeting at least 48 weeks of learning, fostering skills crucial for Grade 1 transition such as listening, vocabulary, imagination, and social development.
Special provisions ensure screening, inclusion, and referrals for children with disabilities in all activities.
The national framework lays the foundation for states to develop culturally relevant curricula, addressing future schooling challenges effectively.

Vasuki Indicus

20 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Fossils recovered from Kutch in Gujarat may have belonged to the spine of one of the largest snakes to have ever lived, according to new research from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee.

Highlights of the Vasuki Indicus Discovery:

A nearly 50-foot-long snake species, one of the longest and largest in recorded history, once existed in the Indian subcontinent.
The reptile, Vasuki indicus, lived in India nearly 47 million years ago, fossil remains found from Gujarat’s Panandhro Lignite Mine in Kutch suggest.
This giant snake, named Vasuki indicus, is estimated to have reached 15 meters in length, exceeding even a T-Rex.
Scientists found 27 vertebrae, some even in their original position within the spine. They believe Vasuki resembled a large python and lacked venom.
The species was given the specific name of Vasuki indicus in acknowledgment of the country of its origin, India.
- Vasuki is revered as the king of the snakes in Hindu mythology and is worshiped on special days like Nag Panchami.

About Vasuki Indicus:

Vasuki indicus belongs to the Madtsoiidae family, and thrived during a “warm geological interval".
- Researchers suggest that the warm tropical temperatures of Gondwanaland, averaging around 28°C, may have contributed to the substantial size and growth of this giant reptile.
- There is a recognized correlation suggesting that higher ambient temperatures can enable larger growth in animals.
Madtsoiids were also found in Europe and Africa, besides Asia.
Vasuki indicus represents a large lineage of Madtsoiidae that originated in the Indian subcontinent and then spread to southern Eurasia, before reaching North Africa around 50 million years ago, that’s nearly 15 million years after the dinosaurs went extinct.
Madtsoiidae, an extinct lineage of terrestrial snakes, thrived on the Indian subcontinent over a span of approximately 100 million years, from the Late Cretaceous to the Late Pleistocene, dating from roughly 98 million to 11,000 years ago.
During the Late Cretaceous period, the supercontinent Pangea had fragmented into two major landmasses:
- Laurasia, encompassing North America, Europe, and Northern Asia to the north; and
- Gondwanaland to the south, which included present-day Africa, Antarctica, South America, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent.
The fossils of Vasuki indicus extracted from the early Lutetian grey shale layers of the Naredi Formation at the Kutch mine include an “excellently preserved, partial vertebral column”.
The discovery sheds light on the biogeographic patterns of dispersion and diversification within the Madtsoiidae, particularly across the Gondwanan continents.
The presence of this giant snake in the Eocene of India indicates a complex history of faunal exchanges between the Indian subcontinent and other landmasses prior to complete integration into the Eurasian plate.

Coral Bleaching

19 Apr 2024

Mount Ruang

19 Apr 2024

Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA)

19 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) Asia Pacific, in collaboration with other environmental organizations, has called on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to take decisive action in response to plastic pollution.

About Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA):

The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) is an alliance of over 1,000 grassroots groups, NGOs, and individuals working towards a transition from a linear, extractive economy to a circular system.
GAIA's primary objective is to create a world that prioritizes people's right to a safe and healthy environment, free from toxic pollution and resource depletion.
GAIA envisions a just, zero-waste world where communities' rights are respected, and ecological limits are acknowledged. To achieve this vision, the alliance focuses on:
Eliminating Incineration: GAIA advocates for alternatives to incineration and promotes waste management practices that protect the environment and public health.
Promoting Zero Waste: The alliance supports the adoption of zero-waste strategies, emphasizing waste reduction, reuse, and recycling to conserve resources and reduce pollution.
Addressing Plastic Pollution: GAIA recognizes the global plastic pollution crisis and works on initiatives to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable alternatives.
Mitigating Climate Change: GAIA advocates for climate-friendly waste management practices, emphasizing the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from waste disposal.

What is Incineration?

Incineration is a waste treatment process that involves burning hazardous materials at high temperatures to destroy contaminants.
- This process takes place in an "incinerator," a furnace specifically designed to safely burn hazardous materials within a combustion chamber.
Various types of hazardous materials can be treated through incineration, including soil, sludge, liquids, and gases.
- While incineration effectively destroys many harmful chemicals such as solvents, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and pesticides, it does not destroy metals like lead and chromium.
Modern incinerators are equipped with air pollution control mechanisms, such as fabric filters, scrubbers, and electrostatic precipitators.
- These technologies help remove fly ash and gaseous contaminants generated during the incineration process, mitigating its environmental impact.
- Despite its benefits in waste treatment, incineration remains a topic of debate due to concerns about residual pollutants and the potential for contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Wigner Crystals

19 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

In new peer-reviewed research, physicists from Princeton University have confirmed that electrons don’t even need atoms to party together.

What are Wigner Crystals?

Wigner Crystals are composed entirely of electrons, unlike the common crystals which are formed by atoms or molecules.
These negatively charged particles, which are known for their role in electricity and chemical bonding, can, under specific circumstances, arrange themselves into a lattice structure, creating a crystal made purely of electrons.
The conditions required for the formation of Wigner Crystals are quite stringent.
- They occur at very low electron densities, where the repulsive Coulomb forces between the electrons dominate over their kinetic energy.
- This means that the electrons must be spread out enough so that their mutual repulsion causes them to settle into a fixed pattern, minimizing their potential energy.
The discovery was made possible by cooling a two-dimensional electron system to near absolute zero and reducing the electron density to a critical level.
- Under these conditions, the electrons crystallized into a lattice, much like the atoms in a solid.
- The visualization of this electron lattice marks a monumental step in our understanding of the quantum phases of matter.
The implications of this discovery are profound.
- Wigner Crystals could provide insights into the behavior of electrons in low-density environments, such as those found in semiconductors and other electronic materials.
- This could lead to the development of new technologies and materials with unique electronic properties.
Moreover, the study of Wigner Crystals could shed light on other exotic states of matter and the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics.
The confirmation of Wigner Crystals underscores the importance of theoretical physics and how ideas that once seemed purely speculative can lead to tangible discoveries.
The realization of Wigner Crystals opens up a new chapter in the study of condensed matter physics.
- It stands as a bridge between the abstract world of quantum mechanics and the tangible reality of material science.
- As we continue to explore the quantum landscape, Wigner Crystals will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in unraveling the mysteries of the electron and the intricate dance of particles that constitute the fabric of our universe.

Added Sugars/Free Sugars

19 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Nestlé’s products for babies in Asia, Africa, and Latin America were found to contain added sugars, while the same products sold in Europe did not have it, according to a recent report.

Highlights of the Report on Nestle:

A report by the Swiss organization Public Eye titled 'How Nestlé gets children hooked on sugar in lower-income countries' scrutinized Nestlé for employing varying nutritional standards across its products depending on the country, with unclear sugar content labeling.
The report highlighted Nestlé's Cerelac, the world's largest baby cereal brand, which contains significantly higher sugar levels in markets like India, Ethiopia, and Thailand compared to Germany and the UK.
Despite sugar not being recommended for infants, Nestlé's baby food products with added sugars are allowed under some countries' national legislation, conflicting with WHO guidelines.
- WHO recommends reducing daily free sugar intake to less than 10% of total energy intake, preferably less than 5% (around 25 grams per person per day), for better health.
Nestlé India claims to have reduced added sugars by up to 30% in their infant cereals portfolio over the last five years, depending on the variant.

What are Added Sugars?

Sugar is a simple carbohydrate.
Some food items have sugar that is naturally occurring.
- It is “found in milk (lactose) and fruit (fructose) or any product that contains milk (such as yogurt, milk, or cream) or fruit (fresh, dried) contains some natural sugars.
Free sugar or added sugar is added separately to a food item during preparation or processing.
It can “include natural sugars such as white sugar, brown sugar, and honey, as well as other caloric sweeteners that are chemically manufactured (such as high fructose corn syrup).

Why is Added Sugar Bad?

Excessive consumption of added sugars poses several health risks.
Limiting sugar intake is essential for maintaining a healthy diet and preventing various diseases.

The following are some reasons why added sugars can be harmful:

Poor Nutritional Balance: Consuming too much-added sugar can lead to increased overall energy intake, often replacing nutritionally adequate calories from healthier food sources.
- This results in an unbalanced diet lacking essential nutrients, increasing the risk of malnutrition and other health problems.
Increased Risk of Non-Communicable Diseases: Excessive sugar consumption is associated with a higher risk of developing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular ailments.
- These diseases can have severe long-term consequences on overall health and well-being.
Unnecessary for Infants and Children: Adding sugar to foods offered to babies and young children is unnecessary and can be highly addictive, establishing unhealthy eating habits that continue into adulthood.
- Early exposure to sugar is also associated with tooth decay and can contribute to nutrition-based disorders later in life.

Cloud Seeding

18 Apr 2024

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The UAE recorded the heaviest rain ever after a severe thunderstorm hit the country on April 15, killing at least one person, causing damage to homes and businesses, and bringing air travel to a standstill in Dubai.

What Led to the Heavy Rains in Dubai?

The primary reason for these heavy rains was a storm system, which was passing through the Arabian peninsula and moving across the Gulf of Oman.
According to a different report, rains could have been exacerbated by cloud seeding, a process of spraying salt mixtures in clouds that would result in condensation of the cloud and eventually cause rainfall.
- Several reports quoted meteorologists at the National Center for Meteorology as saying they flew six or seven cloud-seeding flights before the rains.

Is climate change responsible for the event?

Some experts have suggested that the soaring global temperatures could also be behind the event.
Higher temperatures cause evaporation of water not only from land but also oceans and other water bodies, meaning a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture.
Studies have found that for every 1 degree Celsius rise in average temperature, the atmosphere can hold about 7% more moisture.
This makes storms more dangerous as it leads to an increase in precipitation intensity, duration, and/or frequency, which ultimately can cause severe flooding.
While the average global temperature on the Earth has increased by at least 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1850, the UAE has witnessed an increase of almost 1.5 degrees Celsius in the past 60 years.
- The increase in temperatures is mainly caused by the rise of heat-trapping greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions since the Industrial Revolution.
However, it is extremely difficult to attribute any particular extreme weather event to climate change.
It is because there are multiple factors, like patterns of natural climate variability, such as El Niño and La Niña, that contribute to such events.

What is Cloud Seeding?

Cloud seeding is a type of weather modification where substances like silver iodide or dry ice are dispersed into clouds to encourage precipitation, such as rain or snow.
In countries like the UAE, where temperatures are high and annual rainfall is minimal, cloud seeding is employed to alleviate pressure on limited groundwater sources by enhancing precipitation.

What is UAE's cloud seeding programme?

The UAE initiated its cloud seeding program in the late 1990s, making it one of the first Middle Eastern countries to use this technique.
Collaborative research with institutions like the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) and NASA has bolstered their efforts.

How does cloud seeding work?

Cloud seeding is a technique where “seeding agents" such as silver iodide or salt are introduced into clouds to stimulate condensation and trigger rainfall.
Weather forecasters monitor atmospheric conditions and identify suitable clouds for seeding based on precipitation patterns.
- This technique can increase rainfall by up to 30-35 percent in clear conditions and 10-15 percent in more humid conditions.

What is the environmental impact of cloud seeding?

Cloud seeding alters the precipitation patterns of a region/locality.
- This may negatively impact neighboring ecosystems, which were to receive rain for the seeded clouds originally.
Introducing seeding agents might impact the natural hydrological cycle as it may change the natural soil moisture levels, groundwater recharge, and river flows.
Some experts worry about the potential for silver toxicity if cloud seeding becomes widespread.
- Silver iodide is a common seeding agent.
- Silver toxicity could pose risks to aquatic life and soil health.
Therefore, even with the promise cloud seeding holds, responsible stewardship and thorough evaluation of its environmental impacts are crucial.

Green Credit Programme (GCP)

18 Apr 2024

United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women)

18 Apr 2024

Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterisation and Evaluation (Space)

18 Apr 2024

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A state-of-the-art Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterisation and Evaluation (Space) was inaugurated by Secretary, Department of Defence (R&D) and DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat at Underwater Acoustic Research Facility, Kulamavu in Idukki district of Kerala recently.

About Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterisation and Evaluation (SPACE):

Developed by the Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), SPACE is a premier testing and evaluation hub for sonar systems used by the Indian Navy across various platforms, including ships, submarines, and helicopters.

Key Features:

Two primary components:
- A floating platform on the water's surface and
- A submersible platform that can be lowered up to 100 meters using winch systems.
Facilitates quick deployment and recovery of scientific packages like sensors and transducers.
Suitable for surveying, sampling, and data collection of air, surface, mid-water, and reservoir floor parameters using advanced scientific instrumentation.
Well-equipped scientific laboratories cater to data processing and sample analysis requirements.

Uses:

Evaluating complete sonar systems, enhancing research capabilities in Anti-Submarine Warfare.
SPACE enables researchers to explore innovative solutions for underwater acoustic challenges, improve naval capabilities, and ensure the security of Indian waters.

What is Sonar?

SONAR, which stands for Sound Navigation And Ranging, is a technology that uses sound waves to detect, locate, and map objects underwater.
- It operates on the principle of echolocation, similar to how bats and dolphins use sound to navigate and find their prey.
The Sonar system consists of a transmitter, a receiver, and a display.
- The transmitter sends out sound waves, which travel through water and reflect off objects in their path.
- These reflected waves, or echoes, are then received by the receiver.
- By measuring the time it takes for the echoes to return and the strength of the received signal, the system can determine the distance, direction, size, and shape of the underwater object.

Sonar has various applications, including:

Maritime navigation: Commercial ships and submarines use sonar to navigate through unfamiliar waters, avoid obstacles, and create underwater maps.
Military applications: Sonar plays a crucial role in military operations for detecting and tracking enemy submarines, underwater mines, and other threats.
Fishing and underwater research: Sonar helps fishermen locate schools of fish and is also used by scientists and researchers to study marine life, underwater topography, and archaeological sites.

Iron Age Archaeological Sites Discovered in Telangana

18 Apr 2024

B virus

17 Apr 2024

Green Bonds (SGrBs)

17 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently, the RBI approved FIIs such as insurance companies, pension funds, and sovereign wealth funds to invest in India's Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs), which finance projects aiming to advance India's shift to a low-carbon economy.

What are Green Bonds?

Green bonds are bonds issued by any sovereign entity, inter-governmental groups or alliances, and corporates with the aim that the proceeds of the bonds are utilised for projects classified as environmentally sustainable.
The framework for the sovereign green bond was issued by the government on November 9, 2022.

Why are these bonds important?

Over the last few years, Green Bonds have emerged as an important financial instrument to deal with the threats of climate change and related challenges.
According to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a World Bank Group’s institution, climate change threatens communities and economies, and it poses risks to agriculture, food, and water supplies.
A lot of financing is needed to address these challenges.
It’s critical to connect environmental projects with capital markets and investors and channel capital towards sustainable development – and Green Bonds are a way to make that connection.

When did Govt plan these bonds?

In August 2022, the government said it stands committed to reducing the Emissions Intensity of GDP by 45 percent from the 2005 level by 2030 and achieving about 50 percent cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by the same year.
In line with the commitment to significantly reduce the carbon intensity of the economy, the Union Budget 2022-23 announced to issue of Sovereign Green Bonds.
The country’s climate actions have so far been largely financed from domestic resources and it is now targeting the generation of additional global financial resources.
The issuance of the Sovereign Green Bonds will help the Indian government in tapping the requisite finance from potential investors for deployment in public sector projects aimed at reducing the carbon intensity of the economy.

Where will the proceeds go?

The government will use the proceeds raised from SGrBs to finance or refinance expenditure (in parts or whole) for various green projects, including renewable energy, clean transportation, energy efficiency, climate change adaptation, sustainable water and waste management, pollution and prevention control, and green buildings.
In renewable energy, investments will be made in solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower energy projects.

Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)

17 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Indian Navy successfully intercepted and apprehended a dhow in the Western Arabian Sea recently and seized 940 kilograms of contraband narcotics.

About the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF):

The Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) is a Bahrain-based multinational naval partnership dedicated to fostering security, stability, and prosperity throughout vital international waterways.
Comprised of five task forces, CMF's primary objectives include countering terrorism, preventing piracy, enhancing regional cooperation, and maintaining a safe maritime environment.
CMF's efforts focus on eliminating violent extremism and terrorist networks in its operational areas, collaborating with regional and global partners to bolster security and stability, assisting in capacity-building for regional maritime capabilities, and responding to environmental and humanitarian crises when needed.
The five task forces within CMF are:
- CTF 150: Gulf of Oman Security and Counter-Terrorism
- CTF 151: Counter-piracy operations
- CTF 152: Arabian Gulf Security and Cooperation
- CTF 153: Red Sea and Gulf of Aden security and cooperation
- CTF 154: Maritime security training
CMF comprises a diverse group of nations, each voluntarily contributing to the organization's efforts to maintain security and stability in international waters.
Participating nations include:
- Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, India, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Republic of Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, Türkiye, UAE, United Kingdom, United States, and Yemen.
Members have the flexibility to contribute in various ways, from providing liaison officers at CMF's headquarters in Bahrain to supplying warships, support vessels, and maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
- CMF can also request support from warships not explicitly assigned to the organization.
The headquarters of CMF is co-located with the US Naval Central Command and US Navy Fifth Fleet at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain.
CMF is commanded by a US Navy Vice Admiral, with a UK Royal Navy Commodore serving as the Deputy Commander. Senior staff roles at CMF's headquarters are filled by personnel from member nations, ensuring a diverse and collaborative environment.
Together, these task forces enable CMF to effectively address a wide range of challenges and promote a more secure maritime domain for all nations.

Gaia-BH3

17 Apr 2024

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European astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying Gaia-BH3, a colossal black hole located just 2,000 light years away from Earth within the Milky Way, revolutionizing our comprehension of star formation.

What Is Gaia-BH3?

Gaia-BH3, a stellar black hole in the Milky Way galaxy, has been identified as the most massive one discovered to date.
The European Space Agency's Gaia mission detected Gaia-BH3 due to its distinctive 'wobbling' effect on a companion star orbiting it.
Through the use of the Very Large Telescope at the European Southern Observatory in Chile's Atacama Desert and other ground-based observatories, researchers confirmed its enormous mass.
With a mass 33 times greater than our sun, Gaia-BH3 is situated in the Aquila constellation at a distance of 1,926 light-years from Earth, earning it the title of the second-closest known black hole.
Gaia BH1, located about 1,500 light-years away, remains the closest known black hole to Earth with a mass approximately 10 times that of our sun.
While Gaia-BH3 holds the distinction of being the most massive stellar black hole in our galaxy, it pales in comparison to Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the Milky Way's center, which boasts a staggering mass of roughly 4 million times that of the sun.

Difference Between Stellar and Supermassive Black Holes:

Stellar and supermassive black holes are two distinct types of cosmic phenomena, each with unique characteristics and origins.
Stellar-mass black holes result from the gravitational collapse of a single star or the merger of two neutron stars, resulting in masses comparable to stars.
- Their mass typically ranges from three to fifty times that of our sun.
In contrast, supermassive black holes boast a mass exceeding 50,000 times the solar mass, often reaching into the millions or billions.
- The formation of supermassive black holes remains a mystery to scientists, as they are too massive to have formed from a single star's collapse.
Their consistent presence at the center of galaxies suggests a potential connection to galactic formation.
While our understanding of these cosmic giants continues to evolve, one thing is clear: both stellar and supermassive black holes are awe-inspiring fixtures in our universe.

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

17 Apr 2024

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Global trade dynamics are expected to remain sluggish in 2024, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has warned.

Key Highlights of the Report:

UNCTAD’s latest projections indicate global growth of 2.6 percent in 2024, slightly slower than in 2023.
This marks the third consecutive year in which the global economy will grow at a slower pace than before the pandemic when the average rate for 2015–2019 was 3.2 percent.

India’s growth is expected to be marginally lower than in 2023:

Regarding India, the report stated that the economy grew at 6.7 percent in 2023 and is expected to be marginally lower at 6.5 percent in 2024.
It noted that the expansion in 2023 was influenced by strong public investment and the services sector, which received a boost from robust local demand for consumer services along with assured external demand for business services exports.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to keep interest rates constant in the near term, while strong public investment expenditures will offset restrained public consumption spending.

About the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD):

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1964 to promote the interests of developing countries in global trade.
- With its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, UNCTAD has 195 member states and collaborates with numerous nongovernmental organizations worldwide.
- The organization focuses on formulating policies related to various aspects of development, including trade, aid, transport, finance, and technology.
UNCTAD plays a crucial role in addressing the concerns of developing countries regarding international institutions, such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank.
- By providing a platform for these countries to discuss and tackle their unique challenges, UNCTAD contributes to global economic development and reduces inequalities.
Some notable achievements of UNCTAD include the establishment of the Global System of Trade Preferences (now replaced by the World Trade Organization), which reduces tariffs and removes non-tariff trade barriers, the Common Fund for Commodities, providing financial assistance to countries dependent on commodity exports, and various agreements for debt relief.
In recent years, UNCTAD has focused on addressing globalization challenges and helping the least developed countries integrate into the global economy.

Hydrocarbon Extraction: Processes, Methods, Environmental Impact

16 Apr 2024

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Over millennia, mighty geological processes in the earth’s crust heated and compressed together pieces of life forms that had been dead for a while.

What Is a Hydrocarbon?

The term hydrocarbon refers to an organic chemical compound that is composed exclusively of hydrogen and carbon atoms.
Hydrocarbons are naturally occurring and form the basis of crude oil, natural gas, coal, and other important energy sources.
They are highly combustible and produce carbon dioxide, water, and heat when they are burned.
As such, hydrocarbons are highly effective as a source of fuel.

Where are Hydrocarbons Located?

Hydrocarbons, such as natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum, are typically found in underground rock formations within reservoirs.
- These reservoirs form when less resistant rocks are overlayed by more resistant ones, creating a lid that traps hydrocarbons beneath.
- Petroleum geology tools, methods, and techniques are used to assess these rocks for their porosity and permeability, determining how much hydrocarbons they can hold and how easily they can flow through them.
Kerogen, lumps of organic matter, is the primary source of hydrocarbons within these subterranean rocks.
- Kerogen can be deposited from lacustrine, marine, or terrestrial ecosystems.
- Over time, surrounding rocks can become warmer and more compactified, exerting forces on kerogen that cause it to break down into various hydrocarbons, such as waxy oils, light oils, gas, and coal.
Petroleum geologists locate and characterize kerogen-containing source rocks, studying their geophysical and thermal properties.
- They conduct modeling activities, analyze observational data, and dig exploration wells to estimate hydrocarbon quantities.
- Once a profitable hydrocarbon source is identified, drilling can commence.

How are the Hydrocarbons Accessed?

Drilling and reservoir engineers employ various methods to extract hydrocarbons efficiently without damaging the reservoir.
- The process begins with creating a production well, strategically positioned to maximize drainage.
- A drilling machine, consisting of a drill pipe, drill collars, and a drill bit, is used to create the well.
As drilling progresses, steel casings are lowered into the tunnel, and cement slurry is pumped into the gap between the casings and the tunnel's outer edge.
- The solidifying cement prevents cave-ins and blocks surrounding fluids from entering the well.
- The tunnel is filled with drilling fluid, which cools the drill bit and carries rock fragments to the surface for removal.
Controlling drilling fluid pressure is crucial to prevent hydrocarbon eruptions. Modern drilling setups use blowout preventers to manage such events.
- Meanwhile, mud-logging records rock properties at different depths, aiding the process.
Drill pipes can be extended or replaced as needed during the drilling process, which is now conducted by advanced drilling rigs equipped with power sources.
- Offshore rigs feature additional facilities to ensure stability and facilitate extraction through the water column.

How are the Hydrocarbons Extracted?

Upon drilling the production well, it must be prepared for hydrocarbon drainage, called completion.
- Engineers remove the drill string and perforate the casing, allowing hydrocarbons to flow into the well and rise to the surface.
- A narrower tube encourages one-directional flow and controls outflow using valves.
When pressure differences are insufficient for natural fluid ascent, pump jacks or other artificial lift methods can aid extraction.
- Workovers may be required to maintain or improve production efficiency over time.
- Extraction phases include primary (relying on natural processes), secondary (inducing artificial pressure), and tertiary (enhanced recovery methods, like steam injection) phases, each contributing to the total hydrocarbon yield.

What Happens When a Well is Depleted?

Wells may cease extraction before depletion if operations become unprofitable.
- Properly plugging abandoned wells prevents hydrocarbon and gas leakage into surrounding environments, yet deterioration and failure of plugs remain concerns.
- Decommissioning is the most thorough but often expensive solution.
Improperly abandoned wells contribute significantly to methane emissions, alongside emissions from extraction and component use.
- A 2018 study estimated that 9,000 oilfields in 90 countries released 1.7 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2015 alone.
Overall, the pursuit of subterranean hydrocarbons, including natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum, employs various extraction methods.
- However, it is essential to consider the environmental impact and sustainability of these operations.

Thiruvalluvar

16 Apr 2024

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Seeking to connect with the people of Tamil Nadu where his party is trying to gain a foothold, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced that the BJP will work towards building Thiruvalluvar cultural centers all over the world.

Who was Thiruvalluvar?

Thiruvalluvar, the author of the revered 'Thirukkural' or 'Sacred Couplets', remains a figure of historical debate.
His exact period and religious affiliation are uncertain, with proposed dates ranging from the 3rd or 4th century CE to the 8th or 9th century.
- Various groups regard him as a Hindu sage, a Jain sage, or a Dravidian saint with no religious identifiers except his Dravidian heritage.
Accounts of Thiruvalluvar's origins are diverse.
In Edward Jewitt Robinson's 1873 book, 'Tamil Wisdom: Traditions Concerning Hindu Sages and Selections from their Writings', he described Thiruvalluvar as a "Pariah" with a mother from "the low class" and a possibly Brahmin father.
According to this narrative, Thiruvalluvar was found in a grove near a Shiva temple in Mayilapur and was taken in by the wife of a high-ranking Velalan before being entrusted to a "Pariah family."
Despite the ambiguity surrounding Thiruvalluvar's identity, his wisdom-laden verses in 'Thirukkural' continue to influence and inspire generations across religious and cultural divides.

Why does Thiruvalluvar matter?

Thiruvalluvar, affectionately called Valluvar by Tamils, is revered as a cultural and moral icon across caste and religious lines.
- His 'Thirukkural', a compilation of 1,330 couplets, is an integral part of Tamil culture, comparable to the Bhagavad Gita or Ramayana in North Indian Hindu households.
- It serves as a foundational text for ethical living and tracing Tamil cultural roots.
Beyond Tamil Nadu, Thiruvalluvar's wisdom is celebrated in the context of ancient India's rich philosophical heritage, emphasizing morality and ethics.
- His enduring influence is evident as successive Indian finance ministers reference his teachings in annual Budget speeches.
However, competing claims to Thiruvalluvar's legacy have sparked controversy, such as the 2019 debate surrounding the BJP's depiction of him in saffron robes instead of traditional white garments.
- Despite these disputes, the profound impact of Thiruvalluvar's teachings continues to resonate across various cultures and languages, fostering unity and moral guidance.

Why Are Political Parties Asserting Thiruvalluvar's Legacy?

Political parties, both national and regional, have long vied for ownership of Thiruvalluvar's legacy. For instance, the BJP, with a limited grassroots presence in Tamil Nadu, seeks to bolster its standing through the appropriation of Tamil saints and icons.

Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)

16 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The new approach to intellectual property and investment through FTAs accepts an IP maximalist agenda of the United States Trade Representative; it threatens to upset the fine balance between public and private interests and push India away from essential innovations.

What is the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)?

The TEPA is a pact designed to foster trade and investment opportunities between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
It endeavors to diminish or eliminate tariffs and non-tariff barriers across various product categories.

Objectives:

Facilitate trade and investment by reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers.
Ensure equitable and transparent market access for service providers and investors.
Enhance cooperation concerning the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights.
Streamline trade procedures, promote customs cooperation, and establish effective mechanisms for dispute resolution.

Coverage:

The agreement encompasses 14 chapters, addressing key areas such as:
- Trade in goods
- Rules of origin
- Intellectual property rights (IPRs)
- Trade in services
- Investment promotion and cooperation
- Government procurement
- Technical barriers to trade
- Trade facilitation
By addressing these comprehensive aspects, the TEPA seeks to bolster economic collaboration and foster mutually beneficial outcomes for both India and EFTA member states.

What is the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)?

EFTA is an intergovernmental organization of four member countries that are not part of the European Union (EU): Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
The association was set up in 1960 to promote closer economic cooperation and free trade in Europe.

How important is EFTA?

Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland have a combined population of less than 14 million.
- But their association punches above its weight in terms of trade figures.
In 2021, EFTA was the tenth-largest trader in the world in merchandise trade and the eighth-largest in trade in services.

What is EFTA’s history?

EFTA was established in 1960 by seven countries: Austria, Denmark, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Iceland and Liechtenstein joined EFTA in 1970 and 1991, respectively.
Denmark, the UK, Portugal, Austria, and Sweden then left EFTA to join the EU between 1973 and 1995.

UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

16 Apr 2024

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As the 23rd session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues begins in New York, United States on April 15, participants pointed out that though recognition of indigenous territories is increasing, it is not happening at the pace the planet needs.

About the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues:

Established in 2000, the UNPFII serves as an advisory body to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), focusing on indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, environment, education, health, and human rights.
Alongside the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the UNPFII is one of three UN entities mandated to address Indigenous Peoples' issues.

The Permanent Forum's primary objectives include:

- Providing expert advice and recommendations to the Council, United Nations programs, funds, and agencies.
- Raising awareness and fostering integration and coordination of indigenous issues within the UN system.
- Preparing and disseminating information on indigenous issues.

Membership and Structure

The UNPFII consists of sixteen independent experts who serve three-year terms and may be re-elected or re-appointed for one additional term.
Eight members are nominated by governments, while the remaining eight are nominated directly by indigenous organizations from their respective regions.
Following each session, the UNPFII submits a report containing recommendations and draft decisions to the ECOSOC, contributing to global efforts to address and improve the well-being of Indigenous Peoples worldwide.

Long Period Average (LPA) Rainfall

16 Apr 2024

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Ministry of Earth Sciences announced recently that the country as a whole is likely to receive above-normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon from June to September 2024.

What is the Long Period Average (LPA) of Rainfall?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a “normal”, “below normal”, or “above normal” monsoon in relation to a benchmark “long period average” (LPA).
According to the IMD, the “LPA of rainfall is the rainfall recorded over a particular region for a given interval (like month or season) average over a long period like 30 years, 50 years, etc”.
While this quantitative benchmark refers to the average rainfall recorded from June to September for the entire country, the amount of rain that falls every year varies from region to region and from month to month.
Therefore, along with the countrywide figure, the IMD also maintains LPAs for every meteorological region of the country — this number ranges from around 61 cm for the drier Northwest India to more than 143 cm for the wetter East and Northeast India.

Why LPA is Needed?

The IMD records rainfall data at more than 2,400 locations and 3,500 rain-gauge stations.
- Because annual rainfall can vary greatly not just from region to region and from month to month, but also from year to year within a particular region or month, an LPA is needed to smooth out trends so that a reasonably accurate prediction can be made.
A 50-year LPA covers for large variations in either direction caused by freak years of unusually high or low rainfall (as a result of events such as El Nino or La Nina), as well as for the periodic drought years and the increasingly common extreme weather events caused by climate change.

What is the Range of Normal Rainfall?

The IMD maintains five rainfall distribution categories on an all-India scale. These are:
- Normal or near normal, when the percentage departure of actual rainfall is +/-10% of LPA, that is, between 96-104% of LPA;
- Below normal, when the departure of actual rainfall is less than 10% of LPA, that is 90-96% of LPA;
- Above normal, when actual rainfall is 104-110% of LPA;
- Deficient, when the departure of actual rainfall is less than 90% of LPA; and
- Excess, when the departure of actual rainfall is more than 110% of LPA.

Space Tourism

15 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Entrepreneur and pilot on the NS-25 mission of Blue Origin — a company founded by Jeff Bezos, who is also Gopi Thotakura is set to become the first Indian to venture into space as a tourist the founder of Amazon.

Context:

In recent years, space tourism has grown by leaps and bounds.
The space tourism market was valued at $848.28 million.
It is expected to grow to $27,861.99 million by 2032.
However, there are several challenges, such as high cost, and environmental concerns, that may limit the industry’s growth.
The NS-25 mission, which Gopi Thotakura is a part of, is a sub-orbital mission. Thotakura and his other crew members will be taken to outer space via New Shepard, a fully reusable sub-orbital launch vehicle developed specifically for space tourism by Blue Origin.

What is Space Tourism?

Space tourism is essentially a section of the aviation sector that seeks to provide tourists with the opportunity to become astronauts and experience space travel for recreational, leisure, or business purposes.
There are two main types of space tourism, sub-orbital and orbital.
The sub-orbital spacecraft takes passengers just beyond the Kármán line (it lies nearly 100 kilometers above our heads and is considered to be the boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and outer space).
- The passengers get to spend a few minutes in outer space and then come back to Earth.
The orbital spacecraft, on the other hand, takes passengers much further than the Kármán line.
- Usually, passengers can spend from a couple of days to more than a week at an altitude of nearly 1.3 million feet.
In September 2021, Space X’s Falcon 9 took four passengers to an altitude of 160 km where they spent three days orbiting the Earth.

What are the Challenges?

Currently, space tourism is expensive as a passenger generally has to pay at least a million dollars to reach outer space.
- This amount is out of reach for almost everyone.
Moreover, several studies have pointed out that space tourism may lead to environmental damage as rockets emit gaseous and solid chemicals directly into the upper atmosphere.
A 2022 study done by researchers found that the soot emissions from rocket launches are far more effective at warming the atmosphere compared to other sources.
Safety is also a concern when it comes to space tourism.
Despite high safety standards, a total of 676 people have flown into space and 19 of them have died, as of November 2023, according to a report by Astronomy Magazine.
- This means that approximately 3% of astronauts died during their space flight which is quite a high fatality rate.

Special Olympics Bharat

15 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Special Olympics Bharat (SOB), a National Sports Federation of India is forming district units across Tamil Nadu through elections on April 22.

About Special Olympics Bharat:

Special Olympics Bharat is a National Sports Federation also registered under the Indian Trust Act 1882 in 2001 and is accredited by Special Olympics International to conduct Special Olympics Programs in India.
It is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India as a National Sports Federation in the Priority Category, for the development of Sports for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities.
It is a designated Nodal Agency for all disabilities on account of its national presence and experience, especially in rural areas which account for nearly 75 percent of the disabled population in India.
Mission: The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
Special Olympics Bharat works towards the social acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities, whereby they are respected and given equal chances to become productive citizens.
- They encourage athletes to move from the Special Olympics training and competition into school and community programs where they can compete in regular sports activities.

Special Olympics Bharat strives to:

Focus on holistic development and training that goes beyond the classrooms into the playing fields, cultural and community centers, to motivate children with disabilities to join and remain in school
Create role models who will inspire the children and also motivate parents to send their children to school and to participate in sports and other extra-curricular activities
Train teachers to sensitize them to the needs of special children, and create a cadre of physical education teachers from among the disabled who can work with schools and community centers
Ensure maximum involvement of the community for greater public understanding and acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities.
Ensure all Special Olympics Bharat activities local, state, national, and international reflect the Olympic movement values, standards, ceremonies, and events.

What is Intellectual Disability?

Intellectual disability is a lifelong condition that affects a person’s intellectual skills and their behaviour in different situations.
It can include difficulties in communication, memory, understanding, problem-solving, self-care, social and emotional skills, and physical skills.
People with intellectual disability have the same feelings, rights, and aspirations as everyone else.
Intellectual disability does not define who a person is, how they should be treated, or how they want to live.
An IQ test determines whether a person has an intellectual disability. IQ scores lower than 70 indicate an intellectual disability.

Precautionary Principle

15 Apr 2024

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The precautionary principle is becoming an established guideline for policymakers tackling environmental problems according to British environmentalist Norman Myers

What is the Precautionary Principle?

The Precautionary Principle serves as a foundational concept in policymaking, advocating for the adoption of proactive measures to mitigate potential risks to public health or the environment:
Proactive Risk Management: The principle legitimizes the implementation of preventative measures in situations where there are uncertainties regarding the extent of harm posed by certain activities or policies.
- Rather than waiting for conclusive scientific evidence, decision-makers are encouraged to take preemptive action to prevent serious or irreversible damage.
Scientific Uncertainty: It acknowledges that in cases where scientific certainty is lacking, waiting for conclusive evidence before taking action may result in significant harm.
- Therefore, the principle emphasizes the importance of not using the absence of full scientific certainty as a justification for delaying necessary measures to prevent environmental degradation or protect public health.
Risk-Averse Approach: By advocating for precautionary action, even in the absence of absolute certainty about potential harm, the principle prioritizes safety and prudence.
- It underscores the importance of erring on the side of caution to safeguard against potential risks, thus emphasizing a preventive rather than reactive approach.
International Recognition: Originating in the 1970s, the Precautionary Principle has gained international recognition and has been enshrined in various international treaties and conventions related to environmental protection.
- It has been incorporated into the legal frameworks of organizations such as the European Union and has influenced decisions on issues ranging from climate change to biodiversity conservation.
Application in Policy: The principle has influenced the development of laws and regulations worldwide, shaping policies related to endangered species, climate change, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
- Notably, it has played a significant role in determining the European Union's stance on GMOs and has been integral to the formulation of EU environmental law.
The Precautionary Principle emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures to address potential risks, particularly in situations where scientific evidence is uncertain but the potential consequences are significant.
- It embodies a proactive and risk-aware approach to policymaking, intending to prevent harm and promote sustainable development.

About Jim Corbett National Park:

Jim Corbett National Park, named after the renowned naturalist and conservationist Jim Corbett, is situated in Uttarakhand's Nainital district.
As the oldest national park in India, it was initially established as Hailey National Park in 1936 to protect the endangered Bengal tiger.
The park is an integral part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve, with the Patli Dun Valley forming its core area.
The Ramganga River flows through the park, contributing to its diverse ecosystem.
Not only is it known for its rich biodiversity, but also for being the first area to come under the Project Tiger initiative in 1973.

Hubble Tension

15 Apr 2024

Operation Meghdoot

15 Apr 2024

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India commemorates 40 years since the launch of Operation Meghdoot, a critical mission to secure the strategic heights of the Siachen glacier, acknowledged as the highest battlefield in the world.

About Operation Meghdoot:

Operation Meghdoot was the codename for the Indian Army operation to take full control of the (Siachen Glacier in Ladakh).
It was launched in 1984 and it was unique as it involved the first assault on the world's highest battlefield.
This operation was launched on April 13, 1984, by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF), marking a pivotal moment in securing the Siachen Glacier, a strategically crucial region dominating Northern Ladakh.
The operation involved airlifting Indian Army soldiers, with IAF helicopters operating in the area since 1978, including the first landing of an IAF helicopter on the glacier in October 1978.
The need for Operation Meghdoot arose due to Pakistan's cartographic aggression in Ladakh, allowing foreign mountaineering expeditions in Siachen.
Intelligence inputs about impending Pakistani military action prompted India to secure strategic heights on Siachen, deploying troops via airlifts and air-dropping supplies to high-altitude airfields.

What was IAF's Role and Evolution in Operation Meghdoot?

The IAF played a crucial role in supporting Operation Meghdoot, initially focusing on transport and helicopter aircraft for troop and material transport.
- Gradually, the IAF expanded its role, deploying fighter aircraft like the Hunter, MiG-23s, and MiG-29s, operating from high-altitude airfields at Leh and Thoise.
- This expanded role included fighter sweeps and simulated strikes over the glacier, boosting morale and deterring adversaries.
Operating on the highest battlefield globally, IAF helicopters are the lifeline for Indian troops, providing crucial support in emergencies, logistics supply, and evacuating the sick and wounded from the glacier.
As the Indian Army celebrates 40 years on the Siachen Glacier, it reflects not only on the progress made in technological advancements and logistical improvements but also on the sacrifices and dedication of its personnel.
- 'Operation Meghdoot' stands as a testament to India's commitment to safeguarding its borders and ensuring the well-being of its troops in one of the world's most challenging terrains.

About Siachen Glacier:

The Siachen Glacier, situated in the Eastern Karakoram range of the Himalayas, is located just northeast of Point NJ9842, where the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan ends.
Administered by India since Operation Meghdoot in 1984, the glacier spans from northwest to southeast, originating at the Indira Col West and descending from an altitude of 6,115 meters to 3,570 meters.
As the second-longest glacier in the world's non-polar areas, the Siachen Glacier is surpassed only by Tajikistan's Fedchenko Glacier.
It lies south of the significant drainage divide separating the Eurasian Plate from the Indian subcontinent in the glaciated Karakoram region, sometimes referred to as the "Third Pole."
The Nubra River finds its source in the Siachen Glacier, highlighting the glacier's ecological importance.

GRB 221009A - Gamma-ray Bursts (GRBs)

13 Apr 2024

Defence Attaché (DA)

13 Apr 2024

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As India expands its presence in defense diplomacy and plans to deploy Defense Attachés to Indian missions in Africa, Armenia, and the Philippines, experts and experienced diplomats advise against simply "rationalizing" their numbers.

What’s a Defense Attaché?

According to the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF), a defence attaché is a member of the armed forces serving at an embassy as a “representative of his/her country’s defence establishment abroad and in this capacity enjoys the diplomatic status and immunity.
The defence attaché’s work usually concerns bilateral military and defence relations.
Some countries send attachés for security issues, such as migration or matters relating to police and justice.
The defence attachés are also responsible for facilitating communication and cooperation between their home nation’s armed forces and the host country’s military.
They act as military and/or security advisors to their country’s ambassador and embassy staff.
They can also promote their home nation’s military weapons industry.
Defence attachés collect and examine military intelligence, facilitate military cooperation pacts, and give an evaluation of security issues to their home country’s government.
They also act as a link between diplomats and the military.

India to Send Defence Attachés to New Countries:

India has started dispatching defence attachés to many new countries, while reportedly downsizing the military personnel at its missions in some other nations.
15-16 new attaches from the Indian Navy, the Indian Air Force (IAF), and the Indian Army are being posted to Poland, the Philippines, Armenia, and the African countries of Tanzania, Mozambique, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Ivory Coast.
In the next phase, 10 entirely new defence wings will be created in different countries, with a particular focus on nations to which arms can be exported.

Why the Other Countries Matter?

India dispatching a defense attaché to Poland, which is a part of the European Union (EU) and has emerged as an important security partner in Europe in recent years, is also significant.
The EU posted a military attaché to its mission in India for the first time last year. India’s move to do the same in Poland is “reflective of the desire to expand two-way defence ties.
Armenia has become a major exporter of India’s arms.
India has already inked deals with the Asian country for Pinaka rockets, Akash missiles, ammunition, and multi-barrel rocket launchers, with some of them coming amid Armenia’s clash with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh.
Armenia has shown interest in expanding its defence ties with India.
China’s military assertiveness in the South China Sea has prompted India to grow military ties with ASEAN countries.
- India’s decision to send defence attachés for the first time to the Philippines comes in the wake of the sale of Indian arms to Manila.
India signed a $375 million deal with the Philippines in 2022 to supply three batteries of the BrahMos missile and will soon start the delivery of the missiles to the Southeast Asian country.

Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)

13 Apr 2024

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A contentious recent decision by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), permitting carbon offsetting for Scope 3 emissions of businesses with SBTi-based climate targets, has stirred controversy and skepticism.

About Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi):

The Science-based Targets Initiative (SBTi) is a global movement launched post the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement to mobilize companies in combating climate change.
SBTi supports businesses in their decarbonization projects, ensuring compatibility with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5C° and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
Backed by a scientific method, SBTi verifies company objectives are aligned with COP21 goals.
SBTi was initiated by four international organizations:
- United Nations Global Compact (UNGC)
- World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
- Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP)
- World Resource Institute (WRI)
The primary objective of SBTi is to guide businesses in setting greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets that align with the Paris Agreement, are scientifically valid, and contribute significantly to reducing global emissions.

To determine a 1.5C° trajectory compatibility, SBTi uses science-based targets that account for the following factors:

- A carbon budget focused on achieving the 1.5C° global warming limit.
- GHG emission scenarios from the IPCC or the IEA.
- Emission allocation method: emission intensity reduction, absolute emission reduction, or emission intensity convergence toward a sector-specific reference level
Through this methodology, companies can establish clear and science-based GHG reduction targets, effectively contributing to global emission reduction efforts.

SBTi's Net Zero objective:

In October 2021, SBTi introduced its "Net Zero" benchmark, challenging committed companies to achieve long-term reduction targets up to carbon neutrality.

The Net Zero goal builds upon the initial SBT approach and focuses on four essential components:

- Short-term targets: To align with the 1.5°C objective, companies must set targets for reducing their total emissions (Scopes 1, 2, and 3) within a maximum of 5 to 10 years.
- Long-term objectives: Alongside short-term targets, Net Zero requires companies to define long-term goals compatible with limiting global warming to 1.5°C and achieve them by 2050 (or 2040 for the energy sector).
- Carbon finance for short-term contributions: Companies are encouraged to invest in external carbon sequestration or avoidance projects by purchasing carbon credits, complementing their GHG reduction efforts. SBTi prioritizes sequestered emissions over avoided emissions, considering the latter's carbon credits less reliable.
- Neutralization: As the final stage in reaching carbon neutrality, companies must minimize residual emissions and then offset them through carbon sequestration actions.
The SBTi movement has rapidly gained international recognition for its rigor, reliability, and the credibility of the people behind it.
Several thousand companies of all sizes have rapidly adopted the scientific approach it promotes. To date, nearly 6,800 companies worldwide have signed up to the SBTi.

Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act

13 Apr 2024

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The Gujarat government recently clarified that Buddhism and Hinduism must be considered as two separate religions for religious conversions in the state.

Why did the Gujarat Government Issue the Circular?

The Gujarat government issued the circular to address an issue regarding the application process for converting from Hinduism to Buddhism.
The circular, issued by the Home Department highlights that the proper procedures outlined in the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act (GFR Act) are not being followed.
The circular points out that some offices are rejecting these conversion applications, arguing that under Article 25(2) of the Constitution, Sikhism, Jainism, and Buddhism are considered part of Hinduism.
- Therefore, applicants are told they don't need permission for religious conversion.
This interpretation refers to Article 25, which guarantees religious freedom.
- Article 25(2)(b) allows laws for social welfare or reform for Hindus, which includes Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists.
- Notably, the circular contrasts with a proposed 2006 amendment to the GFR Act, which suggested considering Jainism and Buddhism as part of Hinduism.
However, the circular clarifies that, according to the GFR Act, Buddhism must be seen as a separate religion.

How does the GFR Act Govern Religious Conversions in Gujarat?

The Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act (GFR Act) controls how people change their religion in Gujarat.
- According to the state government, this law aims to stop religious conversion by offering rewards, using force, lying, or tricking people.
One part of the law, Section 3, makes it a crime to force or persuade someone to change their religion, whether by using force, offering rewards, trickery, or arranging marriages.
Another part, Section 3A, added in 2021, lets anyone who feels harmed or their relatives report these crimes to the police.
- People who break Section 3 can be sent to jail for up to three years and fined up to Rs 50,000.
- If the person affected is a woman, a child, or from certain communities, the punishment is harsher – up to four years in jail and a fine of Rs 1 lakh.
For a religious conversion to be legal, Section 5 says the person leading the ceremony must get permission from the District Magistrate beforehand.
- And the person who changes their religion must tell the District Magistrate afterward.
- Not doing this can result in a one-year jail term or a fine of up to Rs 1,000.
In 2021, the GFR Act was changed to include more rules.
It now makes it a crime to change religion through marriage (Section 4A) and says marriages are void if one person converts before or after getting married (Section 4B).
It also punishes people involved in organizations that unlawfully convert others (Section 4C). The accused now have to prove that the conversion was legal (Section 6A).

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

13 Apr 2024

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The Asian Development Bank (ADB) recently raised its forecast for India’s GDP growth in the current fiscal year ending on March 31, 2025, to 7%, from 6.7% earlier, citing robust public and private investment as well as expectations of a gradual improvement in consumer demand as the rural economy recovers.

What is the Asian Development Bank?

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a global development finance agency whose aim is to help developing member countries in reducing poverty and improving people’s quality of life.
It came into existence in 1966 and it is headquartered in Manila, Philippines.
It aids in pushing social and economic development by providing loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments.
ADB is owned and financed by its 68 members, 49 of whom are from the Asia-Pacific region.
ADB’s key partners are governments, the commercial sector, non-government organizations, development agencies, community-based groups, and foundations.
- ADB will follow three complementing strategic agendas: inclusive growth, ecologically sustainable growth, and regional integration, as outlined in Strategy 2020, a long-term strategic framework approved in 2008.
The major objective of the Asian Development Bank is to ensure market prosperity and enhance collaboration among Asia-Pacific countries.
The ADB oversees significant projects within the region and sometimes raises funding through international bond markets.
To promote development, the Asian Development Bank provides grants, loans, technical support, and equity investments to its developing member nations, the private sector, and public-private partnerships.
They also use co-financing activities to supply support while tapping official, commercial, and export finance sources.
- Members and associate members of the international organization Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East are eligible to affix the ADB.
Other regional and non-regional developed countries that are members of the United Nations or any of its specialized agencies are eligible.

Who Controls the Asian Development Bank?

The ADB is run by a board of governors, which represents the member countries of the ADB.
As of 2022, ADB's five largest shareholders are Japan and the United States (each with 15.6% of total shares), the People's Republic of China (6.4%), India (6.3%), and Australia (5.8%).

Funding Sources:

The ADB sustains its operations through various channels, including member contributions, earnings from lending activities, and the repayment of loans.

Volcanic Vortex Rings

12 Apr 2024

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Since last week, Mount Etna has been sending up almost perfect rings of smoke into the air which are a rare phenomenon that scientists refer to as volcanic vortex rings.

What are Volcanic Vortex Rings?

Vortex rings are generated when gas, predominantly water vapor, is released rapidly through a vent in the crater.
The vent that has opened up in the crater is almost perfectly circular so the rings.
The phenomenon was first observed at Mt. Etna and Mt. Vesuvius in Italy in 1724 and has been documented in an engraved plate from 1755.
In more recent times, volcanic vortex rings have been observed at volcanoes such as Redoubt in Alaska, Tungurahua in Ecuador, Pacaya in Guatemala, Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla in Iceland, Stromboli in Italy, Sakurajima in Japan, Yasur in Vanuatu, Whakaari in New Zealand, and Momotombo in Nicaragua.
According to the report, the rings can remain in the air for up to 10 minutes but tend to disintegrate quickly if conditions are windy and turbulent.

About Mount Etna:

Mount Etna, sometimes referred to simply as Etna, is an active volcano on the east coast of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, lying just off the toe of the Italian “boot”.
Etna’s peak is the highest in Italy south of the Alps, and it is Europe’s largest and one of the most active volcanoes.
Etna’s summit has five craters, which are responsible for most of the volcano’s eruptions; there are also “flank” eruptions that occur out of 300-odd vents of varying sizes along the slopes of the mountain.
Etna is in almost constant activity and has seen, since the year 1600, at least 60 flank eruptions and many more summit eruptions.
- In recent years, summit eruptions have occurred in 2006, 2007-08, on two occasions in 2012, 2018, and 2021; flank eruptions have taken place in 2001, 2002-03, 2004-05, and 2008-09.
Etna has been a World Heritage Site since 2013, and according to UNESCO, the volcano’s eruptive history can be traced back 500,000 years.
- At least 2,700 years of this activity have been documented.

Apple Warns Users of "Mercenary Spyware"

12 Apr 2024

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Apple has cautioned its users in India and 91 other countries that their iPhone may have come under attack from “mercenary spyware”, including Pegasus, a malware developed by the Israeli company NSO Group.

What are Mercenary Spyware Attacks?

Mercenary spyware attacks represent an elevated level of cyber threat, characterized by their intricate nature and highly targeted approach.
These attacks, surpassing typical cybercriminal activity and consumer malware, are meticulously crafted to infiltrate specific individuals with significant resources.
Due to their sophisticated design and substantial investment, mercenary spyware attacks pose a formidable challenge in terms of detection and prevention.
- Despite their potency, they have primarily targeted select users, leaving the majority relatively unaffected.
This breed of cyber threat stands as one of the most advanced and elusive globally, prompting tech giant Apple to refrain from attributing them to specific perpetrators or regions.
The primary objective of mercenary spyware is to clandestinely infiltrate smartphones and other devices, operating without the user's knowledge or consent.
- These surveillance tools are capable of monitoring movements, intercepting communications, and pilfering sensitive data.
In troubling instances, reports indicate that governments, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement bodies have procured mercenary spyware for surveillance purposes, often targeting political dissidents and activists.
Key players in the production of mercenary spyware include the NSO Group, FinFisher, and Hacking Team.
- The NSO Group's flagship spyware, Pegasus, facilitates remote infiltration of devices, granting access to calls, emails, messages, and various files.
- Similarly, FinFisher's FinSpy can intercept keystrokes, access data, and activate microphones and cameras without authorization.
- The Hacking Team's Galileo, also known as the Remote Control System (RCS), possesses similar capabilities, including keystroke capture, video call recording, and unauthorized access to device components like the camera and microphone.

About Pegasus Spyware:

Pegasus Spyware, crafted by Israel's NSO Group, represents a potent cyber threat.
This sophisticated malware is engineered to exploit zero-click vulnerabilities, granting it access to smartphones without any interaction from the user.
Once infiltrated, Pegasus gains full control over the targeted device, enabling it to extract a wealth of data, including emails, texts, and phone calls.
Additionally, it possesses the capability to remotely activate the smartphone's camera and microphone, further compromising the user's privacy.

What are Spyware and Malware?

Spyware:

Spyware is a type of software that secretly collects information about a user's activities on their computer or device without their knowledge or consent.
It may track keystrokes, capture browsing habits, record personal information, or monitor online activities.
Spyware often operates stealthily in the background, making it difficult for users to detect.

Malware:

Malware, short for malicious software, is a broad term that encompasses various types of harmful software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems or networks.
Malware includes viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and other malicious programs.
Unlike spyware, which focuses on gathering information covertly, malware may aim to corrupt files, steal data, spread across networks, or carry out other harmful actions.
Malware can enter a system through email attachments, infected websites, removable media, or software downloads from untrusted sources.

World Cybercrime Index

12 Apr 2024

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A new World Cybercrime Index developed by researchers shows that a majority of cybercriminals come from just a few countries.

About World Cybercrime Index:

The World Cybercrime Index is a collaborative effort between the University of Oxford and UNSW Canberra that identifies global cybercrime hotspots by ranking countries based on their contribution to cybercrime.
- Data is collected from a survey of 92 cybercrime experts involved in intelligence gathering and investigations.
The index ranks around 100 countries and identifies key hotspots for various cybercrime categories, such as ransomware, credit card theft, and scams.

Key Findings:

Russia tops the list, followed by Ukraine, China, the USA, Nigeria, and Romania.
India ranks 10th in the index, with a balanced distribution of cybercrime types but a notable specialization in scams.
Certain countries were associated with specific types of cybercrime, like data and identity theft in the United States and technical products or services-related crimes in China.
These insights highlight the need for international cooperation in addressing cybercrime and its various manifestations across different countries.

According to the Oxford University, the five major categories of cybercrime assessed by the study were:

- Technical products/services (e.g. malware coding, botnet access, access to compromised systems, tool production).
- Attacks and extortion (e.g. denial-of-service attacks, ransomware).
- Data/identity theft (e.g. hacking, phishing, account compromises, credit card comprises).
- Scams (e.g. advance fee fraud, business email compromise, online auction fraud).
- Cashing out/money laundering (e.g. credit card fraud, money mules, illicit virtual currency platforms).

Mange Disease

12 Apr 2024

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The forest department is monitoring an outbreak of mange among a pack of Asiatic wild dogs in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) in the Nilgiris, which they strongly suspect has spread to the animals through the local feral dog population.

What is Mange Disease?

Mange is a distressing skin condition that affects dogs and is caused by microscopic parasites and different types of mites that infest the dog's skin and coat.
- The two most common forms of mange in dogs are Sarcoptic mange (caused by Sarcoptic scabies mites) and Demodectic mange (caused by Demodex Canis mites).
- Sarcoptic Mange- Scabies: Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and can spread from dog to dog through direct contact. These microscopic mites burrow into the dog's skin, leading to intense itching and discomfort.
- Demodectic Mange: Demodectic mange, on the other hand, is not usually contagious and often results from an overgrowth of naturally occurring Demodex mites. A weakened immune system or genetic factors can contribute to the development of this form of mange.
Common Symptoms of Mange in Dogs include:
- Intense Itching
- Skin Infections
- Crusty or Scaly Skin
- Ear Problems
Mange in dogs is a treatable condition when detected early and managed appropriately.

About Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR):

The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, nestled in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiris District at the tri-junction of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, holds ancient significance, dating back 65 million years to the formation of the Western Ghats.
It shares borders with the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) to the West and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve (Karnataka) to the.
The Theppakadu Elephant Camp within the reserve is a popular tourist spot, boasting a rich variety of flora and fauna, including Elephants, Gaurs, Tigers, Panthers, and various deer species.
This historic elephant camp, established over a century ago, sits on the banks of the Moyar River, serving vital roles in human-wildlife conflict resolution, monsoon patrolling, eco-tourism, elephant conservation, and education.

Sungrazing Comet

12 Apr 2024

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A tiny "sungrazer" comet was discovered, photographed, and destroyed during the recent total solar eclipse — all within 24 hours.

What is a Sungrazing Comet?

Sungrazing comets are a special class of comets that come very close to the sun at their nearest approach, a point called perihelion.
To be considered a sungrazer, a comet needs to get within about 850,000 miles from the sun at perihelion.
Many come even closer, even to within a few thousand miles.
Being so close to the sun is very hard on comets for many reasons.
- They are subjected to a lot of solar radiation which boils off their water or other volatiles.
- The physical push of the radiation and the solar wind also help form the tails. As they get closer to the sun, the comets experience extremely strong tidal forces or gravitational stress.
- In this hostile environment, many sungrazers do not survive their trip around the sun.
- Although they don't crash into the solar surface, the sun can destroy them anyway.
Many sungrazing comets follow a similar orbit, called the Kreutz Path, and collectively belong to a population called the Kreutz Group.
- Close to 85% of the sungrazers seen by the SOHO satellite are on this orbital highway.
- Scientists think one extremely large sungrazing comet broke up hundreds, or even thousands, of years ago, and the current comets on the Kreutz Path are the leftover fragments of it.
- Comet Lovejoy, which reached perihelion on December 15, 2011, is the best-known recent Kreutz-group sungrazer.
- And so far, it is the only one that NASA's solar-observing fleet has seen survive its trip around the sun.

What is a Comet?

A comet is a small celestial body made primarily of ice, dust, and rocky material that orbits the sun in an elongated path.
When a comet approaches the sun, the heat causes the ice to vaporize, releasing dust and gas into a glowing coma, or halo, around the comet's nucleus.
This glowing coma often forms a tail that stretches away from the sun due to the solar wind and radiation pressure.
Comets are often referred to as "dirty snowballs" or "icy dirtballs" because of their composition.
They are believed to be remnants from the early formation of the solar system and carry important information about its history.
Comets can have highly elliptical orbits, sometimes taking thousands or even millions of years to complete a single orbit around the sun.

Invasive Alien Species

11 Apr 2024

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In a bid to manage the teeming population of chital (spotted deer) in Ross Island (officially known as the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island), the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration recently sought help from the Wildlife Institute of India.

What are Invasive Alien Species (IAS)?

According to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Invasive alien species are plants, animals, pathogens, and other organisms that are non-native to an ecosystem, and which may cause economic or environmental harm or adversely affect human health.
In particular, they impact adversely upon biodiversity, including the decline or elimination of native species - through competition, predation, or transmission of pathogens - and the disruption of local ecosystems and ecosystem functions.
Invasive alien species, introduced and/or spread outside their natural habitats, have affected native biodiversity in almost every ecosystem type on Earth and are one of the greatest threats to biodiversity.
Since the 17th century, invasive alien species have contributed to nearly 40% of all animal extinctions for which the cause is known (CBD, 2006).
The problem continues to grow at great socio-economic, health, and ecological costs around the world.
Invasive alien species exacerbate poverty and threaten development through their impact on agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and natural systems, which are an important basis of people’s livelihoods in developing countries.
This damage is aggravated by climate change, pollution, habitat loss, and human-induced disturbance.

What are Some Examples of Invasive Wildlife in India?

The list of invasive wildlife in India is dominated by certain species of fish such as the African catfish, Nile tilapia, red-bellied piranha, and alligator gar, and turtle species such as the red-eared slider.
- The red-eared slider, for instance, is a favorite among India’s exotic pet owners, and many have been abandoned in local water bodies.
- This turtle, native to North America, notoriously edges out local freshwater species, owing to its fast rates of reproduction, and the following competition for food.
With regards to species of fish, many were introduced in India to feed the demand for those maintaining aquariums.
- For instance, the African catfish was brought over from Bangladesh specifically for aquaculture purposes. “
- The occurrence of C gariepinus (the species’ scientific name) has been reported from several inland systems of India including the mighty rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Sutlej, Godavari, Periyar River, and the lakes like Vembanad Lake.

How do IAS Impact Native Flora and Fauna?

The invasive species act as disruptors in the food chain and disturb the balance of the ecosystem.
In habitats where there is no competition, invasive species can dominate the entire ecosystem
- For instance, “in Keoladeo Park, Bharatpur in Rajasthan, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the African catfish have been known to prey on waterfowls and migratory birds as well.
Studies have shown that the proliferation of chital in the Andamans has affected the regeneration of native vegetation, as the deer are known to consume seeds and seedlings.

National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)

11 Apr 2024

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iBUS, a digital infrastructure solutions company, said recently it has raised $200 million from the government-backed National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF).

What is the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)?

The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) stands as a pioneering fund manager dedicated to investing in India's infrastructure and related sectors.
Established in 2015, NIIF marks India's inaugural sovereign wealth fund (SWF), embodying a collaborative investment platform for both international and domestic investors.

Key Aspects of NIIF:

Investment Mandate: NIIF operates with a mandate to deploy equity capital into domestic infrastructure projects, spanning greenfield, brownfield, and stalled ventures.
- Its investment horizon extends across diverse asset classes, including infrastructure, private equity, and other sectors, all aimed at delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns.
Ownership and Independence: With 49% ownership by the Indian government, NIIF boasts over $4.9 billion in assets under management, solidifying its status as the nation's largest infrastructure fund.
- Despite its close ties with the government, NIIF maintains autonomy in its investment decisions, ensuring a professional and impartial approach to its operations.
Professional Management: The fund is predominantly owned by institutional investors and managed by a proficient team with expertise in both investments and infrastructure.
- This professional oversight ensures the strategic deployment of capital and efficient management of investments.
Regulatory Compliance: NIIF operates within the regulatory framework as an Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) registered with the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
It actively raises capital from a spectrum of domestic and international institutional investors, further bolstering its financial resources.

NIIF manages capital through four distinct funds:

NIIF Master Fund: Focused on infrastructural projects such as roads, ports, airports, and power, it stands as India's largest infrastructure fund.
NIIF Private Markets Fund: Invests in infrastructure and associated sectors through third-party managed funds.
NIIF Strategic Opportunities Fund: Devoted to developing large-scale businesses and greenfield projects deemed strategically significant for the nation.
India-Japan Fund: NIIF's bilateral initiative aimed at environmental preservation in India, with contributions from both the Indian government and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation.
NIIF catalyzes fostering sustainable infrastructure development in India while facilitating fruitful collaborations between Indian and international stakeholders, exemplifying a robust model for investment-driven growth.

QS World University Rankings

11 Apr 2024

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Sixty-nine Indian universities made it to the rankings with 424 entries in the 2024 QS World University Rankings by Subject. This marks a 19.4 percent rise from the previous year’s 355 entries.

About QS World University Rankings:

The QS World University Rankings, curated annually by Quacquarelli Symonds, are a comprehensive assessment of the world's top 1,000 universities.
In the latest 2024 edition, universities were meticulously evaluated across 55 specific subjects and five broader subject areas, offering a nuanced perspective on academic excellence.

Key Highlights from the 2024 Rankings:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) maintains its prestigious position as the top-ranked university globally for the 12th consecutive year, a testament to its enduring academic prowess.
The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB) shines as the leading Indian institution, securing the 149th spot on the global stage.
Noteworthy Progress: India demonstrates remarkable advancement with a total of 69 universities making their mark in the QS rankings, showcasing a notable 19.4% increase from the previous year.
- India stands as the second most represented country in Asia, highlighting its growing significance in the global academic landscape.
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) emerges as a standout, clinching the 20th position globally in development studies, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in specialized fields.
India's Rise in Research: The nation exhibits a commendable 20% improvement in the Citations per Paper indicator, underscoring its burgeoning research capabilities.
- With a staggering 1.3 million academic papers produced, India emerges as the world's fourth-largest contributor to research, trailing only behind academic powerhouses like China, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Challenges Ahead: Despite significant strides, India grapples with the challenge of securing citations in premier global journals, with only 15% of its research receiving recognition in these esteemed publications between 2017 and 2021.
Overall, India's journey in the QS World University Rankings reflects a narrative of progress, innovation, and resilience, while also highlighting areas for continued growth and enhancement in the global academic arena.

African Baobab Tree

11 Apr 2024

Sulthan Bathery

11 Apr 2024

Higgs Boson

10 Apr 2024

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Peter Higgs, the eminent theoretical physicist who first proposed the idea of what we now know as the “Higgs Boson,” died at the age of 94 on April 8.

What is the Higgs Boson?

Particles make up everything in the universe but they did not have any mass when the universe began.
They all sped around at the speed of light, according to the European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN).
- CERN, the European Council for Nuclear Research, is where the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is located, and it's where the discovery of the Higgs Boson was made in 2012 through experiments conducted at the LHC.
Everything we see like planets, stars, and life, emerged after particles gained their mass from a fundamental field associated with the particle known as the Higgs boson.
The particle has a mass of 125 billion electron volts making it 130 times bigger than a proton?, according to CERN.
Interestingly, the subatomic particles known as bosons are named after Indian Physicist Satyendra Nath Bose.

How does the Higgs Boson Work?

The Higgs boson is a fundamental component of a theory formulated by Higgs and colleagues in the 1960s to elucidate how particles acquire mass.
According to this theory, a pervasive Higgs energy field permeates the universe.
As particles traverse this field, they interact with and draw in Higgs bosons, which congregate around the particles in varying quantities.
Likewise, envision the universe akin to a party: less prominent guests can swiftly traverse the room without notice, while more popular guests attract clusters of people (the Higgs bosons), thus decelerating their movement through the room.
Similarly, particles navigating the Higgs field experience a comparable phenomenon.
Certain particles attract larger assemblies of Higgs bosons, and the more Higgs bosons a particle draws in, the greater its mass becomes.

Why is the Higgs Boson Called the “God Particle?”

The Higgs boson is popularly known as the "God Particle".
The name originated from Nobel Prize-winning physicist Leon Lederman's book on the particle which he titled the "Goddamn Particle", owing to frustration over how difficult it was to detect.
However, his publishers changed the name to "The God Particle", which often draws ire from religious communities.

Who was Peter Higgs?

Born in UK's Newcastle upon Tyne in 1929, Mr Higgs studied at King's College in London and has taught at the University of Edinburgh since the 1950s.
Described as a modest man who published only a few scientific papers, he disliked his sudden fame calling it "a bit of a nuisance", even cringing when the term "Higgs boson" was used.
Even as a lifelong atheist, he disliked the name "God particle".
In 2013, Higgs and Francois Englert won the Physics Nobel Prize for their work on the particle which was thought to be a key to explaining the universe.

CDP-SURAKSHA

10 Apr 2024

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The government has come up with a new platform to disburse subsidies to horticulture farmers under the Cluster Development Programme (CDP) — the Centre’s initiative to promote horticulture crops.

What is the CDP-SURAKSHA?

The CDP-SURAKSHA is essentially a digital platform.
- SURAKSHA stands for “System for Unified Resource Allocation, Knowledge, and Secure Horticulture Assistance.”
The platform will allow an instant disbursal of subsidies to farmers in their bank accounts by utilizing the e-RUPI voucher from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
The CDP-SURAKSHA has features such as database integration with PM-KISAN, cloud-based server space from NIC, UIDAI validation, eRUPI integration, local government directory (LGD), content management system, geotagging, and geo-fencing.

How does the CDP-SURAKSHA work?

The platform allows access to farmers, vendors, implementing agencies (IA), cluster development agencies (CDAs), and officials of the National Horticulture Board (NHB).
A farmer can log in using their mobile number and place an order for planting materials such as seeds, seedlings, and plants based on their requirement.
Once the demand has been raised by the farmer, the system will ask them to contribute their share of the cost of planting material.
- The subsidy amount paid by the government will appear on the screen automatically.
After the farmer pays their contribution, an e-RUPI voucher will be generated.
- This voucher will then be received by a vendor, who will provide the required planting material to the farmer.
Once the ordered planting material is delivered to the farmer, they have to verify the delivery through geo-tagged photos and videos of their field.
- It is only after the verification that the IA will release the money to the vendor for the e-RUPI voucher.
- The vendor will be required to upload an invoice for the payment on the portal.
The IA will collect all the documents and share them with the CDA for subsidy release, then only the subsidy will be released to the IA.
However, the farmer, who raised the demand for the plant material using the platform, can avail of the subsidy at the first stage only.

What is e-RUPI?

The CDP-SURAKSHA platform uses e-RUPI vouchers from the NPCI.
The voucher is a one-time payment mechanism that can be redeemed without a card, digital payments app, or internet banking access, at the merchants accepting e-RUPI.
According to the NPCI, the e-RUPI can be shared with the beneficiaries for a specific purpose or activity by organizations or government via SMS or QR code.

What is the Cluster Development Program (CDP)?

The CDP is a component of the central sector scheme of NHB.
It is aimed at leveraging “the geographical specialization of horticulture clusters and promoting integrated and market-led development of pre-production, production, post-harvest, logistics, branding, and marketing activities.”
So far, 55 horticulture clusters have been identified, out of which 12 have been selected for the pilot.
These clusters are in different stages of development.
Four more clusters:
- A floriculture cluster in West Bengal
- Coconut clusters in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and
- White onion clusters in Gujarat
Each cluster will have an implementing agency and a cluster development agency (CDA).
According to the government, about 9 lakh hectares of area will be covered through all 55 clusters, covering 10 lakh farmers.
It is estimated that the initiative will attract private investment of Rs 8,250 crore, in addition to the government’s assistance, which is fixed according to the size of the cluster, up to Rs 25 crore for mini cluster (size up to 5,000 ha), up to Rs 50 crore for medium clusters (5,000 to 15,000), and up to Rs 100 crore for mega clusters (more than 15,000 ha).

C-Dome Defense System

10 Apr 2024

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Israel for the first time used a seaborne missile defense system to shoot down a drone approaching from the Red Sea that had set off sirens in the port city of Eilat.

What is the C-Dome Defense System?

The C-Dome is a naval version of Israel's Iron Dome air defense system, designed to protect against rocket and missile attacks.
Drawing from Iron Dome's technology, C-Dome shares its 90% effectiveness rate and utilizes radars to detect and destroy short-range rockets with its missiles.

Operational Deployment and Integration:

First unveiled in 2014 and declared operational in 2022, the C-Dome is mounted on Sa'ar 6-class corvettes and German-made warships.
It employs the same interceptor as the Iron Dome but differs in its integration with the ship's radar for target detection, ensuring full-circular vessel protection.

Combatting Modern Threats:

C-Dome's primary objective is to counter a wide range of modern maritime and coastal threats with high kill probability.
Its successful deployment and performance underscore its pivotal role in safeguarding Israel's naval interests and assets against evolving security challenges.

About Iron Dome:

Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries, the Iron Dome is a cutting-edge air missile defense system that offers protection against short-range rockets by intercepting them above Israeli territory.
With its multi-rocket handling capacity, Iron Dome became operational in 2011 and features:
- All-weather capabilities for day and night functionality
- Launching versatility with various interceptor missiles
- A range of approximately 40 miles
- Portable design for deployment on ships or land
- Adaptive defense through reloadable interceptors

Iron Dome consists of three key elements:

- Radar system for detecting incoming rockets
- Command-and-control mechanism to evaluate threat levels
- Interceptors are designed to neutralize incoming rockets before impact
These components work in tandem to provide Israel with a robust and reliable defense against aerial threats.

India Imposed Import Restrictions on Solar PV Cells

10 Apr 2024

Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC)

10 Apr 2024

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Recently, the US White House has officially instructed NASA to create a lunar time standard for international and private sector coordination on the Moon.

What is Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC)?

Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) is a lunar-based time system being developed by NASA in collaboration with other government agencies to establish a standardized time zone for the Moon.
LTC aims to provide a precise timekeeping benchmark for lunar spacecraft and satellites, synchronizing communication between astronauts, bases, and Earth.

Importance of LTC:

As lunar exploration and commerce expand, a unified time standard becomes essential for managing operations, ensuring transaction reliability, and coordinating logistics.
Furthermore, LTC addresses the discrepancy in timekeeping between Earth and the Moon due to differences in gravity, as time ticks faster on the Moon, causing Earth-based clocks to lose an average of 58.7 microseconds per day.
Establishing LTC will prevent potential problems in spacecraft docking, data transfer, communication, and navigation.

How Will a Lunar Time Standard Be Established?

Like on Earth, atomic clocks can be deployed on the lunar surface to set a time standard.
These clocks have to be placed on the Moon at different locations since the Moon’s rotation and even local lumps of mass, called mascons, beneath the crust of the Moon affect the flow of time ever so slightly.
- Mascons or mass concentrations are so dense that they alter the Moon’s local gravity field.
These effects are minor but the output from these clocks can be synthesized to give the Moon its own independent time, which can be tied back to UTC for seamless operations from Earth as well.

How Does Earth’s Time Standard Work?

Most of the clocks and time zones of the world are based on Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), set by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in Paris, France.
UTC is essentially an internationally agreed-upon standard for world time.
It is tracked by a weighted average of more than 400 atomic clocks placed in different parts of the globe.
Atomic clocks measure time in terms of the resonant frequencies — the natural frequency of an object where it tends to vibrate at a higher amplitude — of atoms such as cesium-133.
In atomic time, a second is defined as the period in which a cesium atom vibrates 9,192,631,770 times.
As the vibration rates at which atoms absorb energy are highly stable and ultra-accurate, atomic clocks make for an excellent device for gauging the passage of time.
To obtain their local time, countries must subtract or add a certain number of hours from UTC depending on how many time zones they are away from 0 degree longitude meridian, also known as the Greenwich meridian.
If a country lies on the west of the Greenwich meridian, it has to subtract from the UTC, and if a country is located on the east of the meridian, it has to add.

Black Swan Event

09 Apr 2024

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Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande on Monday called upon the force to be always prepared for 'black swan' events and "expect the unexpected" even as he identified technology as the new area for strategic competition among nations.

What is the Black Swan Event?

A black swan is a rare, unpredictable event that comes as a surprise and has a significant impact on society or the world.
These events are said to have three distinguishing characteristics:
- They are extremely rare and outside the realm of regular expectations
- They have a severe impact after they hit; and
- They seem probable in hindsight when plausible explanations appear.

When did the Term Originate?

The black swan theory was put forward by author and investor Nassim Nicholas Taleb in 2001 and later popularised in his 2007 book – The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable.
- In his book, Taleb does not try to lay out a method to predict such events but instead stresses building “robustness” in systems and strategies to deal with black swan occurrences and withstand their impact.
The term itself is linked to the discovery of black swans.
Europeans believed all swans to be white until 1697 when a Dutch explorer spotted the first black swan in Australia.
The metaphor ‘black swan event’ is derived from this unprecedented spotting from the 17th century, and how it upended the West’s understanding of swans.

Implications of Black Swan Events:

Black Swan events are characterized by their extreme rarity, severe impact, and widespread implications across various sectors.
These unanticipated occurrences can trigger substantial disruptions, unveiling vulnerabilities in systems once thought resilient and prompting reassessments of risk management practices.
Disruption: Black Swan events have the potential to disrupt economies, industries, and societies on a global scale.
- Their unforeseen nature can cause sudden shifts in financial markets, business operations, and everyday life, leaving lasting effects on the overall landscape.
Uncertainty: The inability to predict Black Swan events using traditional methods injects considerable uncertainty into decision-making and planning for individuals, organizations, and governments.
- Navigating through such unpredictable circumstances can pose significant challenges for all affected parties.
Vulnerability: These rare events can expose vulnerabilities in systems that were previously thought to be impervious or resilient.
- By doing so, Black Swan events emphasize the importance of preparedness and encourage the development of more robust risk management practices.
Reassessment of Risk: In the aftermath of a Black Swan event, there is often a renewed focus on identifying and mitigating previously overlooked risks.
- This heightened awareness can lead to changes in investment strategies, regulatory policies, and overall risk management practices.
Regulatory and Policy Responses: Governments and regulatory bodies may implement new regulations or policies in response to Black Swan events.
- These measures are designed to prevent or mitigate the impact of similar occurrences in the future, ultimately shaping the economic and social landscape.
Behavioral and Attitude Changes: Black Swan events can significantly alter behaviors and attitudes as individuals and organizations adapt to the new reality.
- These shifts may include changes in consumer behavior, investment strategies, and approaches to risk management.

Examples of Black Swan Events:

The Dot-com Bubble: In 2000, the valuation of many internet-based companies plummeted after a period of rapid growth.
The 9/11 Terrorist Attacks: The events of September 11, 2001, had far-reaching consequences on global security, politics, and economies.
The 2008 Financial Crisis: A series of shocks to Wall Street due to the unraveling of subprime lending practices caused significant economic turmoil.
Brexit: The unexpected decision of the United Kingdom to leave the European Union in June 2016 caught many by surprise and caused the British pound to plummet against the US dollar.
COVID-19 Pandemic: The ongoing global health crisis continues to significantly affect economies and markets worldwide.
These instances illustrate the profound and widespread implications of Black Swan events, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resilience in an ever-changing global landscape.

Imposition of Anti-Dumping Duty on Sodium Cyanide

09 Apr 2024

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The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has now recommended the imposition of anti-dumping duty on sodium cyanide (NaCN) imported from China, the European Union, Japan, and Korea.

Key Facts About Sodium Cyanide:

Sodium cyanide (NaCN) is a highly toxic, inorganic compound with a white, crystalline appearance.
It is a solid at room temperature and has a high affinity for metals, making it useful in various industrial processes.
Due to its toxic nature, proper handling and safety protocols must be followed when working with sodium cyanide.

Applications of Sodium Cyanide:

Mining and Metallurgy: Sodium cyanide is widely used in the extraction of gold and silver from ores. It is employed in a technique called "cyanide heap leaching," where a dilute sodium cyanide solution is sprayed onto crushed ore.
- The cyanide forms a water-soluble complex with the precious metals, enabling their recovery from the ore.
Electroplating: NaCN is utilized as an electrolyte in electroplating processes, particularly for the deposition of silver, gold, and other metals on various surfaces to improve their appearance, durability, or conductivity.
Synthetic Fiber Production: Sodium cyanide is used in the manufacturing of synthetic fibers such as acrylic and nylon.
- It serves as a catalyst in the polymerization process, promoting the formation of long-chain polymers that make up the fibers.
Pesticides: Due to its toxicity, sodium cyanide has been used as a fumigant to control pests and rodents.
- However, its use in this field has been largely phased out in many countries due to safety concerns and the development of safer alternatives.
Dye and Pigment Production: NaCN can be used in the production of certain dyes and pigments, particularly those containing nitrogen.
- It acts as a precursor for the synthesis of these compounds.

What is Anti-Dumping Duty?

An anti-dumping duty is a tariff imposed by a domestic government on foreign imports suspected of being sold at prices lower than those in the exporter's domestic market.
This measure aims to prevent these products from undercutting local businesses and harming the local economy.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) oversees a framework of international trade rules governing anti-dumping measures.
Under this agreement, governments are permitted to address dumping practices if they pose a threat of significant harm to a domestic industry.

Calculation of Anti-Dumping Duty:

The calculation of anti-dumping duty involves determining the difference between the normal value and the export value of the product.
The normal value represents the market value of the product in the exporter's domestic market, while the export value denotes the price at which the product is sold when exported to India.
The anti-dumping duty is levied to neutralize this price disparity and safeguard the domestic industry from the adverse effects of inexpensive imports.

Anti-Dumping Mechanism in India:

India's anti-dumping mechanism is overseen by the Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD) under the Ministry of Finance.
The legal framework for anti-dumping in India is established by the Customs Tariff Act of 1975 and the Customs Tariff Rules of 1995.
The DGAD conducts investigations to assess whether a surge in below-cost imports has negatively impacted the domestic industry.

Mangal Pandey

09 Apr 2024

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Sepoy Mangal Pandey likely didn't anticipate that his shot at the Sergeant Major of his regiment near Kolkata on March 29, 1857, would ignite a significant event in Modern Indian history—the Revolt of 1857, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Indian Independence.

Who was Mangal Pandey?

Mangal Pandey was a prominent historical figure who played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
Born in the kingdom of Awadh, which contributed significantly to the East India Company's army, Mangal Pandey joined the 34th Bengal Native Infantry at the age of 22.

Annexation of Awadh:

In 1856, the British annexed Awadh in a treacherous act that provoked widespread anger and resentment among the local population.
The deposition of the Nawab and the subsequent confiscation of villages from the taluqdars during the land revenue settlement of 1856 only exacerbated the situation.

Mangal Pandey's Mutiny and Execution:

The introduction of the Enfield rifle, which used animal fat (beef and pork) in its cartridges, was met with fierce resistance from soldiers like Mangal Pandey.
They perceived the use of these cartridges as a direct affront to their religious beliefs.
On March 29, 1857, Mangal Pandey openly revolted, firing at his Senior Sergeant Major in protest.
His act of defiance led to his capture, and he was subsequently hanged by order of a Court Martial at Lal Bagan in Barrackpore.
Mangal Pandey's sacrifice and bravery in the face of British oppression have earned him a lasting place in India's history as a symbol of resistance against colonial tyranny.

The Expansion of the 1857 Revolt and Its Lasting Impact:

The bravery exhibited by Mangal Pandey inspired a wave of resistance among other soldiers, notably those of the 7th Awadh Regiment.

On May 11, 1857, a group of Sepoys from Meerut refused to use the new cartridges and killed their European officers, marching to the Red Fort in an act of defiance.

The Legacy of the 1857 Revolt:

The revolt of 1857 had far-reaching consequences and reshaped the dynamics of British rule in India.
In response to the growing unrest, the British Parliament passed the Government of India Act in 1858, effectively transferring all powers of the East India Company to the Crown.
- Queen Victoria was subsequently declared the Sovereign of British India.
The Queen's Proclamation, announced by Lord Canning in 1858, introduced a new policy of perpetual support for the native Princes and pledged non-intervention in matters of religious beliefs in India.
- This policy was further reinforced in 1877 during the Delhi Durbar, where Queen Victoria assumed the title of Qaiser-e-Hind, reflecting her position as the Empress of India.
The 1857 revolt, sparked by Mangal Pandey's actions, marked a turning point in India's struggle for independence and continues to be remembered as a pivotal moment in the nation's history.

ISRO’s ‘Zero Orbital Debris’ Milestone

09 Apr 2024

TSAT-1A Satellite

09 Apr 2024

Solar Eclipse

08 Apr 2024

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On Monday (April 8), a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This type of solar eclipse is a rare event for any particular spot.

What is a Solar Eclipse?

A solar eclipse takes place when the Moon moves in the middle of Earth and the Sun.
- The Moon blocks the light of the Sun, either fully or partially, which casts a huge shadow on some parts of the world.

There are four different types of solar eclipses, including:

Total solar eclipse: When the Moon blocks the Sun entirely, the areas in the center of the Moon’s shadow at the time witness a total solar eclipse.
- The sky darkens and people who are in the path of a total solar eclipse can get a glimpse of the Sun’s corona — the outer atmosphere — which is usually not visible due to the bright face of the Sun.
Annual solar eclipse: When the Moon passes in front of the Sun but is at or near the farthest point from Earth, an annular solar eclipse occurs.
- In this scenario, the Moon covers the Sun in such a way that only the periphery of the Sun remains visible — looking like a ring of fire.
Partial solar eclipse: A partial solar eclipse takes place when the Moon blocks just a part of the Sun, giving it a crescent shape.
- During both partial and annular eclipses, the regions outside the area covered by the Moon’s umbra — the middle and the darkest part of the lunar shadow — will see a partial solar eclipse.
- Partial solar eclipse is the most common type of solar eclipse.
Hybrid solar eclipse: A hybrid solar eclipse — the rarest type of solar eclipse — is witnessed when an eclipse shifts between annular and total as the shadow of the Moon moves across the globe.
- In this case, some parts of the world see a total solar eclipse, while others observe an annular solar eclipse.

How Often Does a Solar Eclipse Take Place?

A solar eclipse is witnessed only during the new moon — when the Moon and Sun are aligned on the same side of Earth.
- A new moon occurs about 29.5 days because that is how long it takes the Moon to orbit Earth.
- This, however, does not mean that a solar eclipse happens every month. It takes place only between two to five times annually, because the Moon does not orbit Earth in the same plane as the Earth orbits the Sun.
In fact, the Moon is tilted by about five degrees with respect to Earth.
- As a result, most of the time when the Moon is in between the Sun and Earth, its shadow is either too high or too low to fall on the Earth.

Why is a Total Solar Eclipse so Rare?

While there can be between two and five solar eclipses every year, total eclipses only happen about once every 18 months or so.
This is because a total eclipse is only visible if one is standing in the umbra — the other part of the shadow is called the penumbra, which is not as dark as the umbra.
- The umbral shadow is very small, covering only a small part of Earth.
In fact, the entire path of the umbral shadow during a solar eclipse will only cover less than one percent of the globe.
- This is why only very few people will get to see a total eclipse at a time.
Moreover, about 70 percent of the globe is underwater and half of the land is considered uninhabited.
- That’s why, it is quite rare when a total solar eclipse happens and a lot of people get to see it.

Umbra and Penumbra:

During a solar eclipse, the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on the Earth's surface.
This shadow consists of two main parts: the umbra and the penumbra.
- The umbra is the central, darkest part of a shadow, such as during a total solar eclipse when the Moon completely covers the Sun.
- The penumbra is the outer part of the shadow where the obscuration is partial, resulting in a partial solar eclipse.

Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS)

08 Apr 2024

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Consumer confidence for the year ahead has improved further on the back of higher optimism, which resulted in the Future Expectations Index (FEI) rising by 2.1 points to 125.2, the highest level since mid-2019, according to a Reserve Bank of India survey conducted in March 2024.

What is the Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS)?

The Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) is a comprehensive assessment conducted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to gauge consumer perceptions of the current economic landscape.
- Administered across various cities, the CCS measures consumer confidence based on key indicators such as economic conditions, employment prospects, price levels, income, and spending patterns.
The survey collects valuable insights into consumer sentiments by posing a series of questions about both present and future economic scenarios.
- These responses offer a glimpse into consumers' perceptions of the prevailing financial environment, shedding light on economic trends, opportunities, and potential challenges.
As a vital tool for policymakers, the Consumer Confidence Survey contributes to shaping effective strategies aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and improving overall financial stability.

Highlights of the Survey:

The survey revealed optimistic consumer sentiments across all parameters, reflecting a positive outlook on the current and future economic landscape.
- Key indicators, such as the Current Situation Index (CSI) and Future Expectations Index (FEI), showcased significant improvements, reaching their highest levels since mid-2019.
Current Situation Index (CSI): Measuring overall consumer perception of the present economic situation, the CSI experienced a notable increase of 3.4 points compared to the previous survey, currently standing at 98.5.
Future Expectations Index (FEI): Evaluating consumer sentiment for the next 12 months, the FEI witnessed a substantial surge, reaching its highest point since mid-2019 and indicating a positive outlook for the upcoming year.
- The CSI and FEI are calculated based on net responses concerning the economic situation, income, spending, employment, and price levels, comparing the current period with one year ago and the anticipated changes in the year ahead, respectively.
Households’ Inflation Expectation Survey: There was a slight increase in the proportion of households anticipating an overall rise in prices and inflation within the next three months and one year, as observed across general prices and most product categories when compared to the previous survey round.
Additionally, the survey results revealed noteworthy enhancements in households' perceptions regarding the general economic situation and employment prospects, signaling a sense of optimism for both the current period and the years ahead.

Oceanic Niño Index (ONI)

08 Apr 2024

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The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recently forecasted an 83% likelihood that the Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) will move into a neutral range between April and June 2024.

What is the Oceanic Niño Index?

The Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) primary indicator for monitoring El Niño and La Niña, which are opposite phases of the climate pattern called the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, or “ENSO” for short.
- NOAA is a US governmental agency responsible for monitoring and researching the Earth's oceans, atmosphere, and climate, and providing weather forecasts and environmental data.
The ONI is the difference between a three-month running average of the sea surface temperature averaged over an area of the ocean from 120 West to 170 West longitude along the equator and the long-term average for the same three months.
NOAA considers El Niño conditions to be present when the Oceanic Niño Index is +0.5 or higher, indicating the east-central tropical Pacific is significantly warmer than usual.
La Niña conditions exist when the Oceanic Niño Index is -0.5 or lower, indicating the region is cooler than usual.

What is El Niño and La Niña?

El Niño and La Niña are two natural climate phenomena that occur in the Pacific Ocean, characterized by fluctuations in ocean surface temperatures.
They are part of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which impacts global weather patterns.
- El Niño refers to the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific.
  - This warming causes changes in atmospheric pressure and wind patterns, which can lead to drought conditions in parts of South America and heavy rainfall in other regions, such as the southern United States.
- La Niña is the opposite phase of the ENSO cycle, characterized by cooler-than-average ocean surface temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific.
  - This results in the strengthening of normal trade winds, causing increased rainfall in some regions, such as Indonesia and northern Australia, and drier conditions in other areas, including the southwestern United States.

Effects of El Niño and La Niña on India:

Both El Niño and La Niña have significant impacts on India's climate, particularly during the monsoon season.
El Niño events often lead to weaker monsoon winds and reduced rainfall in India, causing droughts and impacting agricultural production.
On the other hand, La Niña events typically result in stronger monsoon winds and higher rainfall, leading to better agricultural yields.
- However, excessive rainfall can also cause floods and landslides in some regions.
Monitoring and predicting the occurrence of El Niño and La Niña events is crucial for India's weather forecasting and agricultural planning.
Accurate predictions enable authorities to take necessary measures to mitigate potential adverse effects on agriculture and infrastructure.

SUVIDHA Portal

08 Apr 2024

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The Election Commission said that over 73 thousand applications had been received on the Suvidha Portal in just 20 days since the announcement of General Elections 2024.

About SUVIDHA Portal:

The Suvidha portal is a technological solution developed by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure a level playing field upholding the democratic principles of free, fair, and transparent elections.
Suvidha's robust track record showcases its ability to streamline requests for permissions and facilities during election campaigns, catering to diverse needs such as rallies, canvassing, and temporary party offices.
The Suvidha portal offers both online and offline submission options, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunity for all stakeholders.
- Permission requests can be processed efficiently through a robust IT platform managed by nodal officers from various state departments.
- The portal's user-friendly design allows political parties and candidates to submit requests from anywhere, at any time.
To enhance transparency and convenience, Suvidha also provides a companion app for real-time tracking of application statuses.
- Available on both iOS and Android platforms, the app ensures a seamless user experience.
- Moreover, the Suvidha portal promotes accountability by offering features such as real-time tracking, status updates, timestamped submissions, and SMS communication.
Data collected on the Suvidha platform serves as a valuable resource for scrutinizing election expenditures, thereby promoting greater integrity in the electoral process.
With Suvidha, the Election Commission of India demonstrates its commitment to facilitating a fair, efficient, and transparent electoral environment, granting equal access to all political parties and candidates seeking permissions and clearances during election campaigns.

Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

08 Apr 2024

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In its manifesto for the Lok Sabha election, the primary opposition party pledged to cease the weaponization of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) if entrusted with power.

About the Prevention of Money Laundering Act:

The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) constitutes the cornerstone of India's legal framework aimed at combating money laundering, with its enactment and enforcement starting from July 1, 2005.
Enacted by India's Parliament under Article 253, which authorizes legislation for implementing international conventions, the Act has three primary objectives:
- Prevention and control of money laundering
- Confiscation of proceeds derived from laundering, and
- Addressing related issues within India.
The Act empowers the Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) and the Director (Enforcement) with exclusive and concurrent powers to enforce its provisions.
Subsequent amendments were made in 2009 and 2012 through the Prevention of Money Laundering (Amendment) Acts.

What is Money Laundering?

Money laundering is defined as the process through which an illegal fund, such as black money, is obtained from illegal activities and disguised as legal money, eventually portrayed as white money.
The money laundered is passed on through various channels or phases of conversions and transfers to make it legal and eventually reach a legally acceptable institution, like a bank.

Brief History of the PMLA:

In response to the emergence of global terrorism in the 1990s and the subsequent imperative to curb illicit financial flows, international efforts intensified, culminating in the establishment of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in 1989 to coordinate anti-money laundering endeavors worldwide.

Legislative Response:

Against this backdrop, India, as a member of FATF, was prompted to enact domestic legislation to combat money laundering following the United Nations General Assembly's political declaration in 1998 urging member states to implement national anti-money laundering measures.

Enactment Process:

The initial iteration of the Prevention of Money-Laundering Bill in 1998 was introduced by the NDA government, aiming to address various aspects such as the prevention of money laundering, confiscation of illicit proceeds, and establishment of coordinating agencies.
However, concerns regarding potential misuse of the proposed law led to bipartisan opposition, prompting referral to the Department-related Standing Committee on Finance.
- Despite deliberations and amendments, the bill was eventually passed by Parliament in 2002, with enforcement commencing in 2005 following the formulation of accompanying rules under the subsequent UPA government.

Significant Amendments in the PMLA:

Over the years, the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) has undergone various revisions, but it was the amendments introduced in 2009 and 2012 that notably empowered the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to take coercive measures against politicians.
In 2009, amendments expanded the PMLA's scope to include 'Criminal conspiracy' under Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), enabling the ED to intervene in cases alleging conspiracy, even if the primary offense isn't listed in the PMLA.
- For instance, this broadening facilitated the ED's pursuit of cases like the land-grabbing accusations against a former Jharkhand CM, currently incarcerated in Ranchi.
Furthermore, the 2009 amendments granted the ED international jurisdiction for tracking laundered money, enhancing its global reach.
In 2012, the PMLA was amended to elevate the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (PC Act) to Part A of the statute's schedule from Part B.
- This move imposed stricter bail conditions on corruption suspects, requiring courts to ascertain substantial evidence of guilt if bail opposition arises from the public prosecutor.
- Part A of the schedule encompassed various serious offenses, including acts like waging war against the nation, drug trafficking, and violations of the PC Act, among others.

Supreme Court's Verdicts on the Constitutionality of PMLA:

In the case of Vijay Madanlal Choudhary & Ors vs Union of India (2022), a three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which faced challenges in over 200 individual petitions.
One of the primary challenges was regarding the creation of an alternative criminal law system by the PMLA, as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) operates outside the ambit of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
- Not being classified as 'police', the ED is not bound by CrPC provisions for searches, seizures, arrests, and property attachments.
- The judgment affirmed the ED's expansive powers, including the admissibility of statements made to it in court.
In Nikesh Tarachand Shah v Union of India (2017), the PMLA, akin to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), imposed stringent bail conditions, requiring accused individuals to prove the absence of a "prima facie" case against them and their commitment to refraining from future offenses.
- The Supreme Court initially struck down these provisions as unconstitutional.
- However, Parliament reintroduced them through an amendment to the PMLA via the Finance Act, of 2018, which the Supreme Court upheld in 2021.
While certain aspects of the 2021 ruling, such as the ED's non-obligation to disclose the ECIR (similar to an FIR in criminal cases), are currently under review, the ruling stands as the prevailing law of the land.

Use of Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector

06 Apr 2024

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The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a Rs-496-crore (until 2025-26) scheme to support pilot projects that either test the viability of green hydrogen as a vehicle fuel or develop secure supporting infrastructure such as refueling stations.

What is Green Hydrogen?

Green hydrogen is a form of hydrogen gas produced through a process called electrolysis, where water (H2O) is split into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2) using electricity.
- The electricity used in this process is generated from renewable sources such as solar, wind, or hydroelectric power, hence the term "green" hydrogen.
Unlike conventional methods of hydrogen production, which often rely on fossil fuels and emit greenhouse gases, green hydrogen production is considered environmentally friendly because it doesn't generate carbon dioxide emissions.
- It can be used as a clean energy carrier in various sectors, including transportation, industry, and energy storage.
The production of green hydrogen is still relatively expensive compared to other forms of hydrogen production, but ongoing advancements in renewable energy technologies and electrolysis processes are expected to reduce costs and increase the viability of green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source in the future.

India's Push for Green Hydrogen in the Transportation Sector:

India is aggressively pushing for the adoption of green hydrogen in its transportation sector:
Major Indian commercial vehicle manufacturers like Tata Motors, Volvo Eicher, and Ashok Leyland are intensifying their efforts to develop hydrogen-powered trucks and buses.
Simultaneously, Indian energy companies are ramping up efforts to increase the production of green hydrogen while striving to decrease costs, making it competitive with other fuels.
Given its vast and expanding market for both vehicles and energy, India stands poised to reap substantial benefits from widespread green hydrogen adoption as a vehicular fuel.
India anticipates numerous advantages from this transition, including mitigating pollution, achieving climate objectives, and reducing reliance on expensive fossil fuel imports.
Moreover, India views this shift as a significant business opportunity, aiming to establish itself as a global hub for the production and export of green hydrogen.

Scheme for Use of Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector:

The Scheme for Use of Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector focuses on several key objectives:
- Validating the technical feasibility and performance of green hydrogen as a transportation fuel.
- Evaluating the economic viability of vehicles powered by green hydrogen.
- Demonstrating the safe operation of hydrogen-powered vehicles and refueling stations.
Under the scheme, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways will designate a scheme implementation agency responsible for inviting proposals for pilot projects.
Once selected, the chosen company or consortium will serve as the project's executing agency and must complete the pilot project within a two-year timeframe.
To support these initiatives, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) will consider approving viability gap funding (VGF) based on the recommendations of a Project Appraisal Committee.
- The VGF amount will be determined by assessing the specific needs, merits, and feasibility of each project.

Advantages of Green Hydrogen in the Transportation Sector:

Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles utilize hydrogen through combustion, akin to traditional diesel and petrol vehicles, but without emitting carbon.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) convert hydrogen electrochemically into electricity, leaving water as the sole byproduct, offering a clean and efficient alternative.
While hydrogen ICE vehicles emit no carbon, studies indicate that converting hydrogen into electricity in a fuel cell is more energy efficient than burning it.
Unlike Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) where the battery is heavy, hydrogen FCEVs are typically lighter due to hydrogen being a lighter element.
This lightweight characteristic of hydrogen fuel cell technology makes it particularly promising for heavy-duty trucks, providing a viable alternative to EV battery technology.
Green hydrogen presents a significant opportunity to reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector without compromising revenue-generating payload capacity, addressing both environmental and economic concerns.

Challenges to the Large-Scale Adoption of Green Hydrogen in the Transportation Sector:

Cost Prohibitions: The production cost of green hydrogen remains high, posing challenges to its viability as a fuel option.
- To compete with Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), the cost of green hydrogen needs to be reduced to between $3 and $6.5 per kilogram by 2030.
- Retail green hydrogen prices in California reached as high as $30 per kilogram in 2023, underscoring the current cost disparity.
- However, ongoing technological innovations and scale-up efforts are expected to drive cost reductions soon.
Insufficient Infrastructure: Building hydrogen fueling stations for trucks can cost up to 72% more than those for battery electric trucks, according to the California Transportation Commission.
- Challenges with supply complications and market factors have led to the closure of hydrogen refueling stations, exemplified by Shell's recent decision in California.
Storage and Transportation Challenges: Hydrogen storage requires high-pressure cylinders, which are costly and pose technical challenges.
- Existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure is unsuitable for transporting hydrogen.
- Specialized cylinders capable of safely storing green hydrogen are under discussion, necessitating infrastructure development.
Handling and Safety Concerns: Hydrogen's flammability necessitates stringent safety protocols and infrastructure at refueling stations.
- Developing robust safety standards is imperative before widespread adoption can occur.
Long-Term Viability: Advancements in battery technologies are continuously improving the weight and efficiency of EV batteries, potentially challenging the long-term viability of green hydrogen-powered vehicles, particularly in heavy-duty commercial applications.

World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)

06 Apr 2024

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According to the recently released 2022 statistics by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), out of 3865 samples handled by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), 125 (3.2 percent) tested positive — the most in any country.

About World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA):

WADA, or the World Anti-Doping Agency, is an international independent organization established in 1999.
It operates with equal funding from both the global sports community and governments worldwide.
WADA's primary objectives encompass scientific research, education, capacity-building in anti-doping measures, and oversight of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), which standardizes anti-doping policies across all sports and nations.
Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, WADA comprises various governing bodies, including a foundation board, executive committee, and several specialized committees.
The foundation board, consisting of 42 members, holds the highest decision-making authority within WADA.
- It comprises equal representation from both the Olympic Movement and governments.
Responsibilities for day-to-day operations and policy implementation are delegated by the foundation board to the executive committee, which comprises 12 members, also equally distributed between the Olympic Movement and governments.
WADA's presidency is a voluntary role that alternates between representatives from the Olympic Movement and governments.
Additionally, WADA's committees serve as advisory bodies, offering guidance and expertise to support the organization's programs and initiatives.

About National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA):

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) was established on November 24, 2005, under the Societies Registration Act of 1890.
NADA operates to foster a culture of doping-free sports in India.
NADA's key objectives include implementing anti-doping regulations in alignment with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, regulating the doping control program, promoting education and research, and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of doping.

The primary functions of NADA are as follows:

Enforcing the Anti-Doping Code to ensure compliance by all sports organizations in the country.
Coordinating dope testing programs in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.
Facilitating anti-doping research and educational initiatives to instill the values of drug-free sports.
Adopting best practices and quality standards to enhance the effectiveness and continual improvement of the anti-doping program.

Hydroponic Farming

06 Apr 2024

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In the wake of evolving consumer preferences, India is at the forefront of an agricultural transformation, pivoting towards sustainable farming with an emphasis on health.

What is Hydroponics?

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, utilizing nutrient-rich water as the primary source of essential minerals and elements.
The technique involves the circulation of nutrient-enriched water through a network of pipes or channels, directly supplying the roots of plants with the necessary nourishment for their growth and development.

Key Features and Benefits:

Soilless Cultivation: Hydroponics eliminates the need for soil by providing an alternative substrate or a soil-like medium, such as rock wool, perlite, or vermiculite, to support the plants' roots.
Nutrient Control: This technique enables precise control over the nutrient composition, concentration, and pH levels in the water, ensuring optimal nutrient availability for plants.
Water Efficiency: Hydroponics recirculates and reuses water, significantly reducing water consumption compared to traditional soil-based farming.
Space Optimization: Due to the compact nature of hydroponic systems, they can be used in urban areas, greenhouses, and indoor facilities, maximizing yield per unit area.
Year-round Cultivation: With controlled environmental conditions, hydroponics allows for continuous cultivation, regardless of seasonal changes or weather fluctuations.
Hydroponics provides a sustainable, efficient, and adaptable approach to agriculture, with potential benefits in resource conservation, food security, and sustainable urban food production.

Hydroponics in India:

According to a report by Datamintelligence, India’s hydroponic market is poised for a remarkable growth trajectory, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.53% by 2027, outpacing the global industry’s estimated growth of 6.8%.
This surge underscores the vast potential of hydroponics in meeting the rising demand for sustainable food produce, particularly in metros and tier 1 cities where health-conscious consumers are willing to pay a premium for fresh, safe, and sustainably grown products.
This transformative shift is not just a response to changing consumer preferences for fresh produce but also an adaptation to the geographical and environmental challenges that face traditional farming methods.

Suitable Regions for Hydroponic Farming:

Hydroponic farming presents a viable solution in regions where traditional farming faces significant barriers:
- Areas with Limited Water Supply: Hydroponics drastically reduces water usage, making it ideal for drought-prone areas.
- Rocky Regions: In places where the terrain is unsuitable for soil-based agriculture, hydroponics offers a practical alternative.
- Low Soil Fertility Areas: Hydroponics bypasses the need for fertile soil, allowing cultivation in regions with poor soil quality.
- Demand-Driven Areas: Regions with a high demand for fresh products are perfect for hydroponic farms, catering to health-conscious consumers in urban and semi-urban locales

The Edge with Hydroponic Farming in India:

Hydroponic farming’s ascendancy in India is attributed to several compelling benefits, underpinned by technological advancements that lower operational costs and facilitate scalability:
- Versatility in Location: It enables agriculture in environments traditionally deemed unsuitable, such as deserts or cold climates.
- Controlled Conditions: Farmers have precise control over nutrients, pH, and the growing environment, optimizing plant health and yield.
- Resource Efficiency: The recycling of water and nutrients significantly cuts down on input costs and environmental impact.
- Enhanced Growth Rates: Increased oxygen availability accelerates plant growth, leading to quicker harvest cycles.
- Pest and Disease Reduction: By eliminating soil, hydroponics reduces the risk of soil-borne diseases and pests.
- Higher Yields: The efficiency and controlled environment of hydroponic systems result in substantially higher crop yields.
- Labour and Maintenance Savings: The absence of weeding and traditional cultivation reduces labour requirements and costs.
- Improved Working Conditions: Elevating crops to a more accessible height improves ergonomics for farm workers, further reducing labour costs.
- No Need for Crop Rotation: Hydroponics eliminates the necessity for crop rotation, simplifying farm management.
- Reduced Transplant Shock: Plants grown hydroponically experience less stress when transplanted, enhancing survival rates.

Rakhigarhi

06 Apr 2024

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The NCERT has proposed updates to school textbooks, including adding findings from DNA analysis of skeletal remains at the Rakhigarhi archaeological site in Haryana and removing references to the Narmada Dam project's impact on tribals, leading to displacement and destitution.

About the Ancient Site of Rakhigarhi:

The site of Rakhigarhi is one of the five known biggest townships of the Harappan civilization on the Indian subcontinent.
The other four are:
- Harappa
- Mohenjodaro and Ganveriwala in Pakistan and
- Dholavira (Gujrat) in India
Five interconnected mounds spread over a huge area from the Rakhigarhi's unique site.
- Two mounds, out of five, were thickly populated.
- This site was excavated by Shri Amarendra Nath of Archeological Survey of India.
The archaeological excavations revealed a mature Harappan phase represented by a planned township having mud-brick as well as burnt-brick houses with proper drainage systems.
The ceramic industry is represented by redware, which includes dish-on-stands, vases, jars, bowls, beakers, perforated jars, goblets, and hands.
Animal sacrificial pits lined with mud brick and triangular and circular fire alters on the mud floor have also been excavated signifying the ritual system of Harappans.
A cylindrical seal with five Harappan characters on one side and a symbol of an alligator on the other is an important find from this site.
Other antiquities included blades; terracotta and shell bangles; beads of semiprecious stones, terracotta, shell, and copper objects; animal figurines, toy cart frame and wheel of terracotta; bone points; inscribed steatite seals and sealings.
The excavations have yielded a few extended burials, which certainly belong to a very late stage, maybe the medieval times.

About Harappan Civilization:

The Harappan civilization is believed to be one of the oldest world civilizations together with Egypt and Mesopotamia.
It flourished around 2,500 BC, in the western part of South Asia, in contemporary Pakistan and Western India.
The Harappan civilization developed along the mighty river, the Indus, and for that reason, it is also known as the Indus Valley Civilization.
The Harappan civilization is identified as a Bronze-age civilization because many objects have been found that are made up of copper-based alloys.
- For example, the famous ‘dancing girl,’ a bronze figurine that provides an insight into the advances made in art and metallurgy, as well as the hairstyle and ornaments prevalent during the period.
In the 1920s, the Archaeological Department of India carried out excavations in the Indus Valley wherein the ruins of the two old cities, viz. Mohenjodaro and Harappa were unearthed.

India Abstains from UNHRC Resolution on Gaza Ceasefire

06 Apr 2024

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India recently abstained on a resolution at the Human Rights Council that called on Israel for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

India's Voting Pattern on Israel-Palestine Issues at the UNHRC:

India's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict has been reflected in its voting behavior at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).
- While India has voted in favor of resolutions criticizing Israel for human rights violations, occupation of the Syrian Golan, and affirming Palestinian self-determination, it has also abstained from certain resolutions.
In a significant development, India abstained from a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an arms embargo on Israel.
- This decision followed instances of violence, including the killing of aid workers and airstrikes.
- India's abstention is believed to be in line with its previous votes on resolutions involving "accountability."
India's approach indicates its belief that both parties should be held accountable for their actions.
- As a result, it refrains from supporting resolutions that single out one side for condemnation.
- By taking a balanced stance, India aims to promote peace and stability in the region while advocating for the rights of all parties involved.

About the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC):

The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is an inter-governmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2006.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the council serves as a key platform for addressing human rights issues globally.
The High Commissioner for Human Rights serves as the principal human rights official within the UN system.
The council convenes three times annually to address human rights violations worldwide.

Membership:

Comprising 47 member states, the council is responsible for promoting and safeguarding human rights across the globe.
Member states are elected individually via secret ballot by a majority vote of the General Assembly.
The election of members occurs within geographical groups to ensure equitable representation.

Tenure:

Council members serve for a term of three years and are not eligible for immediate re-election after two consecutive terms.

The UNHRC's primary functions include:

Promoting universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Addressing violations of human rights, including gross and systematic violations.
Developing international human rights law and making recommendations to the UN General Assembly.
Conducting investigations into alleged human rights abuses through special rapporteurs and working groups.
Reviewing the human rights records of all UN member states through the Universal Periodic Review process.

3D Cosmic Map May Open Window To Dark Energy

05 Apr 2024

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An international team of researchers has just released the most comprehensive “three-dimensional” map of the universe, which, scientists hope, could reveal some clues about dark energy, the mysterious force that is believed to be causing the universe to expand uncontrollably.

Context:

An international team of researchers has unveiled an extensive 3D map of the universe, aiming to unlock secrets about dark energy, the enigmatic force thought to be driving the universe's rapid expansion.
Led by Shadab Alam from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Mumbai, the team collaborated on this groundbreaking project, utilizing the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), a specialized tool capable of simultaneously gathering light from 5,000 galaxies when attached to a telescope.
The DESI collaboration has measured that the expansion rate of the universe was increasing by 68.5 km per second after every 3.26 million light-years of distance, a unit astronomers define as megaparsec.

About Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI):

The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) is a remarkable tool designed to capture light from an impressive 5,000 galaxies simultaneously when attached to a telescope.
This collaborative effort involves over 900 researchers from institutions worldwide, with the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) representing India's sole participating institution.
DESI, stationed atop the Mayall 4-Meter Telescope in Arizona, United States, has enabled researchers to analyze light emissions from an astounding six million galaxies, some dating as far back as 11 billion years ago.
This wealth of data has facilitated the creation of the most intricate map of the universe to date.

Dark Energy Vs Dark Matter:

Dark energy and dark matter are two distinct yet mysterious components of the universe, with vastly different properties and effects on cosmic structures.

Nature and Composition:

Dark Energy: Dark energy is a hypothetical form of energy that permeates all of space and is responsible for the accelerated expansion of the universe.
- It is often associated with a cosmological constant or Einstein's "cosmological antigravity."
- Dark energy is thought to exert a repulsive force that counteracts gravity on cosmic scales, driving galaxies away from each other at an accelerating rate.
- However, its precise nature remains one of the greatest mysteries in modern physics.
- It's important to note that dark energy does not matter; rather, it's an energy density inherent in space itself.
Dark Matter: Dark matter is a form of matter that does not emit, absorb, or reflect electromagnetic radiation, making it invisible and detectable only through its gravitational effects.
- Unlike dark energy, dark matter exerts an attractive gravitational force, influencing the motion of galaxies and other cosmic structures.
- It interacts with ordinary matter and with itself only through gravity and possibly through weak nuclear force, but not through electromagnetic forces like photons.
- Various astrophysical observations strongly suggest the existence of dark matter, but its precise composition and particle nature are still unknown.

Effects on the Universe:

Dark Energy: The primary effect of dark energy is to drive the accelerated expansion of the universe.
- This expansion results in the increasing separation between galaxies over time. Dark energy is thought to dominate the energy density of the universe, comprising approximately 68% of the total mass-energy content.
Dark Matter: Dark matter plays a crucial role in the formation and structure of galaxies and larger cosmic structures.
- Its gravitational influence binds galaxies together and provides the framework for the large-scale cosmic web.
- While dark matter does not emit or interact with light, its presence can be inferred from gravitational lensing, galaxy rotation curves, and the large-scale distribution of matter in the universe.
- Dark matter is estimated to constitute about 27% of the total mass-energy content of the universe.

Detectability:

Dark Energy: Dark energy is challenging to detect directly because it does not interact with electromagnetic radiation.
- Its existence is inferred from the observational data related to the accelerating expansion of the universe, such as measurements of distant supernovae and the cosmic microwave background radiation.
Dark Matter: Dark matter is also challenging to detect directly due to its non-interaction with light.
- However, its gravitational effects on visible matter and radiation allow astronomers to indirectly infer its presence.
- Various experimental efforts, such as those involving particle accelerators and underground detectors, aim to detect dark matter particles directly, though success has not yet been achieved.

Agni-Prime Ballistic Missile

05 Apr 2024

Sannati: Ancient Buddhist Site

05 Apr 2024

Microplastics

05 Apr 2024

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Recently, scientists have created plant-based plastic that doesn't create cancer-causing microplastics because 97% of it breaks down in the environment.

What is Microplastics?

Microplastics are small plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimeters in diameter.
These particles, which are distinguished from larger "macroplastics" like bottles and bags, stem from both commercial product development and the breakdown of larger plastics.
Microplastics are commonly found in a variety of products, including cosmetics, synthetic clothing, plastic bags, and bottles.
Unfortunately, many of these products can easily enter the environment as waste.
Composed of carbon and hydrogen atoms linked in polymer chains, microplastics often contain additional chemicals such as phthalates, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA).
There are two categories of microplastics: primary and secondary.
- Primary microplastics are intentionally designed for commercial use, including in cosmetics and microfibers shed from textiles like clothing and fishing nets.
- Secondary microplastics, on the other hand, result from larger plastic items breaking down due to environmental factors such as sunlight and ocean waves.
Understanding the sources and types of microplastics is crucial for addressing their impact on the environment, wildlife, and human health, ultimately promoting more sustainable production and waste management practices.

Environmental Impacts of Microplastics:

Microplastics pose significant environmental concerns due to their resistance to breaking down into harmless compounds, much like larger plastic items.
- Consequently, both primary and secondary microplastics accumulate and endure once introduced into the environment.
In marine ecosystems, microplastics have the potential to amalgamate with harmful chemicals before being consumed by marine organisms.
- Despite efforts, conventional water treatment facilities struggle to completely eliminate microplastics from water sources.
Additionally, microplastics contribute to air pollution as they are present in dust and airborne fibrous particles, further highlighting their pervasive impact on various environmental systems.

Project Akashteer

05 Apr 2024

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The Army has started the induction of control and reporting systems under ‘Project Akashdeer’ to bolster its air defense capabilities.

What is 'Project Akashteer'?

'Project Akashteer' is a cutting-edge initiative designed to automate air defense control and reporting processes by digitizing them.
Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) as part of the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, this project is poised to significantly enhance the operational efficiency and integration of the Army's air defense mechanisms.
By integrating radar and communication systems at all levels into a unified network, 'Akashteer' aims to deliver an unprecedented level of situational awareness and control.
This will enable swift engagement of hostile targets, significantly reduce the risk of fratricide, and ensure the safety of friendly aircraft in contested airspace.
- A noteworthy aspect of 'Akashteer' is its emphasis on mobility and resilience.
The system's control centers, designed to be vehicle-based and mobile, can maintain operational capabilities even in challenging communication environments.
- The system will facilitate the achievement of complete automation of air defense operations and significantly enhance the air defense posture of India.
The induction of the systems has commenced in the Indian Army's Corps of Army Air Defense, marking a significant move towards enhancing India's defense capabilities and technology absorption.

How it will help India's air defense system?

The 'Akashteer Command and Control Systems will significantly enhance India's air defense capabilities in several ways:
Efficiency and Integration: By digitizing Air Defence Control and Reporting processes, 'Akashteer' will usher in unprecedented levels of efficiency and integration.
- This will enable the Indian Army to respond swiftly to hostile threats while minimizing the risk of friendly fire incidents.
Situational Awareness: 'Akashteer' integrates radar and communication systems into a unified network, providing the Indian Army with unprecedented situational awareness.
- This will enable them to detect and engage hostile targets more effectively, ensuring the safety of friendly aircraft in contested airspace.
Mobility and Resilience: The system's vehicle-based and mobile Control Centers are designed to maintain operational capabilities even in challenging communication environments.
- This ensures that the Indian Army can operate effectively in diverse terrain and under adverse conditions.
Automation: Overall, the deployment of 'Akashteer' signifies a leap towards complete automation of air defense operations.
- This will enhance the Indian Army's ability to defend its airspace, ensuring a safer and more secure future for the country.
The Indian Army has declared 2024 as the 'Year of Technology Absorption' and is undertaking various initiatives to induct niche technology and systems into its inventory.
The induction of 'Akashteer' control centers is one of the major milestones achieved by the Army on its path to transformation to meet the current and futuristic requirements of complex air defense operations.

Ring of Fire

04 Apr 2024

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Nine people died and more than 1,000 were injured in Taiwan after the island was hit by its biggest earthquake in at least 25 years on Wednesday (April 4) morning.

What is the Ring of Fire?

The Ring of Fire is essentially a string of hundreds of volcanoes and earthquake sites that run along the Pacific Ocean.
It is a semicircle or horseshoe in shape and stretches nearly 40,250 kilometers.
The Ring of Fire traces the meeting points of numerous tectonic plates, including the Eurasian, North American, Juan de Fuca, Cocos, Caribbean, Nazca, Antarctic, Indian, Australian, Philippine, and other smaller plates, which all encircle the large Pacific Plate, according to a report by National Geographic.
It runs through 15 more countries including the USA, Indonesia, Mexico, Japan, Canada, Guatemala, Russia, Chile, Peru, and the Philippines.

Why is the Ring of Fire Vulnerable to Earthquakes?

The Ring of Fire witnesses so many earthquakes due to constant sliding past, colliding into or moving above or below each other of the tectonic plates.
As the edges of these plates are quite rough, they get stuck with one another while the rest of the plate keeps moving.
An earthquake occurs when the plate has moved far enough and the edges unstick on one of the faults.

Why are There so Many Volcanoes in the Ring of Fire?

The existence of volcanoes in the Ring of Fire is also due to the movement of tectonic plates.
Many of the volcanoes have been formed through a process known as subduction.
It takes place when two plates collide with each other and the heavier plate is shoved under each other, creating a deep trench.
“When a ‘downgoing’ oceanic plate [like the Pacific Plate] is shoved into a hotter mantle plate, it heats, volatile elements mix, and this produces the magma.
The magma then rises through the overlying plate and spurts out at the surface,” which leads to the formation of volcanoes, according to a report by DW.
Most of the subduction zones on the planet are located in the Ring of Fire and that’s why it hosts a large number of volcanoes.

Why is Taiwan so Exposed to Earthquakes?

Taiwan lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the line of seismic faults encircling the Pacific Ocean where most of the world’s earthquakes occur.
The area is particularly vulnerable to temblors due to the tension accumulated from the interactions of two tectonic plates, the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, which may lead to sudden releases in the form of earthquakes.
The region’s mountainous landscape can magnify the ground shaking, leading to landslides.

myCGHS App

04 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently, the government has launched the 'myCGHS' app for iOS to provide Central Government Health Scheme beneficiaries access to electronic health records, information, and resources.

About myCGHS app:

The Union Health Ministry launched the myCGHS app for iOS (Apple Users) to provide easy access for the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) beneficiaries to their Electronic Health Records, information, and other resources.
The myCGHS iOS app is developed by the technical teams of the National Informatics Centre (NIC) Himachal Pradesh and the NIC Health Team.
It is a convenient mobile application offering features aimed at enhancing information and accessibility for CGHS beneficiaries.
The app is said to offer a range of services including:
- Online appointment booking and cancellation
- Downloading CGHS card and index card
- Accessing lab reports from CGHS labs
- Checking medicine history
- Monitoring medical reimbursement claim status
- Accessing referral details
- Locating nearby wellness centers
- Staying updated with news and highlights, and
- Finding nearby impaneled hospitals, labs, and dental units.
Additionally, users can access the contact details of wellness centers and offices conveniently.
To ensure data security, the app also features security measures such as two-factor authentication and mPIN function to be able to access the app once they are logged in.
Users on the Apple ecosystem can find the app on the App Store and download it free of charge.
The myCGHS app has been available for Android users since February 2022.

Key Highlights of the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS):

CGHS provides healthcare services to registered employees and pensioners of the Central Government of India.
Enrolled members receive reimbursement and cashless healthcare facilities through this scheme.
It encompasses healthcare services from various systems of medicine including Allopathy, Homeopathy, Ayurveda, and Unani.
CGHS beneficiaries have the flexibility to undergo treatment at any impaneled private hospital of their preference.

Ahobilam Temple

04 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Forest Department and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Devasthanam (SLNSD) at Ahobilam have imposed certain restrictions on visitors arriving at the shrine, which is composed of nine different temples, situated within the Nallamala forest.

About Ahobilam Temple:

The Ahobilam is a famous temple situated on the Nallamalai ranges in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
The Nallamalai ranges south of river Krishna, down to Tirupati, and are called `Sesha Parvatha`.
- Sesha is the name of the king of serpents.
The hood of the sesha is at Tirupati, the tail is at Srisailam, and the middle is situated at Ahobilam.
- Nallamalais at the tail are called Sringiri
- In the middle are called Vedagiri and
- Garudagiri referred to as the hood
The shrine of the Ahobilam temple is situated on the top of the first range and is referred to as Upper Ahobilam and down below is called Lower Ahobilam.
A huge temple surrounded by several buildings can be seen at the Upper Ahobilam.
The main shrine or the "sacro sanctum" at Upper Ahobilam was carved out of a big egg-like rock with mandapams.
There is a tank here, which supplies water to the residents of the Upper Ahobliam temple.
There is a Lower Ahobilam in the below with a big temple and enclosures, It was built according to the South Indian style (Dravidian architecture).

Significance:

Ahobilam is traditionally regarded as the place where Vishnu in the form of Narasimha killed the Rakshasa Hiranyakashipu to save his devotee Prahlada.
The legend says that Narasimha emerged from a rock pillar to slay the Rakshasa.
The moment is represented in several murtis in the various temples.
Also, Garuda prayed for a vision of Narasimha in the form of Avathara, to fulfill his wish, and settled in nine forms across the hills in Ahobilam.

About Nallamala Forest:

Nallamala Forest is among South India's largest expanses of untouched woodland, besides the Western Ghats.

Location:

Situated across five districts in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, it sprawls across the Nallamala Hills, a segment of the Eastern Ghats, south of the Krishna River.
Part of the forest falls within the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, the nation's largest tiger reserve, boasting a significant tiger population.

Climate:

Experiencing warm to hot conditions year-round, with scorching summers and mostly cool, dry winters.
The majority of rainfall occurs during the southwest monsoon.

Vegetation:

Tropical dry deciduous.

Flora:

Nallamala Forest is rich in endemic species like Andrographis nallamalayana, Eriolaena lushingtonii, Crotalaria madurensis var, Dicliptera beddomei, and premna hamitonii.

Fauna:

Home to over 700 animal species, including tigers, leopards, black bucks, wild hogs, peacocks, pangolins, Indian Pythons, King Cobras, and numerous rare bird species.

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods

04 Apr 2024

The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)

04 Apr 2024

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Officials recently emphasized that India's shrimp export value chain is certified by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), ensuring that abusive conditions are not tolerated at shrimp farms.

About the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA):

The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) was set up by an act of Parliament in 1972.
- The erstwhile Marine Products Export Promotion Council established by the Government of India in September 1961 was converged into MPEDA on 24th August 1972.
MPEDA is given the mandate to promote the marine products industry with special reference to exports from the country.
It is the nodal agency for the holistic development of the seafood industry in India to realize its full export potential as a nodal agency.
Based on the recommendations of MPEDA, the Government of India notified new standards for fishing vessels, storage premises, processing plants, and conveyances.
MPEDA’s focus is mainly on Market Promotion, Capture Fisheries, Culture Fisheries, Processing Infrastructure & Value addition, Quality Control, Research and Development.
It is envisaged that this organization would take all actions to develop and augment the resources required for promoting the exports of “all varieties of fishery products known commercially as shrimp, prawn, lobster, crab, fish, shellfish, other aquatic animals or plants or part thereof and any other products which the authority may, by notification in the Gazette of India, declare to be marine products for (the) Act”.
The Act empowers MPEDA to regulate exports of marine products and take all measures required for ensuring sustained, quality seafood exports from the country.
MPEDA is given the authority to prescribe for itself any matters that the future might require for protecting and augmenting the seafood exports from the country.
It is also empowered to inspect marine products, their raw materials, fixing standards, specifications, and training as well as take all necessary steps for marketing the seafood overseas.

Major Functions of MPEDA:

- Infrastructure registration for seafood export trade.
- Trade information collection and dissemination.
- Promotion of Indian marine products overseas.
- Assistance for infrastructure development and modernized processing.
- Aquaculture promotion for export production augmentation.
- Deep-sea fishing project promotion and equipment upgrade.
- Market promotion and publicity activities.
- Inspection of marine products and raw materials, setting standards.
- Training for fishermen, fish processing workers, and aquaculture farmers.
- Research and development through RGCA.
- Extension activities through NETFISH and NaCSA.
- Matters related to protecting and increasing seafood exports.
Headquarters of MPEDA is located in Kochi, Kerala.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
It has Trade Promotion offices in New Delhi, Tokyo, and New York.

South Korea’s ‘Artificial Sun’ KSTAR Reaches 100 Million Degrees Celsius

03 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

South Korean scientists have set a new world record for the length of time they sustained temperatures of 100 million degrees Celsius.

Key Highlights:

The Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR) fusion reactor reached temperatures of 100 million Celsius for 48 seconds.
Scientists hope to harness this unlimited energy.
It is also significant that the KSTAR maintained the high confinement mode (H-mode) for over 100 seconds.
- H-mode is a stable plasma state.
The earlier record of achieving this temperature was for 30 seconds which took place in 2021.
The scientists at the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE) said they managed to extend the time by tweaking the process.
They also used tungsten instead of carbon in the 'diverters', which extract heat and impurities produced by the fusion reaction.
The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor in southern France has the world's biggest tokamak and what the scientists in South Korea achieve will help French scientists.

What is an Artificial Sun?

An artificial sun typically refers to a device or facility designed to replicate some aspects of the nuclear fusion processes that occur naturally in stars like the Sun.
These facilities aim to generate and sustain controlled nuclear fusion reactions, usually through the use of high temperatures, pressures, and magnetic fields.
- Scientists generally use a donut-shaped reactor called a tokamak in which hydrogen variants are heated to extraordinarily high temperatures to create a plasma.
- High temperatures and high-density plasmas are vital for the future of nuclear fusion reactors.
- This is called artificial Sun because it replicates the reaction of fusion taking place there and unleashes a massive amount of heat energy.
The goal is to harness fusion energy as a potential future source of clean and abundant energy for various applications, including electricity generation.

What is Nuclear Fusion?

Fusion is the reaction that makes the sun and other stars shine.
It involves fusing hydrogen and other light elements to release massive power that experts in the field hope to harness for unlimited, zero-carbon electricity.
In this reaction, two atoms of hydrogen or helium come together and fuse to unleash huge amounts of energy.

Wadge Bank

03 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

While India 'gave away' rights to Katchatheevu, in a subsequent pact, it secured sovereign rights in Wadge Bank near Kanyakumari.

What is Wadge Bank?

Wadge Bank is a 10,000 square kilometer submarine plateau, of the sea south of Kanyakumari that is rich in biodiversity and considered India’s richest fishery resource.
Wadge Bank, located near Cape Comorin, is home to more than 60 species of ornamental fish and other oceanic animals.
It is a productive coastal area where three seas meet and tides create a rich fishing ground from May to October.
Moreover, it is an invaluable treasure that indigenous people and communities depend on for food and resources, and is important to their culture.

How did India get control of the Wadge Bank?

Wadge Bank came to India as part of the second of the two accords signed with Sri Lanka in the 1970s.
Following the 1974 agreement under which Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ‘gave away’ Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka, New Delhi, and Colombo signed another pact in 1976 under which the former bought Wadge Bank.
- On March 23, 1976, India and Sri Lanka signed the agreement on the maritime boundary in the Gulf of Mannar and the Bay of Bengal as part of which it was agreed that the Wadge Bank “lies within the exclusive economic zone of India, and India shall have sovereign rights over the area and its resources”.
In the general description of Wadge Bank annexed with the treaty shared with the United Nations, it is described as “outside the territorial waters of India”.
The Wadge Bank near Kanyakumari is rich in biodiversity and considered India’s richest fishery resource.
As per the 1976 pact, Sri Lankan fishermen can’t engage in activities here.
??But at the request of Sri Lanka and as a gesture of goodwill, India agreed that Lankan fishing vessels licensed by the Government of India could fish in Wadge Bank for three years from its establishment as an exclusive economic zone of India with the stipulation that only six such vessels can fish and their catch cannot exceed 2,000 tonnes in a year.
And, again at the request of the Sri Lankan government, India agreed to provide Colombo with 2,000 tonnes of fish of the quality, species, and at the price mutually agreed by the two sides for five years after the Lankans stopped fishing at the Wadge Bank.

BIMSTEC Charter

03 Apr 2024

Swell waves

03 Apr 2024

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As a result of the low-pressure area formed over the Atlantic Ocean moving into the Indian Ocean, high swell waves in the range of 11 m were formed.

What Are Swell Waves?

Swell waves are characterized by the formation of long wavelength waves on the surface of the seas, propagating along the interface between water and air.
They are commonly known as surface gravity waves due to their nature.

Origin:

Unlike waves generated by immediate local winds, swell waves originate from distant weather systems.
These waves are the result of prolonged wind action over a significant area of water, known as fetch.
Even after the wind subsides or shifts, or the waves move away from the wind source, swell waves persist and continue to propagate.

Influencing Factors:

The speed of the wind, the extent of ocean surface area affected by consistent wind direction (fetch), and the duration of time the winds persist over the same part of the ocean are all contributing factors to the formation and behavior of swell waves.

Characteristics of Swell Waves:

Limited Frequency and Direction Range: Swell waves exhibit a narrower range of frequencies and directions compared to wind-generated waves occurring locally.
Defined Shape and Direction: Swell waves assume a more distinct shape and direction, displaying less randomness than waves generated by local winds.
Directional Orientation: Unlike wind waves, swell waves are characterized by the direction from which they originate rather than where they are headed.
Wavelength Variation: Swell waves typically possess long wavelengths, although this can vary depending on the size of the water body.
- Generally, their wavelengths seldom exceed 150 meters.
- However, on occasion, particularly severe storms may produce swells with wavelengths surpassing 700 meters.

What are the Differences Between a Normal Wave and Swell Waves?

Normal Waves:

Random Nature: Normal waves encompass any spontaneous disturbance occurring in the sea, exhibiting a wide array of forms, types, shapes, heights, periods, directions, and speeds.
Varied Characteristics: Waves can manifest in diverse forms and attributes, subject to the prevailing conditions in the ocean.

Swell Waves:

Deep-water Linear Waves: Swell waves are a distinct category of deep-water, linear waves originating or emerging from a chaotic wave system during external weather events due to wave dispersion.
Defined Characteristics: Swells travel in a specific direction as uniform, high-speed, long waves that maintain consistency over time, with speeds determined by their wavelengths and periods.
Extensive Travel: Swell waves traverse significantly greater distances compared to typical wave packets, exhibiting remarkable endurance.
Independence from Local Weather: Swell waves remain unaffected by local weather systems, retaining their characteristics even in the presence of nearby weather phenomena.

OptiDrop Platform

03 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru recently announced that it has developed a new platform that makes it easier and cheaper to study single cells.

About the OptiDrop Platform:

The OptiDrop platform is an innovative microfluidic chip-based technology that simplifies and reduces the cost of single-cell analysis.
Developed by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru, India, OptiDrop enables precise and cost-effective analysis of single cells encapsulated in droplets.
The platform boasts unique features, including live data visualization, a smaller data footprint, and a 'closed' system design that prevents external contamination.
OptiDrop has potential applications in diagnostics, therapeutics, agriculture, and animal health, making it a versatile tool for various research areas.

Applications:

This cutting-edge technology holds vast potential across diverse fields including diagnostics, therapeutics, agriculture, and animal health. Its versatility enables:
- Precise examination of individual cells during drug screening processes.
- Environment control for monitoring and addressing water contamination.
- Identification and sorting of CAR-T cells in immuno-oncotherapeutics.
- Selection of CRISPR-modified single cells.
- Identifying high-efficiency clones in single-cell genomics paves the way for advancements in personalized medicine and beyond.
This platform is a testament to the potential of combining microfluidic technologies with advanced optical sensing techniques, paving the way for more efficient and cost-effective single-cell analysis.

What is the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP)?

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms, or C-CAMP, was conceptualized by the Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India in 2009 as an enabler or catalyst of cutting-edge research and innovation in the life sciences.
C-CAMP has established itself as a major platform technology base, industry-oriented innovation hub, and incubator unit for life science research.
With state-of-the-art technology platforms, a rich academic environment, and networks of business and industry-related resources, it encourages researchers and entrepreneurs to develop scientific tools and solutions for socially relevant problems.
It is an institution with the core mandate of enabling cutting-edge life science research and innovation.

Havana Syndrome

02 Apr 2024

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The mysterious so-called Havana Syndrome symptoms experienced by U.S. diplomats in recent years have been linked to a Russian intelligence unit, according to a joint media investigation released on April 1.

What is Havana Syndrome?

Havana Syndrome is a term used to describe a set of mental health symptoms experienced by US intelligence and embassy officials in various countries.
The symptoms include hearing sounds without any external noise, nausea, vertigo, headaches, memory loss, and balance issues.
The syndrome first came to light in 2016 when US officials stationed at the country's embassy in Havana, Cuba, began reporting these symptoms.
The exact cause of the syndrome remains unknown, but it has been linked to high-frequency microwave transmissions.
The syndrome was named after the city where it was first reported, Havana, and has since been reported by US government officials and military personnel serving at various stations across the world.
The symptoms of Havana Syndrome are diverse and range from pain and ringing in the ears to cognitive dysfunction.
- Some individuals have also reported hearing loss, memory loss, and nausea.
- The exact cause of these symptoms remains unknown, with theories ranging from sonic weapons to mass psychogenic illness.
Despite ongoing investigations, there is currently no known cure for Havana Syndrome.
Research continues into the potential causes and treatments for this perplexing condition.

Affected Regions:

As per reports from US media outlets, over the past few years, officials have documented more than 130 instances worldwide, including in Moscow, Russia, Poland, Georgia, Taiwan, Colombia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Austria, among others, with similar accusations emerging in early 2018 from US diplomats stationed in China.
Status in India: The first such incident was reported in 2021 when a US intelligence officer accompanying CIA director William Burns to New Delhi exhibited symptoms of Havana Syndrome.

Recent Investigation Findings and Russia's Response:

A year-long investigation revealed evidence suggesting that unexplained anomalous health incidents, commonly known as Havana Syndrome, may be linked to the use of directed energy weapons wielded by members of Russia's GRU Unit 29155, responsible for foreign operations and implicated in various international incidents, including the 2018 attempted poisoning of defector Sergei Skripal in Britain.
Moscow has dismissed the allegations as "groundless," asserting the absence of convincing evidence, deeming the accusations baseless and unfounded.

What are Microwave Weapons?

Microwave weapons, a type of directed energy weapon, utilize high-frequency electromagnetic radiation to generate heat in the water within a target's skin, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Several nations are believed to have developed such weapons for use against both humans and electronic systems.
China unveiled its "microwave weapon," the Poly WB-1, at an air show in 2014, while the United States has also designed a prototype called the "Active Denial System."
The existence of these weapons has raised concerns regarding their potential misuse, and further research is necessary to understand their long-term effects and implications on human health and security.

Bridge Fuel

02 Apr 2024

Leap Second

02 Apr 2024

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Glaciers are melting so fast that we may need to delay adding that 'negative leap second' to keep clocks aligned with Earth's rotation.

What Is a Leap Second?

Leap seconds serve as a tool to synchronize global timekeeping with the Earth's gradually slowing rotation due to factors such as the melting and refreezing of ice caps.
Introduced in the early 1970s, leap seconds are added periodically to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) to align it with the Earth's actual rotation time.
UTC is derived from the combined output of over 300 highly precise Atomic clocks worldwide, which offer accuracy within 1 second over millions of years.
In contrast, Astronomical Time (UT1) corresponds to the Earth's rotation and determines day length.
The primary reason for leap second additions is the irregularity of Earth's rotation, influenced by various factors like the moon's gravitational forces, causing ocean tides.
This creates a gradual desynchronization between UTC and UT1. When the discrepancy between UTC and UT1 nears 0.9 seconds, a leap second is added to UTC, ensuring global timekeeping remains aligned with the Earth's rotation.
Since its introduction, 27 leap seconds have been added to UTC, typically on June 30 or December 31.
The leap second system continues to serve as an essential mechanism for maintaining synchronization between atomic timekeeping and the Earth's rotation.

What is Negative Leap Second?

A negative leap second is a proposed time adjustment involving the subtraction of one second from our clocks to synchronize them with Earth's rotation.
- Unlike positive leap seconds, which are added to account for slower rotation, a negative leap second would address the Earth spinning faster than usual.
So far, no negative leap second has been implemented since Earth's rotation has generally been slow in recent decades.
However, as Earth's rotation has recently accelerated, timekeepers are considering using negative leap seconds for the first time.
The International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) closely monitors the Earth's rotation and determines when to add or subtract leap seconds.
A decision to implement a negative leap second would serve as a corrective measure, ensuring our timekeeping systems remain aligned with the planet's rotation.
While negative leap seconds have yet to be utilized, they offer a potential solution to the challenge posed by variations in Earth's rotational speed, ensuring the ongoing synchronization of our timekeeping methods with the planet's natural rhythms.

Presence of Ozone on Jupiter's Moon Callisto

02 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

An international team of scientists, including from India, has discovered strong evidence indicating the presence of ozone on Jupiter’s moon Callisto, shedding light on the complex chemical processes taking place on icy celestial bodies in the Solar System.

Study on the Formation of Ozone in Callisto's Icy Environment:

A recent study examined the chemical evolution of sulfur dioxide (SO2)-rich astrochemical ice found on Callisto's surface when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
The investigation revealed a unique signature indicating the formation of ozone, which could have implications for the potential habitability of the Jovian moon.
Callisto is Jupiter's second-largest moon and the third-largest moon in our solar system.
It has a relatively stable surface, which could play a vital role in preserving subsurface oceans or potential habitats beneath its icy crust.
- The study analyzed UV absorption spectra data from ice samples containing SO2, a primary component of Callisto's surface ice, and observed the generation of ozone under UV irradiation.
Ozone formation on Callisto could have implications for the moon's astrobiological potential, as ozone can protect the surface from harmful radiation.
Further research is needed to better understand the implications of this discovery on Callisto's habitability and the potential for future exploration missions.

Callisto's Distinctive Environment:

Following Saturn, Jupiter boasts the second-highest number of moons in the Solar System, with Callisto ranking among its largest moons and holding the position of the third-largest moon overall, after Ganymede and Titan.
Comprised predominantly of water ice, rocky elements, sulfur dioxide, and traces of organic compounds, Callisto presents a compelling potential for harboring life beyond Earth within the Solar System.
The moon's extensively cratered surface bears witness to a lengthy history of impacts from asteroids and comets.

Importance of the Research:

The identification of ozone on Callisto hints at the existence of oxygen, a crucial component essential for the development of intricate molecules vital for life, including amino acids, thus prompting inquiries into the moon's potential for sustaining life.
This finding also has implications for other icy moons within our Solar System, offering insights that could broaden our comprehension of habitable environments beyond Earth.

Significance of Ozone:

Consisting of three oxygen atoms bonded together, the ozone molecule plays a pivotal role in shielding life on Earth.
Situated in the lower region of the Earth's stratosphere, approximately 15-35 kilometers above the surface, the ozone layer acts as a protective barrier.
Without this layer, ultraviolet radiation would intensify, posing significant threats to various species and disrupting ecosystems.
Ultraviolet-B and ultraviolet-C, with wavelengths ranging from 290 to 320 nanometers and 100 to 280 nanometers respectively, can cause DNA damage, and mutations, and elevate the risk of skin cancer and cataracts in humans.
Furthermore, ultraviolet light can impede plant growth and adversely affect diverse organisms.

Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)

02 Apr 2024

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The Congress has hailed as an “important first step” the Supreme Court’s notice to the Election Commission and the Centre on a plea seeking a complete count of VVPAT slips and said the matter should be decided before the Lok Sabha polls commence.

What is the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)?

The Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail, or VVPAT system, was first introduced in 2014 for the first time during the 2014 Lok Sabha Elections.
The ECI conducted pilot tests of VVPAT systems in a few constituencies in 2011, and after successful trials, VVPAT was gradually deployed across all polling stations in subsequent elections.
It is connected to Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) and enables voters to confirm that their votes were cast as intended.
The concept of VVPAT was to enhance the credibility and transparency of EVMs.

What are VVPAT Slips?

VVPAT slips are an integral part of the EVMs used in elections.
It provides a physical paper trail for voters to verify that their vote has been correctly recorded by the EVM.
It ensures transparency and accountability in the electoral process by allowing voters to verify their vote before casting it finally.
The VVPAT produces a paper slip that permits the voter to confirm the accuracy of their vote on the EVM.
This slip displays the name and symbol of the party chosen by the voter.
Additionally, the machine features a transparent window through which the voter can observe the printed slip.
Subsequently, the slip is securely deposited into a sealed compartment within the machine.
However, in the event of a dispute, this sealed box can be opened for further examination.

Controversies Surrounding VVPAT:

Despite its intended purpose of enhancing transparency, VVPAT has been subject to several controversies over the years.
Some critics have raised concerns about the reliability of VVPAT systems, citing instances of malfunctioning printers, paper jams, and discrepancies between electronic and paper records.
The Opposition parties within the INDIA bloc have been advocating for the full counting of VVPATs, to bolster public trust in the EVMs, which itself has been subjected to intense scrutiny recently.
Their concern has mostly stemmed from allegations of delay in the printing and displaying of VVPAT slips for every vote, which they claim can significantly increase the time required for vote counting.

Supreme Court’s intervention in VVPATs:

In April 2019, the SC asked the poll panel to increase the number of EVMs that undergo VVPAT physical verification from one to five per assembly segment in a parliamentary constituency.
In the month of May the same year, the Supreme Court dismissed a writ petition seeking 100 percent counting of VVPAT in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
Earlier in the same month, the Supreme Court had also dismissed the review petition filed by opposition parties to increase verification of VVPAT-EVM to 50 percent.

Katchatheevu Island

01 Apr 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again attacked the Congress about its decision to “callously give away” the island of Katchatheevu.

About the Island of Katchatheevu:

Katchatheevu is an uninhabited area located between India and Sri Lanka in the Palk Strait.
It measures around 1.6 km in length and slightly over 300 m wide at its broadest point.
Situated northeast of Rameswaram, it is approximately 33 km away from the Indian coast.
Moreover, it is positioned about 62 km southwest of Jaffna, at the northern tip of Sri Lanka, and 24 km from the inhabited Delft Island, which is a part of Sri Lanka.
Katchatheevu is not suited for permanent settlement as there is no source of drinking water on the island.

History of the island:

Being the product of a 14-century volcanic eruption, Katchatheevu is relatively new in the geological timescale.
In the early medieval period, it was controlled by the Jaffna kingdom of Sri Lanka.
In the 17th century, control passed to the Ramnad zamindari based out of Ramanathapuram, about 55 km northwest of Rameswaram.

What is the dispute?

The island became part of the Madras Presidency during the British Raj.
But in 1921, both India and Sri Lanka, at the time British colonies, claimed Katchatheevu to determine fishing boundaries.
A survey marked Katchatheevu in Sri Lanka, but a British delegation from India challenged this, citing ownership of the island by the Ramnad kingdom.
This dispute was not settled until 1974.

What is the Agreement on Katchatheevu Island?

In 1974, Indira Gandhi made attempts to settle the maritime border between India and Sri Lanka, once and for all.
- As a part of this settlement, known as the ‘Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement’, Indira Gandhi ‘ceded’ Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka.
- At the time, she thought the island had little strategic value and that ceasing India’s claim over the island would deepen its ties with its southern neighbor.
Moreover, as per the agreement, Indian fishermen were still allowed to access Katchatheevu “hitherto”.
- Unfortunately, the issue of fishing rights was not ironed out by the agreement.
- Sri Lanka interpreted Indian fishermen’s right to access Katchatheevu to be limited to “rest, drying nets and for visit to the Catholic shrine without a visa”.
Another agreement in 1976, during the period of Emergency in India, barred either country from fishing in the other’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
- Again, Katchatheevu lay right at the edge of the EEZs of either country, retaining a degree of uncertainty about fishing rights.

How did the Sri Lankan Civil War Impact Katchatheevu?

Between 1983 and 2009, the border dispute remained on the back burner as a bloody civil war raged in Sri Lanka.
With the Sri Lankan naval forces preoccupied with their task of cutting off supply lines of the LTTE based out of Jaffna, incursions by Indian fishermen well into Sri Lankan waters were commonplace.
Bigger Indian trawlers were especially resented as they would not only tend to overfish but also damage Sri Lankan fishing nets and boats.
In 2009, the war with the LTTE ended, and things dramatically changed. Colombo beefed up its maritime defenses and turned its focus to Indian fishermen.
Facing a depletion of marine resources on the Indian side, they would frequently enter Sri Lankan waters as they had been doing for years, but finally began facing consequences.
To date, the Sri Lankan navy routinely arrests Indian fishermen and there have been many allegations of custodial torture and death.
The demand for Katchatheevu is revived each time such an incident happens.

Indian Government Stance on Katchatheevu Island:

The Union government’s position on Katchatheevu has largely remained unchanged.
It has argued that since the island had always been under dispute, “no territory belonging to India was ceded nor sovereignty relinquished.”

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KOSO)

01 Apr 2024

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Since ancient times, seafarers, mathematicians, astronomers, and physicists have all diligently studied and tracked the Sun and its phenomena, with the establishment of the Madras Observatory by the British East India Company in 1792 marking a pioneering effort in this region.

About Kodaikanal Solar Observatory:

The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is a solar observatory owned and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru.
It is on the southern tip of the Palani Hills 4 kilometers from Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu).
- The Government of India separated Astrophysics from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in April 1971.
From solar data recorded on basic photographic plates or films, the 125-year-old KoSO boasts a mammoth digital repository containing 1.48 lakh digitized solar images of 10 terabytes.
- These include 33,500 white-light images (showing sunspots) and thousands of other images of the Sun recorded every day since the start of the 20th century.
KoSO is the only observatory offering high-resolution digitized images for such a long period (with coverage of more than 75 percent).
Today, it houses a spectrum of advanced instruments like the H-alpha telescope to perform full disc imaging, a White light Active Region Monitor (WARM) with calcium and sodium filters to make full disc simultaneous observations of the photosphere and chromosphere layers of the Sun, a solar tunnel telescope and more.

Links to the Great Drought:

Scanty rainfall over south India during the winter monsoon of 1875 triggered one of the worst droughts the country had experienced till then.
Multiple failed crops over the famine-stricken peninsular India killed 12.2 to 29.3 million people across the Madras and Mysore Provinces during 1875-1877.
India, along with China, Egypt, Morocco, Ethiopia, southern Africa, Brazil, Columbia, and Venezuela, suffered concurrent multi-year droughts during 1876-1878, later named the Great Drought, and an associated global famine that killed nearly 50 million.
The drought was thought to be due to multiple reasons:
- Solar activity
- Cool Pacific Ocean conditions followed by a record-breaking El Nino (1877-1878)
- Strong Indian Ocean Dipole and
- Warm North Atlantic Ocean conditions.

Solar Physics Observatory in Palani Hills:

Established in response to the British Raj's acknowledgment of solar activity's link to India's weather patterns, the Palani Hills Solar Physics Observatory, also known as the Indian Solar Observatory, was founded to conduct systematic studies on solar phenomena and their correlation with Indian meteorology.
Located in Kodaikanal, selected for its favorable atmospheric conditions after careful consideration by Charles Michie Smith (a Professor of Physics at the Madras Christian College), the observatory was officially sanctioned by the Government of India in August 1893 and inaugurated by Lord Wenlock (the then Governor of Madras) in 1895.
Commencing systematic observations in 1901, it merged with the Madras Observatory, enriching its instrumentation.
Notable discoveries ensued, including the identification of the Evershed Effect.
Over time, the observatory expanded its research domains to encompass cosmic rays, radio astronomy, and ionospheric physics, among others, solidifying its status as a pioneering institution in the field of astrophysics.
Notably, it initiated solar radio observations in 1952, marking a significant milestone in Indian solar research.
Despite the closure of contemporaneous observatories, the Palani Hills Solar Physics Observatory has endured, continuing to contribute to our understanding of the Sun and its effects on Earth's climate and space weather.

Why Study the Sun?

Being the primary source of energy, life on Earth is supported by the Sun.
Any change on the solar surface or its periphery could significantly affect the Earth’s atmosphere.
Powerful solar storms and solar flares can be potentially harmful to Earth’s satellite-based operations, power grids, and navigational networks.
The KoSO (Kodaikanal Solar Observatory), which has been imaging the Sun for over a century now, has a rich repository of data.
This is extremely useful not only to reconstruct the Sun’s historic past but also to link its behavioral changes to better understand and predict its future and its impact on life on Earth and Space weather.

Fukushima Water Issue

01 Apr 2024

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Recently, Japan announced that its experts have engaged in discussions with their Chinese counterparts to address Beijing's concerns regarding the release of treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the sea.

What is the Fukushima Water Issue?

In 2021, the Japanese government unveiled plans to gradually discharge over one million tonnes of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean over the next three decades.
The contaminated water is a residual product of the devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami that incapacitated the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, resulting in the release of radioactive materials.
After more than ten years of storing this wastewater, Japan asserts that they are facing storage space limitations and contends that the treated water is now safe for release.

Concerns Surrounding the Fukushima Water Discharge:

Tritium and Carbon-14: The water from Fukushima undergoes filtration via the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), effectively reducing most radioactive contaminants to acceptable safety levels, except tritium and carbon-14.
- While both emit low levels of radiation, consumption in large quantities could potentially pose risks.
Insufficient Research: Scientists emphasize the need for further investigation into the potential impact of the water discharge on the ocean bed and marine ecosystems.
The Pacific Islands Forum regional group has labeled the proposed plan as "another significant nuclear contamination disaster," citing ongoing challenges faced by its member nations due to past US nuclear testing.

Pacific Islands Forum (PIF):

The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is an inter-governmental organization that aims to enhance cooperation among countries and territories of Oceania, including the formation of a trade bloc and regional peacekeeping operations.
It was founded in 1971 as the South Pacific Forum (SPF), and changed its name in 1999 to "Pacific Islands Forum", to be more inclusive of the Forum's Oceania-spanning membership of both north and south Pacific island countries, including Australia.
It is a United Nations General Assembly observer.
The PIF secretariat is located in Suva, the capital of Fiji.

Nuclear Incidents:

A nuclear and radiation incident denotes an occurrence that has resulted in significant repercussions for individuals, the environment, or the facility involved.
These may entail fatal consequences for individuals, substantial releases of radioactivity into the environment, or reactor core meltdowns.
Globally, there have been a total of 99 incidents at nuclear power plants.
Fifty-seven of these incidents have transpired since the Chornobyl disaster, with the United States accounting for 57% of all nuclear-related incidents.
Noteworthy nuclear power plant mishaps encompass:
- Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster (2011)
- Chernobyl disaster (1986)
- Three Mile Island accident (1979), and
- The SL-1 accident (1961).

Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016

01 Apr 2024

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Eight years after Parliament passed the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is in the process of reviewing the functioning of the Act, including by holding regular meetings with homebuyers and setting up a data collection unit within the Ministry.

What Is Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016 (RERA)?

The Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016 is an act of the Parliament of India that strives to protect home buyers and helps escalate the investment made in the real estate industry.
It was established under this Act to regulate the real estate sector.
Additionally, it acts as the adjudicating body for faster dispute resolution related to the real estate industry.

The Primary Objectives of the Act:

Ensuring Transparency: Promoting transparency in the real estate sector regarding the sale of flats, apartments, plots, buildings, or any real estate project.
Establishing Dispute Resolution: Setting up an adjudicating mechanism to swiftly resolve disputes.
Protecting Buyer Interests: Safeguarding the interests of buyers/allottees in the real estate domain.
Building Trust: Fostering trust between buyers and promoters by leveraging regulatory authority.
Furthermore, the Act mandates that Real Estate Regulatory Authorities establish and maintain a web portal containing pertinent details of all registered real estate projects for public access.

Reasons for RERA Implementation:

The introduction of RERA was necessitated by challenges faced by the Indian real estate sector since 2012, including factors such as unemployment, recession, low rental yield, inventory pile-up, and ambiguous tax and arbitration frameworks.

Projects Covered by RERA:

RERA covers commercial and residential projects, including plotted developments, that exceed 500 square meters or comprise more than 8 units.
Additionally, projects lacking a Completion Certificate prior to the Act's commencement are subject to its provisions.

Benefits of RERA Implementation:

Standardization: RERA ensures uniformity in the real estate sector concerning aspects like carpet areas and common areas, thereby preventing malpractices such as alterations in layout, area, agreements, and specifications.
- It also mandates disclosure of details regarding brokers, architects, and contractors.
Timely Delivery: Developers are obligated to adhere to scheduled delivery timelines for office spaces or homes.
- Failure to comply may result in stringent penalties or imprisonment for the developer.
Regulatory Compliance: RERA mandates obtaining clearance from government departments before the sale of any residential or commercial property.
Financial Transparency: Developers are required to maintain separate bank accounts for each project, enhancing financial transparency and accountability.
Warranty Protection: Buyers are empowered to report any structural defects in the building to the developer within one year of possession, with the developer obligated to rectify them free of charge.

Challenges Associated with RERA:

Limited Scope: The regulations of RERA do not extend to ongoing projects or those stalled due to clearance issues, potentially leaving certain projects outside its jurisdiction.
Approval Delays: Delays in approval and clearance from government agencies may impede the timely completion and delivery of real estate projects, affecting both developers and buyers.
Exemption for Small Developers: Small-scale developers overseeing projects smaller than 500 square meters are exempt from RERA's provisions, and registration with the regulatory authority is not compulsory for them.
Project Launch Delays: Projects cannot be launched without necessary clearances, which may result in delays in the commencement of new projects.

International Network for Terrestrial Research and Monitoring in the Arctic (INTERACT)

01 Apr 2024

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In a recent development, Arctic research stations under INTERACT reported a significant loss of over 1,000 billion tonnes of ice over the past four decades.

About the International Network for Terrestrial Research and Monitoring in the Arctic (INTERACT):

The International Network for Terrestrial Research and Monitoring in the Arctic (INTERACT) is an infrastructure project under the auspices of SCANNET.
INTERACT specifically seeks to build capacity for research and monitoring in the European Arctic and beyond and is offering access to numerous research stations through the Transnational Access program.
It aims to build capacity for identifying, understanding, predicting, and responding to diverse environmental changes throughout the wide environmental and land-use envelopes of the Arctic.
The project, which is funded by the EU, has the main objective of building capacity for identifying, understanding, predicting, and responding to diverse environmental changes throughout the wide environmental and land-use envelopes of the Arctic.
INTERACT is a multidisciplinary initiative; collectively, its stations host thousands of scientists worldwide who collaborate on projects spanning glaciology, permafrost studies, climate research, ecology, biodiversity, and biogeochemical cycling.

About the Scandinavian Network for Coordinated Observation of the Atmosphere and Terrestrial Environment (SCANNET):

SCANNET is a circum-Arctic network of currently 77 terrestrial field bases in northern Europe, Russia, the US, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and Scotland as well as stations in northern alpine areas.
The primary aim of SCANNET is to facilitate coordinated observations and research activities focused on the atmosphere and terrestrial environment in the Arctic region.
- These observations cover a wide range of scientific disciplines, including meteorology, climatology, ecology, geology, and environmental science.
By leveraging the diverse geographical locations of its field bases, SCANNET enables scientists to study various environmental phenomena, such as changes in weather patterns, shifts in ecosystems, permafrost dynamics, and the impact of climate change on Arctic landscapes.
Moreover, SCANNET serves as a platform for collaboration and information sharing among researchers from different institutions and countries.
It fosters partnerships and promotes the exchange of data, methodologies, and best practices, thereby enhancing our understanding of Arctic processes and their global implications.

X-Class Solar Flares

30 Mar 2024

Vaikom Satyagraha

30 Mar 2024

India-led ‘Group of Friends’

30 Mar 2024

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At a high-level meeting of the India-led 'Group of Friends (GOF), India launched a new database designed to record crimes against UN peacekeepers and monitor progress in holding perpetrators accountable.

About the 'Group of Friends':

The Group of Friends (GOF) was launched by India in 2022 to promote accountability for crimes against the Blue Helmets during its presidency of the UN Security Council.
India, Bangladesh, Egypt, France, Morocco, and Nepal are co-chairs of the GOF, which comprises 40 member states.

Key objectives of the group include:

Engaging and sharing information with the UN Secretary-General to assist member states hosting or having hosted peacekeeping operations in bringing perpetrators of crimes against peacekeepers to justice.
Serving as an informal platform at the UN to exchange information, share best practices, and mobilize resources to facilitate accountability for crimes against peacekeepers.
Monitoring progress on bringing accountability for crimes against peacekeepers.
The 'Group of Friends' will convene two meetings of its members per year and organize one event annually involving Permanent Missions and other stakeholders, ensuring greater safety and security for peacekeepers.
This initiative represents the political will of member states, particularly troop and police contributing countries, to champion the implementation of UN Security Council resolution 2589, adopted in August 2021 under India's Presidency of the Council.
Resolution 2589 called upon member states hosting or having hosted UN peacekeeping operations to take all appropriate measures to bring to justice perpetrators of violence against UN personnel, including their detention and abduction.
The 'Group of Friends serves as a crucial platform for advancing this resolution, promoting accountability, and enhancing the protection of peacekeepers worldwide.

India's Significant Role in UN Peacekeeping:

As a longstanding advocate for global peace and stability, India has demonstrated its commitment to United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations.
Over the past seven decades, India has contributed more than 260,000 peacekeepers, making it the largest cumulative contributor to UN peacekeeping missions.
Despite the risks associated with such endeavors, India has remained steadfast in its support of peacekeeping efforts.
Tragically, 177 Indian peacekeepers have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, reflecting India's dedication to fostering stability worldwide.
Presently, India has more than 6,000 peacekeepers deployed in nine out of the twelve UN peacekeeping missions.
As a strong proponent of accountability for crimes against peacekeepers, India plays a crucial role in advocating for the safety and security of these dedicated personnel.

C-Vigil App

30 Mar 2024

Hume’s Empathic Voice Interface (EVI)

30 Mar 2024

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AI startup Hume unveiled a new voice interface yesterday that the company claims is “the first conversational AI with emotional intelligence.

What is an Empathic Voice Interface (EVI)?

Empathic Voice Interface (EVI) by Hume, a New York-based research lab and technology company, is the world’s first emotionally intelligent voice AI.
It accepts live audio input and returns both generated audio and transcripts augmented with measures of vocal expression.
By processing the tune, rhythm, and timbre of speech, EVI unlocks a variety of new capabilities, like knowing when to speak and generating more empathic language with the right tone of voice.
These features enable smoother and more satisfying voice-based interactions between humans and AI, opening new possibilities for personal AI, customer service, accessibility, robotics, immersive gaming, VR experiences, and much more.
Developers can now seamlessly integrate EVI into various applications using Hume’s API, offering a unique voice interface experience.

EVI boasts several distinctive empathic capabilities:

Human-Like Tone: EVI responds with tones resembling human expressions, enhancing the conversational experience.
Responsive Language: It adapts its language based on the user’s expressions, addressing their needs effectively.
State-of-the-Art Detection: EVI uses the user’s tone to detect the end of a conversation turn accurately, ensuring seamless interactions.
Interruption Handling: While it stops when interrupted, EVI can effortlessly resume from where it left off.
Self-Improvement: EVI learns from user reactions to continuously improve and enhance user satisfaction over time.
In addition to its empathic features, EVI offers fast, reliable transcription and text-to-speech capabilities, making it versatile and adaptable to various scenarios.
It seamlessly integrates with any Language Model Library (LLM), adding to its flexibility and utility.

What is an AI with Emotional Intelligence and How Can it be Used?

Artificial Intelligence with emotional intelligence, also known as affective computing or emotion AI, refers to the integration of emotional awareness and intelligence into AI systems, enabling them to recognize, understand, and respond to human emotions.
- This capability draws inspiration from the concept of emotional intelligence in humans, which involves perceiving and managing emotions in both oneself and others.
The development of emotionally intelligent AI involves leveraging advanced techniques in machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision to enable AI systems to recognize emotions in facial expressions, speech, and text.
These systems can adapt their responses based on recognized emotions, creating more empathetic and nuanced interactions between humans and AI.

Potential applications of AI with emotional intelligence include:

Healthcare: Emotion-sensitive AI could help detect depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues by analyzing speech patterns, facial expressions, or social media posts.
Education: AI systems could adapt to individual students' emotions, providing customized support and facilitating better learning experiences.
Customer Service: Emotion AI could enable businesses to respond more appropriately to customer emotions, improving customer satisfaction and fostering long-term loyalty.
Entertainment: Affective computing could make games and other entertainment experiences more immersive and engaging by adapting to users' emotions in real-time.

Great Indian Bustard (GIB)

29 Mar 2024

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The Supreme Court last week said it will review its April 2021 order to bury underground all power lines in the habitat of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB), after the Centre found the order “practically impossible to implement” over long distances.

About Great Indian Bustard:

Great Indian Bustard (GIB) is an agro-grassland bird endemic to the Indian Subcontinent.
Known locally as Godawan in Rajasthan, it is a Critically Endangered species as per the IUCN Red List.
It belongs to the family Otididae and exhibits sexual dimorphism.
The GIB is an omnivorous bird.
The species has a current viable population of around 150 individuals in India and mainly survives in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan which holds about 100 individuals.
Of the remaining individuals, these birds are found in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh respectively.
With fewer than 150 individuals, they are caught in a deadly maze of power lines that crisscross its last refuge in the Kutch and Thar deserts of western India.

Why Do Power Lines Kill Bustards?

Power lines pose a risk to all flying birds.
In 2020, a study carried out by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in 4,200 sq km of GIB habitat in and around Desert National Park (DNP) in Rajasthan estimated that power lines killed around 84,000 birds of multiple species every year.
GIBs are especially vulnerable because of their narrow frontal vision and large size.
- Unlike some birds that have a panoramic vision around the head, species like raptors and bustards have extensive blind areas above their heads.
- When they stretch their head forward to scan the ground below, they fly blind in the direction of travel.

Arguments of the Centre:

The Centre said taking lines of 66 KV and higher voltage underground was not feasible for the evacuation of bulk power due to constraints such as transmission losses, maintenance challenges, multiple cable joints, increased time requirements, and safety concerns.
The cost implications of undergrounding all power lines in the large area identified are very heavy — running into many thousands of crores and the cost of externalities that will burden the nation was “huge” and “disproportionate”.
Harnessing renewable power from high-potential areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat was “essential for meeting rising power demand and India’s international commitments on climate change”.

Other threats faced by GIB:

Free-ranging dogs pose a significant threat to the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) population, particularly in the Thar landscape, with feral packs responsible for a substantial portion of Chinkara depredation in the Desert National Park (DNP) as of 2017.
Although sporadic hunting of GIBs persists, the prevalent use of pesticides in agricultural areas poses a more substantial risk to the bird's survival.
Additionally, habitat loss, particularly the decline of grasslands essential for nesting, and diminishing support from local communities are growing concerns.

CoViNet

29 Mar 2024

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a global network of laboratories to identify and monitor potentially novel coronaviruses that could emerge shortly.

What is CoViNet?

The Coronavirus Network (CoViNet) is a global collaboration of laboratories with expertise in human, animal, and environmental coronavirus surveillance.
- This network aims to identify and monitor potential new coronaviruses that could emerge and impact public health worldwide.
To enhance pandemic preparedness, CoViNet will expand its scope to include animal health and environmental surveillance, as well as timely risk assessments.
- This will allow the World Health Organization (WHO) to develop more informed policies and protective measures against future viral outbreaks.
CoViNet will also play a pivotal role in building and supporting laboratory capacities in low- and middle-income countries to monitor MERS-CoV and other emerging coronaviruses of public health importance.
- By fostering knowledge exchange and capacity building, CoViNet aims to strengthen the global response to coronavirus threats.
Furthermore, data generated through CoViNet's efforts will guide the work of the WHO's Technical Advisory Groups on Viral Evolution (TAG-VE) and Vaccine Composition (TAG-CO-VAC). These groups rely on cutting-edge research and surveillance data to inform public health policies and vaccination strategies.
With 36 laboratories from 21 countries across all six WHO regions, CoViNet currently encompasses a wide range of expertise and resources.
- Three Indian institutions, namely, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology in Pune, and the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, proudly represent the country in this global network dedicated to coronavirus surveillance and preparedness.

About the World Health Organization (WHO):

The World Health Organization (WHO) stands as a paramount global health authority, dedicated to promoting health, preventing diseases, and improving healthcare systems worldwide.
Established in 1948, WHO operates as a specialized agency of the United Nations, with its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
It collaborates with governments, international organizations, and civil society to address pressing health challenges and provide guidance and support to countries in need.
WHO's mandate encompasses a wide array of health-related issues, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, mental health, maternal and child health, and environmental health.
Through research, policy development, and technical assistance, WHO plays a vital role in shaping health policies, setting standards, and coordinating responses to health emergencies such as pandemics and natural disasters.
With a mission to ensure the highest attainable level of health for all people, WHO continues to lead efforts in global health governance, advocacy, and capacity-building, striving for a healthier, safer, and more equitable world.

Food Waste Index Report 2024

29 Mar 2024

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As per the Food Waste Index Report for 2024, households worldwide discarded more than one billion meals daily in 2022.

About UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2024:

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Food Waste Index Report 2024, co-authored with the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), offers a comprehensive analysis of the state of global food waste.
The report reveals alarming trends, including the wastage of over 1 billion meals per day in 2022, highlighting the urgency to address this critical issue.

Key findings from the report include:

Per Capita Waste: The average annual food waste per person amounts to approximately 79 kilograms (or around 174 pounds).
- This equates to over a billion meals being wasted daily worldwide, underscoring the significant inefficiencies in current food consumption habits.
Sources of Waste: Household waste constitutes the majority, around 60%, with food service establishments (such as restaurants) contributing approximately 28%, and retailers making up about 12%.
- This breakdown suggests that interventions targeting consumer behavior could have a substantial impact on reducing overall waste.
Environmental Impact: Food loss and waste contribute to 8 to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
- Comparatively, if food waste were considered a country, it would rank as the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally, trailing only China and the United States.
- This stark comparison underscores the urgent need to address food waste not only for resource efficiency but also as a crucial aspect of climate action on a global scale.
Global vs. Local Impact: The report highlights that food waste is a pervasive issue affecting both high-income and lower-income countries alike.
- This universality implies that solutions must be adaptable and scalable across various socioeconomic contexts.
Collaborative Solutions: Governments, regional entities, industry stakeholders, and non-profit organizations are increasingly involved in public-private partnerships to combat food waste.
- Effective strategies, such as food redistribution through initiatives like food banks and charities, are recognized as vital for reducing waste while simultaneously supporting vulnerable communities.

Recommendations:

The Food Waste Index Report by UNEP emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive action, both globally and locally, to tackle the issue of food waste.
By illuminating the extent and origins of waste, as well as its significant environmental and social repercussions, the report advocates for collaborative efforts across all sectors to establish sustainable food systems.
The target of halving food waste by 2030 is not only in line with environmental goals but also represents a crucial step towards reducing global hunger and promoting a fairer distribution of food resources.
As nations strive to achieve this objective, the report underscores the interconnectedness of food security, environmental sustainability, and economic viability.
It presents addressing food waste not only as a moral and environmental imperative but also as a practical opportunity to bolster global food security and combat climate change.

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act

29 Mar 2024

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The Kerala High Court has held that a child charged with offenses under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, is to be prosecuted as per the provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) (JJ) Act.

About the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act):

Enacted in 2012, the POCSO Act stands as India's pioneering legislation dedicated to addressing child sexual abuse comprehensively.
Under the administration of the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), its primary objective is safeguarding children under 18 from sexual assault, harassment, and exploitation, alongside establishing Special Courts to adjudicate such cases swiftly and efficiently, ensuring justice and protection for victims.

Salient Features of the Act:

The POCSO Act adopts a gender-neutral approach, defining a child as "any person" under 18, ensuring inclusivity for all victims of child sexual abuse.
It delineates various forms of sexual abuse, encompassing penetrative and non-penetrative assault, sexual harassment, and pornography.
Certain circumstances, such as mental illness or abuse by a trusted individual like a family member, escalate the severity of sexual assault as per the Act.
Individuals involved in trafficking children for sexual exploitation are subject to punishment under the Act's provisions on abetment.
Attempting to commit an offense under the Act incurs penalties up to half the prescribed punishment for the completed offense.
There's no time limit for reporting abuse, empowering victims to come forward at any point, regardless of when the abuse occurred.
The Act mandates reporting of sexual abuse, penalizing failure to do so with imprisonment or fines.
It includes child-friendly procedures for reporting, evidence recording, investigation, and trial, ensuring a supportive environment for victims.
These procedures include recording the child's statement in a preferred location, preferably by a female officer, and avoiding aggressive questioning or character attacks.
Medical examinations occur in the presence of a trusted individual, and the child is shielded from seeing the accused during testimony.
Trials are held in camera, with the Special Court aiming to complete proceedings within a year of cognizance, prioritizing swift justice for victims.

Amendment to the Act:

In 2019, the Act underwent its inaugural amendment to intensify penalties for particular offenses, aiming to dissuade perpetrators and safeguard the dignity of childhood.
This amendment introduced the death penalty for aggravated penetrative sexual assault against children.
Additionally, it empowered the imposition of fines and sentences of up to 20 years in prison to combat child pornography.

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

29 Mar 2024

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According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in 2023, more than 4,500 Rohingya refugees embarked on a perilous journey across the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea.

About the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR):

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution.
It leads international action to protect refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people.
Formally known as the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees, UNHCR was established by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1950 in the aftermath of the Second World War to help the millions of people who had lost their homes.
Today, UNHCR operates in 137 countries and provides life-saving assistance, including shelter, food, water, and medical care for people forced to flee conflict and persecution, many of whom have nobody left to turn to.
UNHCR defends their right to reach safety and helps them find a place to call home so they can rebuild their lives.
UNHCR also collaborates with countries to improve and monitor refugee and asylum laws and policies, ensuring that human rights are upheld.
UNHCR considers refugees and those forced to flee as partners, putting those most affected at the center of planning and decision-making.

Who are the Rohingya Refugees?

Rohingya are an ethnic group, largely comprising Muslims, who predominantly live in the Western Myanmar province of Rakhine.
They speak a dialect of Bengali, as opposed to the commonly spoken Burmese language.
Though they have been living in the South East Asian country for generations, Myanmar considers them as persons who migrated to their land during Colonial rule so, it has not granted Rohingyas full citizenship.
According to the 1982 Burmese citizenship law, a Rohingya (or any ethnic minority) is eligible for citizenship only if he/she provides proof that his/her ancestors have lived in the country before 1823. Otherwise, they are classified as “resident foreigners” or as “associate citizens” (even if one of the parent is a Myanmar citizen).
Since they are not citizens, they are not entitled to be part of civil service. Their movements are also restricted within the Rakhine state.

T+0 Settlement Cycle

28 Mar 2024

Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO)

28 Mar 2024

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Recently, NASA's Soho mission, which is tasked with observing the Sun, has captured its 5000th comet as it dives around the star in our Solar System.

About Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO):

SOHO was built as a general solar observatory, with twelve suites of scientific instruments to track all of these properties of the Sun.
During its operations, it has provided important insights, including:
- Details about the interior of the Sun,
- What sunspots look like beneath the surface,
- Measurements of the speed of the solar wind,
- The charged particles that escape from the corona,
- Mapping the magnetic field behavior over the Sun’s surface; and
- Revealing new phenomena such as “solar tornadoes”.
Built in Europe, SOHO is operated jointly by ESA and NASA, with contributions from a large number of scientists, engineers, and other staff around the world.
The spacecraft was launched in 1995 with a planned two-year mission.
Its work was successful enough to justify keeping the observatory going, and it’s still operating more than 20 years later.
The probe orbits the Sun at a place where the gravity of the Sun and Earth balance each other out, known as the first Lagrange point (L1).
Center for Astrophysics (CfA) scientists and engineers provided SOHO’s Ultraviolet Coronagraph Spectrometer (UVCS), which operated until 2013 and measured the ultraviolet spectrum of the hot solar atmosphere.
- UVCS provided the insight that the corona is too hot to be produced by ordinary thermal transfer, where particles collide and pass energy to each other.
- Instead, the corona and solar wind must be accelerated by the magnetic field interactions in some way.
Other SOHO instruments measure the speed and composition of the solar wind; the seismic waves that travel across the Sun’s surface; the fluctuations in the temperature, composition, and density of different parts of the corona; and the motion of matter upward from the Sun’s interior to its surface.

South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA)

28 Mar 2024

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A recent investigation in southern Africa has revealed a plethora of previously undiscovered biodiversity within a newly identified ecoregion known as the South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA).

About South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA):

It represents a newly identified mountainous ecoregion spanning from northern Mozambique to Mount Mulanje in Malawi, which is the second-highest peak in southern Africa.
This ecoregion comprises 30 granitic inselbergs rising over 1000 meters above sea level, hosting both the largest (Mt Mabu) and smallest (Mt Lico) mid-elevation rainforests in southern Africa, alongside uniquely diverse montane grasslands.
SEAMA experiences notably higher annual rainfall and humidity, particularly during the dry season, compared to its surrounding areas.
Since 2000, SEAMA has witnessed a loss of 18% of its primary humid forest cover, with rates reaching up to 43% in certain locations—marking one of the most rapid deforestation rates across Africa.
The principal cause of montane forest depletion in SEAMA stems from slash-and-burn agricultural practices, predominantly employed for subsistence food cultivation by local communities, alongside charcoal production for household cooking and economic purposes.

What are Inselbergs?

Inselbergs are solitary geological formations characterized by isolated, steep-sided hills or small mountains rising abruptly from flat or gently sloping terrain.
- Composed of erosion-resistant rock, such as granite or quartzite, inselbergs stand out prominently in landscapes, with steep or even vertical sides resulting from differential erosion processes.
- These formations, found predominantly in arid or semi-arid regions, take various shapes, including dome-shaped hills, conical peaks, or sheer-sided cliffs.
Despite their isolated nature, inselbergs support unique ecosystems and biodiversity, creating microclimates and habitats for specialized plant and animal species.
- Rock crevices, caves, and pockets of soil on inselbergs harbor distinct flora and fauna adapted to harsh conditions, making these formations biodiversity hotspots.
- Additionally, inselbergs often hold cultural and spiritual significance for indigenous peoples and local communities, serving as sites for religious rituals, cave paintings, or archaeological artifacts.
However, inselbergs face threats such as deforestation and habitat degradation due to human activities like slash-and-burn agriculture and charcoal production.
- Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these geological wonders and preserve their ecological and cultural significance for future generations.

Carlsberg Ridge & Afanasy-Nikitin Seamount

28 Mar 2024

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Indian delegates have been visiting the International Seabed Authority (ISA), Jamaica to strengthen efforts to explore two deep sea regions in the Indian Ocean for mining, according to reports this week.

What is the Carlsberg Ridge?

The Carlsberg Ridge is the northern section of the Central Indian Ridge, a divergent tectonic plate boundary between the African Plate and the Indo-Australian Plate, traversing the western regions of the Indian Ocean.
The ridge of which the Carlsberg Ridge is a part extends northward from a triple point junction near the island of Rodrigues (the Rodrigues Triple Point) to a junction with the Owen Fracture Zone.
The ridge started its northwards propagation in the late Maastrichtian and reached the incipient Arabian Sea in the Eocene.
- Then it continued to accrete basalt but did not propagate for nearly 30 million years ago.
- Then, in the early Miocene, it started to propagate westwards towards the Afar hot spot, opening the Gulf of Aden.
The Carlsberg Ridge is seismically active, with a major earthquake being recorded by the U.S. Geological Survey at 7.6 on the moment magnitude scale in July 2003.
The ridge was discovered by the Danish research vessel Dana during the Carlsberg Foundation's Oceanographic Expedition around the world (1928–1930), better known as the 2nd Dana Expedition, and named after the Carlsberg Foundation, which funded the entire expedition and subsequent analysis and publication of results.

About the Afanasy Nikitin Seamount (ANS) Seabed:

The ANS is a major structural feature in the Indian Ocean, rising up above the sea bed but below the surface, and forming a seamount.
It is 400 km long and 150 km wide, and is located in the Central Indian Basin — southeast of Sri Lanka, right below the equator, to the west of Singapore.
It was formed about 80 million years ago, while dinosaurs still roamed the Earth.
The Seamount is named after Afanasy Nikitin, a 15th-century Russian merchant who was one of the first to document his travels to India.
- A black monolith is also erected in his honor at Revdanda, about 100 km away from Mumbai, where he is thought to have first set foot in the country.
The ANS seamount is about 3,000 km from India’s coast and is rich in cobalt, copper, manganese, and nickel.

What are Seamounts?

Seamounts are submarine mountains originating from volcanic eruptions beneath the ocean's surface, serving as critical habitats for diverse marine ecosystems.
Similar to terrestrial volcanoes, seamounts can exhibit varying states of activity, including active, dormant, or extinct stages.
They typically form near mid-ocean ridges, where tectonic plates separate, allowing magma to ascend and solidify on the seabed.
Notably, seamounts also emerge near intraplate hotspots and oceanic island chains, such as island arcs, characterized by volcanic and seismic activity.
These underwater formations hold significant scientific value, offering insights into mantle composition, plate tectonics, and oceanic circulation dynamics.
Moreover, seamounts play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and marine life proliferation, fostering localized upwelling of nutrient-rich waters that support diverse biological communities.

Australia’s Carbon Credits System

28 Mar 2024

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A recent study revealed that a prominent reforestation initiative operating within the Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Scheme has been deemed a significant underperformer, amounting to a 'catastrophe' in terms of its outcomes.

What is the Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Scheme?

The ACCU Scheme plays a pivotal role in the Australian carbon market, incentivizing various entities including individuals, businesses, and governmental bodies to engage in endeavors aimed at mitigating emissions or sequestering carbon.
Participants encompass a broad spectrum ranging from individuals and sole traders to corporations, local and state government entities, and trusts.
Achievement of the scheme's objectives is facilitated through diverse means such as the adoption of innovative technologies, equipment upgrades, the adoption of sustainable business practices to enhance productivity or energy efficiency, and the implementation of novel vegetation management techniques.

How Does It Work?

The ACCU Scheme operates by rewarding participants who execute projects focused on either reducing or avoiding greenhouse gas emissions (emissions avoidance) or capturing and storing atmospheric carbon (sequestration).
- These projects contribute significantly to mitigating climate change and advancing environmental sustainability in Australia.
For each tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent (t CO?-e) emissions that a participant's project successfully stores or avoids, they are eligible to earn one Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU).
- These ACCUs serve as a tangible representation of the project's positive environmental impact and can be traded on the secondary market or sold to the Australian Government through carbon abatement contracts.
In essence, the ACCU Scheme establishes a robust framework for quantifying and monetizing emission reduction and carbon sequestration efforts, providing a strong financial incentive for individuals and businesses to actively engage in climate-friendly initiatives.
- By fostering an active carbon market, the scheme helps ensure the continued growth and development of innovative projects that combat climate change and support Australia's transition to a low-carbon economy.

Criticisms and Controversies:

The ACCU Scheme has encountered criticisms and controversies regarding its overall effectiveness and the integrity of the carbon credits it generates.
- One such concern is based on research indicating that native forests in Australia's desert regions are experiencing either stagnant growth or shrinking woodlands.
- This finding raises questions about the capacity of these areas to sequester carbon at the levels claimed in ACCU projects.
Furthermore, critics argue that Australia has amassed substantial quantities of carbon credits through these projects, despite the questionable integrity of the underlying data.
- The scheme's reliability and effectiveness are, thus, scrutinized, as the quality and accuracy of the carbon credits generated are essential to maintaining trust and credibility in the carbon market.
As the ACCU Scheme evolves, addressing these concerns and ensuring that it genuinely contributes to emission reduction and carbon sequestration efforts is crucial.
Regular evaluations and transparency in data collection and analysis will help enhance public confidence and secure the scheme's role as a central pillar of Australia's climate change mitigation strategy.

Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC)

27 Mar 2024

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Earlier this month, Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda inaugurated a Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) set up at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi, a big-screen dashboard of all digital innovations in the sector.

What is the Krishi ICCC?

The ICCC is a tech-based solution involving multiple IT applications and platforms, designed to help make informed decisions.
The center is housed in the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and is responsible for legislation, policy formation, and implementation of initiatives in the agriculture sector.
The ICCC uses state-of-the-art technologies such as artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect and process large amounts of granular data.
The ICCC uses platforms including the Krishi Decision Support System (DSS) to collect micro-level data, process it, and present the macro picture.

How does the Krishi ICCC Operate?

Using AI and machine learning, the system will initially identify a farmer either through their mobile number or Aadhaar details.
Next, it will cross-reference this information with the farmer's field data retrieved from land records, as well as historical crop sowing data from the crop registry, and weather information from IMD, among other sources.
Subsequently, the system will generate personalized advisories tailored to the farmer's needs, presented in their local language.
- This functionality will be facilitated through the Bhashini platform, enabling translations into multiple Indian languages.

What Information Does the Krishi ICCC Offer?

Displayed on eight expansive 55-inch LED screens within the ICCC, the system provides comprehensive data covering various aspects such as temperatures, rainfall, wind speed, crop yields, production statistics, drought conditions, cropping patterns (both geographically and over time), and production forecasts.
This information is presented in a graphical, map-based, timeline, and drill-down formats for enhanced visualization and analysis.
Additionally, users can access pertinent trends, including periodic and non-periodic variations, outliers, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), alongside receiving insights, alerts, and feedback concerning agriculture schemes, programs, projects, and initiatives.
Moreover, the system facilitates direct interaction between farmer beneficiaries and officials or the Minister through video conferencing facilities, ensuring effective communication and support.

Practical Applications:

Farmer’s Advisory: The ICCC allows visualization of GIS-based soil carbon mapping as well as soil health card data for a particular district together in one place.
- This, when visualized with weather-related data from IMD for the selected district, will allow a customized and authentic advisory to be sent to the farmer about the type of crops that can be grown, and water and fertilizer requirements.
Drought Actions: An increase or decrease in yield from a specific region (as per GCES data) can be correlated with weather, rainfall, and other information visualized through the Drought Portal, enabling the administration to understand the reason for the increase/ decrease in yield and to take decisions proactively.
Crop Diversification: An analysis of crop diversification maps, together with field variability for paddy, will enable decision-makers to identify regions with scope for diversified cropping so that farmers can be advised accordingly.
Farm Data Depository: Krishi Decision Support System (K-DSS), a platform under development, will act as an agriculture data repository. Integrated spatial and non-spatial data will be superimposed as a layer on the GIS map, and various AI/ ML models will be run on the data.
- The K-DSS will help in evidence-based, efficient, and data-driven decision-making, and assist in preparing customized advisories for farmers.
Validation of Yield: Yield, as captured through Krishi MApper, can be analyzed with the yield generated through GCES application for a plot.

Archaeological Survey of India will ‘Delist’ Some ‘Lost’ Monuments

27 Mar 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to delist 18 “centrally protected monuments” because it has assessed that they do not have national importance.

Context:

ASI has decided to delist 18 protected monuments
ASI says the monuments have ceased to be of 'national importance'
The 18 'lost' monuments include eleven in Uttar Pradesh

Significance of Delisting Monuments:

Several monuments are currently facing the prospect of delisting, including historical landmarks such as a medieval highway milestone in Mujessar village, Barakhamba Cemetery in Delhi, Gunner Burkill’s tomb in Jhansi district, a cemetery at Gaughat in Lucknow, and Telia Nala Buddhist ruins in Varanasi.
The exact whereabouts or condition of these monuments remain uncertain.

Meaning of Delisting:

Delisting a monument entails its removal from the roster of protected sites, thereby relinquishing its conservation, protection, and maintenance responsibilities by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, delisted monuments no longer enjoy protection against construction-related activities in their vicinity, enabling regular urbanization and development activities to proceed uninhibited.

Status of Protected Monuments:

The inventory of protected monuments is subject to change through additions and removals. Presently, the ASI oversees 3,693 monuments, a number set to decrease to 3,675 following the ongoing delisting initiative.
- This marks the first extensive delisting endeavor in several decades.

Procedures for Monument Delisting:

The regulations governing the List of Protected Monuments are stipulated under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Rules, 1959.
This legislation safeguards structures and sites aged over a century, encompassing a diverse array of architectural and historical marvels.
The government possesses the authority to eliminate certain monuments from the protected list via official notification in the Gazette.
Through such notifications, the government can declare that certain ancient monuments, archaeological sites, or relics no longer hold national significance under the purview of the AMASR Act (Section 35 of the AMASR Act).

Lost Monuments:

The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act safeguards monuments and sites aged over a century.
Nevertheless, numerous structures, particularly smaller or lesser-known ones, have gradually disappeared over time due to factors like urbanization, encroachments, dam and reservoir construction, or neglect.
In some instances, the lack of public memory hampers efforts to locate these monuments.

Extent of Loss:

According to a submission by the Ministry of Culture to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture in December 2022, 50 out of India's 3,693 centrally protected monuments were unaccounted for.
Among these, 14 succumbed to rapid urbanization, 12 were submerged by reservoirs or dams, and the remaining 24 remain untraceable.
The Committee noted that budget constraints limited the provision of security guards to historical sites, with only 2,578 guards assigned to 248 sites out of the required 7,000.
Additionally, a 2013 report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India highlighted the disappearance of at least 92 centrally protected monuments nationwide.

About the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):

Founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was later formalized as a statutory body under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (AMASR Act) following India's independence.
ASI's primary mandate encompasses archaeological research and the safeguarding, conservation, and preservation of cultural monuments across the nation.
Its operational scope includes conducting surveys of antiquarian remains, exploring and excavating archaeological sites, and overseeing the conservation and maintenance of protected monuments, among other responsibilities.
The ASI operates under the purview of the Ministry of Culture.

Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)

27 Mar 2024

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Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections will be held before September and that the Centre will consider revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act there.

What is AFSPA?

The AFSPA empowers the armed forces to uphold law and order in “disturbed areas.”
They have the right to prevent a gathering of five or more people in a given location, use force, or even open fire after providing a sufficient warning if they believe someone is breaking the law.
Armed forces are also permitted to enter and search any location if they suspect illegal activity.
According to the AFSPA Act, the Army also has the authority to detain someone without a warrant, seize weapons and ammunition, and offer protection to someone acting in good faith.

Salient features of the AFSPA Act:

The Central Government or the Governor of a State has the right to declare all or a part of any state to be a disturbed region if they believe it is necessary to stop the terrorist activity or any other activity that could jeopardize India’s sovereignty or be disrespectful to the national anthem, flag, or constitution.
According to Section 3 of the AFSPA, the Central Government may send out armed forces to support the civilian authorities if the governor of a state publishes a formal announcement in the Gazette of India.
- According to the Disturbed Areas Act of 1976, a territory must maintain the status quo for a minimum of three months after being designated “disturbed.”
Section (4) of the AFSPA grants army officers specific authority to shoot the only requirement is that the officer must sound the alarm before firing.
Security forces have the authority to search without permission and arrest anyone without a warrant.
After being taken into custody, a person must be delivered to the closest police station as soon as possible.
The Central Government must first provide its consent before prosecuting an on-duty officer for alleged human rights violations.

What are the “Disturbed areas” under the AFSPA Act?

The state governor, the administrator of the union territory, or the central government may declare a region as a “disturbed area” by publishing a notice in the official gazette, the entire territory or an order to implement it may be declared disturbed.
It is up to the state governments to decide whether or not to implement the Act.
- However, the governor or the Center may disregard their judgment under Section (3) of the Act.
The state governor was the only person with the authority to confer AFSPA when the act came into force in 1958.
- The 1978 amendment granted the central government this authority.

List of states that implement the AFSPA Act:

Four states and one union territory currently have AFPSA activities, while 12 districts are still partially subject to the act, and 31 districts have fully implemented the law.

The AFSPA states include:

- Jammu & Kashmir
- Nagaland
- Assam
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Manipur

Black Carbon

27 Mar 2024

Magnetofossils

27 Mar 2024

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In the depths of the Bay of Bengal, scientists have discovered a 50,000-year-old sediment — a giant magnetofossil and one of the youngest to be found yet.

What are Magnetofossils?

Magnetofossils represent the fossilized remnants of magnetic particles originated by magnetotactic bacteria, also referred to as magnetobacteria, encapsulated within the geological archives.

About Magnetotactic Bacteria:

Magnetotactic bacteria, predominantly prokaryotic microorganisms, possess the unique ability to align themselves in alignment with Earth's magnetic field.
These organisms were traditionally believed to utilize the Earth's magnetic field as a navigational aid to locate environments with optimal oxygen levels.
Comprising distinctively structured particles abundant in iron, these bacteria harbor small sacs that function akin to a compass.
Magnetotactic bacteria synthesize minute crystals composed of iron-rich minerals such as magnetite or greigite, facilitating their navigation amidst fluctuations in oxygen concentrations within their aquatic habitats.

Key Findings of the Study:

Sediment Composition: The sediment core, measuring three meters in length and extracted from the southwestern Bay of Bengal, primarily comprised "pale green silty clays."
Foraminifera Abundance: Researchers observed abundant benthic and planktic foraminifera, which are single-celled organisms characterized by shells found near the seabed and freely floating in water.
Oxygen Concentration: At depths ranging from approximately 1,000 to 1,500 meters, the Bay of Bengal exhibited notably low oxygen levels.
- Analysis of the sediment sample confirmed fluctuations in monsoon activity, as evidenced by the presence of magnetic mineral particles from distinct geological periods.
Role of Rivers: Rivers such as the Godavari, Mahanadi, Ganga-Brahmaputra, Cauvery, and Penner, which discharge into the Bay of Bengal, played a pivotal role in magnetofossil formation.
Nutrient Supply: The nutrient-rich sediment transported by these rivers supplied reactive iron, which, combined with organic carbon in the suboxic conditions of the Bay of Bengal, created a conducive environment for magnetotactic bacteria growth.
Impact of Oceanographic Processes: Factors such as freshwater discharge from rivers and oceanographic phenomena like eddy formation influenced the oxygen content in these waters, distinguishing them from other low-oxygen zones.
Persistence of Suboxic Conditions: The presence of magnetofossils indicated the prolonged persistence of suboxic conditions in the Bay of Bengal, fostering an environment conducive to the proliferation of magnetotactic bacteria.

Ola’s ‘Krutrim AI’

26 Mar 2024

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Earlier this year, Ola, the Indian multinational ridesharing company, introduced Krutrim AI as "India's own AI," with plans for substantial enhancements to its initial iteration to expand its foundation upon launch.

What is Krutrim AI?

Krutrim AI is a generative AI assistant that converses in 10+ languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, Marathi, Kannada, Gujarati, etc., making it India’s own AI by an artificial intelligence startup.
It was founded by Bhavish Aggarwal, the founder of Ola Cabs.
Krutrim AI has been natively created to ensure a creative AI tool designed for over 1.4 billion Indians to provide 100% contextually relevant responses.
It is a critical milestone in developing public-facing artificial intelligence in India.

These are 4 benefits of Krutrim AI:

- Supports multiple Indian languages.
- Native experience is built to cater to cultural diversity.
- They are trained on local language tokens and sources.
- Allows user interaction without charge on its free version.

What is the Tech Behind Krutrim AI?

Krutrim AI uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) — a component of AI — to understand the nuances of human language, including colloquialisms and cultural contexts.
Machine Learning (ML) algorithms enable it to learn from vast data sets and improve its responses over time.
Moreover, Deep Learning, a sophisticated branch of ML, helps it recognize patterns and analyze complex data, which could be crucial for Krutrim AI’s performance.
While the exact technologies used are not disclosed, these methodologies align with the AI’s demonstrated functions.

How Krutrim AI Works?

Krutrim AI works through prompts given in the chat field, similar to other generative AI chatbots.
- Generative AI chatbots like Krutrim AI are large language models that understand prompts in the language used for daily communication and respond with language similar to humans.
Krutrim AI allows users to reply, modify the details, or add additional elements to the response, similar to the experience a user would have with a human assistant.

Benefits of Using Krutrim AI:

Krutrim AI offers 4 benefits.
- Multilingual as it responds in over 10 Indian languages, which is helpful for users not proficient in English.
- Cultural context provides a native experience, as Krutrim’s training data was specifically geared towards being culturally relevant and understanding the Indian context.
- The development of (AI) start-up Krutrim was done natively from the ground up.
  - It is trained on over 2 trillion language tokens, with the largest representation of Indian languages in the artificial intelligence landscape.
Krutrim’s base model offers a free AI chatbot experience, with a premium version (Krutrim Pro) in the works, that will have larger knowledge-based capabilities.

Post-Vaccination Immunity

26 Mar 2024

Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP)

26 Mar 2024

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Kerala's shift towards an alternative approach for the implementation of smart electricity meters, sidelining the Central government's Rs 3 lakh crore project, poses a challenge to the Union Government's initiative of replacing 250 million traditional meters with smart meters in all households by March 2025.

About the Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP):

The Indian government has initiated the Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP) to revolutionize the country's energy sector through the implementation of smart meters.
By replacing 25 crore conventional meters, the SMNP aims to enhance the operational efficiency and revenue management of distribution companies (DISCOMs).
Under the leadership of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of four National Public Sector Enterprises, the scheme is set to make waves in the energy sector.
EESL, comprised of NTPC Limited, PFC, REC, and POWERGRID, operates under the Ministry of Power and is committed to undertaking the necessary capital and operational expenditures with zero upfront investment from states and utilities.
The Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model facilitates the recovery of smart meter costs via the monetization of energy savings resulting from improved billing accuracy, reduced meter reading costs, and increased efficiency.
In accordance with guidelines set forth by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), the strategic deployment of these smart meters adheres to industry standards.

Smart meters offer a multitude of advantages:

- Consumers can monitor their electricity usage and make informed decisions to reduce their bills.
- Utilities benefit from enhanced operational efficiency, enabling better power demand management.
Web-based Monitoring: The interconnected smart meter network can mitigate utilities' commercial losses, enhance revenue generation, and propel power sector reforms.
The Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP) paves the way for a more efficient and sustainable energy landscape in India, revolutionizing the way utilities operate and consumers engage with their electricity usage.

What are Smart Meters?

A smart meter serves as an advanced tool for recording electricity consumption and voltage levels, offering a significant upgrade over traditional metering systems.
- While conventional meters simply measure power usage, smart meters take it a step further by transmitting real-time data to utility providers at intervals of 15 minutes or hourly.
Smart meters truly live up to their name by utilizing internet connectivity to facilitate two-way communication.
- On one hand, they empower consumers with up-to-date information on energy usage patterns, enabling them to make informed decisions and manage consumption more efficiently.
- On the other hand, utility providers gain valuable insights for monitoring purposes and ensuring accurate billing.
In essence, smart meters pave the way for improved energy management, increased transparency, and enhanced efficiency, catering to the evolving needs of both consumers and utility providers in today's digital era.

Cannabis

26 Mar 2024

District Election Management Plan

26 Mar 2024

ISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) LEX 02 Landing Experiment

23 Mar 2024

Order of the Druk Gyalpo

23 Mar 2024

Netravati River

23 Mar 2024

Hepatitis B

23 Mar 2024

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Public knowledge and awareness about Hepatitis B, a deadly disease that can cause end-stage liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, is dismal in India, according to a new study conducted by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi.

What is Hepatitis B?

It is a severe liver infection that can lead to liver damage, cancer, and death.
The virus spreads through contact with an infected person's blood or bodily fluids.
One can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment, or from mother to child during childbirth.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B:

Hepatitis B is a severe viral infection of the liver that can cause inflammation and scarring.
Symptoms include fatigue, fever, abdominal pain, dark urine, joint pain, and jaundice.

Causes of Hepatitis B:

Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).
HBV is found in the blood and body fluids of an infected person. It can spread through contact with fluids, such as:
- Blood, through needle sharing or accidental needle sticks
- Contact with body fluids, such as saliva, etc.
- Sexual contact with someone who has HBV
- From a mother to a child through childbirth
Hepatitis B can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as:
- Sharing personal items like toothbrushes or razors with someone who has HBV
- Getting a tattoo or body piercing with contaminated equipment

Types of Hepatitis B:

There are three main types of hepatitis B: acute, chronic, and carriers.
- Acute hepatitis B is a short-term illness that occurs within the first six months after exposure to the virus. It is the most common type of hepatitis B in children.
- Chronic hepatitis B is a long-term illness that can lead to serious health problems, including liver failure and liver cancer.
- Carriers of hepatitis B have the virus in their blood but do not show any symptoms.

Treatment for Hepatitis B

Several medications can help treat hepatitis B.
These include antiviral drugs, which can help reduce the amount of virus in the body, and immunomodulators, which can help boost the immune system to better fight the virus.
If the liver is damaged, one may also need medication to help protect it from further damage.
HBIG (Hepatitis B Immuno Globulin) is one of the best ways to treat hepatitis B.
- Adults who have been exposed to hepatitis should get HBIG and vaccination as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours but not later than 14 days after the exposure.

Prevention of Hepatitis B:

The best way to prevent hepatitis B is to get vaccinated.
The vaccine is given as a series of shots.
The first shot is usually given at birth; the rest at 1–2 months old, 6–18 months old, and 4–6 years old.
If one was not vaccinated as a child, they can receive the vaccines as an adult.

Jaipur’s traditional celebrations with ‘Gulaal Gota’

23 Mar 2024

PIB Fact Check Unit (FCU)

22 Mar 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently, the Supreme Court stayed the Centre’s notification of the Fact Check Unit (FCU) under the Press Information Bureau (PIB) until the Bombay High Court arrives at a final decision on the challenge to the amended Information Technology (IT) Rules.

Background:

Under the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) is entrusted with the responsibility of disseminating information about government policies, schemes, and programs through various mediums of communication.
- In fulfilling its role, the Ministry publicizes the policies, initiatives, schemes, and programs of the Government of India through press releases, press conferences, webinars, publication of books, etc.
- To carry out this crucial function, the Ministry has several attached and subordinate offices, including the Press Information Bureau (PIB).
A significant aspect of the responsibility of facilitating public information about the functioning of the Government of India involves countering the dissemination of fake, false, and misleading information.
- The PIB has been carrying out this function for a long through a wide distribution of accurate and reliable information, issuing rebuttals, etc.
In the age of social media where information spreads rapidly, the spread of fake and manipulated information, especially related to the functioning of a democratically elected Government, is dangerous to society as it has the potential to intensify social, economic, and political conflicts, weaken public trust in democratic institutions, and even endanger the life of the citizens.

What is the PIB Fact Check Unit (FCU)?

The Press Information Bureau has been at the forefront of taking proactive measures to combat fake news related to the Government of India.
In November 2019, PIB established a Fact Check Unit (FCU) to tackle the issue of fake news about the Government of India, its various ministries, Departments, Public Sector Undertakings, and other Central Government organizations.
The unit verifies claims about government policies, regulations, announcements, and measures.
- Through an established rigorous fact-checking procedure, the PIB Fact Check Unit helps dispel myths, rumors, and false claims and provides accurate and reliable information to the public.

Organization

The PIB Fact Check Unit is headed by a senior DG/ADG level officer of the Indian Information Service (IIS).
- The day-to-day operations of the Unit are handled by IIS officers at various levels. The Unit reports to the Principal Director General, PIB who functions as the Principal Spokesperson of the Government of India.

Fact-Check Mechanism

Users send requests over WhatsApp, email, or a web portal. Each such request received is considered a ‘Query’.
- Queries are segregated by the Unit based on their relevance to matters about the Government of India.
- Only queries about the Government of India are considered and taken up as Actionable Queries, while others are deemed not relevant for action.
- The information in question is checked rigorously through multiple layers of cross-checking through Government Open-source information, use of technological tools, and verification from the concerned Government of India organization.
Should the Unit come across a piece of information that the Unit ascertains must be busted publicly for the larger benefit of the people of India, after investigation and verification from official & authoritative sources, it publishes a 'Fact Check' on its social media platforms.
- Often a single fact check can be a result of multiple queries.

Fact-checked content can be segregated into the following three categories:

Fake: any factually incorrect news, content, or, piece of information related to the Government of India, spread intentionally or unintentionally, that can deceive or manipulate the audience, with or without the intention to cause potential harm, can be flagged as Fake
Misleading: any information presented, either partially true or with selective presentation of facts or figures or with distortion of facts or figures and to deceive or mislead the recipient of the information.
True: any information that is found to be factually correct after investigation

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Startup Forum

22 Mar 2024

Usha Mehta

22 Mar 2024

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Why is it in the News?

A recent film has been launched, depicting the inspiring life story of Indian freedom fighter Usha Mehta.

About Usha Mehta:

Born in 1920 in the village of Saras, near Surat in Gujarat, Usha Mehta, affectionately known as Ushaben, embodied the Gandhian principles of non-violence and civil disobedience from a young age.

Early Activism:

At the tender age of eight in 1928, she participated in a protest march against the Simon Commission, demonstrating her early commitment to India's independence struggle.
The Secret Congress Radio: In 1942, amidst the fervor of the Quit India Movement, Usha Mehta and her colleagues boldly established the Secret Congress Radio.
- This clandestine radio station played a pivotal role in connecting freedom movement leaders with the masses, ensuring the dissemination of crucial information, and maintaining the spirit of resistance against colonial rule.

Establishing an Underground Radio Station:

With the outbreak of the War in 1939, the British government imposed stringent measures, including the suspension of all amateur radio licenses throughout the Empire.
Operators were mandated to surrender their equipment to the authorities, under threat of severe repercussions for non-compliance.

Key Figures in the Operation:

Usha Mehta, alongside Babubhai Khakar, Vithalbhai Jhaveri, and Chandrakant Jhaveri, played instrumental roles in orchestrating the Congress Radio initiative, defying the ban on amateur radio broadcasting.

The Congress Radio Trial:

The trial of the five accused individuals—Usha Mehta, Babubhai Khakar, Vithalbhai Jhaveri, Chandrakant Jhaveri, and Nanak Gainchand Motwane, who facilitated crucial equipment—captivated public attention in Bombay.
- While Vithalbhai and Motwane were acquitted, Mehta, Babubhai, and Chandrakant faced severe sentences for their involvement.

Usha Mehta's Legacy:

Following her release from Pune's Yerawada Jail in March 1946, Usha Mehta was lauded in nationalist circles as "Radio-ben," symbolizing her courageous defiance and commitment to the freedom struggle through underground broadcasting.

Independence, PhD, & Padma Vibhushan

When India finally achieved independence in 1947, the British had divided the country into two parts – India and Pakistan, sending the region into chaos.
- The divide results in massive bloodshed with more than 10 million Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs seeking to find their home.
- Mehta was torn. “In a way, I was very happy, but sad at the same time because of partition.
- It was an independent India but a divided India,” she was quoted as saying in the book Freedom Fighters Remembered.
She was away from active politics in independent India due to her ill health but continued to remain a staunch Gandhian till the very end.
She penned the script for a documentary on Gandhi produced by her colleague at the radio station, and earned a PhD in Gandhian thought at the University of Bombay.
She taught political science and ran the politics department at the university.
She also taught at Wilson College for 30 years.
She was also the president of the Gandhi Peace Foundation.
In 1998, she was awarded India’s highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan.
She lived a simple life and never married or had children.
She died on 11 August 2000 at the age of 80.

International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

22 Mar 2024

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Dr. Neeraj Mittal's unanimously elected as co-chair of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)'s digital innovation board recently.

About the International Telecommunication Union (ITU):

Established in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union, the ITU has evolved into the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICT).
Recognized as a vital intergovernmental organization, the ITU facilitates collaboration between governments and private sector entities to advance global telecommunication and ICT services.

Key Points:

Status: Designated as a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1947.
Membership: Boasting a diverse membership of 193 countries and over 1000 companies, universities, and international and regional organizations.

Functions:

Allocation of global radio spectrum and satellite orbits.
Coordination and establishment of technical standards about telecommunication/ICT.
Initiatives to enhance ICT accessibility in underserved communities worldwide.
India's Engagement: India has maintained an active presence within the ITU since 1869, consistently participating in its endeavors.
- Notably, India has been a regular member of the ITU Council since 1952.
Headquarters: Located in Geneva, Switzerland, the ITU serves as the global epicenter for fostering collaboration and innovation in the realm of ICT.

What is the Digital Innovation Board?

The Digital Innovation Board is a pivotal component of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development, aimed at addressing pressing needs within the realm of innovation as outlined in the Kigali Action Plan, which was adopted at the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2022.
Comprised of Ministers and Vice Ministers of Telecom/ICT from 23 Member Countries of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), spanning across Asia, Europe, Africa, and North, and South America, this board serves as a strategic advisory body.
ITU initiated the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development to tackle significant challenges and opportunities in innovation.
This alliance operates through three key mechanisms:
- The Digital Transformation Lab
- The Network of Acceleration Centers, and
- The Digital Innovation Board.
The Digital Innovation Board's primary objective is to offer strategic guidance, expertise, and advocacy in promoting local capacity building, fostering innovation, and encouraging entrepreneurship in digital development.
Its overarching mission is to cultivate a more inclusive and equitable digital future for all stakeholders.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) Arrests Delhi Chief Minister

22 Mar 2024

International Day of Forests 2024

21 Mar 2024

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On March 21, 2024, people around the world celebrate World Forest Day. It's a day to remind everyone about how important forests are and all the good things they do for us.

About World Forest Day:

World Forestry Day, also known as International Day of Forests, is celebrated on March 21 each year.
The day aims to promote the sustainable management, conservation, and development of all types of forests for the benefit of current and future generations.

The theme for International Day of Forests 2024:

This year's theme, "Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World" highlights the critical role of innovation and technology in protecting our forests.
- From advanced monitoring systems that track deforestation to sustainable forestry practices, innovation is key to overcoming the challenges threatening our forests.

History of International Day of Forests:

The United Nations General Assembly announced March 21 to be the International Day of Forests in 2012.
- The day aims to respect and promote the value of a wide range of forests. Countries are encouraged to take part in regional, global, and local drives to set up a scope of forest and tree-related campaigns, like planting campaigns.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Forum on Forests are the coordinators of the International Day of Forests.

Importance of International Day of Forests:

As per the UNGA, "The United Nations Forum on Forests and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with Governments, the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and other relevant organizations in the field are responsible for organizing the events and campaigns related to the World Forestry Day."
The importance of the International Day of Forests is to spread awareness and give instruction at all levels to guarantee feasible forest management and biodiversity preservation.

The Enduring Significance of Forests:

Forests are often referred to as the "lungs of the planet" for a reason.

They play a vital role in:

Combating Climate Change: Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas.
Protecting Biodiversity: Forests provide habitats for countless species of plants and animals, ensuring the health and balance of ecosystems.
Providing Clean Air and Water: Forests filter air and water, regulating our climate and providing us with essential resources.
Supporting Livelihoods: Millions of people around the world depend on forests for food, medicine, and income generation.

Celebrating and Taking Action:

World Forestry Day is a springboard for action and we can get involved by:
Support Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations working towards forest conservation and sustainable forestry practices.
Reduce Consumption: Make conscious choices to reduce consumption of paper and wood products, minimizing environmental footprint.
Plant a Tree: Plant a tree in our community or support tree-planting initiatives.
Spread Awareness: Educate ourselves and others about the importance of forests and the threats they face.
By taking action, big or small, we can all contribute to a future where our forests continue to thrive, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.

World Inequality Lab Report

21 Mar 2024

Project GR00T

21 Mar 2024

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AI chip leader Nvidia on Tuesday (March 19) announced Project GR00T or Generalist Robot 00 Technology, which promises to revolutionize the evolution of humanoid robots.

What is Project GR00T?

Project GR00T stands for Generalist Robot 00 Technology.
It is essentially a general-purpose foundation model for humanoid robots.
This ambitious project aims to create a general-purpose foundation model for humanoid robots, enabling them to understand natural language, learn new skills from observing humans, and solve various tasks in real-time.
Robots built on this platform are designed to understand natural language and emulate movements by observing human actions, such as instantly learning coordination, dexterity, and other skills.
This can help the robots navigate and engage with the real world around them.
The goal of Project GR00T is to advance the field of embodied artificial general intelligence (AGI) and drive breakthroughs in robotics.
NVIDIA intends to leverage its expertise in AI and its technological resources to develop this foundational model, which would provide humanoid robots with human-like abilities, such as emotion, reaction, and movement.

The Potential Consequences of Project GR00T and Humanoid Robots in the Workforce:

As humanoid robots, such as those envisioned by NVIDIA's Project GR00T, become more advanced and capable of handling various hazardous or repetitive tasks, concerns arise over potential job displacement.
- For instance, Nvidia's partnership with Hippocratic AI to develop AI-powered healthcare agents may lead to a reduction in the demand for nurses.
However, proponents argue that these robots can serve as valuable aids for humans, enhancing their quality of life and complementing their skills rather than supplanting them entirely.
Consequently, the impact of humanoid robots on the workforce may ultimately depend on their successful integration into existing labor structures, as well as the willingness and ability of society to adapt to this transformative technology.

Lianas and its Impact on Forest Ecosystem

21 Mar 2024

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Amidst escalating global temperatures, a pioneering study spearheaded by the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia, sheds light on an unexpected threat posed by Lianas.

What are Lianas?

Lianas are long-stemmed, woody vines that have their roots in the ground but use the trunks and branches of trees to climb their way up toward the canopy in order to reach sunlight.
The term “liana” applies more to this type of lifestyle than to any specific family of plants, as lianas come from a variety of different taxonomic groups.
They are found in tropical forests all over the world.
These plants have developed a unique climbing strategy to reach the forest canopy and maximize their access to sunlight for photosynthesis.
Their flexible stems, adventitious roots, and specialized structures such as tendrils and hooks allow them to twist, twine, and ascend the trunks and branches of trees.

How do Lianas Impact the Forest Ecosystem?

Lianas can have both positive and negative influences on forest ecosystems, depending on their abundance and the specific environmental context.

Positive Impacts of Lianas on Forests:

Biodiversity: Lianas enhance forest biodiversity by creating additional habitats, providing food resources, and supporting the life cycles of numerous organisms.
- Insects, birds, mammals, and even some epiphytic plants rely on lianas for food, shelter, and reproductive sites.
Nutrient Cycling: Lianas play a crucial role in nutrient cycling within forests. By absorbing nutrients from the forest floor and transferring them to the canopy through their stems, lianas facilitate nutrient exchange between different vertical layers of the forest.

Negative Impacts of Lianas on Forests:

Competition for Resources: High densities of lianas can lead to competition with trees for essential resources like light, water, and nutrients.
- This competition may impede tree growth, reduce seedling establishment, and hinder forest regeneration.
Impact on Forest Structure and Stability: By increasing the likelihood of tree fall during storms or strong winds, lianas can negatively affect forest structure and composition.
- When lianas grow on tree crowns, they increase the weight and wind resistance of trees, making them more susceptible to uprooting.
Economic Implications: Lianas can also impact the growth and reproduction of commercially valuable tree species, which has economic implications for forest management and timber production.
- Moreover, liana-infested trees often have reduced timber quality due to distortions in the tree trunk and branches.
Low Carbon Sequestration: Their lower carbon sequestering capacity compared to trees further exacerbates the threat to carbon storage.

Pusa Basmati Rice

21 Mar 2024

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Even as basmati rice exports from the country are poised to scale a new high, scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) have red-flagged the “illegal” cultivation of its blockbuster varieties in Pakistan.

Unauthorized Cultivation and Export of Pusa Basmati Rice Varieties in Pakistan:

Despite being officially registered and protected Indian varieties, several IARI-bred Basmati rice varieties, such as Pusa Basmati 1121, Pusa Basmati-6, and Pusa Basmati 1509, are being illegally cultivated and marketed in Pakistan.
- Recent YouTube videos even feature newer IARI varieties like Pusa Basmati-1847, PB-1885, and PB-1886, released in late 2021.
Pakistan's unauthorized Basmati exports have been substantial, with 7.58 lt ($694.55 million) in 2021-22 and 5.95 lt ($650.42 million) in 2022-23 (July-June).
- This growth is partly due to the depreciation of the Pakistani rupee, allowing the country to offer lower export prices than India.
The proliferation of these protected varieties in Pakistan can be attributed to the ease of seed multiplication.
- With just a small quantity of seeds, large-scale cultivation can be established within two years of the variety's release in India.
- This unauthorized cultivation not only undermines India's intellectual property rights but also impacts the competitiveness of India's Basmati rice exports in the global market.

What is the Basmati Crop Improvement Program?

The Basmati Crop Improvement Program focuses on refining the unique qualities of Basmati rice, such as its distinct grain characteristics, cooking properties, and pleasing aroma.
IARI has played a crucial role in the genetic enhancement, leading to the development of high-yielding, semi-dwarf, and photo-insensitive Basmati varieties like Pusa Basmati 1.
These improvements have significantly reduced the crop duration from 160 to 120 days and increased productivity from 2.5 to 6-8 tons per hectare.
As a result, these advanced Basmati varieties account for approximately 90% of India's projected $5.5 billion exports in 2023-24.
- This achievement contributes to substantial foreign exchange earnings and economic growth for the country.

Key Features of IARI-Developed Basmati Rice Varieties:

IARI has cultivated various Basmati rice varieties with distinct characteristics, including:
Pusa Basmati 1121: Known as the world's longest Basmati rice, it matures in 145 days with an average yield of 45 q/ha.
Pusa Basmati 1509: Derived from Pusa 1121 x Pusa 1301, this variety addresses Pusa Basmati 1121's weaknesses, matures in 115 days, and yields 5 tons/ha.
Improved Pusa Basmati 1 (Pusa 1460): This variety, the first product of molecular breeding in Indian rice, is an enhanced Pusa Basmati 1 with bacterial leaf blight resistance.
Pusa Basmati 6 (Pusa 1401): Offering superior grain quality, this variety improves upon Pusa 1121's yielding ability, agronomy, and cooking quality.
Pusa RH10: The world's first superfine grain aromatic rice hybrid, it was released in 2001 for commercial cultivation in specific irrigated ecosystems.

Registration and Cultivation Areas of Pusa Basmati Rice in India:

All Pusa Basmati rice varieties are officially recognized under the Seeds Act 1966 and can be cultivated within the designated Geographical Indication (GI) area of Basmati rice in India, encompassing seven northern states.
These varieties are further registered under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act 2001, which permits only Indian farmers to sow, save, re-sow, exchange, or share the seeds of protected/registered varieties.

Six Heritage Sites on Tentative UNESCO List

20 Mar 2024

State of Global Climate Report 2023

20 Mar 2024

Small-Scale LNG (SSLNG)

20 Mar 2024

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India's largest gas utility GAIL (India) Ltd commissioned the country's first SSLNG unit at its Vijaipur complex in Madhya Pradesh recently.

India Unveils Its First Small-Scale LNG Plant:

In a significant step towards a cleaner energy mix, GAIL (India) Ltd. has commissioned India's first Small-Scale LNG (SSLNG) plant in Vijaipur, Madhya Pradesh.
This plant will produce 36 tonnes of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) daily, utilizing cutting-edge technology like treatment skids and liquefaction skids to convert natural gas into LNG.
As part of India's commitment to increasing the proportion of natural gas in its primary energy mix from 6% to 15% by 2030, the SSLNG plant will play a pivotal role in reducing pollution emissions while catering to the nation's growing energy demands.
This milestone achievement paves the way for a greener future and positions India as a significant player in the global LNG landscape.

What is Small-Scale LNG?

Small-scale LNG (SSLNG) is an emerging industry that offers a novel approach to natural gas distribution.
While there is no standard international definition, SSLNG typically involves the liquefaction and transportation of natural gas in smaller quantities using specialized trucks and vessels.
- This allows for the supply of LNG to industrial and commercial consumers in regions without pipeline connectivity.
SSLNG can be sourced from existing large-scale LNG import terminals or small liquefaction plants in gas-rich locations.
- End-users regasify the LNG using small vaporizers for traditional use cases like supplying Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles and piped gas for households and industries.
Alternatively, LNG can be supplied in its liquid form for direct use.

Benefits of Small-Scale LNG (SSLNG):

Expanded Accessibility: SSLNG overcomes the constraints of traditional pipeline infrastructure, enabling natural gas delivery to regions previously lacking access.
- This opens new avenues for cleaner fuel alternatives and widespread energy availability.
Operational Flexibility: SSLNG's modular design allows for rapid deployment in response to local demand fluctuations, making it an ideal solution for remote locations, industrial environments, and diverse transportation requirements.
Sustainability Promotion: By fostering the adoption of cleaner fuels, SSLNG significantly reduces emissions in various transportation sectors, including trucks, buses, and marine vessels. This contributes to a greener future and combats climate change.
Strengthened Energy Security: Decentralized SSLNG distribution systems diversify fuel sources and bolster energy security, ensuring reliable and stable energy supply amid global fluctuations and uncertainties.

Challenges of Small-Scale LNG (SSLNG) Implementation:

Vehicle Availability Constraints: Limited options for LNG-powered vehicles impede the widespread adoption of LNG as a fuel source, underscoring the need for increased production and diversification of vehicle models.
Insufficient Retail Infrastructure: The lack of a well-established LNG retail network hinders convenient consumer access to LNG fuel, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure expansion and enhancement.
Higher Upfront Investment: The comparatively higher initial costs of LNG vehicles compared to traditional diesel options may deter potential buyers, necessitating innovative financial solutions and incentives.
Financing Barriers: The absence of dedicated financing options for LNG vehicles poses obstacles for interested buyers, requiring tailored financial instruments to support SSLNG uptake.
Restricted Pipeline Coverage: SSLNG faces logistical challenges in areas without existing natural gas pipeline networks, highlighting the need for infrastructure development to extend its reach to remote regions.
Regulatory and Permitting Hurdles: SSLNG projects may encounter regulatory and permitting setbacks, including environmental and safety concerns, potentially prolonging project timelines and inflating costs.
Addressing these challenges is essential for expediting SSLNG implementation and fostering its growth.

FSSAI Launches Comprehensive Lab Network for Pathogen Testing

20 Mar 2024

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With food poisoning and diarrhea becoming a common occurrence, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is working towards creating a network of 34 microbiology labs across the country that will be equipped to test food products for 10 pathogens, including E coli, salmonella, and listeria.

About the Initiative:

To address the growing concern of microbial contamination in food products, a network of 34 advanced microbiology laboratories has been established across the country.
These state-of-the-art facilities are specifically designed to test and monitor a wide range of food products for the presence of harmful pathogens, including E. coli, salmonella, and listeria, among others.
The nationwide initiative aims to strengthen the existing food safety framework by enhancing the early detection and prevention of foodborne illnesses.
- By analyzing food samples collected during routine surveillance, the labs will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and quality of consumable goods.
With a focus on safeguarding public health and well-being, this collaborative effort will contribute significantly to the overall improvement of food security and foster greater confidence in the food industry.
- As the network continues to expand and evolve, it will undoubtedly become an essential asset in the ongoing battle against foodborne pathogens and contamination.

Need for the Initiative:

India has witnessed a surge in food poisoning and diarrhea cases in recent years, emphasizing the critical need for improved food safety measures.
According to data from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), over 1,100 outbreaks of acute diarrhoeal disease and around 550 incidents of food poisoning occurred within the last four years.
- These troubling statistics underscore the urgency to address this pressing public health issue.
State food safety laboratories, responsible for ensuring the safety of consumable products, currently lack the necessary resources and infrastructure to effectively identify and mitigate the presence of dangerous pathogens.
- The complexities of maintaining live reference samples, the high costs of reagents, and the requisite expertise of microbiologists pose significant challenges in maintaining optimal food safety standards.
Consequently, the establishment of a comprehensive microbiology lab network becomes crucial in effectively addressing the growing threat of foodborne illnesses.
- By enhancing testing capabilities and promoting early detection, this initiative will ultimately contribute to a safer food supply, improved public health outcomes, and increased consumer confidence in the food industry.

About the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

As an autonomous body under India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the FSSAI was established in 2006 under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
- This act serves as a consolidating statute focusing on food safety and regulation in India.
The FSSAI's mission is to set global standards for food, encourage adherence to these standards, promote good manufacturing and hygiene practices, and enable citizens' access to safe and nutritious food.

Key functions include:

- Protecting public health by regulating and supervising food safety.
- Setting standards and guidelines for food articles.
- Issuing licenses, registrations, and accreditations for food businesses.
- Controlling food imports to prevent harmful ingredients.
- Accrediting food testing laboratories nationwide.
- Overseeing food certification in India, including accreditation of certification systems and food safety management systems for food businesses.
Through these efforts, the FSSAI plays a vital role in maintaining high food safety standards and safeguarding the well-being of India's citizens.

Reverse Flipping

20 Mar 2024

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Payments major Pine Labs and quick commerce firm Zepto are among the startups looking to relocate their headquarters from foreign shores to India, to capitalize on the country's burgeoning tech landscape.

What is Reverse Flipping?

Reverse flipping is a growing trend where overseas startups relocate their domicile to India and list on Indian stock exchanges.
- The primary motivation behind this shift is the potential for a higher valuation and more certain exit opportunities in India's thriving economic landscape.

Several factors contribute to the rise of reverse flipping:

Access to a large, expanding economy: India's significant market size and sustained economic growth offer foreign startups attractive prospects for business expansion and success.
Abundant venture capital: India's substantial venture capital resources provide a strong financial foundation for startups, fueling innovation and growth.
Favorable tax policies: The country's tax regulations encourage foreign startups to establish operations in India, helping them maximize profits and minimize costs.
Enhanced intellectual property protection: India's robust IP protection framework fosters innovation and creativity, safeguarding the unique ideas and technologies of startups.
Skilled, youthful workforce: The availability of a talented, young, and educated population provides startups with a valuable human resource pool to drive growth and success.
Supportive government policies: The Indian government actively promotes entrepreneurship and innovation through various initiatives and policies, creating a conducive environment for startups.
The Economic Survey 2022-23 acknowledged the importance of reverse flipping and suggested measures to expedite the process, including simplifying tax vacation procedures, ESOP taxation, capital movement, and reducing tax layers.
These efforts aim to further enhance India's appeal as a destination for foreign startups and foster economic growth.

What is Flipping?

Flipping refers to the process by which an Indian company becomes a 100% subsidiary of a foreign entity after moving its headquarters overseas, involving a transfer of intellectual property (IP) and other assets.
- This transforms an Indian startup into a fully-owned subsidiary of a foreign entity, with founders and investors maintaining their ownership through the new overseas structure by exchanging their shares.

The process of flipping poses several concerns for India:

The brain drain of entrepreneurial talent: As Indian startups move their operations overseas, India experiences a loss of innovative and entrepreneurial talent, which could otherwise contribute to the country's economic growth and development.
Value creation in foreign jurisdictions: Flipping redirects potential value creation to foreign countries, depriving India of the economic benefits that could result from successful startups and innovations.
Loss of Intellectual Property: When companies relocate and transfer their intellectual property overseas, India loses valuable IP assets, undermining the country's competitive advantage and innovation potential.
Reduced tax revenue: Flipping also contributes to decreased tax revenue for India as companies shift their operations and profits to other jurisdictions, which may have more favorable tax policies.

Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS)

19 Mar 2024

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Exporters seeking to avail duty concessions on shipments to the UK will have to adhere to the new British rules under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).

What is the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS)?

The Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) is a preferential trading scheme introduced by the United Kingdom to promote trade with developing countries and support their economic growth.
The DCTS is designed to support sustainable growth in these countries through a more generous unilateral offer compared to the current Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP).

Key provisions of the DCTS include:

Tariff Reduction: Lowering tariffs facilitates easier exportation of goods from developing countries to the UK market.
Liberalized Rules of Origin: Simplifying rules of origin requirements streamlines trade between developing nations and the UK.
Simplified Conditions: The scheme's conditions are simplified to facilitate easier access for developing nations.
The DCTS extends to countries currently benefiting under the UK's GSP, encompassing 47 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and 18 additional low-income (LIC) and lower-middle-income (LMIC) countries or territories identified by the World Bank.
However, it excludes countries classified as upper-middle income by the World Bank for three consecutive years or those with a free trade agreement (FTA) with the UK.
The UK government's policy response to the DCTS introduction is structured into four sections, addressing rules of origin, tariffs, goods graduation, and scheme conditions.
Overall, the DCTS signifies the UK's commitment to bolstering trade opportunities and sustainable growth in developing countries by providing improved market access and favorable trade terms.

Significance For India:

The Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) has significant implications for India, as it offers preferential access to the United Kingdom's market.
India, being classified as a lower-middle-income country by the World Bank, is eligible to benefit from the DCTS.
Trade opportunities: The scheme provides reduced or eliminated tariffs on various goods, making it easier for Indian exporters to access the UK market.
- This results in enhanced trade opportunities and increased competitiveness for Indian products.
Economic growth: By improving access to a major global market, the DCTS can contribute to India's economic growth, creating jobs and boosting the country's export sector.
Diversification: The scheme encourages Indian businesses to diversify their export portfolio, helping to reduce reliance on specific sectors or trading partners.
Sustainable development: Through its focus on promoting sustainable development and economic growth in participating countries, the DCTS aligns with India's own goals to foster inclusive and sustainable economic progress.

Overall, the DCTS presents a positive outlook for trade between India and the UK. It offers Indian exporters improved access to the UK market, reduced trade barriers, and a conducive environment for sustainable growth. India can leverage the opportunities provided by the DCTS to strengthen its trade relationship with the UK and potentially increase its exports, benefiting its economy and the livelihoods of its people.

Haemodialysis

19 Mar 2024

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Findings from a nationwide private hemodialysis network show that there is a variation in the survival of patients receiving hemodialysis in India depending on various factors, and stress on the need to standardize dialysis care across centers.

What is Hemodialysis?

Haemodialysis, also known as dialysis, is a medical procedure that helps individuals with kidney failure by removing waste products and excess fluid from their blood.
This procedure essentially performs the functions of the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering waste and maintaining the body's electrolyte balance.

Key points about hemodialysis:

Process: During hemodialysis, a patient's blood is circulated through a machine with a semipermeable membrane, called a dialyzer or an artificial kidney.
- The dialyzer filters out waste products, such as urea and creatinine, and excess fluid from the blood, which is then discarded, while essential components are returned to the patient's bloodstream.
Access: To perform hemodialysis, a patient typically requires vascular access, which is a surgically created connection between an artery and a vein, usually in the arm.
- This connection allows for the efficient flow of blood from the patient to the dialysis machine and back.
Duration: Haemodialysis treatment typically lasts for around 3-5 hours and is performed several times per week, depending on the patient's needs and kidney function.
Indications: Haemodialysis is prescribed for patients with end-stage kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), who need immediate intervention while waiting for a kidney transplant or when a transplant is not a suitable option.
Side effects: Some common side effects of hemodialysis include low blood pressure, muscle cramps, itching, and fatigue.
- Complications such as infection, access problems, and blood clotting may also occur, but these risks can be minimized with proper medical supervision and management.
In summary, hemodialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for patients with kidney failure, offering a means to maintain their health and well-being despite the loss of kidney function.

SAKHI App To Assist Gaganyaan Crew

19 Mar 2024

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The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) facility at Thumba in Thiruvananthapuram, has developed a multi-purpose app that will help astronauts on the Gaganyaan space flight mission carry out a range of tasks such as looking up vital technical information or communicating with one another.

About SAKHI App:

The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), an ISRO facility in Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram, has created the versatile 'SAKHI' app for astronauts on the Gaganyaan space flight mission.
SAKHI stands for 'Space-borne Assistant and Knowledge Hub for Crew Interaction'.

Purpose:

During the mission, the app will assist Gaganyaan crew members in various tasks such as accessing vital technical information and communicating with each other.

Utility:

Health Monitoring: It will monitor key health parameters like blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, providing crucial insights into the crew's physical condition during the mission.
Additionally, it will remind them of hydration, dietary schedules, and sleep patterns.
Connectivity:
Astronauts can use the app to maintain mission logs in various formats, including voice recordings, texts, and images.
It will ensure seamless communication between the crew, the onboard computer, and ground-based stations.
Current Status: An engineering model of the custom-built hand-held smart device featuring SAKHI has been tested, with the development of a flight model underway.

About the Gaganyaan Mission:

The primary objective of the mission is to demonstrate the capability to launch and safely return three crew members to low Earth orbit.
The Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) is designated as the launch vehicle for the Gaganyaan mission.
Crew Escape System (CES): A vital component of the mission, CES is powered by quick-acting, high-burn rate solid motors.
- It ensures the safe evacuation of the Crew Module and crew in case of emergencies during launch or ascent.
Orbital Module: Comprising the Crew Module (CM) and Service Module (SM), the Orbital Module orbits the Earth, providing safety and support throughout the mission phases.
Crew Module (CM): Designed to offer a habitable space with Earth-like conditions for the crew during their time in space.
Service Module (SM): This module supports the CM during orbit, containing essential systems such as thermal, propulsion, power, avionics, and deployment mechanisms.
This will mark ISRO's inaugural manned spaceflight mission, joining the ranks of the US, Russia, and China, which have previously conducted human spaceflights.

Nilgiris Forest Fire

19 Mar 2024

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed its assets to aid the local administration in dousing the raging forest fire that started recently in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiris district.

What is a Forest Fire?

A forest fire, also known as a wildfire, is an uncontrolled fire that occurs in forested areas or other vegetated landscapes.
These fires can spread rapidly, fueled by dry vegetation, high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds.
Once ignited, they can quickly grow in size, consuming vast areas of land, vegetation, and wildlife habitat.
Wildfires pose significant risks to human safety, property, ecosystems, and air quality.

Causes of Forest Fire:

Forest fires are caused by Natural causes as well as man-made causes.
- Natural causes: Many forest fires start from natural causes such as lightning which sets trees on fire.
  - However, rain extinguishes such fires without causing much damage. High atmospheric temperatures and dryness (low humidity) offer favorable circumstances for a fire to start.
- Man-made causes: Fire is caused when a source of fire like naked flame, cigarette or bidi, electric spark, or any source of ignition comes into contact with inflammable material.

Types of forest fire:

Surface Fire: This type of forest fire spreads primarily along the ground, consuming surface litter such as dry leaves, twigs, and grasses.
- The flames engulf the forest floor as they advance.
Underground Fire: Underground fires, also known as muck fires, burn with low intensity beneath the surface, consuming organic matter and surface litter.
- These fires often spread slowly and can continue burning for months, destroying vegetative cover.
Ground Fire: Ground fires occur in sub-surface organic fuels such as duff layers under forest stands or organic soils of swamps.
- They burn herbaceous growth and organic matter beneath the surface, often transitioning from smoldering underground fires.
Crown Fire: Crown fires involve the burning of the crowns of trees and shrubs, sustained by a surface fire.
- They are particularly hazardous in coniferous forests, where resinous material can fuel intense flames.

Frequency of Forest Fire in India:

Seasonality: Forest fires in India are prevalent from November to June, with peak activity typically occurring in April and May, encompassing both small-scale and large-scale incidents.
Vulnerability: The 2019 India State of Forest Report (ISFR) highlighted that over 36% of the country's forest cover is susceptible to frequent fires, with 4% categorized as extremely prone and an additional 6% as highly fire-prone.
Affected Regions: Dry deciduous forests experience severe fires, with Northeast India, Odisha, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand being particularly vulnerable areas.
Recent Incidents: Notable fire outbreaks occurred in 2021 across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Nagaland-Manipur border, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, including wildlife sanctuaries.
- In 2023, Goa faced large bushfires under investigation for potential human causes.
2024 Trends: Recent reports indicate heightened fire activity in Mizoram, Manipur, Assam, Meghalaya, and Maharashtra, with increased incidents along the Konkan belt, coastal Gujarat, southern Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, coastal Odisha, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Southern India: While Andhra Pradesh and Telangana witness fire incidents, forests in southern India, primarily evergreen or semi-evergreen, are less prone to fires, although Tamil Nadu has experienced recent wildfires.

Reasons Behind This Year's Fires:

Climate Factors: Dry conditions, high temperatures, clear skies, and light winds have fueled forest fires in southern India.
Temperature Trends: February 2024 was exceptionally hot, making it the hottest month in southern India since 1901.
Heat Accumulation: Above-average temperatures over the past months led to a buildup of heat, drying out biomass in forests ahead of the summer season.
Excess Heat Factor: Western Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are experiencing higher-than-normal EHF values, increasing the risk of heat waves.
Mild Aridity: Lack of rain and high temperatures have classified most districts in southern India as mildly arid.

World Air Quality Report 2023

19 Mar 2024

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India had the third worst air quality out of 134 countries in 2023 after Bangladesh and Pakistan according to the World Air Quality Report 2023 by IQAir.

About World Air Quality Report 2023:

The World Air Quality Report is an annual publication by IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitoring firm.
The report provides an in-depth analysis of global air quality, shedding light on the impact of air pollution on human health and the environment.

Key highlights from the report include:

India ranks third in poor air quality: With an average annual particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) concentration of 54.4 micrograms per cubic meter, India trails only Bangladesh and Pakistan in terms of poor air quality.
South Asian dominance in pollution rankings: Bangladesh and Pakistan occupy the top two positions in the air pollution rankings, while ten out of the eleven most polluted cities in the world are in India.
Delhi's alarming status: For the fourth consecutive year, Delhi has been identified as the world's most polluted capital city.
- Additionally, Bihar's Begusarai has been termed the world's most polluted metropolitan area.
India's widespread exposure: An overwhelming 96% of the Indian population experiences PM2.5 levels more than seven times the WHO annual PM2.5 guideline, emphasizing the need for urgent interventions to mitigate the health impacts of air pollution.

What is Particulate Matter (PM)?

Particulate Matter (PM) is a term used to describe a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air.
- These particles can be made up of various components such as dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and organic chemicals.
- They are classified based on their size, with PM2.5 and PM10 being the most commonly referenced categories.
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, which is about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.
- These particles are produced by various sources such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and wildfires.
- Due to their small size, they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, posing significant health risks.
PM10, on the other hand, refers to coarse particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less.
- These particles are larger and primarily originate from activities such as construction, road dust, and agricultural practices.
- While not as harmful as PM2.5, they can still enter the respiratory system and cause health problems.

Equity Issues in IPCC Reports

18 Mar 2024

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In a study published recently, researchers analyzed more than 500 future emissions scenarios the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessed in its latest reports.

About the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC):

The IPCC was created in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
It is the leading international body for the assessment of climate change.
It is a key source of scientific information and technical guidance to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
The IPCC provides governments with scientific information for use in developing climate policies.
The IPCC currently has 195 members.
The IPCC does not undertake new research. Instead, it synthesizes published and peer-reviewed literature to develop a comprehensive assessment of scientific understanding.
- These assessments are published in IPCC reports.
- They are subject to multiple drafting and review processes to promote an objective, comprehensive, and transparent assessment of current knowledge.
The IPCC’s work is guided by principles and procedures that govern all main activities of the organization.
IPCC member governments and observer organizations nominate experts and the IPCC's scientific governing body, the IPCC Bureau, selects authors and editors with expertise in a range of scientific, technical, and socio-economic fields.

What are IPCC Assessment Reports?

Typically, IPCC reports comprise three Working Group reports:
- One on physical science
- One on climate adaptation, and
- One on mitigation action.
One synthesis report consolidates findings from the three Working Group reports.
Then there are thematic special reports.
Each report assesses climate-related scientific literature to capture the state of scientific, technical, and socio-economic knowledge on climate change.
The IPCC is currently in its Seventh Assessment cycle (AR7).

How Does it Assess Future Scenarios?

The IPCC uses ‘modelled pathways’ to estimate what it will take to limit the warming of the earth’s surface.
These pathways are drawn using Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) that describe human and earth systems.
IAMs are complex models that examine possible futures of the energy and climate systems and economies.
Its macroeconomic models can point to future growth levels in terms of GDP;
- Its energy models can project future consumption
- Vegetation models can examine land-use changes; and
- Earth-system models use the laws of physics to understand how climate evolves.
With such integration across disciplines, IAMs are meant to provide policy-relevant guidelines on climate action.
However, these models also have shortcomings. They prioritize least-cost assessments — for example, the absolute cost of setting up a solar plant or undertaking afforestation in India is lower than in the U.S.
However, experts have said they could exercise the option of enabling countries to equitably share the burden of action, where the richest undertake more drastic mitigation action more immediately.

About the Latest Study:

Conducted by a team of specialists from Bengaluru and Chennai, the study scrutinized 556 scenarios outlined in the IPCC's AR6 report.
Their findings indicate that by 2050, per-capita GDP in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, West Asia, and other parts of Asia will remain below the global average.
Collectively, these regions account for 60% of the global population.
Additionally, the study highlighted disparities in the consumption of goods and services, as well as energy and fossil fuel consumption, between the Global North and the Global South.

Why Does Equity Matter?

Equity is crucial in climate action as per the UNFCCC, which mandates developed nations to lead in combating climate change.
However, current modeling approaches often overlook equity, burdening poorer nations disproportionately.
Researchers highlight the need for modeling techniques that prioritize climate justice and equitable distribution of responsibilities.
They argue that mitigation pathways should ensure developed regions accelerate towards net negative emissions and allocate carbon budgets to less developed regions.
Addressing this gap requires a paradigm shift in scenario building, emphasizing both equity and environmental sustainability.
This approach is vital for fostering global cooperation and achieving meaningful climate action.

Lisu and Singpho Communities

18 Mar 2024

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Children of the Lisu and Singpho communities in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam are named according to the order they are born in the family, incorporating numbers into their names.

News Summary:

In the Lisu or Yobin community of Arunachal Pradesh, names reflect the birth order of children, a tradition emphasizing familial hierarchy and cultural heritage.
This practice underscores the community's deep-rooted connection to family and tradition.
Recently, Birdwatchers discovered a new species of wren babblers in remote northeastern Arunachal Pradesh, aptly named the Lisu wren babbler.

Lisu and Singpho communities:

The Lisu and Singpho communities, belonging to the Tibeto-Burman ethnic family, share a unique tradition of employing numbered names to denote birth order within their families, serving as a testament to their ethnic cohesion and rich cultural legacy.
This naming tradition is prevalent among the Lisus, spanning regions such as Arunachal Pradesh, China, Myanmar, and Thailand, as well as the Singphos, who are prominent in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam in India.
- The Singphos, an ethnic community believed to have originated from the Kachin peoples, migrated from regions including upper Myanmar, Southwestern China, and Northern Thailand to settle in the eastern areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
Both communities adhere to specific naming sequences for boys and girls, supplemented by strategies to prevent confusion in cases of similar name counts within families, such as the use of prefixes or suffixes.
Furthermore, names may incorporate clan or ancestral references, adding layers of cultural and familial significance to the naming tradition, which underscores the profound connection to tradition and the enduring importance of family and clan identities within these communities.

About Wren Babblers:

Belonging to the babbler family Timaliidae, Wren Babblers encompass approximately 20 small Asian bird species.
Characteristics: These birds typically measure between 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) in length, featuring short tails and straight bills.
Natural Habitat: Primarily found in southern Asia, Wren Babblers inhabit various ecological niches.
Grey-bellied Wren Babblers: A closely resembling species to this newly discovered one, predominantly inhabit regions of Myanmar, with smaller populations also found in China and Thailand.

Revenue-Based Financing

18 Mar 2024

Chausath Khamba

18 Mar 2024

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Characterized by its marble pillars and intricate latticework, Chausath Khamba (64 pillars) stands adjacent to the Nizamuddin dargah, a 14th-century shrine erected in honor of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.

About the Chausath Khamba:

Chausath Khamba was built in AD 1623 - 24 to serve as a tomb for Mirza Aziz Koka, the foster brother of Mughal Emperor Akbar.
- It is so called on account of the 64 (chausath) monolithic marble pillars (khamba) and stands close to his father, Atgah Khan’s tomb, at the edge of the Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.
The tomb enclosure is entered through a lofty arched gateway and has a large sunken forecourt.
- The mausoleum is unique on account of it being built entirely of marble, with 25 marble domes supporting the flat roof of the structure.
- The plan for Chausath Khamba could have been inspired by the wooden garden pavilions from Persia - such as the Chihil Sutun, and in turn, the Chausath Khamba seems to have inspired the architectural design for Emperor Shahjahan’s Diwan-i-Aam, Hall of Audience.
Each facade of the square structure has five marble arches inset with marble jaallis or lattice screens and a doorway in the central arch providing access to the tomb.
- The column capitals are intricately carved with simple yet striking pendentives bridging the square floor plan to the circular dome above.
The structure also finds mention in Sir Gordon Risley Hearn’s book The Seven Cities of Delhi.
As per author and historian Sam Dalrymple, the edifice embodies the architectural style of Gujarat and Ahmedabad within Delhi, serving as the Urs Mahal for hosting festivities during the commemoration of Nizamuddin's passing.
- This illustrates the historical dissemination of regional architectural influences across India over centuries.

Predictive AI: Its Applications and Advantages

18 Mar 2024

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Predictive AI is revolutionizing data analysis, decision-making, and industry leadership, offering businesses unprecedented insights and strategic advantages.

What is Predictive Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Predictive artificial intelligence (AI) utilizes machine learning techniques to analyze historical data and forecast future events, distinguishing it from traditional AI focused solely on retrospective analysis.
This cutting-edge technology employs advanced algorithms and machine learning models to sift through extensive datasets, identifying subtle patterns and trends.
Unlike conventional approaches, Predictive AI doesn't just analyze data; it transforms it into actionable insights, enabling organizations to:
- Anticipate future outcomes,
- Predict market shifts, and
- Make strategic decisions with unprecedented foresight.
By continuously learning from past data and adapting to changing trends, Predictive AI becomes an invaluable tool, guiding businesses through uncertain landscapes.

How Predictive AI Work?

Leveraging Big Data: Predictive AI relies on access to extensive datasets, often referred to as "big data," as larger datasets typically lead to more accurate analyses.
Utilizing Machine Learning (ML): As a subset of AI, ML involves training computer programs to analyze data autonomously, without human intervention.
- In the realm of predictive AI, ML algorithms are applied to vast datasets to extract valuable insights.
Autonomous Processing: Predictive AI models are capable of autonomously processing massive datasets, eliminating the need for human oversight.
Pattern Recognition: Through ML techniques, predictive AI learns to recognize patterns within datasets, associating specific data points or occurrences with potential future events.
- By examining numerous factors, predictive AI can identify intricate patterns indicative of recurring events, enabling organizations to anticipate future outcomes effectively.

Difference Between Predictive AI and Generative AI:

Predictive AI and generative AI both employ machine learning techniques and leverage extensive datasets to generate their outputs.
However, while predictive AI utilizes machine learning to forecast future outcomes, generative AI employs machine learning to produce original content.
For instance, a predictive AI model may inform fishermen about impending storms, whereas a generative AI model may craft a fictional narrative depicting various scenarios involving weather and fishing expeditions.
While both types of AI rely on statistical analysis to discern patterns, their objectives, machine learning methodologies, and applications differ significantly.

Various Applications of Predictive AI:

Assessing the Impact of Natural Disasters: With the recent eruption of a volcano in Iceland, the potential repercussions on air travel echo concerns from a similar event in 2010, which disrupted flights across Europe.
- Predictive AI leverages data analysis to identify patterns and anticipate the impact of such extreme weather events on air travel. Platforms like Yandex offer interactive maps for real-time monitoring of ash clouds post-eruption.
Enhancing Oil and Gas Exploration: In the realm of oil and gas exploration, companies possess extensive historical geological data that can inform predictive AI systems.
- By analyzing past drilling successes, these systems can predict optimal locations for new oil wells.
  - For instance, Saudi Aramco utilizes its meta-brain generative AI to optimize drilling plans, analyze geological data, and forecast drilling outcomes accurately.
Inventory and Supply chain management: Predictive AI aids in inventory and supply chain management by identifying peak consumer demand periods, facilitating proactive stock adjustments, and optimizing resource allocation to address fluctuations in road congestion and meet increased user demands.
Marketing campaigns: Just as predictive AI can anticipate user or customer behavior, it can help prognosticate what kinds of content or products prospective customers may be interested in.
Advancing Medical Research: Predictive AI plays a pivotal role in drug discovery, a cornerstone of contemporary medical research.
- Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly collaborating to leverage predictive AI models for analyzing vast datasets and identifying potential drug candidates. Initiatives like the 'MELLODDY Project', supported by the EU Innovative
- Medicines Initiative and multiple pharmaceutical firms, exemplify this collaborative effort in pooling data and leveraging predictive AI for drug discovery.

First Drug to Treat Common, Lethal Liver Disease Gets US Nod

16 Mar 2024

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Madrigal Pharmaceuticals Inc.’s drug Rezdiffra gained the first US approval to treat a potentially deadly liver disease that affects millions worldwide, succeeding in an area where some bigger rivals have failed.

What is Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)?

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver.
NASH (or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) is a type of NAFLD that can damage the liver.
NASH occurs when the fat buildup in the liver leads to inflammation (hepatitis) and scarring.
NASH can be life-threatening, as it can cause liver scarring (called cirrhosis) or liver cancer.
It is estimated that 3% to 5% of the global population is affected by NASH, though the disease is considered to be underdiagnosed.

Who gets NASH?

The condition may be hereditary.
If a person has family members who have had NASH or NAFLD, they are at risk.
Additionally, having certain health conditions may increase a person’s risk of developing NASH. These include:
- Being overweight or obese.
- Having high cholesterol or high triglyceride levels.
- Having type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, or prediabetes.

What are the signs and symptoms of NASH?

NASH is known as a “silent” disease because many people present with few or no symptoms.
However, some people will experience tiredness, pain, and discomfort in the upper right part of the abdomen.

How is NASH diagnosed?

Diagnosing NASH can be challenging because symptoms may not be noticeable until the disease progresses.
Healthcare providers typically suspect NASH based on abnormal blood or liver test results or imaging showing liver fat.
Confirmation requires a liver biopsy, an invasive procedure with risks and expenses, involving taking a small liver sample for microscopic examination.

How is NASH treated?

To manage NASH, losing weight is often recommended as it can reduce liver fat, inflammation, and scarring.
This involves losing around 3% to 5% of body weight by limiting fats and sugars in the diet.
Heavy alcohol use should also be avoided to prevent further liver damage.
If NASH progresses to cirrhosis, treatment may involve medications, medical procedures, or even a liver transplant.
Currently, there are no approved medications specifically for treating NASH, but ongoing research aims to develop new treatments.

Google Deepmind’s new AI that can play video games with you

16 Mar 2024

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Google DeepMind recently revealed its latest AI gaming agent called SIMA or Scalable Instructable Multiworld Agent, which can follow natural language instructions to perform tasks across video game environments.

What is SIMA?

Scalable Instructable Multiworld Agent (SIMA) is an AI Agent, which is different from AI models such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google Gemini.
- AI models are trained on a vast data set and are limited when it comes to working on their own.
- On the other hand, an AI Agent can process data and take action themselves.
SIMA can be called a generalist AI Agent that is capable of doing different kinds of tasks.
It is like a virtual buddy who can understand and follow instructions in all sorts of virtual environments – from exploring mysterious dungeons to building lavish castles.
It can accomplish tasks or solve challenges assigned to it.
It is essentially a super-smart computer program that can be thought of as a digital explorer, having the ability to understand what you want and help create it in the virtual world.

How does SIMA work?

SIMA can understand commands as it has been trained to process human language.
- So when we ask it to build a castle or find the treasure chest, it understands exactly what these commands mean.
One distinct feature of this AI Agent is that it is capable of learning and adapting.
- SIMA does this through the interactions it has with the user.
- The more we interact with SIMA, the smarter it gets by learning from its experiences and improves over time.
- This makes it better at understanding and fulfilling user requests.
Based on the current stage of AI development, it is a big feat for an AI system to be able to play even one game.
- However, SIMA goes beyond that and can follow instructions in a variety of game settings.
- This could potentially introduce more helpful AI agents for other environments.

Tesla’s India entry gets boost as government approves new EV policy

16 Mar 2024

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The government announced a new electric vehicle (EV) policy recently that is expected to provide a major boost to Tesla's plans to start operations in India.

What is the Revised EV Policy Offering Tax Incentives?

The Government of India has sanctioned a new initiative aimed at positioning India as a premier manufacturing hub, fostering the production of cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) within the nation.
Crafted to entice investments from renowned global EV manufacturers, this policy seeks to provide Indian consumers access to state-of-the-art EV technology while bolstering the Make in India campaign.
By cultivating a competitive environment among EV players, the policy endeavors to fortify the EV ecosystem, stimulating innovation and efficiency.
Furthermore, it is anticipated to stimulate substantial production rates, capitalize on economies of scale, and drive down production costs, consequently curbing crude oil imports, narrowing trade imbalances, and mitigating urban air pollution, thereby fostering a healthier environment for all.

Key Features of the Policy:

Minimum Investment Requirement: Companies are mandated to invest a minimum of Rs 4,150 Crores.
Investment Ceiling: There is no upper limit on the investment amount.
Manufacturing Timeline: Companies must establish manufacturing facilities in India within 3 years and commence commercial production of e-vehicles.
- Within 5 years, they should achieve 50% domestic value addition.
Domestic Value Addition (DVA): Localization levels of 25% by the 3rd year and 50% by the 5th year are mandatory during manufacturing.
Customs Duty: A customs duty of 15%, applicable to Completely Knocked Down (CKD) units, will be enforced for 5 years.
Import Limits: Import of at most 8,000 EVs annually is permitted under this scheme, with provisions for carrying forward unutilized import quotas.
Bank Guarantee Requirement: Investment commitments necessitate bank guarantees to cover the forgone customs duty.

EV Adoption in India:

In 2023, electric vehicle sales in India surged by 49.25% year-on-year, surpassing 15 lakh units, as the Federation of Automobile Dealers' Association (FADA) reported.
This notable increase follows a total sale of approximately 10 lakh units recorded in 2022, indicating a rapid growth trajectory.
Factors contributing to this surge include improved product availability, escalating fuel prices, state subsidies, and incentives provided under the FAME-II Initiative.

What is the FAME-II Scheme?

The FAME India scheme, initiated in 2015, serves as an incentive program aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, with its acronym standing for "Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles in India."
In 2019, the Central government sanctioned Phase II of the FAME Scheme with a budgetary allocation of 10,000 Crore over three years, extending until March 31, 2024.
The primary objective of Phase II is to stimulate demand by facilitating the deployment of 7000 e-Buses, 5 lakh e-3 Wheelers, 55,000 e-4 Wheeler Passenger Cars (including Strong Hybrid), and 10 lakh e-2 Wheelers, thereby fostering the growth of the electric vehicle ecosystem.
Under the FAME-II scheme, nearly 2 lakh vehicles have received support, signifying a significant stride towards electric vehicle adoption in the country.

Government Initiatives to Promote EV Usage:

Battery Swapping Policy: The Battery Swapping Policy offers an alternative approach wherein discharged batteries are exchanged for charged ones, enabling efficient charging without vehicle downtime.
- NITI Aayog has recently unveiled a draft battery-swapping policy, prioritizing metropolitan cities with populations exceeding 40 lakh for the establishment of battery-swapping networks in the initial phase.
Switching to EVs: Central and State governments extend upfront subsidies to mitigate the overall costs associated with electric vehicles, incentivizing consumers to transition towards cleaner mobility options.
E-AMRIT Portal: The e-AMRIT portal serves as a comprehensive platform, furnishing resources and support to facilitate the seamless transition to electric vehicles, thereby bolstering the nation's electrification agenda.

Pandavula Gutta designated an exclusive Geo-heritage site in Telangana

16 Mar 2024

'ETHANOL 100' hits the road at 183 Indian Oil stations in five states

16 Mar 2024

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In a strategic advance towards cleaner fuel alternatives, India commenced the sale of ETHANOL 100 across 183 Indian Oil outlets in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, New Delhi, and Tamil Nadu.

What is ETHANOL 100 Fuel?

ETHANOL 100 fuel represents a significant advancement in automotive technology, offering a high-octane rating ranging from 100 to 105.
- This elevated octane level is particularly advantageous for high-performance engines, delivering improved efficiency and power output while simultaneously reducing environmental impact.
One of the key features of ETHANOL 100 is its remarkable versatility, making it suitable for a diverse range of vehicles, including flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) designed to accommodate various fuel types such as gasoline, ethanol, or any blend thereof.
- This adaptability ensures that ETHANOL 100 can seamlessly integrate into existing automotive fleets without requiring extensive modifications or infrastructure upgrades.
The composition of ETHANOL 100 consists of approximately 93 to 93.5 percent ethanol blended with 5 percent petrol and 1.5 percent co-solvent acting as a binder.
- This well-balanced formulation not only enhances fuel performance but also contributes to its practicality as a mainstream fuel option.
In addition to its performance benefits, ETHANOL 100 stands out as a cleaner and greener alternative to traditional gasoline.
- By emitting lower levels of greenhouse gases and pollutants, such as carbon dioxide and particulate matter, ETHANOL 100 plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change and improving air quality in our communities.
With the right infrastructure and support mechanisms in place, ETHANOL 100 has the potential to revolutionize the automotive industry by offering a sustainable and eco-friendly fuel solution that aligns with the global efforts to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainable development.

What are Flex-fuel Vehicles?

Flex-fuel vehicles are engineered to operate on a diverse range of fuels, offering consumers the flexibility to choose between petrol, ethanol, or methanol at the point of refueling.
Equipped with an internal combustion engine (ICE), these vehicles can seamlessly switch between different fuel types, providing versatility and convenience to drivers.
While possessing similarities to conventional petrol-only cars, flex-fuel vehicles undergo minor modifications to accommodate the use of alternative fuels, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance across various fuel options.

Devin AI, an AI software engineer, can handle coding projects end-to-end

15 Mar 2024

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Recently, a US-based startup Cognition has unveiled an AI-powered tool, Devin, which it calls the “world’s first fully autonomous AI software engineer”.

What is Devin?

Devin is a super-smart computer program created by a company called Cognition.
It's like having a clever assistant for software engineering tasks.
With just a simple instruction, Devin can write code, build websites, and make software all on its own.
- But Devin isn't trying to replace human engineers, instead, it's meant to work together with them to make their jobs easier.
The special feature of Devin is its ability to think ahead and solve tricky problems.
- It can learn from its mistakes and keep getting better over time.
- Plus, it has all the tools that a human engineer needs, like a way to write code and browse the internet.
Devin has been tested against other AI programs, and it did way better, solving almost 14 out of 100 problems compared to just under 2 for others.
So, in simple terms, Devin is like a super-smart assistant that helps engineers do their work faster and better, without taking their jobs away.

How does Devin work?

Devin works by using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to understand and execute tasks related to software engineering.
- When given a prompt or instruction, Devin analyzes the request and uses its vast database of knowledge and problem-solving techniques to generate code, design websites, or develop software.
One of Devin's key features is its ability to think ahead and plan complex tasks.
- It can make thousands of decisions based on the given task and learn from its mistakes to improve its performance over time.
- Devin also has access to essential tools like a code editor and web browser, enabling him to complete tasks from start to finish.
It can learn new technologies, tackle a wide range of engineering challenges, and even train its own AI models.
- Additionally, Devin can collaborate with human engineers in real time, providing updates, accepting feedback, and contributing to design choices.
Overall, Devin works by harnessing the power of AI to automate routine tasks, streamline workflows, and empower engineers to focus on more complex problems.
By combining human expertise with machine intelligence, Devin represents a significant advancement in software engineering technology.

Conservationists to propose Kazhuveli watershed region in T.N. for nomination to World Monuments Fund Watch 2025

15 Mar 2024

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The Eri (tank) network in the Kazhuveli watershed region in the Villupuram district which comprises an incredible network of tanks created thousands of years ago is to be proposed for nomination to the World Monuments Fund Watch 2025 program.

About the World Monuments Fund (WMF)?

The World Monuments Fund (WMF) is a non-profit organization headquartered in New York, committed to safeguarding and conserving endangered ancient and historic sites worldwide.
Collaborating with local partners globally, the WMF offers financial and technical assistance to support preservation efforts.
With a track record of raising over $300 million and securing an additional $400 million from other entities, the WMF has successfully preserved over 700 sites and championed the protection of more than 800 cherished landmarks since its establishment.

World Monuments Watch:

The World Monuments Watch, initiated in 1996, is a program centered on nominations, fostering a link between local heritage conservation and international engagement.
Through this initiative, the WMF has allocated over $110 million towards projects at over 300 Watch sites, enabling communities to utilize the platform's visibility to secure an additional $300 million from various funding sources.

World Monuments Fund in India:

In India, the World Monuments Fund (WMF) has focused on conserving significant cultural and ecological sites, including:

The Kazhuveli Watershed Region: Renowned for its ancient 'Eri' network, an intricate system of tanks dating back thousands of years.
- Situated in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu, spanning from Gingee to Marakkanam and extending to the Auroville plateau.
- Proposed pilot projects in Munnur village aim to develop a heritage toolkit applicable across the watershed and beyond if the nomination is successful.
Suranga Bawadi: An ancient water management system located on the Deccan Plateau in Karnataka.
- Included in the World Monument Watch list for 2020, highlighting its significance for preservation efforts.

Vision for Edible Oil Self-Reliance takes root in the North-East

15 Mar 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated the Government’s commitment to move towards self-sufficiency in edible oils production and harped on the importance of oil palm cultivation in the northeast region.

About the National Mission for Edible Oils - Oil Palm (NMEO-OP):

The National Mission for Edible Oils - Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) is an initiative launched by the Government of India in August 2021 to significantly enhance oil palm cultivation and crude palm oil production.
This centrally sponsored scheme prioritizes the North East region and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, aiming to boost the area and productivity of oilseeds and Oil Palm.
The targets of NMEO-OP include expanding the oil palm area to 10 lakh hectares by 2025-26, a substantial increase from 3.5 lakh hectares in 2019-20, along with elevating Crude Palm Oil production to 11.20 lakh tonnes by 2025-26 from 0.27 lakh tonnes in 2019-20.
Furthermore, the mission seeks to enhance consumer awareness to maintain a consumption level of 19.00 kg/person/annum until 2025-26.
Implementation of NMEO-Oil Palm involves various stakeholders such as the State Departments of Agriculture and Horticulture, Central University, ICAR-Institutions, CDDs, SAUs, KVKs, Central Agencies/Cooperatives, Oil palm processors/ Associations, DD Kisan, AIR, DD, TV channels.
The salient features of NMEO-OP encompass assistance for planting material, inputs for intercropping up to a gestation period of 4 years, the establishment of seed gardens and nurseries, micro-irrigation, bore well/pump set/water harvesting structure, vermicompost units, solar pumps, harvesting tools, custom hiring center cum harvester groups, farmers and officers training, and replanting of old oil palm gardens, among others.

Oil Palm Production in India:

Originating in West Africa, Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis) is a relatively recent crop in India known for its high vegetable oil yield per hectare.
It yields two main oils, palm oil, and palm kernel oil, utilized in both culinary and industrial applications.
The primary oil palm-growing states in India include Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala, which collectively contribute to 98% of the total production.
Additionally, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Gujarat, and Mizoram also have significant areas dedicated to oil palm cultivation.

India ranks 134th in global human development index

15 Mar 2024

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India has moved up a rank on the global Human Development Index (HDI), according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report ‘Breaking the gridlock: Reimagining cooperation in a polarised world’ released recently.

Highlights of the Recent Report:

The latest report revealed that India's global ranking improved slightly from 135th in 2021 to 134th in 2022, with a total of 193 countries assessed in 2022 compared to 191 in the previous year.
- In 2022, India exhibited progress across all Human Development Index (HDI) parameters, including life expectancy, education, and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita.
Notable advancements were observed in life expectancy, which increased from 67.2 to 67.7 years, while expected years of schooling reached 12.6, mean years of schooling rose to 6.57, and GNI per capita saw an uptick from $6,542 to $6,951.
Despite these positive strides, India continues to lag behind its South Asian counterparts, such as Bangladesh (129th), Bhutan (125th), Sri Lanka (78th), and China (75th).

What is the Human Development Index (HDI)?

The Human Development Index is published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
It is the most well-known index of human development.
It is based on the idea that human development means that people have long and healthy lives, are knowledgeable, and have a decent standard of living.
More specifically, these three dimensions are measured with four indicators:
- A long and healthy life: measured by life expectancy at birth
- Knowledge: measured by expected years of schooling (for children of school entering age) and average years of schooling (for adults aged 25 and older)
- A decent standard of living: measured by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita
Represented on a scale from 0 to 1, the HDI value reflects a country's level of human development, with higher values indicating greater development.
Computed as the geometric mean of normalized indices for each dimension, it offers a nuanced understanding of a nation's progress.
Furthermore, the HDI aligns with Amartya Sen's 'capabilities' approach, emphasizing the significance of achieving substantive ends in human well-being beyond mere economic indicators.
Since its inception in 1990, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has annually published the Human Development Report, which incorporates the latest HDI findings and insights.

Honoring, the Architect of Mumbai (Bombay)

15 Mar 2024

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The Maharashtra cabinet recently decided to ask the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central Station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth.

Who was Nana Jagannath Shankarseth?

Nana Jagannath Shankarseth was a social reformer, educationist, and philanthropist and often described as the “architect” of Mumbai (then Bombay).
He made extremely valuable contributions in terms of both ideas and money to multiple sectors, to lay a strong foundation for the city.
Shankarseth was greatly inspired by the legendary merchant and philanthropist Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.
As a social reformer and community leader, Shankarseth earned the goodwill of both Indians and the British.
He became the first Indian to be nominated to the Legislative Council of Bombay.

Shankarseth’s Most Significant Contributions:

Education: Shankarseth was deeply committed to the growth and spread of education in Bombay, and donated land owned by his family for educational institutions.
- Like many social reformers of his age, he believed that Indians could progress through education.
- He also worked for the education of girls and women.
Shankarseth founded the Native School of Bombay, which was renamed first as the Bombay Native Institution, and then as the Board of Education.
- Finally, this institution evolved into the prestigious Elphinstone College.
Museum, Temples: Shankarseth was among the wealthy donors who helped promote Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Byculla, which was designed by a famous London-based architect.
- The Bhawani Shankar Temple near Nana Chowk was Shankarseth’s tribute to his late mother Bhawanibai Murkute.
- He also built a Ram temple.
Railways: The first train in India ran between Boribunder and Thane on April 16, 1853.
- The 34-km project was undertaken by the Great Indian Peninsular Railway Company.
- The committee that gave the project impetus included Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy and Nana Shankarseth.

World Pi Day 2024: International Day Of Mathematics And Worldwide Celebrations

14 Mar 2024

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Every year, International Day of Mathematics (IDM) is celebrated on March 14 to spread awareness about its role in solving real-world problems.

About International Day of Mathematics:

Every year, International Day of Mathematics (IDM) is celebrated on March 14 to spread awareness about its role in solving real-world problems.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared the International Day of Mathematics at the 40th General Conference on November 19, 2019.
This day also sheds light on Mathematics' importance in different areas like climate change, energy, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development.
International Day of Mathematics coincides with International Pi Day.
- Pi is one of the most widely known mathematical constants and it is rounded to 3.14, which is why it is observed on March 14.
IDM is an opportunity to educate students about the role and importance of mathematics in improving quality of life.
It also empowers women and girls to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals for the 2030 agenda.

History:

The 205th session of UNESCO’s Executive Council adopted the International Day of Mathematics.
The 40th session of UNESCO's General Conference adopted March 14 as the International Day of Mathematics, which was the first official celebration with the theme 'Mathematics is Everywhere'.
It is an opportunity to understand the importance of mathematics in daily life promoting mathematics use for the advancement of society.

Significance:

International Day of Mathematics is celebrated to promote Mathematics in different fields highlighting the role of mathematics in solving the real-life world and addressing social concerns.
IDM shows the application of mathematics in different fields of life including science, technology, engineering, and economics.
IDM promotes mathematics at different levels encouraging educators, policymakers, parents and to stress the importance of mathematics and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields.
- STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It is an opportunity to share research, discoveries, and insights with the general public and demystify the subject to make it more accessible.
International Day of Mathematics is a global initiative to foster collaboration and exchange ideas across borders, cultures, and disciplines.
The day aims to promote mathematics and help address global challenges through it.

The theme for International Day of Mathematics 2024:

The theme for International Day of Mathematics 2024 is 'Playing With Math.'

News-sharing service by Prasar Bharati launched, content to be ‘free of copyright’

14 Mar 2024

Lab to monitor seawater quality and testbed to track monsoon systems inaugurated

14 Mar 2024

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Recently India commissioned the atmospheric testbed facility near Bhopal, equipped with high-end instruments to record vital parameters for enhancing weather models and conducting advanced studies on the Indian monsoons, with construction commencing in early 2018.

What is the Atmospheric Research Testbed (ART)?

The ART is an open-field, focused observational and analytical research programme at Silkheda.
The facility aims to conduct ground-based observations of weather parameters like temperature, wind speeds, etc., and in-situ (on-site) observations of the transient synoptic systems – like low-pressure areas and depressions that form in the Bay of Bengal – during the southwest monsoon season from June to September.
Studying these systems and their associated cloud parameters will be used to generate high volumes of data over a long period.
- It can then be compared with the existing weather models so that improvements can be made to obtain accurate rainfall predictions.
The setup at ART will also be used for calibrating and validating various satellite-based observations, part of weather predictions and forecasting.
Spread over 100 acres, the ART has been developed by the Ministry of Earth Sciences for Rs 125 crore.
The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, is in charge of the operations.
Under the first phase, remote sensing-based and in-situ measurements using 25 meteorological instruments have commenced.
In the second phase, ART will deploy instruments such as a radar wind profiler and balloon-bound radiosonde, and soil moisture and temperature measuring equipment.

What instruments are ART equipped with?

To obtain continuous observations of convection, clouds, and precipitation, and monitor the major modes of variabilities, the ART is equipped with over two dozen high-end instruments, radars, and more.
- At 72 meters, ART will house India’s tallest meteorological tower.
Some of the instruments deployed are an aethalometer for performing aerosol studies, a cloud condensation nuclei counter, a laser ceilometer to measure cloud sizes, a micro rain radar to calculate raindrop size and its distribution, and a Ka-band cloud radar and a C-band Doppler weather radar to help track the movement of rain-bearing systems over this zone.

Why is having an Atmospheric Research Testbed important?

At present, 45% of India’s labor force is employed in the agriculture sector and much of Indian agriculture is rain-fed.
Cultivation along the Monsoon Core Zone (MCZ), which spans the central India region from Gujarat to West Bengal, is primarily rainfall-fed.
The southwest monsoon season accounts for 70 percent of the country’s annual average rainfall (880mm).
Throughout India, the majority of Kharif cultivation is undertaken between July and August, which see an average monthly rainfall of 280.4mm and 254.9mm (1971–2020 average), respectively.
During this four-month-long season, several rain-bearing synoptic systems, namely the low pressures or depressions, develop in the Bay of Bengal.
Inherently, these systems move westwards/northwestwards over to the Indian mainland and pass through the MCZ, causing bountiful rainfall.

Why is it important to have data about monsoons over central India?

Studies have correlated the all-India rainfall performance to the rainfall received over the central India region, highlighting its importance.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues rainfall forecasts for the country’s four homogeneous regions – north, west, east, and south peninsular India.
- In addition, it issues a special rainfall forecast for the MCZ, which is considered India’s food bowl.
However, there is still limited understanding of the role of these synoptic systems, their associated cloud physics, cloud properties, and their overall role in enhancing the monsoon rainfall.
Central India, therefore, acts as a natural laboratory for scientists and meteorologists to perform a hands-on study of the Indian monsoons.
- They can record data and make observations about the allied systems, clouds, and other associated physical and atmospheric parameters.
Additionally, climate change is driving erratic rainfall patterns in tropical regions, like India.
It has also strengthened the low-pressure systems, which are aided by high temperatures.
- This results in very heavy rainfall recorded along their trajectory during the monsoons.
Now, with ART, scientists will be able to generate and obtain long-term observations on cloud microphysics, precipitation, convection, and land-surface properties, among a host of other parameters.
This information will be assimilated and fed into the numerical weather models to enhance forecast output, especially the rainfall forecasts.
More accurate forecasts will ultimately help the farming community plan their activities better.

Why Madhya Pradesh?

The ART has been established at Silkheda, a location that falls directly in line with the path of major rain-bearing synoptic systems.
- This will facilitate direct monitoring and tracking.
Besides, the locality is pristine and free of anthropogenic and other pollutants, making it the best site in central India for setting up sensitive, high-end meteorological instruments and observatories for recording data.

Methane emissions from fossil fuels remain high despite progress, US tops list of emitters: IEA

14 Mar 2024

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As per the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Global Methane Tracker 2024, methane emissions from fuel consumption in 2023 approached record levels, nearing their highest point in history.

About the Global Methane Tracker:

The Global Methane Tracker is an annual publication issued by the International Energy Agency (IEA), presenting the latest data on methane emissions primarily from the energy sector. It integrates recent scientific research, measurement campaigns, and satellite data.

Key Highlights from the Global Methane Tracker 2024:

Methane emissions from fuel usage in 2023 approached record levels, reaching approximately 120 million tonnes (Mt), marking a slight increase from the previous year.
Bioenergy, derived from plant and animal waste, contributed an additional 10 million tons of emissions.
Out of the total methane emissions, around 80 million tons originated from ten countries, with the United States and Russia leading in emissions from oil and gas operations, and China leading in emissions from coal operations.
Despite indications of declining emissions in certain regions, the overall methane emissions remain alarmingly high, posing a significant challenge to achieving global climate objectives.
To align with the Paris Agreement goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C, there is a critical need to reduce methane emissions from fossil fuels by 75 percent by 2030.
Achieving this target would require an estimated investment of approximately $170 billion, representing less than 5 percent of the revenue generated by the fossil fuel industry in 2023.

About the International Energy Agency (IEA):

The International Energy Agency is an intergovernmental organization headquartered in Paris, established in 1974.
Its primary mandate is to ensure stability in the international oil supply, a response to the oil crisis of 1973, which led to temporary disruptions in the global oil supply chain.
Operational Framework: The IEA functions within the broader scope of the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD).
Membership: As of 2022, the IEA comprises 31 member nations, with India joining as an associate member in 2017.
Key Requirement: Member countries are obligated to maintain reserves equivalent to 90 days of the previous year's net oil imports.
- These reserves must be readily accessible by the government to address potential disruptions in the global oil supply chain, even if the reserves are not owned directly by the government.

NITI Aayog launches 'vocal for local' initiative to promote grassroots-level entrepreneurship

14 Mar 2024

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NITI Aayog on Wednesday launched the 'Vocal for Local' initiative under its Aspirational Blocks Programme to bolster local economies and foster grassroots-level entrepreneurship, an official statement said.

What is the ‘Vocal for Local’ Initiative?

The 'Vocal for Local' initiative, led by NITI Aayog through its Aspirational Blocks Programme, aims to foster self-reliance and sustainable development.
Under this initiative, products from 500 aspirational blocks have been curated and unified under the Aakanksha brand.
- Aakanksha is an overarching brand, with potential extensions into various sub-brands to tap into global markets.
A dedicated section has been established on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal under the Aakanksha brand to promote these products.
Additionally, partners in the initiative offer support in areas such as e-commerce facilitation, establishing market linkages, financial and digital literacy, documentation and certification, and skill enhancement.

About Aspirational Blocks Programme:

Inspired by the Aspirational District Programme launched in 2018, the Aspirational Blocks Programme extends its reach to 112 districts nationwide.
This new initiative targets the enhancement of underperforming blocks across various development indicators.
It aims to foster comprehensive growth in regions requiring additional support.
Initially encompassing 500 districts across 31 States and Union Territories, the programme focuses on blocks in six key states: Uttar Pradesh (68 blocks), Bihar (61), Madhya Pradesh (42), Jharkhand (34), Odisha (29), and West Bengal (29).

What is the Government e-Marketplace (GeM)?

Established in 2016 by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) serves as an online platform for public procurement.
GeM acts as a centralized portal, streamlining the procurement process for common-use Goods & Services required by various Government Departments, Organizations, and PSUs.
Purchases made through GeM by Government users are mandated by the Ministry of Finance under the General Financial Rules, 2017.
GeM is operated by GeM SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle), a 100% Government-owned, non-profit company operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

On Dandi March anniversary, PM Modi launches master plan for Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram redevelopment

13 Mar 2024

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Describing various initiatives of his government as “a way of its dedication towards Mahatma Gandhi”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a master plan for the Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram redevelopment project in Ahmedabad recently, on the anniversary of the historic Dandi March.

About Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram redevelopment project:

On the anniversary of the historic Dandi March, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a master plan for the Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram redevelopment project in Ahmedabad.
- This joint initiative by the central government and the Gujarat government, known as the Gandhi Ashram Memorial and Precinct Development Project, is set to cost around Rs 1,200 crore.
During the inauguration, PM Modi emphasized the importance of conserving heritage sites, stating that "a country which cannot conserve its heritage also loses its future."
- He highlighted the collective responsibility of all Indians to preserve this globally renowned site, which holds immense historical and cultural significance.
The government's commitment to restoring old buildings to their original form, with the aim of eliminating the need for new constructions, was outlined by PM Modi.
- This approach aligns with the principle of preserving the authenticity and integrity of heritage sites, ensuring that future generations can experience and appreciate their true essence.
The Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram, established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1917, played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence.
- By undertaking this redevelopment project, the government seeks to honor the legacy of the father of the nation and create a space that inspires future generations to learn from his life and teachings.

About Dandi March:

The Dandi March, also known as the Salt March or Salt Satyagraha, was a significant non-violent protest action led by Mahatma Gandhi in March-April 1930.
- This landmark event marked the beginning of a larger civil disobedience campaign that Gandhi waged against British rule in India, which extended into early 1931.
- The Dandi March garnered widespread support for Gandhi among the Indian populace and drew considerable international attention.
The motivations behind the Dandi March were rooted in the British monopoly over salt production and distribution in India.
- A series of laws prohibited Indians from producing or selling salt independently, forcing them to purchase heavily taxed salt that was often imported.
- This affected the majority of Indians, who were poor and could not afford the high cost of salt. Indian protests against the salt tax had begun in the 19th century and remained a major point of contention throughout British rule.
By undertaking the Dandi March and defying the salt laws, Gandhi sought to mobilize the Indian populace against British oppression and galvanize support for the Indian independence movement.
- The march, which covered over 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, symbolized the spirit of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience that would come to characterize India's struggle for freedom.

Impact of Dandi March:

The Dandi March had a profound impact on the Indian independence movement and left an indelible mark on the country's history.
- The mass civil disobedience that ensued after Gandhi's iconic march led to millions of Indians breaking the salt laws by making or buying illegal salt.
Gandhi's unwavering commitment to satyagraha against the salt tax inspired countless others to join the movement, including prominent leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Thousands were arrested and imprisoned, including Gandhi himself, but the spirit of resistance only grew stronger.
News of Gandhi's detention galvanized tens of thousands more to join the satyagraha, and the march on the Dharasana salt works went ahead as planned in May 1931.
- Despite facing violent opposition from the police, the peaceful marchers, led by the poet Sarojini Naidu, persisted in their nonviolent resistance.
Gandhi's release from custody in January 1931 marked a turning point, as he began negotiations with Lord Irwin aimed at ending the satyagraha campaign.
- These efforts culminated in the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, signed on March 5, 1931, which formalized a truce between the Indian independence movement and the British government.
The Dandi March, therefore, served as a catalyst for change, uniting Indians from all walks of life in a shared struggle for freedom and justice.
- The events of the Salt Satyagraha remain an enduring symbol of the power of nonviolent resistance and the indomitable spirit of the Indian people in their quest for self-determination.

Khelo India Rising Talent Identification will take sports to the doorstep of aspiring champions

13 Mar 2024

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Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur inaugurated the unique Khelo India Rising Talent Identification (KIRTI) programme amidst much enthusiasm at the Sector 7 sports complex, in Chandigarh recently.

About the KIRTI Programme:

The KIRTI Programme is an ambitious nationwide initiative aimed at school children between the ages of nine and 18.
- With a dual focus, the scheme strives to uncover hidden talent from every corner of the country while simultaneously utilizing sports as a powerful tool to combat addiction to drugs and digital distractions.

Primary Objectives of KIRTI's Programme:

Identifying and nurturing talented young athletes from across India, ensuring that no potential goes unnoticed.
Leveraging sports as a means to steer youth away from harmful addictions and encourage a healthier, more active lifestyle.
To achieve these goals, KIRTI plans to conduct 20 lakh assessments throughout the year at designated Talent Assessment Centres across the nation.
- The programme launched with a strong start at 50 centers in India, assessing 50,000 applicants in the first phase across 10 sports such as athletics, boxing, wrestling, hockey, and football.
KIRTI's athlete-centric approach is characterized by its transparent selection methodology, which is grounded in Information Technology.
- The programme employs data analytics based on Artificial Intelligence to predict sporting potential in aspiring athletes, ensuring that talent identification is both objective and data-driven.
- By channeling India's youth towards sports and providing them with the necessary support, KIRTI aims to foster a new generation of athletes and promote a healthier, more active society.

About Khelo India Scheme:

The Khelo India Scheme is the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India.
- This Central Sector Scheme is designed to instill a sports culture and achieve sporting excellence in the country by leveraging the transformative power of sports and its cross-cutting influence.
The Khelo India Scheme encompasses multiple verticals, with "Sports Competitions and Talent Development" being a key focus area.
- Within this vertical, the "Talent Identification and Development" component plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing athletes at both the grassroots and elite levels.
- The primary objective is to strengthen the sports ecosystem in India by cultivating talent and providing athletes with the necessary resources and support to excel in their respective disciplines.
Through the Khelo India Scheme, the government aims to promote sports as a way of life, encouraging greater participation and creating a robust platform for athletes to showcase their skills.
- By investing in sports infrastructure, training, and competition opportunities, the scheme seeks to establish India as a global sporting powerhouse and inspire future generations to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and athletic achievement.

Govt's new code bars unethical marketing of drugs by pharma firms

13 Mar 2024

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The government has notified a new legal code to curb the unethical marketing of drugs and banning medical representatives from using “inducement” to access healthcare professionals

About the Uniform Code of Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024:

The UCPMP 2024 has been implemented to regulate unethical practices within the pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on promoting transparency and ethical conduct.
- The updated guidelines encompass various aspects, including drug endorsement, promotion, ethical behavior for medical representatives, and the maintenance of professional relationships with healthcare professionals.

Key provisions of the UCPMP 2024 include:

Prohibiting the offering of gifts and travel facilities to healthcare professionals or their family members by pharmaceutical companies.
Mandating that medical representatives should not use any form of inducement or subterfuge to gain interviews with healthcare professionals, nor should they provide payment for access under any guise.
Holding pharmaceutical companies responsible for the actions of their medical representatives.
Banning the supply of free drug samples to individuals who are not qualified to prescribe such products.
Requiring each pharmaceutical company to maintain detailed records of free samples provided to healthcare practitioners, with the total value of distributed samples not exceeding two percent of the company's domestic sales per year.
Compulsory constitution of an Ethics Committee for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (ECPMP) by all pharmaceutical associations, along with the establishment of a dedicated UCPMP portal on their websites for implementation and monitoring purposes.
Detailed guidelines on how drugs should be promoted in textual and audio-visual marketing materials, ensuring that information is balanced, up-to-date, verifiable, and non-misleading.
Restrictions on making unverified claims and comparisons about a drug's usefulness, as well as using terms like "safe" and "new" without proper qualification.
Assigning responsibility for adherence to the UCPMP 2024 to the Chief Executive Officers of pharmaceutical companies.
Outlining penalties for violating the code and establishing a clear process for handling complaints, ensuring accountability and effective oversight.
The UCPMP 2024 serves as a comprehensive framework for promoting ethical practices within the pharmaceutical industry, aiming to protect the interests of patients, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders while fostering an environment of transparency and integrity.

India world’s top arms importer between 2019-23: SIPRI

13 Mar 2024

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India was the world’s top arms importer for the period 2019-23 with imports having gone up by 4.7% compared to the period 2014-18, according to the SIPRI.

Highlights from the SIPRI Report 2023:

The report highlights that India continues as the world’s largest arms importer, maintaining this position despite ongoing efforts to enhance its defense-industrial base, accounting for a significant 9.8% of global arms imports between 2019 and 2023.
- There has been a steady increase in India's arms imports, with a 4.7% rise observed between 2014-18 and 2019-23, attributed in part to emergency procurements prompted by the prolonged military standoff with China.
The dynamics of arms suppliers are changing, with Russia historically serving as India's primary weapons supplier, still accounting for 36% of its arms imports, although there is a shift towards diversification, with India increasingly turning to Western countries and domestic manufacturers.
- Notably, between 2019-23, Russian deliveries constituted less than half of India's arms imports for the first time since 1960-64.
Western suppliers like France and the United States are emerging as key players, collectively accounting for 46% of India's arms imports, with significant contracts in progress, such as India's procurement of 31 armed MQ-9B Sky Guardian drones from the US and 26 Rafale-M fighters from France.
In the global arms trade landscape, India ranks as the top importer, followed by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Ukraine, Pakistan, Japan, Egypt, Australia, South Korea, and China, while the United States leads among exporters with a 42% share, followed by France and Russia.
India's role as a major arms customer is underscored by its position as the largest arms customer for France, Russia, and Israel, highlighting its significance in global arms procurement.
- Meanwhile, China remains a dominant supplier to Pakistan, accounting for 61% of its exports, and also exports 11% of its arms to Bangladesh, consolidating its influence in the region.

Challenges Encountered by India in Indigenous Production of Defense Equipment:

Efforts to promote indigenous defense production, exemplified by initiatives like 'Make in India', have encountered persistent challenges, notably the failure to materialize any projects under the Strategic Partnership (SP) model, which was introduced to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors within the defense industry.
The SP model, designed to facilitate joint endeavors between government-owned defense entities and private companies, has yet to yield tangible results, necessitating a thorough review of the policy framework.
- Key areas for improvement include a reevaluation of pricing methodologies, ensuring long-term orders to sustain production, and addressing bottlenecks that impede project implementation.
Furthermore, India's defense sector has seen minimal Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), amounting to only Rs 5,077 crore since the sector was opened to private companies in 2001.
- Despite efforts to liberalize FDI regulations, such as allowing up to 74% through the automatic route and up to 100% through the government route in 2020, investment inflows remain disproportionately low.

About Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI):

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is a renowned independent international institute committed to investigating various aspects of conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament.
Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, SIPRI consistently ranks among the world's most respected think tanks.

SIPRI's mission is multi-faceted and encompasses the following key objectives:

Conducting in-depth research and activities related to security, conflict, and peace, with the aim of developing a deeper understanding of the complex factors that influence global stability.
Providing insightful policy analysis and recommendations to policymakers, international organizations, and civil society actors, helping them make informed decisions and develop strategies to address security challenges.
Facilitating dialogue and building capacities among various stakeholders, including governments, academia, and non-governmental organizations, to foster cooperation and promote mutual understanding on peace and security issues.
Promoting transparency and accountability in the field of international security by maintaining comprehensive databases on arms transfers, military expenditure, and other relevant data, which contribute to a more accurate assessment of global security trends.
By adhering to these core principles and objectives, SIPRI plays a vital role in advancing the global discourse on peace and security, while supporting efforts to mitigate conflict and promote stability worldwide.

Decoding the Trillion-Dollar Impact of GPUs on the AI Industry

13 Mar 2024

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As the global demand for the latest AI technologies surges, one unexpected item has emerged as a highly sought-after commodity: the graphics processing unit (GPU).

What is a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)?

A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is a specialized computer chip designed to efficiently render graphics and images by performing rapid mathematical calculations.
- Widely used in both professional and personal computing, GPUs were initially developed to handle the rendering of 2D and 3D images, animations, and video content.
Similar to a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a GPU is an integral component of computing devices.
- However, the primary distinction lies in the GPU's specialized design to handle and accelerate graphics workloads and display graphics content on devices like PCs or smartphones.
While a typical modern CPU consists of between 8 and 16 "cores" that process complex tasks sequentially, GPUs contain thousands of smaller cores.
- These cores are engineered to work simultaneously ("in parallel") to achieve fast overall processing, making GPUs ideal for tasks involving numerous simple operations that can be executed concurrently.
GPUs operate using a technique called parallel processing, where multiple processors manage separate parts of a single task.
- They also possess their own dedicated RAM to store and process large amounts of data for graphics-intensive applications.
  - In graphics applications, the CPU sends instructions to the GPU for drawing graphics content on the screen.
  - The GPU then executes these instructions in parallel at high speeds, displaying the content on the device—a process known as the graphics or rendering pipeline.
Modern GPUs have expanded beyond their traditional role in graphics rendering and are now employed in various applications such as creative content production, video editing, high-performance computing (HPC), and artificial intelligence (AI).
- By offloading graphics-related tasks from the CPU, GPUs enable fast and smooth rendering of content on computer screens.
- As technology continues to advance, the applications of GPUs will likely expand even further, solidifying their position as an essential component in the computing landscape.

Mission Divyastra: India's Agni-V missile makes maiden flight with MIRV

12 Mar 2024

STPI launches 24th Centre of Entrepreneurship FinGlobe in Gandhinagar to nurture startups in fintech & banking services

12 Mar 2024

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Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) recently launched its 24th Center of Entrepreneurship (CoE) - "FinGlobe," dedicated to fostering innovation and growth in the financial technology sector, at STPI-Gandhinagar, GIFT City.

About Software Technology Parks of India (STPI):

Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) was set up in 1991 as an autonomous society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
STPI’s main objective has been the promotion of software exports from the country. STPI acts as ‘single-window in providing services to the software exporters.
The services rendered by STPI for the software exporting community have been statutory services, data communications services, incubation facilities, training and value-added services.
STPI has played a key developmental role in the promotion of software exports with a special focus on SMEs and start-up units.

Services of STPI:

Main services of STPI include Statutory services, Incubation and Data communication services to the IT/ITES/ESDM sector.
- Statutory services: STPI has been implementing the Software Technology Park (STP) scheme and the Electronics Hardware Technology Park (EHTP) scheme for the promotion of the IT/ITES industry.
- STP Scheme is a unique scheme, designed to promote the software industry and growth of start-ups and SMEs without any locational constraints.
Incubation services: STPI is offering ultra-modern office facilities to small units and entrepreneurs.
- Plug-n-Play facilities for start-ups enable a short gestation period.
- This has encouraged many entrepreneurs to start their own operations and grow in a competitive environment.

Objectives of STPI:

Promotion of software and software services development and exports, including IT Enabled Services (ITES)/Bio-IT.
Provision of statutory and promotional services to exporters through the implementation of schemes like Software Technology Park/Electronics and Hardware Technology Park, among others.
Offering data communication services, along with value-added services, to industries related to IT/ITES.
Encouraging micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs by fostering an entrepreneurial environment in the IT/ITES sector.

. India ‘one of the worst autocratisers’: V-Dem report on democracy

12 Mar 2024

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India, which was downgraded to the status of an “electoral autocracy” in 2018, has declined even further on multiple metrics to emerge as “one of the worst autocratizers”, according to the ‘Democracy Report 2024’ released by the Gothenburg-based V-Dem Institute that tracks democratic freedoms worldwide.

About V-Dem (Varieties of Democracy):

The V-Dem Institute, established in 2014 by Swedish political scientist Staffan Lindberg, is a research institution dedicated to studying the various forms of democratic governance around the world.
Headquartered at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, V-Dem produces several high-profile datasets that assess the qualities of different governments based on hundreds of indicator variables.
These datasets are widely used by political scientists due to their comprehensive coverage of various aspects of government and are freely available to the public.
V-Dem's annual publications provide valuable insights into the functioning of governments worldwide, promoting transparency and understanding of democratic institutions.

About The Democracy Report:

The Democracy Report presents a comprehensive analysis of the state of democracy worldwide, with a particular focus on the trends of democratization and autocratization.
The report classifies countries into four distinct regime types based on their performance on the Liberal Democracy Index (LDI): Liberal Democracy, Electoral Democracy, Electoral Autocracy, and Closed Autocracy.
- The LDI is a composite index that encompasses both liberal and electoral dimensions of democracy.
- It is based on 71 indicators, which are grouped into the Liberal Component Index (LCI) and the Electoral Democracy Index (EDI).
- The LCI assesses various aspects of individual and minority rights, as well as legislative constraints on the executive.
- The EDI evaluates the extent to which elections are free and fair, considering factors such as freedom of expression and association.
In addition to the LCI and EDI, the LDI also incorporates three other component indices:
- The Egalitarian Component Index (measuring social group equality)
- The Participatory Component Index (assessing the vibrancy of citizen groups and civil society organizations), and
- The Deliberative Component Index (evaluating whether political decisions are based on public reasoning or emotional appeals, solidarity attachments, and coercion).
The Democracy Report, along with the underlying dataset, scientific articles, and working papers, is publicly available for download on the V-Dem Institute's website.
The website also offers interactive graphic tools to facilitate the exploration and visualization of the data.

Key Insights from the Democracy Report 2024:

The Democracy Report 2024, a collaborative effort involving 4,200 scholars from 180 countries, draws from 31 million datasets spanning 202 countries from 1789 to 2023.

Global Trends:

In 2023, 42 countries (home to 35% of the world’s population) experienced autocratization.
Autocracies now encompass 71% of the world's population, up from 48% a decade ago.
The overall level of democracy has regressed to 1985 levels for the average global citizen.
Eastern Europe, South, and Central Asia witnessed the most significant decline in democracy.
Freedom of expression, clean elections, and civil society engagement were the most affected aspects in autocratizing nations.

Focus on 2024 Elections:

Of the 60 countries holding elections in 2024, 31 are experiencing democratic backsliding.

India's Situation:

India, classified as an electoral autocracy since 2018, has further deteriorated, earning the title of "one of the worst autocratizers."
The report notes that India's level of liberal democracy has plummeted to levels comparable to those during the 1975 emergency declared by Indira Gandhi.
Under the V-Dem classification, a liberal democracy requires robust mechanisms for judicial independence, checks on executive power, and strong protection of civil liberties and equality under the law.
India currently falls into the category of electoral autocracy, characterized by multiparty elections but lacking adequate freedom of expression and fair electoral processes.

India launches revamped scheme to help advance pharma industry's tech capabilities

12 Mar 2024

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India's Department of Pharmaceuticals recently unveiled the Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (RPTUAS) to help advance the technological capabilities of India's pharmaceutical industry and align it with global standards.

What is the Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme?

In an effort to support pharma companies aligned with global quality standards, the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has announced a revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance (RPTUAS) Scheme.
It has been incorporated as a sub-scheme under the Scheme - Strengthening of Pharmaceutical Industry (SPI), which was launched in July 2022.

Objective:

To facilitate Micro, Small and Medium Pharma Enterprises (MSME) of proven track record to upgrade their technology to meet WHO-GMP or Schedule M standards.

Intended Beneficiaries:

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises of the pharma sector.

Key Features of the Revised Scheme:

Broadened Eligibility Criteria: Reflecting a more inclusive approach, eligibility for the PTUAS has been expanded beyond Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to include any pharmaceutical manufacturing unit with a turnover of less than 500 crores that requires technology and quality upgradation.
- Preference remains for MSMEs, supporting smaller players in achieving high-quality manufacturing standards.
Flexible Financing Options: The scheme introduces more flexible financing options, emphasizing subsidies on reimbursement basis, over traditional credit-linked approaches.
Comprehensive Support for Compliance with New Standards: In alignment with revised Schedule-M and WHO- Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, the scheme now supports a broader range of technological upgrades.
- Eligible activities include improvements such as HVAC systems, water and steam utilities, testing laboratories etc.
State Government Scheme Integration: The revised scheme allows integration with state government schemes, enabling units to benefit from additional top-up assistance. This collaborative approach aims to maximize support for the pharmaceutical industry in their technology upgradation efforts.
- The new benefit limit is based on turnover of the company. Units with less than Rs 5 crore turnover will get an incentive of 20 percent of investment under eligible activities.
The units with turnover ranging from Rs 50 crore to less than Rs 250 crore will get an incentive of 15 percent of investment, while for those with turnover ranging from Rs 250 crore to less than Rs 500 crore, it will be 10 percent of investment under eligible expenses.

New sensor can detect 'forever chemicals' in drinking water

12 Mar 2024

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A team of chemists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has designed a breakthrough method for the detection of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

What are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of man-made chemicals that have been in use since the 1940s.
- Due to their unique properties, such as high chemical stability and resistance to heat, grease, and water, PFAS have been widely used in various industrial and commercial applications.
- They are commonly found in products such as stain- and water-resistant fabrics, cleaning products, paints, and fire-fighting foams.
PFAS are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they do not break down naturally in the environment.
- This is due to the strong carbon-fluorine bond that characterizes these compounds, making them highly persistent and resistant to degradation.
The widespread use of PFAS has resulted in increasing levels of environmental contamination, with PFAS being detected in air, water, and soil samples worldwide.
- Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to a range of health risks, including decreased fertility, developmental effects in children, interference with body hormones, increased cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of certain cancers.

Due to their persistent nature and potential health risks, there is growing concern about the widespread use of PFAS and the need for improved regulation and remediation strategies to manage their environmental and health impacts.

Environmental Persistence: Due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, PFAS do not break down easily in the environment.
- They can accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms, posing a long-term risk to ecosystems and human health.
Bioaccumulation: PFAS can accumulate in living organisms, including humans, through the food chain.
- Even small amounts of PFAS in the environment can build up to harmful levels in animals and humans over time.
Regulatory Action: Due to the potential health and environmental risks associated with PFAS, many countries are taking regulatory action to restrict their use and manage their environmental impacts.
- This includes banning certain PFAS-containing products, setting drinking water standards, and requiring the clean-up of contaminated sites.

MNRE to discuss specialized cylinders for hydrogen storage with stakeholders

11 Mar 2024

NHAI to start rolling out satellite-based tolling on national highways soon

11 Mar 2024

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Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said in Parliament in February that the government plans to implement a new highway toll collection system based on the global navigation satellite system before the model code of conduct for the 2024 election kicks in.

What is the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)?

GNSS refers to a constellation of satellites providing signals from space that transmit positioning and timing data to GNSS receivers.
- The receivers then use this data to determine location.
Examples of GNSS include Europe’s Galileo, the USA’s GPS, Russia’s GLONASS and China’s BeiDou

How will the GNSS-Based Toll System work?

The system will use an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system through cameras installed on highways and deduct tolls based on the distance traveled by a vehicle.
The device monitors the movements while driving, accurately marking the entry and exit points on tolled segments. By analyzing travel distance, it computes the charges accordingly.
This eliminates the uniformity of fixed tolls at booths, ensuring fairness for drivers traversing shorter distances.

Difference between FASTags and ANPR technology:

FASTags streamline electronic toll payments at toll plazas equipped with scanners, enabling vehicles to pass through without stopping.
Conversely, GNSS-based systems utilize ANPR technology to deduct tolls based on distance traveled, rendering traditional toll plazas unnecessary.

What are the Challenges?

Detection of Non-Compliance: Without physical barriers, detecting non-compliant vehicles, such as those without an On-Board Unit (OBU) or engaging in fraudulent activities, poses a challenge.
Infrastructure Requirements: Deploying gantry-mounted Automatic Number-Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems along highways is essential for capturing violations and enforcing toll payments.
License Plate Quality: The effectiveness of ANPR systems relies on the quality of license plates; subpar plates hinder accurate recognition and enforcement efforts.
Data Privacy and Security: GNSS-based toll systems entail collecting and processing sensitive location data, necessitating robust privacy and security measures.

Inflection AI rolls out new large language model to its Pi chatbot

11 Mar 2024

Health ministers of 11 African countries commit to end malaria deaths

11 Mar 2024

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In a historic gathering in Cameroon’s capital Yaoundé, African health ministers, global malaria partners, funding agencies, scientists, civil society organizations and other principal malaria stakeholders pledged to end malaria deaths, especially given the tools and systems available.

What is the Yaounde Declaration?

The Yaounde Declaration was endorsed by health ministers from 11 African nations with the highest malaria burden, aiming to expedite efforts to eliminate malaria-related deaths.
Signed during the Yaoundé conference, co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Government of Cameroon, the declaration underscores a collective commitment to combat malaria.
- The signatory countries include Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania, together accounting for approximately 70% of the global malaria burden.
Commitments entail stronger leadership and increased domestic funding for malaria control programs, leveraging data technology, adhering to updated technical guidance, and intensifying efforts at national and sub-national levels.
Ministers pledged augmented health sector investments to fortify infrastructure, personnel, and program implementation, fostering multi-sectoral collaboration, and cultivating partnerships for funding, research, and innovation.
Signatories affirmed their resolute dedication to hasten malaria mortality reduction and to ensure mutual accountability for the declaration's outlined commitments.

Current Status of Malaria:

Between 2019 and 2022, global malaria cases increased from 233 million to 249 million, with Africa experiencing a substantial rise from 218 million to 233 million cases, highlighting the continent as the epicenter of the malaria crisis.
The 11 African countries represented at the conference bear the highest burden of malaria infections and deaths.

Progress and Challenges:

Despite some progress, malaria incidence has only declined by 7.6% and mortality by 11.3%, falling short of the African Union’s interim goals.
Only seven out of 46 member states have achieved a 40% reduction in malaria incidence or mortality.
Urgent action is imperative to bridge a financial gap of $1.5 billion to sustain basic malaria services, especially for vector control.
Additional funding of $5.2 billion annually for progress towards elimination and $11 billion for climate adaptation in the health sector is crucial to avert significant surges in cases and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.

UGC notifies framework for private universities to set up off-campus centers

11 Mar 2024

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In line with the “future academic vision” instead of “commercial interests”, the UGC has notified modalities on March 6 for state private universities to set up off campus centers within their respective states.

News Summary:

The University Grants Commission (UGC) recently permitted private universities to establish off-campus centers and outlined regulations for the same.
Previously, private universities in the country were restricted from opening off-campus centers in other states.
In a meeting held on March 5, the UGC decided to authorize state private universities to establish off-campus centers across the country, provided they meet specific criteria.
Criteria include a minimum of five years of establishment and accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), without requiring an A or B grade.
Universities seeking to establish off-campus centers must meet staff, infrastructure, and financial requirements mandated by the commission and obtain approvals from statutory and regulatory bodies.
These universities must ensure the provision of infrastructure, faculty, and courses offered at the main campus to students at their off-campus centers.
A one-time establishment fee of Rs 10 lakh is required to be paid to the UGC by the universities.
The UGC reserves the right to conduct inspections and take punitive actions against universities in case of irregularities or complaints.
Additionally, the UGC may order the closure of a university’s off-campus center for violations, with the university responsible for relocating affected students to the main campus.

About University Grants Commission (UGC):

The University Grants Commission (UGC) of India operates as a statutory body established under the UGC Act, 1956.
Its primary mandate encompasses coordinating, determining, and upholding standards within higher education institutions across India.
UGC holds the authority to grant recognition to universities and colleges within the country and allocates funds to these recognized institutions.
Nodal Ministry: Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education.

Mandate of UGC:

Facilitating and coordinating university education initiatives.
Establishing and maintaining standards in teaching, examination, and research activities within universities.
Formulating regulations to define minimum education standards.
Monitoring advancements in collegiate and university education while disbursing grants to these institutions.
Serving as a crucial intermediary between the Union and State governments and higher education institutions.
Providing advisory services to the Central and State governments concerning measures aimed at enhancing university education standards.

Conclusion

Academic experts said that this decision may prove beneficial for students as they will get more options to choose from. However, it also means that the 16 government-run universities in the state will face more competition. More students may shift to these centers, leaving a large number of approved seats in the public universities vacant every year.

India’s indigenous fifth-gen fighter jet AMCA

09 Mar 2024

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The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) this week cleared a Rs 15,000 crore project to design and develop the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s fifth-generation fighter multirole fighter jet.

About Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)?

The AMCA will be India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
- The indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is a 4.5-generation single-engine multirole aircraft.
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will be the nodal agency for executing the programme and designing the aircraft.
It will be manufactured by state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The aircraft will put India in a select group of nations that have their own fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
Discussions for developing the AMCA started in 2007.
The initial plan was to jointly develop the aircraft with Russia under a Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) programme.
- However, India withdrew from the FGFA project in 2018.

Features of AMCA:

Stealth: The 25-tonne twin-engine aircraft, which will be bigger that other fighters in the Indian Air Force inventory, will have advanced stealth features to avoid detection by enemy radar.
- With stealth features, this aircraft (AMCA) would be able to compete with other stealth fighters in the world.
Fuel & Weapons: The aircraft will have a large, concealed internal fuel tank of 6.5-tonne capacity, and an internal weapons bay for a range of weapons, including indigenous weapons, to be buried in its belly.
Engine: The AMCA Mk1 variant will have the US-built GE414 engine of the 90 kilonewton (kN) class, while the more advanced AMCA Mk2 will fly on the more powerful 110kN engine, which will be developed indigenously by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in collaboration with a foreign defense major.
- India has been talking with Safran SA of France, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of aircraft engines and related equipment, in order to finalize the roadmap for the development of the combat aircraft engine
Another important aspect would be to ensure a higher utilization time and smaller serviceability or maintenance periods for the aircraft.
- This will be aided by the inclusion of a comprehensive Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) system to keep track of multiple structural components, and to assess the condition of the aircraft in real time.
Other features such as a diverterless supersonic inlet for controlling air flow into the engines, and a serpentine air intake duct to shield the engines from radar emissions, are likely to be part of the AMCA.

Other Fifth-generation Fighters:

Only a few countries have built a fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft.
The list of the aircraft currently in service includes:
- The F-22 Raptor and F-35A Lightning II of the US
- The Chinese J-20 Mighty Dragon, and
- The Russian Sukhoi Su-57.

India to restart Penicillin G manufacture

09 Mar 2024

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India will start manufacturing the common antibiotic Penicillin G later this year, three decades after the country’s last plant shut down, Union health minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced last week.

What is Penicillin G?

Penicillin G serves as a key active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) utilized in the production of various common antibiotics.
Its molecular formula is C16H18N2O4S.
Penicillin G (potassium or sodium) is an FDA-approved antibacterial medication primarily indicated for treating severe bacterial infections like pneumonia, meningitis, gonorrhea, syphilis, among others.
This natural penicillin antibiotic is typically administered intravenously or intramuscularly due to limited oral absorption.
Additionally, Penicillin G may be employed in certain instances as prophylaxis against susceptible organisms.

Why did Penicillin Manufacturing Stopped in India?

The discontinuation of Penicillin G production in India, along with numerous other active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), resulted from the influx of cheaper Chinese products driven by subsidies.
Torrent Pharma in Ahmedabad was the final plant to halt Penicillin G production, with at least five companies, including Torrent, manufacturing the antibiotic in the country during the 1990s.
In the early 1990s, India boasted nearly 2,000 API manufacturers, while approximately 10,000 units produced formulations. However, the allure of cheaper Chinese alternatives grew, particularly with the relaxation of customs rules during the country's economic liberalization.
The Drug Prices Control Order, which imposed price caps on essential medicines, further incentivized companies to opt for cheaper imported products.
While India previously sold Penicillin G for around Rs 800 per kg, China drastically reduced prices to nearly Rs 400 per kg, rendering domestic manufacturing economically unviable.

Why the Delay in Restarting Production?

Lack of Urgency: Despite awareness within the industry and government about the decline in API production in India due to the availability of cheaper alternatives globally, there was limited emphasis on restarting domestic production.
- The supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic highlighted the need for self-reliance, prompting the government to launch initiatives like the PLI scheme to bolster domestic manufacturing.
- High Initial Investment: API manufacturing, particularly for fermented compounds like Penicillin G, entails significant upfront costs.
Establishing a production facility requires substantial capital investment, with companies often needing several years to break even.
Dominance of China: China has emerged as a dominant supplier, significantly expanding its manufacturing capacity over the past three decades.
- Competing with Chinese prices would necessitate substantial investments in larger facilities.

What's the Impact of PLI Schemes?

Reduction in API Imports: Since the implementation of the PLI scheme, there has been a notable decrease in API imports.
- For instance, the import dependency for paracetamol, which was previously two-thirds of the required volume, has now halved.
Incentive Structure: The PLI scheme offers incentives structured as follows:
- 20% support for the first four years, gradually reducing to 15% in the fifth year and 5% in the sixth year for eligible sales of fermentation-based bulk drugs like antibiotics, enzymes, and hormones such as insulin.
- Chemically synthesized drugs receive a 10% incentive for six years on eligible sales.

The ‘Architecture Nobel’: Why Pritzker laureate Riken Yamamoto’s work stands out

09 Mar 2024

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Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto was this week declared winner of the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize, the highest international award in the field, which is sometimes referred to as the “Architecture Nobel”.

About Pritzker Architecture Prize:

The Pritzker Architecture Prize is an international prize awarded each year to a living architect or a group of architects for significant achievements.
It was established by the Pritzker family of Chicago in 1979 through their Hyatt Foundation, which until today is responsible for the prestigious award.
The idea behind the Pritzker Prize is to honor contemporary architects “whose built work demonstrates a combination of those qualities of talent, vision, and commitment, which has produced consistent and significant contributions to humanity and the built environment through the art of architecture.”
The award consists of a bronze medallion and a prize money of 100,000 USD.
It is conferred during a ceremony held at an architecturally significant site throughout the world.
The prize, which is also known as the Nobel Prize of architecture, is awarded “irrespective of nationality, race, creed, or ideology”.
Nominations come from a range of architects, academics, and critics and the jury consists of five to nine experts.

History of the Prize:

The idea for the Pritzker Prize came from Jay and Cindy Pritzker, who wanted to encourage and stimulate a greater public awareness of architecture, while also inspiring more creativity in the profession.
The name Pritzker comes from the family who are based in Chicago and own the Hyatt Hotels.

Riken Yamamoto's Notable Works:

Yamamoto, the ninth laureate from Japan, is known for his iconic architectural designs, such as the Hiroshima Nishi Fire Station (2000), featuring a transparent façade with glass walls and floors, offering passersby a glimpse inside.
His design of the Koyasu Elementary School (2018) incorporates spacious, open terraces that facilitate arts education in dance, music, and painting while fostering student interaction.

Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, the unsung feminist freedom fighter in the history of India

09 Mar 2024

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Post-Independence, the revival of the crafts sector began with Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay who strongly championed the handicrafts movement for the role it could play in social and economic upliftment.

About Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay:

Kamaladevi was born in April 1903 in a liberal Chitrapur Saraswat Brahmin family in Mangalore (now Mangaluru).
- She completed her primary education at the local St Ann’s Convent.
- Growing up in a land with a rich cultural heritage, especially of the music and dance form Yakshagana, she developed a taste for traditional art forms.
- After her father’s untimely death, Kamaladevi moved to her maternal uncle’s house.
- There, she met renowned freedom fighters, including Gopalkrishna Gokhale, Srinivasa Shastri, Ramabai Ranade and Annie Besant.
Kamaladevi was married off at the age of 14 and widowed two years later.
- Unperturbed by these life events, she joined Queen Mary’s College in Madras (now Chennai) for higher studies.
- There, she met Sarojini (Chattopadhyay) Naidu’s brother Harindranath Chattopadhyay which led to their wedlock.
- However, their marriage ended over incompatibility issues and this, too, created history – Kamaladevi was the first legal divorce granted through an Indian court of law.
Kamaladevi played a prominent role in political reforms and India’s freedom struggle.
- She was the first woman to contest the Madras provincial elections.
- Though she lost by a narrow margin, she got recognition and was appointed secretary of the All-India Women’s Conference.
- She joined Indian National Congress in 1927 and was elected to the All-India Congress Committee within a year.
During the Salt March to Dandi, she convinced Gandhi to give women equal opportunity to be in the forefront of the march.
- Later, she joined Seva Dal and trained women activists.
- However, the British government banned Seva Dal and threw Kamaladevi into jail.
- There, she contracted jaundice. Having experienced the pathetic condition of the prison hospital, she built a hospital for inmates upon release.
- Kamaladevi got attracted to socialism and took up the problems of laborers and peasants.
During World War II, she visited America and met several political activists, mostly blacks, and shared with them India’s non-violent approach to freedom struggle.
- The British got wind of her activism and banned her from returning to India.
- Unmoved, Kamaladevi continued on her journey, visiting South Africa, China, Japan and Vietnam.
Kamaladevi was inarguably the embodiment of women’s empowerment.
- She was an advocate of female sexual freedom and birth control.
- Her remarriage after widowhood and legal divorce from her second marriage were symbolic of her self-empowerment.
- She acted in many films (a Kannada film, too) when the film industry was not considered a respectable place for women.
Indeed, Kamaladevi’s immense travel and experiences shaped her as a secular, socialist world citizen.
- Such were her ideals that led to her building the city of Faridabad to rehabilitate some 50,000 craftsmen who moved to India from Pakistan during Partition.
- Post-independence, she helped revive Indian handicrafts and built institutions for a ‘New India’-- to name a few, the National School of Drama, Bharatiya Natya Sangha, Lady Irwin College, Sangeet Natak Academy, Central Cottage Industries Emporium, World Craft Council, Craft Council of India, and the Delhi Craft Council.
Kamaladevi was a prolific writer, too and wrote 18 books altogether, touching upon women’s issues, Indian handicrafts and her foreign visits.
- She published her autobiography, “Inner Recesses, Outer Spaces: Memoir” (1986).
- She received several awards in recognition of her public service, like Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the UNESCO Award.
- She died in Mumbai on October 29, 1988, aged 85.

Every village to have agricultural credit societies by 2027

09 Mar 2024

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Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah Friday said that the Centre has decided to ensure formation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) in every village by 2027.

Context:

Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah recently announced the Centre's commitment to establishing Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) in every village by 2027, introducing 20 new activities to enhance their profitability.
Emphasizing the significance of computerization in PACS, Shah highlighted its role in fostering development opportunities.
He also inaugurated the National Cooperative Database and unveiled the 'National Cooperative Database 2023: A Report' to bridge existing gaps through comprehensive analysis.
- The database initiative progressed through three phases, including mapping approximately 2.64 lakh societies across agriculture, dairy, and fisheries sectors in the first phase.
Subsequent phases involved data collection from various federations, banks, and mapping of the remaining 8 lakh primary cooperative societies in other sectors.
The unveiling revealed over 8 lakh registered societies in the country, connecting more than 30 crore citizens.

What are Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS)?

PACS are grassroots cooperative credit societies, constituting the final tier in a three-tier cooperative credit system led by State Cooperative Banks (SCBs) at the state level.
SCBs channel credit to District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) operating at the district level, which collaborate with PACS, directly serving farmers.
PACS operate as cooperative entities, with individual farmers as members and elected office-bearers from within the community. Villages may host multiple PACS.
These societies extend short-term and medium-term agricultural loans to farmers for various farming activities.

Number of PACS in India:

Established since 1904, India currently boasts over 1,00,000 PACS nationwide, engaging a significant member base exceeding 13 crore farmers.
However, operational PACS stand at only 63,000, indicating the need for enhanced functionality and outreach.

Why are PACS Appealing?

PACS offer crucial last-mile connectivity, ensuring farmers have access to capital at the onset of agricultural activities.
They streamline credit extension processes, providing farmers with timely financial support with minimal paperwork, unlike traditional banks known for cumbersome procedures.
PACS simplify paperwork and administrative tasks, offering farmers collective strength and assistance from PACS office-bearers.
Unlike individual interactions required with commercial banks, PACS enable farmers to navigate loan processes collectively, reducing reliance on intermediaries.

Challenges Faced by PACS:

Political influences often overshadow financial prudence within PACS, impacting loan recovery.
Various committees have highlighted systemic issues within the cooperative system, including low member participation, lack of professionalism, inadequate governance, bureaucratic hurdles, and a workforce with aging and disengaged employees.

Union Cabinet approves India AI Mission with 10,372 cr outlay

08 Mar 2024

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India has made its first move to address a key shortcoming it currently has in unlocking opportunities around generative artificial intelligence (AI) – that of computing hardware.

What is IndiaAI Mission?

India's AI Mission entails the launch of an artificial intelligence (AI) initiative, announced by the Prime Minister at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit 2023 in New Delhi, with implementation overseen by the 'IndiaAI' Independent Business Division (IBD) under Digital India Corporation (DIC).
Led by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), the mission aims to establish a computing capacity exceeding 10,000 graphics processing units (GPUs) and develop foundational models trained on datasets encompassing major Indian languages, focusing on priority sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and governance.
Additionally, the mission will involve the establishment of AI Curation Units (ACUs) in 50-line ministries and the creation of an AI marketplace to provide AI services and pre-trained models to AI application developers.
Implementation of the AI computer infrastructure will follow a public-private partnership model, with 50% viability gap funding, with Rs 4,564 crore allocated from the total outlay of Rs 10,372 crore for building computing infrastructure.

Key Features of the IndiaAI Mission:

IndiaAI Compute Capacity: Establishing a scalable AI computing ecosystem to meet the growing demands of India's burgeoning AI start-ups and research community.
IndiaAI Innovation Centre: Focusing on the development and deployment of indigenous Large Multimodal Models (LMMs) and domain-specific foundational models in critical sectors.
IndiaAI Datasets Platform: Streamlining access to high-quality non-personal datasets to fuel AI innovation.
IndiaAI Application Development Initiative: Promoting the adoption of AI applications in critical sectors, addressing problem statements sourced from Central Ministries, State Departments, and other entities.
IndiaAI FutureSkills: Mitigating barriers to entry into AI programs by expanding AI courses at undergraduate, master's, and Ph.D. levels.
IndiaAI Startup Financing: Supporting and accelerating deep-tech AI startups by providing streamlined access to funding for futuristic AI projects.
Safe & Trusted AI: Ensuring the responsible implementation of AI projects through the development of indigenous tools and frameworks to foster trust and safety in AI applications.

The Significance of the IndiaAI Mission:

The IndiaAI Mission aligns with the vision of fostering indigenous AI development and leveraging AI technology for the benefit of India.
It aims to demonstrate to the international community the positive impact of AI technology on society, thereby enhancing India's global competitiveness.
By establishing a comprehensive ecosystem for AI innovation through strategic partnerships across public and private sectors, the mission will catalyze AI-driven advancements.
It will foster creativity and bolster internal capabilities, ensuring India's technological sovereignty.
Furthermore, the mission is poised to create employment opportunities that demand advanced skills, leveraging India's demographic advantage.

After 10 years struggle, Mendha gets separate Panchayat status under Gramdan Act

08 Mar 2024

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The Maharashtra government recently notified Mendha, a village deep inside the forests of the state’s Gadchiroli district, as a separate Gram Panchayat under The Maharashtra Gramdan Act, 1964.

What is Gramdan?

Gramdan is an expansion of the Bhoodan Movement started in 1951 by Aacharya Vinoba Bhave.
- ‘Bhoodan’ meant redistribution of land from bigger landowners to the landless.
- Under Gramdan, the entire village will put its land under a common trust.
This way, the land will not be sold outside the village or to one who has not joined Gramdan in the village.
- But the landowners can continue to cultivate it and reap the benefits.
The Movement paved the way for the protection of natural resources by giving equal rights and responsibilities to everyone in the community and empowering communities to move towards self-governance.
Under the Act, at least 75 percent of landowners in the village should surrender land ownership to the village community for it to be declared as ‘gramdan’.
- Such land should at least be 60 percent of the village land. Five per cent of the surrendered land is distributed to the landless in the village for cultivation.
- Recipients of such land cannot transfer the same without the permission of the community.
- The rest remains with the donors.
- They and their descendants can work on it and reap the benefits.
- But they cannot sell it outside the village or to a village resident who has not joined Gramdan.
Today, seven states in India have 3,660 Gramdan villages, the highest being in Odisha (1,309).
- The states are Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh.
In September 2022, the Assam government repealed the Assam Gramdan Act, 1961 and Assam Bhoodan Act, 1965, bypassing The Assam Land and Revenue Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2022.
This, it said, was done to counter encroachment on donated lands in the state.
Till that time, Assam had 312 Gramdan villages.

About Mendha’s Village Struggle:

The village, comprising around 500 Gond Adivasis, has fought for its forests for years.
- It is popular as the first village in India to secure community forest rights (CFR), following the passing of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.
- Some 80 per cent of the area in the village is covered with dense forest.
People here believe that land is not a private property but a collective resource that provides food and livelihood and should be saved and passed on to the next generation.
All villagers in Mendha have surrendered their land, which is unique. In all other villages, only about 75-80 per cent of landowners had agreed to do so.
- The village fulfilled these conditions of the Act in 2013 and notified the district collector about its decision to implement the Act.

Amit Shah launches National Cooperative Database, to help in policy making

08 Mar 2024

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Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Friday launched the National Cooperative Database and stressed that it would help in policy making.

About National Cooperative Database (NCD):

The National Cooperative Database (NCD) is an initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Cooperation, responding to the pressing need for a robust database to effectively capture essential information concerning India's extensive cooperative sector.
Developed collaboratively with State Governments, National Federations, and stakeholders, the NCD is designed to promote a cooperative-centric economic model, offering a web-based digital dashboard for seamless data management.
Acting as a centralized repository, the NCD aggregates data from cooperative societies, including National/State Federations, with information entered and authenticated by nodal officials at RCS/DRCS offices for cooperative societies and provided by various national/state federations for federations.
The collected data encompasses diverse parameters, such as registered names, locations, membership numbers, sectoral details, operational areas, financial statements, audit statuses, and more, providing a comprehensive overview of the cooperative landscape.
Serving as a vital communication tool, the NCD facilitates efficient interaction between the Central Ministry, States/UTs, and Cooperative Societies, fostering collaboration and synergy within the cooperative sector.
Key features and benefits of the NCD include single-point access, comprehensive and updated data, user-friendly interface, vertical and horizontal linkages, query-based reports and graphs, Management Information System (MIS) reports, data analytics, and geographical mapping capabilities.

Kerala declares man-animal conflict a state-specific disaster

08 Mar 2024

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Amid repeated deaths from animal attacks and rising anger over them, Kerala recently declared man-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster, becoming the first state in the country to do so.

What is Man-animal Conflict?

Man-animal conflict refers to the interaction between wild animals and humans, resulting in adverse outcomes for both people and wildlife, as well as their habitats.
Escalating Conflict: In states across India, human-wildlife conflict has intensified, leading to a significant rise in human casualties.
- For instance, in Maharashtra, the conflict resulted in 86 in 2021 and 105 deaths in 2022, marking a sharp increase compared to previous decades.

Causes:

Factors contributing to this conflict include the encroachment of grodeathswing human and animal populations into each other's territories, habitat fragmentation due to legal and illegal land use changes, alterations in cropping patterns attracting wildlife to agriculture, and habitat destruction from invasive alien species.
- Despite having over 700 protected areas, a substantial portion of elephant, lion, and tiger ranges lie outside these protected zones, exacerbating the conflict.

Ecologist Perspective:

Ecologist Madhav Gadgil highlights that the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 has inadvertently facilitated an environment where wild animals can invade human habitats with impunity.
- He cites the optimal foraging theory in ecology, which underscores animals' efforts to maximize nutrient intake while minimizing time, effort, and risks.

Solutions:

Addressing the issue requires robust enforcement and pragmatic policies to mitigate conflict incidences.
- Engaging local communities, as suggested by the Future for All Report 2021 (by WWF and UNEP), fosters coexistence between humans and wildlife, acknowledging that complete elimination of conflicts is impractical.
- Additionally, awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about man-animal conflict and skill development initiatives for communities living near forests can alleviate pressures on agricultural and forest lands.

Kerala's Decision to Declare Man-Animal Conflict as a State-Specific Disaster:

Implications of the Decision: Currently, the management of man-animal conflict falls under the jurisdiction of the forest department, operating in accordance with the Wildlife Protection Act.
- By designating man-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster, the responsibility for addressing it shifts to the state disaster management authority, empowered by the Disaster Management Act, enabling swifter and more decisive action.
Rationale for the Decision: Instances of loss of life due to man-animal conflict have prompted calls to tranquilize, capture, or eliminate the responsible animals.
- Presently, the chief wildlife warden, holding the sole authority in the state, makes decisions regarding wild animals causing disturbances in human settlements.
- Past decisions to tranquilize aggressive animals, like wild elephants, have faced legal challenges.
Under the disaster management authority, actions can be taken that supersede other regulations, including those outlined in the Wildlife Protection Act.
According to the Disaster Management Act, except for the Supreme Court or a High Court, no court has jurisdiction to entertain suits or proceedings regarding actions taken by relevant authorities in line with the Act.
Additionally, the Act stipulates that its provisions hold precedence over any other law during the specific period of a declared disaster.

Kerala's Success in Managing Man-Animal Conflict:

Kerala, with approximately 5,700 wild elephants in 2017, comprising 19% of the nationwide population of 30,000, witnessed a significantly lower incidence of human fatalities caused by elephants, accounting for only 81 (4%) of the 2,036 deaths recorded in India between 2018 and 2021.
Factors Contributing to Kerala's Effective Management of Man-Animal Conflict:
Maintenance of Unchanged Wilderness Boundaries: Kerala has largely preserved the boundaries between wilderness and civilization in recent years, contributing to the mitigation of man-animal conflicts.
Evolution of Agricultural Practices: Changes in agricultural practices, such as the cultivation of crops like coffee, pepper, and tea, which hold less appeal for elephants, have helped reduce conflicts between humans and elephants.
Unique Elephant Characteristics: Individual elephants are identified and named based on their distinct characteristics, such as Kabali, an elephant residing in the Athirapally jungle in Thrissur district, known for its tendency to attack or chase automobiles.
These factors collectively contribute to Kerala's successful management of man-animal conflict, resulting in relatively fewer human fatalities caused by elephants compared to other regions in India.

Countries hope to bring BBNJ or High Seas treaty into force by 2025

08 Mar 2024

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The Blue Leaders High-Level Event on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction was held in Belgium on March 7, 2024, to urge nations to ratify a new treaty to protect the high seas from pollution, climate change and overfishing.

What is the BBNJ Treaty?

The BBNJ Treaty, also referred to as the Treaty of the High Seas, is an international agreement aimed at conserving and sustainably managing marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, operating within the framework of the UNCLOS.
- These areas encompass the high seas beyond exclusive economic zones or national waters.
- It represents nearly half of the Earth's surface and is characterized by minimal regulation and understanding of their biodiversity, with only 1% currently under protection.
Launched at the One Ocean Summit in February 2022, the High Ambition Coalition on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction seeks to unite various delegations involved in BBNJ negotiations toward a comprehensive and ambitious outcome.
The negotiations focus on key elements agreed upon in 2015, including the conservation and sustainable use of marine genetic resources, area-based management tools such as marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, and initiatives for capacity-building and technology transfer in marine science and management.
India is yet to sign the treaty. However, it called on efforts for entry into force and implementation of the treaty at the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration held in September 2023.

The Importance of a Legally Binding Instrument for BBNJ:

Biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction is crucial for ocean health, coastal communities' welfare, and global sustainability, constituting 95% of the ocean and offering essential ecological, economic, social, cultural, scientific, and food-security benefits.
Despite their significance, these areas face escalating threats such as pollution, overexploitation, and the impacts of climate change, compounded by the anticipated rise in demand for marine resources in the future.
Even the deep seafloors, considered one of the most inhospitable habitats, are experiencing the onset of extinction processes, with alarming statistics showing that 62% of assessed mollusc species are threatened, including critically endangered, endangered, and vulnerable species, while the International Seabed Authority permits deep sea mining contracts.
It is imperative to establish a legally binding framework for managing and regulating biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, as over 60% of this resource in the global seas remains unmanaged and unprotected, necessitating comprehensive conservation measures.

ISRO’s second rocket launchport in Tamil Nadu’s Kulasekarapattinam

07 Mar 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the second rocket launchport of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) at Kulasekarapattinam on February 28.

Why does India need a new launchport?

With the Union government’s recent policy announcing the opening of the space sector to private players, a sharp rise in the number of commercial launches is certain.
To ensure that ISRO’s first launchport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota, is not overburdened with a high number of launches, the space agency has decided to build another facility.
While SHAR will be only used for launching bigger and heavy-lift-off missions, the Kulasekarapattinam launchport will be used to launch smaller payloads.
SHAR will also be available for India’s big ticket missions to the Moon, Venus, and much touted human-flight mission, the Gaganyaan.
Private players could develop space-qualified sub-systems, build satellites, and even launch vehicles using the new launchport.
It will also facilitate dedicated launch infrastructure for all the on-demand commercial launches.

Why is the new ISRO launchport located in Tamil Nadu?

Geographically, scientifically, and strategically, the Kulasekarapattinam launchport provides a natural advantage to ISRO’s future launches pertaining to the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
Allowing a direct southward and smaller launch trajectory for the light weight SSLVs carrying less fuel, the Kulasekarapattinam facility will boost ISRO’s attempts to enhance payload capacities.
Currently, the trajectory followed by all launches from SHAR are longer as they follow a path which requires the vehicle to skirt eastwards around Sri Lanka before taking the actual southward flight.
This consumes additional fuel. However, the same would not be required for future launches from Kulasekarapattinam, which is geographically located several kilometers to the west of Colombo, thereby allowing a straight southward flight and simultaneously saving the already limited fuel available onboard SSLV.
Notably, both the launch ports are located in Southern India, near the equator.
- For a launch site close to equator the magnitude of the velocity imparted due to Earth’s rotation is about 450 m/s, which can lead to substantial increase in the payload for a given launch vehicle.
- Geostationary satellites must necessarily be in the equatorial plane.
- So, for such satellites, the closer the launch site is to the equator the better it is.

What are SSLVs?

SSLV is the new small satellite launch vehicle developed by ISRO to cater for the launch of small satellites.
- It has a three-stage launch vehicle, having a lift-off weight of about 120 tonnes and is 34 meters in length and 2 meters in diameter.
- SSLV is designed with a three-stage solid propulsion and a liquid propulsion stage, which is the terminal stage.
The SSLV missions are useful to launch small-sized satellites weighing anywhere between 10 to 500kg into the Low Earth Orbit.
- Going by their size and weight, these are typically referred to as mini, micro or nano satellites.
- They are low on cost and intended satellite insertion into orbits takes a shorter flight time.
SSLV are best suited for commercial and on-demand launches.
Previously, satellite projects built by college students and private players involved in the space sector have benefitted from SSLV missions.

What are the features of SHAR?

SHAR is situated along the east coast of Andhra Pradesh and is located 80 km off Chennai.
- It currently provides launch infrastructure to all ISRO missions.
- It is equipped with a solid propellant processing setup, static testing, and launch vehicle integration facilities, telemetry services — tracking and command network to oversee the launch — and a mission control center.
SHAR has two launch complexes that are routinely used to launch the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), the Geosynchronous Space Launch Vehicles (GSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-III, now renamed as LVM3.

Haiper, the text-to-video model created by Google DeepMind and Tiktok alumni

07 Mar 2024

Controversy Erupts as Tamil Nadu Governor Refers to Ayya Vaikundar as 'Sanatan Dharma Savior'

07 Mar 2024

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Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi’s recent remarks about the 19th-century social reformer Ayya Vaikundar — that he was Lord Vishnu incarnated to prevent the destruction of Sanatan Dharma — have evoked sharp reactions in the state, from politicians as well as Vaikundar’s followers.

Who was Ayya Vaikundar?

Ayya Vaikundar, born in 1809, is revered as a social reformer and the founder of the Ayyavazhi sect, primarily in southern Tamil Nadu.
His teachings focused on equality, fraternity, and the eradication of caste-based discrimination, challenging the established religious and social hierarchies of the time.
At a time when rigid casteism and caste-based atrocities were the norm, Vaikundar introduced measures to challenge these divisions.
He organized Samapanthi-bhojana or community eateries for people from all backgrounds.
He would send his disciples to the homes of lower castes to eat with them.
When lower castes were not allowed to fetch water from wells used by upper caste Hindus, Vaikundar initiated the digging of common wells, called Muthirikinarus.
- At a time when priests threw vibhuti and sandal paste at devotees from a distance to avoid touching them and lower castes were not allowed to enter temples at all, Vaikundar introduced Thottu Namam, in which he inspired priests to apply the sacred paste on devotees’ forehead, irrespective of their caste.
The paste would be applied in the form of a lamp, indicating the soul and God, representing the form of God inside every life.
Vaikundar also encouraged all devotees to wear turbans and dhotis, promoting equality.
He initiated the Thuvayal Panthy programme, teaching vegetarianism and discipline to followers, who spread these teachings across Tamil Nadu.
He established Nizhal Thangals as community worship spaces, which did not have any idol or deity, and only Tamil was used for worship.
- These community worship centers also had community kitchens and even basic schools.
He pioneered education for the lower castes and opposed discriminatory taxes.
One of his significant interventions was the introduction of simplified, inclusive marriage customs without a Brahmin priest or Sanskrit mantras.

Trees in Corbett fell prey to greedy nexus, says Supreme Court

07 Mar 2024

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The Supreme Court on Wednesday condemned the illegal felling of over 6,000 trees to construct buildings, ostensibly for “eco-tourism” at the Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, as a “classic case” of nexus between politicians and officials working to ransack the environment for short-term commercial ends.

News Summary:

In 2023, a series of applications brought attention to the creation of alleged illegal buildings and encroachment on water bodies, prompting court intervention.
Petitioners highlighted violations of environmental norms and encroachment into core wildlife habitats.
Evidence presented during proceedings revealed unauthorized constructions within the national park, including concrete and iron enclosures purportedly intended for a 'safari' experience.
Moreover, it was disclosed that over 6,000 trees had been felled in the national park under the pretext of safari development.

Supreme Court’s Observations:

The Court has raised concerns regarding the necessity of developing facilities within natural forest environments, particularly in areas designated for the protection of endangered species like tigers.
Directing the Government to establish a committee, the Supreme Court seeks recommendations on whether tiger safaris should be permitted in buffer or fringe areas and what guidelines should govern their establishment if allowed.
Additionally, the Court has strongly criticized the illegal constructions and extensive tree felling in Uttarakhand's Corbett National Park.

What are the Core and Buffer Areas in Tiger Reserves?

As per the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act of 2006, a Tiger Reserve comprises core or critical habitat and a buffer zone surrounding it.
Core areas hold the legal status of a National Park or a Sanctuary.
Buffer zones consist of a mix of forest and non-forest land, managed as a multiple-use area.
The buffer area acts as a protective barrier, absorbing the impact of poaching pressure on tiger and other wildlife populations.

About Jim Corbett National Park:

Location: Situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Key Facts:

Established in 1935, it is India’s oldest national park.
Initially named Hailey National Park after its founder Sir Malcolm Hailey, it was renamed Corbett National Park in 1956 to honor Jim Corbett's contributions to wildlife preservation in India.
Corbett National Park boasts the highest population of tigers in India, highlighting its importance for tiger conservation efforts.
Flora: Dominated by Sal, Semal, Kharpat, Sissoo, Khair, Dhak, Khingan, Bakli, Bel, Ber, Bamboo, Khingam, Jamun, Kanju, Rohini, and Pula trees.
- Sal, Khair, and Sissoo are prominently featured throughout the park.
Fauna: Home to diverse wildlife including Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Chital Deer, Sambar Deer, Hogg Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Langur, Wild pig, Rhesus Monkey, Jackal, Rabbit, Yellow Throated Martin, and Otters.
- Various reptiles such as Crocodile, Gharial, King Cobra, Common Krait, Cobra, Russell's Viper, Rock Python, and Monitor Lizard inhabit the park.
The Kosi River feeds the eastern periphery of Corbett National Park.
The Ramganga River (West) and its tributaries Sonanadi, Palain, and Mandal serve as significant hydrological resources for the park.

Vaishnaw bats for further simplification of economic laws at ‘NITI for States’ platform launch

07 Mar 2024

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The Union IT, Communications, and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Thursday stressed on the need to further simplify economic laws in a modern and relevant way at the launch of NITI Aayog’s ‘NITI for States’ platform.

About “NITI For States” Platform:

It serves as a cross-sectoral knowledge hub envisioned to be a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Policy and Good Governance.

Key features include:

A comprehensive repository comprising Best Practices, Policy documents, datasets, data profiles, and NITI publications across various sectors.
Knowledge products spanning 10 sectors and two cross-cutting themes (Gender and Climate Change), such as Agriculture, Education, Energy, Health, Manufacturing, MSME, Tourism, Urban, and Water resources & WASH.
An intuitive and user-friendly interface accessible via multiple devices, including mobile phones.
The platform aims to catalyze digital governance transformation by providing government officials with contextualized, actionable knowledge and insights, thereby enhancing decision-making quality.
It supports district collectors and block-level functionaries by granting access to innovative best practices from various States and Union Territories.

What is the Viksit Bharat Strategy Room?

It serves as an interactive platform enabling users to visualize data, trends, best practices, and policies in an immersive manner, facilitating a comprehensive assessment of any problem statement.
The platform features voice-enabled AI for user interaction and facilitates connectivity with multiple stakeholders through video conferencing.
Designed as a plug-and-play model, it enables replication by states, districts, and blocks for widespread adoption.
Collaboration with various government organizations by NITI Aayog includes:
- iGOT Karmayogi's "SAMARTH" online training modules accessible through the platform.
- Integration of NITI Aayog’s National Data and Analytics Platform (NDAP) to provide access to government datasets.
- Support from the National E-Governance Division (NeGD) in developing the innovative Viksit Bharat Strategy Room.
- Multi-lingual support provided by Bhashini.
- Integration of PM Gatishakti BISAG-N team, with DPIIT support, to offer geospatial tools for Area Based Planning.

INS Jatayu, India’s new naval base in Lakshadweep

06 Mar 2024

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On Wednesday (March 6), Naval Detachment Minicoy will be commissioned as INS Jatayu, an upgraded naval base, marking an important milestone in the Indian Navy’s resolve to incrementally augment security infrastructure at the strategic Lakshadweep Islands.

About INS Jatayu Naval Base:

The existing Naval Detachment Minicoy, which is under the operational command of the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Lakshadweep), will be commissioned as INS Jatayu.
A naval detachment has administrative, logistics, and medical facilities.
INS Jatayu will be upgraded to a naval base with additional infrastructure such as an airfield, housing, and personnel, after obtaining the requisite environmental and other clearances.
The fragile ecology of the island may pose challenges for the construction but there are plans to construct a new airfield that will be capable of operating both military and civil aircraft.

Significance of INS Jatayu?

The basing of an independent naval unit with requisite infrastructure and resources will enhance its overall operational capability in the islands.
The establishment of the base is in line with the government’s focus on comprehensive development of the islands.
The base will enhance its operational reach, facilitate its anti-piracy and anti-narcotics operations in the western Arabian Sea, and augment its capability as the first responder in the region.
With the commissioning of INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy will add to its strength on the western seaboard.
The proposed airfield will allow operations for a range of aircraft, including P8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft and fighter jets, and extend the Navy’s reach and operational surveillance capabilities at a time when India is seeking to counter the growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean Region.
This has an immediate bearing at a time when India’s relations with the Maldives have come under strain since the election of the pro-China President Mohamed Muizzu.

About the Lakshadweep Islands:

Lakshadweep, ‘a hundred thousand islands’ in Sanskrit and Malayalam, is an archipelago of 36 islands located between 220 km and 440 km from Kochi.
- The islands, only 11 of which are inhabited, have a total area of only 32 sq km.
The Lakshadweep are part of a chain of coralline islands in the Indian Ocean that includes Maldives to the south, and the Chagos archipelago farther beyond, to the south of the equator.
- Given their location in the Indian Ocean, the Lakshadweep are of huge strategic importance to India.
Minicoy straddles vital Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs) — the world’s main maritime highways — including the Eight Degree Channel (between Minicoy and Maldives) and the Nine Degree Channel (between Minicoy and the main cluster of Lakshadweep islands).
In consequence, the Lakshadweep Islands are also vulnerable to marine pollution.

Exclusive-World on brink of fourth mass coral reef bleaching event- NOAA

06 Mar 2024

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The world stands on the brink of witnessing its fourth mass coral bleaching event, a phenomenon that threatens to hit vast expanses of tropical reefs, including significant portions of Australia's iconic Great Barrier Reef.

Key Findings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):

Impending Fourth Mass Coral Bleaching Event: The world is on the brink of a fourth mass coral bleaching event, following those in 1998, 2010, and 2014.
- To classify as global, widespread bleaching must occur across three ocean basins: the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian.
Impact of Previous Events: The last global mass coral bleaching event occurred from 2014 to 2017, resulting in the loss of nearly a third of the Great Barrier Reef's corals.
- Preliminary data indicates that approximately 15% of the world's reefs experienced significant coral die-offs during this event.
Current Situation: This year is witnessing even more severe bleaching events, with the Caribbean experiencing its worst coral bleaching on record following the Northern Hemisphere summer last year.
Link to Climate Phenomena: Coral bleaching is often associated with the naturally occurring El Niño climate phenomenon, which leads to warmer ocean waters.
Climate Change Impact: The world recently experienced its first 12-month period with an average temperature exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.
- A temperature rise of 1.5°C is considered the tipping point for mass coral die-offs, with scientists estimating that 90% of the world's corals could be lost as a result.

About the Corals and Coral Reefs:

Corals: Corals are animals known as polyps, which engage in a symbiotic relationship with tiny algae called zooxanthellae.
- These algae provide corals with food and oxygen, while corals offer them a safe habitat.
Coral Reefs: Coral reefs are limestone structures formed by thousands of tiny coral animals and are predominantly found in tropical climates.

Coral Bleaching and Its Concerns:

Coral bleaching occurs when corals are exposed to stressful conditions like high temperatures, pollution, or changes in water chemistry, leading them to expel the zooxanthellae.
- Without these algae, corals lose their color and turn white, hence the term 'bleaching,' and cannot survive for long in this state.
Recovery Potential: Despite its severity, coral bleaching doesn't necessarily mean the end of the reef; timely removal of stressors can facilitate the return of zooxanthellae and coral recovery.
Ecological Importance: Coral reefs serve as habitats and food sources for numerous fish and marine species.
- They also offer coastal protection from erosion and storms and play a critical role in regulating the Earth's climate by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide.
Cultural and Aesthetic Value: Beyond their ecological functions, coral reefs represent stunning biodiversity and natural beauty, making their loss a tragic prospect for future generations.
Impacts: When coral reefs suffer, so do the ecosystems and communities reliant on them, underscoring the far-reaching consequences of coral degradation.

Google-backed satellite to track global oil industry methane emissions

06 Mar 2024

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MethaneSAT — a satellite which will track and measure methane emissions at a global scale — was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon9 rocket from California recently.

What is MethaneSAT?

MethaneSAT will orbit the Earth 15 times a day, monitoring the oil and gas sector.
It will create a large amount of data, which will tell “how much methane is coming from where, who’s responsible, and are those emissions going up or down over time”.
The data collected by MethaneSAT will be made public for free in near real-time.
This will allow stakeholders and regulators to take action to reduce methane emissions.

Institutions involved in the development:

The entity behind MethaneSAT is the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) — a US-based nonprofit environmental advocacy group.
To develop the satellite, EDF partnered with Harvard University, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, and the New Zealand Space Agency.

Features of MethaneSAT:

Historically, tracking the source of methane emissions and measuring them has been quite challenging.
- ?While some satellites can provide high-resolution data, they can only scan specific, pre-targeted sites.
- Others can examine larger areas and detect large emitting events, but cannot scan “smaller sources that account for the majority of emissions in many, if not most, regions,” the EDF statement added.
Due to this discrepancy, according to an International Energy Agency (IEA) report, global methane emissions are about 70 per cent higher than levels reported by national governments.
MethaneSAT is expected to fix the issue.
Equipped with a high-resolution infrared sensor and a spectrometer, the satellite will fill critical data gaps.
It can track differences in methane concentrations as small as three parts per billion in the atmosphere, which enables it to pick up smaller emissions sources than the previous satellites.
MethaneSAT also has a wide-camera view — of about 200 km by 200 km — allowing it to identify larger emitters so-called “super emitters”.

Significance of MethaneSAT:

Advancing the Goals of the Global Methane Pledge 2021: The Global Methane Pledge, signed by over 150 countries in 2021, aims to reduce collective methane emissions by at least 30% from 2020 levels by 2030.
- During the previous year's COP, over 50 companies pledged to significantly reduce methane emissions and routine flaring.
- MethaneSAT will play a crucial role in helping these entities achieve their targets.
Enhancing Transparency: The satellite will usher in a new era of transparency by providing publicly available data accessible to anyone worldwide.
This data will enable monitoring of methane commitments made by governments and corporations, promoting accountability and transparency in emission reduction efforts."

Why Do We Need to Track and Measure Methane Emission?

Methane is an invisible but strong greenhouse gas, and the second largest contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide, responsible for 30 percent of global heating since the Industrial Revolution.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, over a period of 20 years, methane is 80 times more potent at warming than carbon dioxide.
The gas also contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone — a colorless and highly irritating gas that forms just above the Earth’s surface.
- According to a 2022 report, exposure to ground-level ozone could be contributing to one million premature deaths every year.
Therefore, it is crucial to cut methane emissions and the main culprit, fossil fuel operations, which account for about 40 percent of all human-caused methane emissions.
The objective of MethaneSAT is to help achieve this goal.

Holistic Progress Card: How NCERT is planning to change student assessment

06 Mar 2024

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The New Education Policy (NEP), established in 2020, proposed redesigning the assessment system of school students in India recently.

About the Holistic Progress Card (HPC):

It Is Developed by Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development (PARAKH), a standard-setting body under the NCERT.
The Holistic Progress Card (HPC) marks a significant departure from traditional assessment methods for students in the foundational stage (Classes 1 and 2), preparatory stage (Classes 3 to 5), and middle stage (Classes 6 to 8), aligning with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Features:

Incorporates feedback from parents, classmates, and self-evaluation by students.
Aims to provide a comprehensive view of students' academic performance, cognitive abilities, socio-emotional skills, and creativity during class activities.
Aligns with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) to prioritize learner-centric evaluation.
Emphasizes a shift from numerical grades to a 360-degree evaluation, focusing on students' active engagement in class activities and the demonstration of diverse skills and competencies.
Enables teachers to identify students' strengths and weaknesses, fostering personalized support and intervention.
Encourages students to reflect on their progress and set academic and personal goals, fostering self-awareness and accountability.
Involves parents in the learning process, integrating their insights on homework, classroom engagement, and extracurricular activities.
Includes peer evaluation, allowing students to assess their classmates' contributions to activities.

Benefits:

Goes beyond numerical grades, providing descriptive and analytical evaluations that encompass academic achievements and critical skill development.
Promotes a shift from summative to formative assessment, fostering competency-based evaluation and holistic growth.

Majuli Island's Mask Craft Celebrated With Geographical Indication Tag

06 Mar 2024

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Adding to their growing national and international recognition, the traditional Majuli masks in Assam were given a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Centre recently.

What are Majuli Masks?

These handmade masks are traditionally used to depict characters in bhaonas, or theatrical performances with devotional messages under the neo-Vaishnavite tradition.
- Majuli, the largest river island in the world and the seat of Assam’s neo-Vaishnavite tradition, has been home to the art of mask-making since the 16th century.
It was introduced by the 15th-16th century reformer saint Srimanta Sankardeva.
The masks can depict gods, goddesses, demons, animals and birds — Ravana, Garuda, Narasimha, Hanuman, Varaha Surpanakha all feature among the masks.
They can range in size from those covering just the face (mukh mukha), which take around five days to make, to those covering the whole head and body of the performer (cho mukha), which can take up to one-and-a-half months to make.
According to the application made for the patent, the masks are made of bamboo, clay, dung, cloth, cotton, wood and other materials available in the riverine surroundings of their makers.

Why is This Art Practiced in Monasteries?

Sattras are monastic institutions established by Srimanta Sankardev and his disciples as centers of religious, social and cultural reform.
Today, they are also centers of traditional performing arts such as borgeet (songs), sattriya (dance) and bhaona (theater), which are an integral part of the Sankardev tradition.
Majuli has 22 sattras, and the patent application states that the mask-making tradition is by and large concentrated in four of them:
- Samaguri Sattra
- Natun Samaguri Sattra
- Bihimpur Sattra and
- Alengi Narasimha Sattra

What is Majuli Manuscript Painting?

It is a form of painting which also received the GI tag.
It originated in the 16th century done on sanchi pat, or manuscripts made of the bark of the sanchi or agar tree, using homemade ink.
The earliest example of an illustrated manuscript is said to be a rendering of the Adya Dasama of the Bhagwat Purana in Assamese by Srimanta Sankardev.
This art was patronized by the Ahom kings.
It continues to be practiced in every sattra in Majuli.

India ranks 113 out of 190 countries in the World Bank’s legal gender gap index

05 Mar 2024

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India's ranked improved to 113 out of 190 countries in the World Bank’s Women, Business and Law index, according to the 10th edition of the report released Monday.

About Women, Business and Law Index:

The "Women, Business and the Law (WBL)" index is a project of the World Bank Group, specifically designed to measure the legal environment for women's economic opportunities across 190 economies.
It's distinct from a general "Gender Equality Index" as it focuses specifically on legal frameworks and their impact on women's involvement in business and professional life.

What does it Measure?

The WBL index assesses legal frameworks across eight indicators:
- Mobility (freedom of movement)
- Workplace (discrimination, maternity leave, etc.)
- Pay (equal pay for equal work)
- Marriage (property rights, domestic violence)
- Parenthood (parental leave, child custody)
- Entrepreneurship (starting and running a business)
- Assets (ownership and inheritance)
- Pension (access to and benefits)
Scoring: Each indicator is scored on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 representing the highest level of legal rights and protections for women.
- The overall score for a country is the average of these eight indicators.
Latest version: The latest edition is "Women, Business and the Law 2024", released in October 2023.
This version also introduces two new indicators:
- Safety (addressing violence against women)
- Childcare (availability, affordability, and quality)

Highlights of the Report:

Women spend an average of 2.4 more hours a day on unpaid care work than men—much of it on the care of children.
Only 62 economies—fewer than a third—have quality standards governing childcare services, which has an adverse impact on the employment opportunity of women as mothers with young children have their battles to pick.
Women face hindrances in areas such as entrepreneurship as just one in every five economies mandate gender-sensitive criteria for public procurement processes, meaning women are deprived of significant economic opportunities.

About India:

According to the 10th edition of the Women, Business and Law index, India ranks 113 out of 190 countries in the Index.
- The addition of Safety and childcare as indicators in the new index is believed to have improved India’s ranking slightly.
The index shows that in India, women enjoy 60% of the legal rights compared to men, which is lower than the global average of 64.2%, but much higher than the 45.9% of the legal protections compared to men.
Over the years, India’s score has remained constant at 74.4%, whereas a total of 14 countries around the world, including Denmark, Canada, and Finland, score a perfect 100 in the legal framework score.
- Some of the less developed countries like Ethiopia, Namibia, and even Burundi have better scores than India.
India’s performance is much lower in providing supportive frameworks, such as programs, services, budgets, procedures, inspections, and sanctions for non-compliance with quality standards.
- Only 54.2% of the supportive frameworks needed were established in the country.

Venice Biennale, ‘the Olympics of the art world’, set to open on April 20

05 Mar 2024

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The 60th edition of the Venice Biennale, known as “the Olympics of the art world”, will open on April 20.

What is the Venice Biennale?

The Venice Biennale is one of the biggest and most prestigious art fairs in the world.
- Biennale is an Italian word which means ‘every other year’. Over the years, however, it has come to mean a large international exhibition that takes place every two years.
- A biennale exhibition is different from a regular exhibition as it is organized on a large scale and involves multiple venues.
Biennales feature contemporary art by artists from various countries that are usually linked by a common curatorial theme, providing a framework for exploring contemporary social, economic and political ideas in an international context.

India’s participation:

India made its debut at the Biennale in 1954. Recording robust sales, the exhibition comprised over 50 paintings of masters such as M F Husain, S H Raza, Jamini Roy, Amrita Sher-Gil, and Francis Newton Souza.
After 1954, the country officially participated in the event in 2011. The exhibition was organized by Lalit Kala Akademi and curated by Ranjit Hoskote.
- It featured works by artists like Zarina Hashmi, Gigi Scaria, Praneet Soi, and the Desire Machine Collective.
At the 2019 Venice Biennale, the Ministry of Culture, Confederation of Indian Industry, National Gallery of Modern Art, and Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) in collaboration organized the Indian pavilion.

Will India have a presence at the 2024 Venice Biennale?

This year, the Biennale is helmed by its first Latin American curator — the artistic director of the São Paulo Museum of Art, Adriano Pedrosa.
- His theme for the event is “Foreigners Everywhere”, which will delve into the experiences of those living on the margins, as outsiders, immigrants or indigenous populations.
Works by Indian artists will also feature in this central exhibition.
- This includes the late modernists Ram Kumar, B Prabha, SH Raza, Jamini Roy, Amrita Sher-Gil, FN Souza, and Goa-based Monika Correa.
- Representing the contemporary will be the public art collective Aravani Art Project, led by trans and cis women.

India halts Pakistan-bound ship suspected of carrying CNC machines from China

05 Mar 2024

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Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the start of the process of core-loading the indigenous prototype fast breeder reactor (PFBR) at the Madras Atomic Power Station in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.

What is the PFBR?

The PFBR, or Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor, is a nuclear reactor designed to produce more nuclear fuel than it consumes.
In nuclear fission, the nucleus of an atom absorbs a neutron, becomes unstable, and splits into two, releasing energy.
If the unstable nucleus releases additional neutrons, the reactor’s facilities can utilize them to initiate more fission reactions.

How does the PFBR work?

PHWRs use natural or low-enriched U-238 as the fissile material and produce Pu-239 as a byproduct.
- This Pu-239 is combined with more U-238 into a mixed oxide and loaded into the core of a new reactor together with a blanket.
- This is a material the fission products in the core react with to produce more Pu-239.
A breeder reactor is a nuclear reactor that produces more fissile material than it consumes.
- In a ‘fast’ breeder reactor, the neutrons aren’t slowed, allowing them to trigger specific fission reactions.
The PFBR is designed to produce more Pu-239 than it consumes.
- It uses liquid sodium, a highly reactive substance, as coolant in two circuits. Coolant in the first circuit enters the reactor and leaves with (heat) energy and radioactivity.
- Via heat-exchangers, it transfers only the heat to the coolant in a secondary circuit.
- The latter transfers the heat to generators to produce electricity.

DoT launches Digital Intelligence Portal, ‘Chakshu’ facility to curb cyber crimes, financial frauds

05 Mar 2024

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The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) recently launched its ‘Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP)’ to curb the misuse of telecom resources in cybercrimes and financial frauds, and the ‘Chakshu’ facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal to enable citizens to report suspected fraud communication.

About Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP):

Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) is developed by the Department of Telecommunications.
It is a secure and integrated platform for real time intelligence sharing, information exchange and coordination among the stakeholders i.e. Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), law enforcement agencies (LEAs), banks and financial institutions (FIs), social media platforms, identity document issuing authorities etc.
The portal also contains information regarding the cases detected as misuse of telecom resources. The shared information could be useful to the stakeholders in their respective domains.
It also works as a backend repository for the citizen-initiated requests on the Sanchar Saathi portal for action by the stakeholders.
The DIP is accessible to the stakeholders over secure connectivity and the relevant information is shared based on their respective roles.
The said platform is not accessible to citizens.

What is the Chakshu Facility?

Chakshu is the latest addition to the citizen centric facilities already available on the Sanchar Saathi portal of DoT.
It facilitates citizens to report suspected fraud communication received over call, SMS or WhatsApp with the intention of defrauding like KYC expiry or update of bank account / payment wallet / SIM / gas connection / electricity connection, sextortion, impersonation as government official / relative for sending money, disconnection of all mobile numbers by Department of Telecommunications etc.
In case, a citizen is already a victim of cyber-crime or financial fraud, it is advised to report at cyber-crime helpline number 1930 or website https://www.cybercrime.gov.in of Government of India.

Carbon Capture and How it Can Help Save the Planet

05 Mar 2024

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Germany has recently declared its approval for carbon capture and offshore storage for specific industrial sectors.

What is Carbon Capture and Storage?

CCS refers to a host of different technologies that capture CO2 emissions from large point sources like refineries or power plants and trap them beneath the Earth.
Notably, CCS is different from carbon dioxide removal (CDR), where CO2 is removed from the atmosphere.
CCS involves three different techniques of capturing carbon, including: Post-combustion, Pre-combustion, and Oxyfuel combustion.
- In post-combustion, CO2 is removed after the fossil fuel has been burnt. By using a chemical solvent, CO2 is separated from the exhaust or ‘flue’ gasses and then captured.
- Pre-combustion involves removing CO2 before burning the fossil fuel. “First, the fossil fuel is partially burned in a ‘gasifier’ to form synthetic gas. CO2 can be captured from this relatively pure exhaust stream,” according to a report by the British Geological Survey. The method also generates hydrogen, which is separated and can be used as fuel.
- In oxyfuel combustion, the fossil fuel is burnt with almost pure oxygen, which produces CO2 and water vapor. The water is condensed through cooling and CO2 is separated and captured. Out of the three methods, oxyfuel combustion is the most efficient but the oxygen burning process needs a lot of energy.
Post-combustion and oxyfuel combustion equipment can be retro-fitted in existing plants that were originally built without them. Pre-combustion equipment, however, needs “larger modifications to the operation of the facility and are therefore more suitable to new plants.
After capture, CO2 is compressed into a liquid state and transported to suitable storage sites.
- Although CO2 can be transported through ship, rail, or road tanker, pipeline is the cheapest and most reliable method.

Can Carbon Capture Help Save the world?

Operational CCS projects generally claim to be 90 percent efficient, meaning they can capture 90 per cent of carbon and store it.
Studies, however, have shown that a number of these projects are not as efficient as they claim to be.
- For example, a 2022 study by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) found most of the 13 flagship CCS projects worldwide that it analyzed have either underperformed or failed entirely.
Moreover, CCS technologies are quite expensive.
- When CCS is attached to coal and gas power stations it is likely to be at least six times more expensive than electricity generated from wind power backed by battery storage.
- It is far cheaper and more efficient to avoid CO2 emissions in the first place.
There are also only a few operational CCS projects across the world even though the technology has been pushed for decades.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), there were 40 operational CCS projects in 2023, which captured more than 45 metric tonnes (Mt) of CO2 annually.
To ensure the planet doesn’t breach the 1.5 degree Celsius temperature increase limit, it would take an “inconceivable” amount of carbon capture “if oil and natural gas consumption were to evolve as projected under today’s policy settings.
It added that the electricity required to capture that level of carbon as of 2050 would be more than the entire planet’s use of electricity in 2022.
Therefore, there couldn’t be an overreliance on carbon capture as a solution to tackle climate change.

Grey-zone Warfare Latest Entry in Lexicon of Warfare

04 Mar 2024

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On the last day of the 2024 Raisina Dialogue (February 24), India’s Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan said that “grey zone warfare” is the latest in informal warfare.

What is the Grey Zone Warfare?

Grey zone warfare refers to a strategic approach where a nation seeks to gain advantages over others without engaging in overt conflict.
It involves a series of tactics, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic pressures, aimed at subtly undermining or destabilizing adversaries.
China has notably employed this strategy against India and neighboring countries.

What are the China's Grey Zone Tactics Against India?

South China Sea Activities: China asserts its dominance in the South China Sea using naval and civilian vessels, raising tensions with neighboring countries like India.
Infrastructure Near Borders: China constructs infrastructure and settlements near India's borders, bolstering territorial claims and strategic positioning.
Digital Investments: China invests in Indian digital platforms and media, influencing public narratives and perceptions.

India's Counter-Measures:

Inter-Agency Collaboration: India promotes collaboration among defense, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies to devise comprehensive strategies to counter grey zone threats.
Enhanced Vigilance: India increases surveillance and presence in border areas and strategic locations to detect and respond to covert Chinese activities.
Regulating Foreign Investments: India scrutinizes foreign investments in critical sectors, particularly technology, to safeguard national security interests.

Long-Term Implications for India:

Information Warfare: Grey zone conflicts often involve digital misinformation, influencing public opinion and perceptions.
Economic Leverage: Dependency on foreign investments poses vulnerabilities if used as leverage by investing nations.
Technology Dependency: Heavy reliance on foreign technology exposes India to risks, emphasizing the need to bolster indigenous technological capabilities.

Conclusion

Grey zone warfare encompasses a multifaceted strategic landscape, blending digital, economic, and geopolitical tactics. India recognizes these challenges and is actively devising strategies to navigate this complex terrain.

PM Modi hails those supporting wildlife conservation efforts on World Wildlife Day

04 Mar 2024

Supreme Court’s ban on Patanjali ads

04 Mar 2024

Several OPEC+ nations extend oil cuts to boost prices

04 Mar 2024

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Moscow, Riyadh, and several other OPEC+ members announced extensions to oil production cuts first announced in 2023 as part of an agreement among oil producers to boost prices following economic uncertainty.

What is the OPEC+ Oil Alliance?

OPEC+ is a coalition of oil-exporting nations that convenes regularly to determine the quantity of crude oil to offer on the global market.
Origin: This alliance was established in late 2016 to formalize a framework for collaboration between OPEC and non-OPEC oil-producing nations on a consistent and sustainable basis.
The primary objective of these nations is to collaborate on regulating crude oil production to stabilize the oil market.
OPEC+ collectively controls approximately 40% of global oil supplies and holds over 80% of proven oil reserves.
At its core, OPEC+ consists of OPEC member states, predominantly comprising nations from the Middle East and Africa.
Membership: It includes OPEC member states along with Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Russia, Mexico, Malaysia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Oman.

About the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC):

OPEC, short for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, is a permanent intergovernmental organization comprised of oil-exporting nations.

Mission:

To coordinate and harmonize the petroleum policies of its member countries.
To ensure the stability of oil prices in global oil markets, aiming to eliminate detrimental and unnecessary fluctuations.
Formation: Founded in 1960 by the five original members - Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela.
Presently, it consists of 13 member countries, which include Algeria, Angola, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Libya, Nigeria, and the United Arab Emirates.
Headquarters: Located in Vienna, Austria.

India halts Pakistan-bound ship suspected of carrying CNC machines from China

04 Mar 2024

Bengaluru's Rameshwaram cafe blast puts the spotlight on IEDs

02 Mar 2024

India to Make Climate Risk Disclosures Mandatory for Banks

02 Mar 2024

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While acknowledging the importance of the environment and its long-term impact on organizations and the economy as a whole, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has now released a draft framework for banks to follow.

What are Climate-led Financial Risks?

“Climate-related financial risks” means the potential risks that may arise from climate change or from efforts to mitigate climate change, their related impacts, and economic and financial consequences according to RBI.
These risks manifest through two primary channels: physical risks and transition risks.
Physical Risks: These entail the economic and financial consequences arising from the escalating frequency and severity of extreme weather events linked to climate change. Such events can exert pressure on the financial sector in various ways:
- Renewable Energy Sector (REs) Vulnerability: The occurrence of local or regional weather events may strain the anticipated cash flows to REs, impacting their financial stability. Furthermore, chronic flooding or landslides pose risks to the collateral that REs have pledged as security for loans.
- Infrastructure and Property Damage: Severe weather phenomena can inflict damage on the physical assets and data centres owned or leased by REs, impairing their capacity to deliver financial services effectively.
Transition Risks: These risks stem from the transition toward a low-carbon economy, influenced by factors such as evolving climate-related policies, technological advancements, and changing consumer behaviours. Key considerations include:
- Policy and Regulatory Shifts: Changes in climate-related regulations and policies, along with advancements in technologies, can significantly influence the transition process. Moreover, alterations in customer sentiments and behaviour patterns play a pivotal role in shaping this transition.
- Economic Impact: The transition toward reducing carbon emissions carries substantial implications for the economy at large. It entails a shift toward sustainable practices and investments, which can impact various sectors and industries differently.
Recognizing and addressing these climate-related financial risks is imperative for ensuring the resilience and stability of the financial sector in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

About the Framework:

Commencing from the financial year 2025-26, all major financial institutions across India, including top-tier NBFCs and renowned NBFCs, will be mandated to furnish details about governance, strategy, and risk management strategies.
Additionally, they will be required to initiate disclosure of metrics and targets from the fiscal year 2027-28.

Key highlights of the framework include:

Enhanced Disclosure Requirements: Banks will be obligated to unveil climate-related risks that could potentially impact their financial stability.
- This measure aims to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of climate-related financial risks and opportunities, fostering early assessment and proactive management.
Scope of Coverage: The framework encompasses various financial entities, including scheduled commercial banks (excluding local area banks, payments banks, and regional rural banks), Tier-IV primary urban cooperative banks (UCBs), and top and upper layer non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).
Disclosure Obligations for Renewable Energy Sector (REs): REs are mandated to disclose crucial information related to climate-related risks and opportunities across short-, medium-, and long-term horizons. Key areas of disclosure include:
Identification of Climate-Related Risks and Opportunities: REs are required to identify and disclose climate-related risks and opportunities relevant to their operations and financial outlook.
Assessment of Impact: REs must delineate the impact of climate-related risks and opportunities on their business strategies and financial planning, enabling stakeholders to comprehend the implications on their overall strategy.
Resilience Evaluation: REs are tasked with evaluating the resilience of their strategies in light of diverse climate scenarios, thereby ensuring robustness in navigating potential challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities.

Significance:

A pressing requirement exists for an improved and standardized disclosure framework for regulated entities to mitigate financial risks.
Without such a framework, there is a risk of assets being mispriced and capital being misallocated, which could have adverse repercussions on financial stability. Consequently, the imperative for a standardized disclosure framework on climate-related financial risks became evident.

How India’s first semiconductor fabrication plant can help plug into the global value chain

02 Mar 2024

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The Union Cabinet recently approved the country's first semiconductor fab to be made by the Tata Group in collaboration with Powerchip Taiwan.

What is Semiconductor Fabrication?

The semiconductor fabrication process is a complex and highly specialized series of steps that transform raw materials into functional electronic components.
This process involves a multitude of techniques and technologies, with each stage requiring precise control and attention to detail.
A semiconductor fab -- short for fabrication -- is a manufacturing plant in which raw silicon wafers are turned into integrated circuits (ICs).
A fab lab features a clean room where ICs are etched onto wafers.
The completed chips are sent to a back-end assembly and test facility before they are packaged and sold.
A semiconductor fab facility always includes a clean room -- so known because its environment is carefully controlled to eliminate dust and vibrations and to keep the temperature and humidity within a specific narrow range.
- Contamination can enter the fab environment through external sources, resulting in damage to products that can affect overall yield.
To minimize the losses, all potential sources of contamination are thoroughly analysed and cleaned.
- For example, the tools used in the chip manufacturing process have low levels of particulates and fibres.
The goal is to ensure that extraneous contamination is not introduced into the semiconductor fab to ensure the highest quality of the final products.

Technology Used in Semiconductor Fab Labs:

Photolithography: Photolithography is a crucial optical process in the fabrication process, as it is used to create intricate circuit patterns on a single wafer's surface.
This is achieved by coating the wafer with a photosensitive material, called a photoresist, and then exposing it to high-wavelength deep ultraviolet (DUV) or extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light through a mask containing the desired pattern.
The exposed photoresist undergoes a chemical change, which allows it to be selectively removed.
It leaves behind a patterned layer that serves as a protective layer for subsequent processing steps, such as etching and deposition.

Minimum age to cast postal ballots hiked to 85 years

02 Mar 2024

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For the upcoming Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections, senior citizens who are 85 years and older will be able to opt for postal ballots as the government recently amended the rule to increase the eligibility from the current limit of 80 years and above.

News Summary:

The government, in collaboration with the Election Commission, has introduced amendments to the Conduct of Election Rules (1961), specifically targeting the eligibility criteria for voting by postal ballot.
Notably, the minimum age for senior citizens eligible for postal voting has been increased from 80 years to 85 years.
- Previously, Rule 27A of the Conduct of Election Rules had extended the postal ballot facility to senior citizens above 80 years, persons with disabilities, poll officers, and individuals diagnosed with COVID-19.
This provision was first implemented during the 2020 Bihar assembly polls, coinciding with the onset of the pandemic.
Despite the initial extension of postal voting rights to senior citizens aged 80 and above, a subsequent review by the Election Commission revealed that only a small fraction, approximately 2-3%, of eligible voters in this age group opted for postal ballots.
- The majority preferred to physically visit polling stations to cast their votes.
Considering the statistics indicating that the total number of senior citizens above 80 years stands at 1.75 crore, with 98 lakh falling within the age range of 80-85 years, the government deemed it necessary to amend the existing rule.
- This adjustment reflects a nuanced approach aimed at ensuring efficient electoral processes while addressing the preferences and needs of elderly voters.

What is Postal Voting?

Postal voting is only available to a specific group of voters.
By retyping her choices on the ballot paper and returning it to the inspection officer before counting, a voter can remotely cast her ballot using this feature.

Who Can Avail This?

Armed forces members such as those in the Army, Navy, and Air Force, armed police officers serving outside their home states, government workers stationed outside of India, and their wives are only eligible to vote by mail.

Features:

Voters may use this service from any location outside of the designated constituency.
This system makes it easier to create voter electoral roll data for services.
It has two layers of security, making it a secure system:
- 1. Downloading the encrypted electronically transmitted postal ballot (ETPB) file requires an OTP (one-time password).
- 2. To decrypt, print, and deliver ETPB, a PIN is necessary.
By sending postal ballots electronically to eligible service voters, this system addresses the time constraint associated with mailing postal ballots.
The specific quick response code ensures confidentiality and prevents the duplication of cast ETPB.

Concerned Raised by Political Parties:

Parties argue that allowing voters 65 and older to cast postal ballots violates voting confidentiality since many of the population lacks education and may ask for help from others at various points, ultimately identifying their chosen candidate.
Their exposure to "administrative influence or influence by the government or the ruling party" also results from this.

How the development of Agaléga figures in India’s vision for its maritime neighbourhood

02 Mar 2024

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Recently, Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Pravind Jugnauth jointly inaugurated an airstrip and the St James Jetty on North Agaléga Island in the Indian Ocean.

About Agalega Islands:

Agaléga Island comprises two islets, a long and thin northern island and a shorter, round southern island.
It is slightly over 3,000 kilometres from the nearest mainland Indian coast, deep in the Indian Ocean near Madagascar.
Despite its pristine appeal, Agaléga remains largely undiscovered by tourists and there are no hotels, water bungalows, or bustling tourist shops.
- Instead, approximately 300 islanders sustain themselves through coconut cultivation and fishing, maintaining a way of life passed down through generations.

Importance of Agalega Islands:

The development of the Agalega Islands holds significant socio-economic and national security implications for Mauritius, aligning closely with India's maritime vision.
- Despite being a dependency of Mauritius, the islands have long remained underdeveloped, posing challenges to the sustainability and well-being of their inhabitants.
- Necessities often required referral to Mauritius due to the lack of infrastructure.
Moreover, the absence of an official government or security presence posed a serious vulnerability, necessitating urgent attention.
- Recognizing the potential to transform this vulnerability into a strategic asset, Mauritius prioritized the development of the islands and the establishment of facilities capable of accommodating ships and aircraft.
In this regard, the construction of a jetty and an airstrip emerged as imperative steps to bolster the islands' infrastructure.
- Given the shared interests and cooperation between Mauritius and India, the government of Mauritius selected India as its preferred development partner for this ambitious initiative.

Why did Mauritians Choose India?

Ties between India and Mauritius go back to 1948, 20 years before the country’s independence from Britain.
Seventy percent of the inhabitants of Mauritius are of Indian origin, and the two countries share deep historical, social, and cultural bonds.
The consistent feature in the history of bilateral relations has been friendship and trust at all levels — the political leadership, the diplomatic and military communities, as well as between the peoples of the two countries.
The development of these strategically located islands required trust more than anything else. India was the obvious choice.

Significance for India:

The goodwill and trust between the two countries will be further enhanced. India will welcome opportunities to further develop these islands in collaboration with Mauritius as the latter deems appropriate.
The joint development of Agaléga underscores India’s commitment to the vision of Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), and its willingness to assist smaller maritime nations in building capacity and developing capability.
It will indicate to other maritime neighbours that India is a benign and friendly country that respects the sovereignty of independent nations.
India would like to emerge as the preferred development and security partner in the Indian Ocean Region.

PM Modi launches India’s first hydrogen-powered ferry built at Cochin Shipyard

01 Mar 2024

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Prime Minister Modi recently virtually launched India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell ferry manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), which will be deployed for service at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.

What is the "Harit Nauka" (Green Boat) Initiative?

Initiated by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, "Harit Nauka" aims to facilitate a sustainable transition of inland vessels.
In January 2024, the shipping ministry introduced the "Harit Nauka" guidelines, outlining the path towards environmentally friendly practices for inland vessels.
According to these guidelines, all states are mandated to progressively adopt green fuels for 50% of their inland waterway-based passenger fleets within the next decade, to achieve 100% adoption by 2045. This initiative aligns with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The implementation of this initiative not only contributes to reducing emissions but also paves the way for replicating such environmentally friendly ferry models across the country to enhance urban mobility.
Furthermore, it serves as a significant catalyst for advancing the objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

What are Hydrogen Fuel Cells?

Hydrogen fuel cells harness the chemical energy of hydrogen to generate electricity, offering a clean energy solution with electricity, heat, and water as the sole products and by-products.

Functioning:

Similar to batteries, fuel cells continuously produce electricity and heat as long as fuel is supplied. A typical fuel cell comprises two electrodes—an anode (negative electrode) and a cathode (positive electrode)—surrounding an electrolyte.
Hydrogen fuel is supplied to the anode, while air is directed to the cathode. At the anode, a catalyst separates hydrogen molecules into protons and electrons, which then travel different paths.
Electrons create an electric current through an external circuit, while protons migrate through the electrolyte to the cathode, combining with oxygen and electrons to form water and heat.

Challenges in India:

High Cost: Fuel cell systems remain relatively expensive compared to conventional energy sources.
Infrastructure Deficiency: India currently lacks the necessary infrastructure for the widespread adoption of fuel cell technology, including hydrogen production and distribution networks.
Technical Hurdles: Despite ongoing advancements, fuel cell technology is still in its nascent stages, facing persistent technical challenges.
Policy Constraints: The absence of a comprehensive policy framework from the Indian government has constrained the development and adoption of fuel cell technology, impeding research and investment.

India's Initiatives:

In response to these challenges, India has formulated the National Green Hydrogen Policy, delineating a vision for the growth of the hydrogen and fuel cell industry.
The policy aims to position India as a global hub for the production, utilization, and export of Green Hydrogen and its derivatives, signalling a strategic commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions.

Characteristics of the Hydrogen-Powered Ferry:

Length and Capacity: The hydrogen fuel cell vessel is a 24-meter-long catamaran, capable of accommodating up to 50 passengers in its air-conditioned passenger area.
Battery-Free Operation: Distinguished by its innovative design, this ferry does not rely on conventional batteries for storing electrical energy.
- Instead, it utilizes hydrogen fuel, stored in cylinders onboard the vessel. With five hydrogen cylinders capable of carrying 40kg of hydrogen, the ferry can sustain operations for eight hours. Additionally, it features a 3-kW solar panel to complement its power source.
Fuel Cell Technology: Equipped with a 50-kW PEM (proton-exchange membrane) fuel cell, coupled with Lithium-Ion Phosphate batteries, the ferry boasts adaptability in response to varying power demands.
- PEM fuel cells, renowned for their lower operating temperature, lightweight, and compactness, are commonly employed in automotive applications.
Environmental Sustainability: With zero emissions and noise, coupled with enhanced energy efficiency, the hydrogen fuel cell-powered ferry stands as an environmentally friendly alternative.
- Its minimal moving parts contribute to reduced maintenance requirements compared to combustion vessels.
Additional Advantages: While hydrogen fuel cell technology has been in development for maritime purposes, only a handful of countries worldwide have executed demonstration projects.
- Thus, this ferry positions India at the forefront, providing an early advantage in harnessing the potential of hydrogen as an emerging green fuel within the marine sector.

Doomsday Glacier has lost 50 billion tons of ice, melting began 80 years ago

01 Mar 2024

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Antarctica's Doomsday Glacier, the world's widest glacier, has lost over 50 billion tons of ice and the melting rate is on the rise as the continent gets warmer.

What is Doomsday Glacier?

The Thwaites Glacier (also known as Doomsday Glacier), a massive and world’s widest glacier is located in West Antarctica.
The Doomsday nickname reflects the potential for catastrophic flooding if the glacier were to collapse completely.
Scientists are particularly concerned about Thwaites Glacier because of its size and location.
- If it were to collapse or significantly retreat, it could lead to a more rapid flow of ice from the interior of West Antarctica into the ocean, contributing to rising sea levels.
- The collapse could lead to a 65 cm rise in global sea level.
The ice loss in the region has been observed to be accelerating since the 1970s, however, so far it remained unclear as to when this retreat began.
The significant glacial retreat began in the 1940s and the findings coincide with previous work that studied retreat on Pine Island Glacier and found glacial retreat began in the ‘40s as well.
This change is not random nor specific to one glacier but It is part of a larger context of a changing climate.

Why Did the Melting Begin?

The meeting was kicked off by an extreme El Nino climate pattern that warmed the west Antarctic, and since then the glacier has not been able to recover from the damage.
- It is significant that El Niño only lasted a couple of years, but the two glaciers, Thwaites and Pine Island remain in significant retreat.
- Once the system is kicked out of balance, the retreat is ongoing.
The Doomsday Glacier's melting remains one of the most crucial events triggered and accelerated by climate change and could lead to the submergence of several coastal regions of the world.

ZSI names a newly discovered head-shield sea slug after President Droupadi Murmu

01 Mar 2024

World's First Vedic Clock to be Unveiled by PM Modi in Ujjain

01 Mar 2024

India to set up International Big Cat Alliance

01 Mar 2024

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The Union Environment Ministry plans to set up and coordinate an International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), along the lines of the International Solar Alliance, an India-headquartered initiative to promote solar installations globally.

About the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA):

The idea of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) was first given by Prime Minister Modi during his speech on the occasion of Global Tiger Day in 2019.
- He called for developing an alliance of global leaders to curb poaching in Asia.
The alliance was formally announced on April 9, 202, in Mysuru, as India commemorated the completion of 50 years of Project Tiger.
The alliance will focus on the conservation of seven big cats, which include Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar, and Cheetah. Out of these, five are found in India.
Membership to the IBCA is open to 97 'range' countries, encompassing the natural habitats of these big cats, as well as other interested nations and international organizations.
- The alliance aims to facilitate cooperation among countries to advance the conservation agenda for mutual benefit.
Operating with a multifaceted approach, the IBCA endeavours to establish robust linkages across various domains, including knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, advocacy, financial and resource support, research, technical assistance, education, and awareness.
Governance of the alliance consists of a General Assembly comprising all member countries, a Council comprised of seven to fifteen member countries elected by the General Assembly for a five-year term, and a Secretariat.
- The IBCA Secretary General, appointed by the General Assembly upon the Council's recommendation, serves a specific term.
To support its initiatives, the IBCA has secured initial funding of Rs. 150 crore from the Government of India for the period spanning from 2023-24 to 2027-28.

RBI tweaks norms related to the Regulatory Sandbox scheme

29 Feb 2024

PM Modi lays stone for India’s second spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam

29 Feb 2024

New waste management technology could improve life in rural India

29 Feb 2024

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A new waste management technology that allows pyrolysis at a community level could help rural Indians cut indoor air pollution, improve soil health, and generate clean power, a recent study has claimed.

What is BioTRIG?

BioTRIG represents a novel waste management technology centered around pyrolysis, poised to mitigate indoor air pollution, enhance soil quality, and foster clean energy generation across rural India.
This community-oriented pyrolysis system is ingeniously crafted to utilize locally generated waste, offering a sustainable solution tailored to village environments.
The innovative process yields three valuable by-products: bio-oil, syngas, and biochar fertilizer, presenting multifaceted benefits for rural communities, from cleaner energy sources to enhanced agricultural productivity.
Moreover, the self-sustaining nature of BioTRIG enables the utilization of syngas and bio-oil to fuel subsequent pyrolysis cycles, with excess electricity catering to local energy needs, fostering self-reliance and sustainability.
By harnessing the clean-burning properties of bio-oil and the soil-enriching qualities of biochar, BioTRIG empowers rural households to transition away from traditional cooking fuels while concurrently enhancing agricultural resilience and carbon sequestration efforts.

Significance:

Computer simulations indicate that the BioTRIG system holds the potential to significantly mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from communities, potentially reducing them by nearly 350 kg of CO2-eq per capita per year.
This projection underscores a noteworthy positive influence on both climate emissions and public health.
The BioTRIG technology could mark a paradigm shift in waste management practices and energy generation methods within rural India, promising transformative benefits for communities.

What is Pyrolysis?

Pyrolysis is a transformative chemical recycling method that disassembles residual organic matter into its fundamental molecular components.
This innovative process entails confining the waste within an oxygen-deprived enclosure and subjecting it to temperatures exceeding 400 degrees Celsius.

Education Minister launches SWAYAM Plus platform

29 Feb 2024

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The Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan recently launched the ‘SWAYAM Plus’ platform to offer courses developed collaboratively with the industry.

About the SWAYAM Plus Platform:

SWAYAM is a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) platform providing educational opportunities by bringing the best teaching and learning resources to everyone.
Operated by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Madras, this platform aims to extend educational opportunities to both traditional students and working professionals, aligning with the provisions of the NEP 2020 for flexible entry and exit points in education.
By enabling individuals to balance work and studies through online courses, SWAYAM Plus empowers them to enhance their skills and career prospects, thus contributing to India's knowledge economy.

Objectives and features:

SWAYAM Plus primarily focuses on achieving the following:
- Building an ecosystem for all stakeholders in professional and career development, including learners, course providers, industry, academia, and strategic partners;
- Enabling a mechanism that provides credit recognition for high?quality certifications and courses offered by the best industry and academia partners;
- Reaching a large learner base by catering to learning across the country, with a focus on reaching learners from tier 2 and 3 towns and rural areas and Offering employment-focused courses, based on learner needs – across chosen disciplines with options to learn through resources in vernacular languages.
Enhanced employability: SWAYAM Plus empowers individuals to balance work and studies through online courses, enhancing skills and career prospects.
Industry partnerships: Courses are tailored to industry requirements in collaboration with industry leaders.

Key features:

Multilingual content, AI guidance, credit recognition, and pathways to employment are prominent features.

Implementation and reach:

SWAYAM Plus aims to offer high-quality courses with credit recognition, reaching learners nationwide, especially from tier 2 and 3 towns and rural areas.

Value-added services:

Value-added services like mentorship, scholarships, and job placements will be provided, creating a digital ecosystem for upskilling and reskilling at all education levels.
SWAYAM, launched in 2017, had enrolled 72 lakh learners by 2023.
- Now, in line with the NEP 2020, SWAYAM Plus will incorporate courses tailored to industry requirements, developed in collaboration with industry leaders like L&T, Microsoft, and CISCO.

European Parliament adopts nature restoration law

29 Feb 2024

Scientists are closer to creating a reference genome for Indians; 10,000 samples sequenced already

28 Feb 2024

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The Government’s ambitious Genome India initiative achieved a significant milestone Tuesday as researchers completed sequencing 10,000 healthy genomes from different regions of the country, representing 99 distinct populations.

News Summary:

The Department of Biotechnology has announced the successful completion of India's '10,000 genome' project, aimed at establishing a comprehensive reference database of whole-genome sequences within the country.
This milestone marks the creation of a detailed genetic map of India, offering significant potential for both clinicians and researchers in diverse fields.
With India emerging as the largest genetic laboratory globally, this rich dataset is poised to catalyze advancements in the country's biology sector.
Notably, India's bio-economy has witnessed remarkable growth, expanding from $10 billion in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024, signaling a promising trajectory for future development.
The entirety of the genomic dataset will be housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), serving as a valuable digital resource for research purposes.
Established in 2022, the IBDC represents India's sole indigenous databank, eliminating the need for Indian researchers to rely on foreign servers for hosting biological datasets.

What is Genome Sequencing?

Genome sequencing is the process of determining the exact order of the building blocks (nucleotides) that make up an organism's entire DNA, or genome.
It's like reading the complete instruction manual for life, containing the information needed to create and maintain an organism.

Applications of Genome Sequencing:

Healthcare: Doctors can diagnose diseases with greater accuracy, personalize treatments, and uncover the causes of rare conditions.
Agriculture: Scientists can engineer crops with desired traits like disease resistance and improved yield, while breeders select animals with specific characteristics.
Forensics: DNA profiling aids criminal investigations and paternity testing.
Conservation: Studying the genetic diversity of endangered species helps with conservation efforts while analyzing invasive species' origins aids in controlling their spread.

What is the Human Genome Project (HGP)?

Initiated in 1990, the Human Genome Project aimed to elucidate the entire sequence of the human genome.
In 2023, the project culminated in the release of the latest version of the complete human genome, boasting a mere 0.3% error margin.
Enabled by the Human Genome Project, whole-genome sequencing facilitates the examination of an individual's genome to uncover deviations from the average human genome.
These deviations, or mutations, offer insights into an individual's susceptibility to diseases, their responsiveness to specific stimuli, and other pertinent genetic attributes.

About the Genome India Project:

The Genome India Project stands as a pioneering initiative approved by the Department of Biotechnology, geared towards gene mapping.
This project sets out with the ambitious objective of compiling an exhaustive repository documenting genetic diversity across the Indian populace.
At its core, the endeavor seeks to conduct genome sequencing for more than 10,000 individuals spanning various geographic and ethnic backgrounds within India, ultimately laying the groundwork for a standardized reference genome specific to the Indian demographic.

Significance of the Genome India Project:

Unveiling Unique Genetic Variants: The Genome India Project holds the key to unraveling genetic variants exclusive to India’s diverse population, enabling tailored drug formulations and therapeutic interventions.
- For instance, mutations like MYBPC3, linked to premature cardiac arrest and prevalent in 4.5% of Indians, underscore the necessity of region-specific genetic insights, contrasting with global rarity.
- Similarly, the discovery of the LAMB3 mutation, causing a severe skin disorder and impacting nearly 4% of the population around Madurai, emphasizes the localized genetic complexities absent in global databases.
Comprehensive Database for India's Population: With a colossal population exceeding 1.3 billion, India boasts a mosaic of over 4,600 distinct population groups, many practicing endogamy.
- This vast demographic diversity underscores the need for a comprehensive genetic database tailored to India's populace, crucial for identifying and addressing disease-causing mutations prevalent within specific groups.
- Unlike extrapolating findings from global datasets, the Genome India Project provides precise genetic insights essential for Indian-centric healthcare strategies.

African leaders demand financial systems reform; launch ‘Africa Club’ at 37th African Union Summit

28 Feb 2024

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Recently, during the 37th African Union Summit, member countries initiated the formation of the Africa Club.

What is the Africa Club?

The Africa Club is an alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions, established at the African Union summit, designed to enhance Africa's influence in the global financial system.
The initiative aims to align its operations with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union's Agenda 2063, fostering innovative financial instruments, facilitating debt management discussions, and promoting collaborative efforts to address the specific needs of African nations.
Its membership comprises key institutions such as the African Export-Import Bank, Trade and Development Bank, Africa Finance Corporation, African Reinsurance Corporation, African Trade and Investment Development Insurance, Shelter Afrique Development Bank, and ZEP – RE (PTA Reinsurance Co).

About the African Union:

The African Union is a continental organization consisting of 55 member states across the African continent, established on May 26, 2001, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The AU's objectives include promoting peace, security, and stability on the continent, accelerating political and socioeconomic integration, defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states, and advancing sustainable development.
It serves as a platform for African countries to coordinate their efforts in various fields, including governance, human rights, economic development, infrastructure, health, education, and culture.
The AU's structures include the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the Executive Council, the Pan-African Parliament, the African Court of Justice and Human Rights, and various specialized technical committees and organs.
Through its initiatives and programs, the AU works towards realizing the vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

Google unveils Genie AI which can create video games from text and image prompts

28 Feb 2024

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Recently, Google DeepMind unveiled Genie, a novel model capable of creating interactive video games based solely on textual or image prompts.

What is Genie AI?

Genie is a foundation world model that is trained on videos sourced from the Internet.
The model can “generate an endless variety of playable (action-controllable) worlds from synthetic images, photographs, and even sketches.”
It is the first generative interactive environment that has been trained in an unsupervised manner from unlabelled internet videos.
When it comes to size, Genie stands at 11B parameters and consists of a spatiotemporal video tokenizer, an autoregressive dynamics model, and a simple and scalable latent action model.
- These technical specifications let Genie act in generated environments on a frame-by-frame basis even in the absence of training, labels, or any other domain-specific requirements.

What does Genie do?

Genie is a new kind of generative AI that enables anyone – even children – to dream up and step into generated worlds similar to human-designed simulated environments.
It can be prompted to generate a diverse set of interactive and controllable environments although it is trained on video-only data.
- It is a breakthrough as it makes playable environments from a single image prompt.
According to Google DeepMind, Genie can be prompted with images it has never seen.
- This includes real-world photographs, and sketches, allowing people to interact with their imagined virtual worlds.
When it comes to training, they focus more on videos of 2D platformer games and robotics.
Genie is trained on a general method, allowing it to function on any type of domain, and it is scalable to even larger Internet datasets.

Why is it Important?

The standout aspect of Genie is its ability to learn and reproduce controls for in-game characters exclusively from internet videos.
This is noteworthy because internet videos do not have labels about the action that is performed in the video, or even which part of the image should be controlled.
It allows you to create an entirely new interactive environment from a single image.
This opens up many possibilities, especially new ways to create and step into virtual worlds.
With Genie, anyone will be able to create their own entirely imagined virtual worlds.

Ex-SC Judge Justice AM Khanwilkar Appointed As Lokpal Chairperson

28 Feb 2024

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Nearly 19 months after he retired as a Supreme Court judge, Justice A M Khanwilkar was appointed the chairperson of the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal on Tuesday. The post fell vacant nearly two years ago.

Who is AM Khanwilkar?

Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar was a Supreme Court judge between May 2016 and July 2022.
He has also served as chief justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court and the Himachal Pradesh High Court and as a judge of the Bombay High Court.
Recently appointed as the Chairperson of the anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal on Tuesday.
The appointment came nearly two years after the post fell vacant.
Khanwilkar was elected for the post following discussions by a high-level committee, which included:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi
- Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud
- Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
The Lokpal has been functioning without its permanent chief since the conclusion of Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose's term on May 27, 2022.

About Lokpal:

The Lokpal is a statutory body established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act of 2013.
Its primary mandate is to investigate allegations of corruption against certain public officials and handle related matters.
The organizational structure of Lokpal includes a chairperson and a maximum of eight members.
The chairperson must be a former Chief Justice of India, a former Judge of the Supreme Court, or an eminent individual meeting specified eligibility criteria.
Half of the maximum eight members are judicial members, who must be former Judges of the Supreme Court or former Chief Justices of High Courts.
Additionally, a minimum of fifty percent of the members are drawn from SC/ST/OBC/minority backgrounds and include women.

How are Members Appointed?

The President of India appoints the Chairperson and Members based on recommendations from a selection committee.
- This committee comprises the Prime Minister as Chairperson, the Speaker of Lok Sabha, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India or a nominated Judge, and one eminent jurist.
Members serve a term of five years or until they reach 70 years of age, whichever comes first, starting from the date they assume office.
The Chairperson receives salary, allowances, and other benefits equivalent to those of the Chief Justice of India.
Similarly, Members receive salary, allowances, and other benefits equivalent to those of a Judge of the Supreme Court.

Jurisdiction:

The Lokpal has the authority to investigate allegations of corruption against current or former Prime Ministers, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials from various levels of the Union Government categorized under Groups A, B, C, and D.
Its jurisdiction extends to include chairpersons, members, officers, and directors of entities established by parliamentary acts or financed by the Union or State government, as well as any organization receiving foreign contributions exceeding Rs 10 lakh.
However, there are exceptions regarding the Prime Minister's jurisdiction. The Lokpal cannot investigate allegations related to international relations, external/internal security, public order, atomic energy, and space. Moreover, complaints against the PM require approval from at least two-thirds of the Lokpal's members before initiation of an inquiry.

Powers of Lokpal:

The Lokpal possesses the authority to oversee and issue directives to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Once the Lokpal has referred a case to the CBI, the investigating officer cannot be transferred without the Lokpal's approval.
It holds the power to authorize the CBI to conduct search and seizure operations related to these cases.
The Inquiry Wing of the Lokpal is endowed with powers akin to those of a civil court.
In specific circumstances, the Lokpal can confiscate assets, proceeds, receipts, and benefits obtained through corrupt means.
It is empowered to recommend the transfer or suspension of public servants implicated in corruption allegations.
The Lokpal can issue directives to prevent the destruction of records during the preliminary inquiry phase.
As per Section 48 of the Act, the Lokpal is mandated to submit an annual report on its activities to the President, which is subsequently laid before both Houses of Parliament.

First Pey Jal Survekshan Awards to be conferred by President on 5th March

28 Feb 2024

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President Droupadi Murmu will present the first Pey Jal Survekshan Awards on the 5th of next month in New Delhi.

About the Pey Jal Survekshan Awards:

The Pey Jal Survekshan Awards feature a prestigious lineup of 130 accolades, spotlighting outstanding contributions in the realm of water management.
The awards span various categories, including the Pey Jal Gold, Silver, and Bronze City Awards, with each tier symbolizing excellence in specific population segments (ranging from 1 to 10 Lakh, 10 to 40 Lakh, and more than 40 Lakh).
In addition to these, commendations are also extended for commendable efforts in areas such as Best Water Body, Sustainability Champion, Reuse Champion, Water Quality, City Saturation, and the prestigious AMRUT 2.0 Rotating Trophy of the Year.

Comprehensive Evaluation Parameters:

Embracing a multifaceted approach, the evaluation criteria encompass a wide array of parameters, including accessibility, coverage, water quality maintenance at treatment facilities and household levels, sustainability practices ensuring the health of water bodies, adoption of SCADA/flowmeters, and efficient reuse of treated wastewater.
- Cities are meticulously graded using a star rating system, ranging from 5 stars to No star, meticulously reflecting their performance across these pivotal benchmarks.
Ensuring Water Purity and Transparency: The Pey Jal Survekshan reinforces the assurance of clean water through rigorous independent NABL lab testing at both the source and consumer ends.
- Leveraging advanced technological tools such as GIS-enabled web portals, geo-tagging, and infrastructure mapping, the survey captures precise and transparent data, facilitating informed decision-making.
Enhancing Urban Governance and Citizen Engagement: Anticipated to serve as a catalyst for urban local body (ULB) decision-making processes, the outcomes of the Pey Jal Survekshan are poised to elevate service delivery standards while fostering active citizen participation.
- By nurturing a sense of ownership and disseminating knowledge on water conservation and optimal utilization, the awards endeavor to empower communities toward sustainable water management practices.

What is the AMRUT Mitra initiative?

The AMRUT Mitra initiative is geared towards active engagement of women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in urban water management, recognizing women as pivotal stakeholders and highlighting their vital role in household water governance.
Tasked with executing AMRUT 2.0 projects, the Mitras will undertake various responsibilities, including billing, collection, leak detection, plumbing, water quality monitoring, and infrastructure upkeep.
At its core, AMRUT Mitra seeks to cultivate a sense of ownership among women, fostering inclusivity and diversity in traditionally male-dominated domains while ensuring equitable access to safe drinking water and addressing gender disparities.
Expected outcomes encompass the empowerment of women SHGs, socio-economic upliftment, alignment with AMRUT 2.0 objectives, heightened community awareness, and the establishment of a blueprint for future endeavors.

An initiative to improve nutrition in adolescent girls using Ayurveda under Mission Utkarsh

27 Feb 2024

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The project for anemia control under Mission Utkarsh will be a joint public health initiative by the Ministries of Ayush and Women and Child Development and will be launched in five aspirational districts first as a pilot project.

About Mission Utkarsh:

Mission Utkarsh was launched in January 2022, a new initiative of “rapid improvement of selected Districts” to improve.
Under this mission, 15 central ministries and departments are working to bring select key performance indicators in bottom districts to the state and national average.
Over 94,000 adolescent girls between the age group of 14-18 years registered under Poshan Tracker at approximately 10,000 Anganwadi Centres will benefit in 12 12-month periods of the program.
The coordinating agency for the project will be the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS).
Classical Ayurveda medicines (Drakshavaleha and Punarnavadi mandoor) for better nutrition to improve the health of the anemic adolescent girls will be provided for a period of 3 months.
These five districts are Dhubri in Assam, Bastar in Chhattisgarh, Paschimi Singhbhum in Jharkhand, Gadchiroli in Maharashtra, and Dholpur in Rajasthan.
Building research capacity through training, conferences, workshops, and seminars with the active participation of researchers of integrative healthcare would be enhanced.

What is Anaemia?

According to WHO, anemia occurs when there is a lower-than-normal count of red blood cells or a reduced hemoglobin concentration within them, crucial for oxygen transport throughout the body.

Symptoms

This condition leads to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.

Causes:

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional cause, although deficiencies in folate, vitamins B12 and A can also contribute.
- Chronic diseases like kidney or liver disease, cancer, and genetic conditions such as sickle cell anemia further exacerbate anemia.

Significance:

Anaemia has significant implications, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like pregnant women and children under five, impacting reproductive health and reducing work capacity, thus posing an economic burden.

Anaemia in India:

India faces a substantial anemia burden, with recent surveys indicating alarming prevalence rates among women aged 15-49 and children aged six months to five years, highlighting the urgent need for public health interventions.

RBI Allows Lending And Borrowing Govt Securities

27 Feb 2024

Centre approves interest-free loans to FCV tobacco growers in Andhra Pradesh

27 Feb 2024

India gets desi Garbhini GA2 for evaluation of foetal growth

27 Feb 2024

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Specifically tailored to address the unique characteristics of foetal growth within the Indian population, India has finally got its locally made ‘Garbhini-GA2’, a groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence model.

What is Garbhini-GA2?

The Garbhini-GA2 model, developed as part of the DBT India initiative (GARBH-Ini) program by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, addresses the challenge of accurately estimating foetal age (gestational age, GA) in the Indian population, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
Unlike existing formulas designed for Western populations, Garbhini-GA2 accounts for variations in foetal growth specific to the Indian context, significantly reducing estimation errors by nearly threefold.
This innovative model is crucial for ensuring precise prenatal care and determining accurate delivery dates, thereby enhancing maternal and foetal health outcomes.
Garbhini-GA2 marks a milestone as the first late-trimester GA estimation model validated using Indian population data, offering a tailored approach to foetal age determination that is essential for effective maternal healthcare."

About Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI):

THSTI, an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Science and Technology, was founded in 2009 in Faridabad, Haryana, with a core commitment to advancing research beyond mere discovery.
By fostering collaboration among diverse teams in medicine, science, and technology, THSTI leverages translational expertise to drive clinical research and innovation.
In addition to its core mission, THSTI plays a pivotal role in fostering social innovation and entrepreneurial endeavors, particularly in the domain of maternal and child healthcare.

. First-of-its-kind Micro Turbojet Engine made in India

27 Feb 2024

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A micro turbojet engine designed and developed indigenously by Hyderabad-based firm Raghu Vamsi Machine Tools with the support of the IIT Hyderabad has been unveiled.

Key Highlights of the Micro Turbojet Engine “INDRA RV25: 240N”:

It is an indigenous micro turbojet engine made in India.
Its primary focus is on serving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones.
Beyond UAVs, the engine exhibits versatile applications in air taxis, jetpacks, auxiliary power units, range extenders, and potential use in power generation for the future.
Indigenous design and development: Engineered entirely in India by the Raghu Vamsi Machine Tools (RVMT) team of skilled engineers & supported by IIT, Hyderabad.
- A great demonstration of the potential of Industry-Academia partnership
Self-reliance and autonomy: By reducing reliance on imported technologies, components, and expertise, the Micro Turbojet Engine contributes to India’s goal of achieving self-sufficiency in critical sectors, bolstering national security and economic resilience
Empowering local manufacturing: The launch of the indigenous Micro Turbojet Engine not only drives technological innovation but also stimulates the growth of the domestic aerospace and defense manufacturing ecosystem, creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

What Is a Turbojet Engine and How Does It Work?

Turbojet engines are jet engines that, like other jet engines, generate propulsion by discharging or expelling heated air.
They feature a combustion chamber in which they burn fuel and air.
As they burn this mixture, turbojet engines will discharge heated air.
It can find turbojet engines in commercial airplanes, civilian airplanes, and military aircraft.

How Turbojet Engines Work?

The process begins by drawing air through an intake.
- Turbojet engines feature an air intake, which is typically located near the front of the engine.
- Air will flow into this intake, at which point it will be redirected to the engine’s interior.
After entering the engine, the air will become compressed.
- Turbojet engines feature a set of rotating blades. Known as compressors, these rotating blades are designed to compress the air.
The next step in the process is combustion which involves the burning of fuel and air.
- Turbojet engines will inject fuel into the same combustion chamber where the compressed air is located.
- A spark will then ignite the mixture of fuel and compressed air, thereby generating hot, high-pressure exhaust gas.
The exhaust gas generated by the combustion is expelled out the rear of the turbojet engine.
- This rearward expulsion allows for forward propulsion.
- As the exhaust gas is discharged out the rear of the turbojet engine, the airplane will be propelled forward.

PM Modi Inaugurates 'Sudarshan Setu', India's Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge

26 Feb 2024

Ladakh: Centre agrees to examine demand for statehood, inclusion in Sixth Schedule of Constitution

26 Feb 2024

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Recently, the Centre has agreed to examine whether the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution can be implemented in Ladakh.

What is the Sixth Schedule?

The Sixth Schedule under Article 244 provides for the formation of autonomous administrative divisions — Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) — that have some legislative, judicial, and administrative autonomy within a state.
ADCs have up to 30 members with a term of 5 years and can make laws, rules and regulations with regard to land, forest, water, agriculture, village councils, health, sanitation, village- and town-level policing, inheritance, marriage and divorce, social customs and mining, etc.
- The Bodoland Territorial Council in Assam is an exception with more than 40 members and the right to make laws on 39 issues.
The Sixth Schedule applies to the Northeastern states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram (three Councils each), and Tripura (one Council).

Why does Ladakh want to be part of the Sixth Schedule?

There was much enthusiasm initially, mostly in Leh, after the August 5, 2019 decisions that created two new Union Territories.
- The Buddhist-dominated Leh district had long demanded UT status because it felt neglected by the erstwhile state government, which was dominated by politicians from Kashmir and Jammu.
This development has sparked concerns among locals regarding potential challenges related to identity preservation, resource allocation, and administrative oversight.
Also, the changed domicile policy in Jammu and Kashmir has raised fears in the region about its own land, employment, demography, and cultural identity.
The UT has two Hill councils in Leh and Kargil, but neither is under the Sixth Schedule.
Their powers are limited to the collection of some local taxes such as parking fees and allotment and use of land vested by the Centre.
The Sixth Schedule empowers the Governor of the State to designate specific areas as administrative units within the Autonomous Districts and Autonomous Regions.

Can Ladakh be included in the Sixth Schedule?

In September 2019, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes recommended the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule, noting that the new UT was predominantly tribal (more than 97%), people from other parts of the country had been restricted from purchasing or acquiring land there, and its distinct cultural heritage needed preservation.
- Notably, no region outside the Northeast has been included in the Sixth Schedule.
- In fact, even in Manipur, which has predominantly tribal populations in some places, the autonomous councils are not included in the Sixth Schedule.
- Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, which are totally tribal, are also not in the Sixth Schedule.
“Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule would be difficult.
The Constitution is very clear, the Sixth Schedule is for the Northeast.
- For tribal areas in the rest of the country, there is the Fifth Schedule.
However, it remains the prerogative of the government — it can, if it so decides, bring a Bill to amend the Constitution for this purpose.

IGNCA’s ‘language atlas’ to shine a light on India’s linguistic diversity

26 Feb 2024

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The Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts, an autonomous body under the Union Culture Ministry, proposes to conduct a linguistic survey across the country to create a ‘Language Atlas’ of India.

About the Language Atlas of India:

The Language Atlas of India traces its roots back to the seminal Linguistic Survey of India (LSI) conducted by Sir George Abraham Grierson, which was first published in 1928.
Since its inception, the linguistic landscape of India has undergone significant transformations, necessitating a comprehensive reevaluation.
The proposed linguistic survey aims to capture the myriad languages and dialects prevalent across the country, acknowledging the dynamic nature of linguistic diversity.
It seeks to document not only the languages and dialects actively spoken but also those that have faced extinction or are teetering on the brink of disappearance.
Engaging a wide array of stakeholders, including the Ministries of Culture, Education, Tribal Affairs, Home, Social Justice and Empowerment, and Development of the North East Region, the survey endeavours to be inclusive and representative of diverse language communities.
Phased Approach: The Detailed Project Report (DPR) advocates for a structured approach, commencing with state-wise data collection followed by regional assessments.
- Furthermore, the proposal advocates for the preservation of linguistic heritage through the digital archiving of audio recordings encompassing the linguistic richness of the nation.
Significance: Languages serve as conduits of communication and repositories of cultural heritage, encapsulating local wisdom, traditions, narratives, and medicinal knowledge.
- For instance, many indigenous communities possess indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants and herbs, which are transmitted through generations via their native languages, emphasizing the intrinsic link between language and cultural preservation.

About the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA):

Established in 1987 as an autonomous institution under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) serves as a pivotal hub for research, academic endeavours, and dissemination within the realm of the arts.
Governance Structure: Operating with a Board of Trustees, the IGNCA convenes regularly to provide overarching guidance and direction for its multifaceted activities.
- Under the stewardship of a Chairman, the Executive Committee, composed of select Trustees, oversees the operational facets of the centre.
Integral Role in Project Mausam: Embracing its role as a research unit, the IGNCA actively contributes to Project Mausam, a collaborative initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), New Delhi.
- Project Mausam endeavours to explore the intricate tapestry of cultural routes and maritime landscapes that historically linked diverse regions along the Indian Ocean littoral, fostering connections between coastal centres and their hinterlands.
Engagement in the Vedic Heritage Portal: In alignment with its commitment to cultural heritage preservation, the IGNCA embarks on a project dedicated to designing and developing a Vedic Heritage Portal, under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
- This portal serves as a digital platform aimed at elucidating the profound messages encapsulated within the Vedas, contributing to the dissemination of ancient wisdom and knowledge.

G-33 calls for progress on agricultural trade ahead of WTO Ministerial Conference

26 Feb 2024

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The G-33 group of countries recently expressed serious concern over the lack of progress in agriculture trade negotiations and urged the members of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to work on a permanent solution to the issue of public stockholding of grains for food security purposes.

Key Highlights of the G33 Trade Ministers Meeting in Abu Dhabi:

Special Safeguard Mechanism: The G33 group emphasized the importance of the Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM) as a crucial instrument against significant import surges or sudden price declines.
- They called for WTO members to reach an agreement and adopt a decision on SSM by the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC).
Permanent Solution for Public Stockholding: The G33 nations sought a permanent solution during the 13th Ministerial Conference, which commenced in Abu Dhabi recently.
- The MC serves as the highest decision-making body of the WTO.
Critical Importance of Public Stockholding: The G33 statement highlighted the critical significance of public stockholding for food security in developing countries.
- It enables governments to procure crops from farmers at the minimum support price (MSP) and store and distribute food grains to the poor.
- This program supports low-income or resource-poor producers and contributes to rural development.
The 13th WTO Ministerial Conference provides a crucial platform for WTO members to engage in constructive discussions and work towards finding mutually beneficial solutions.

What is G 33?

The G33 is a forum of developing countries including India, Brazil, South Africa etc. formed during the Cancun ministerial conference of the WTO (2003), to protect the interest of the developing countries in agricultural trade negotiations.
It was created to help group countries which were all facing similar problems.
The G33 has proposed special rules for developing countries at WTO negotiations, like allowing them to continue to restrict access to their agricultural markets.
Dominated by India, the group has "defensive" concerns regarding agriculture in relation to World Trade Organization negotiations, and seeks to limit the degree of market opening required of developing countries.
The group has advocated the creation of a "special products" exemption, which would allow developing countries to exempt certain products from tariff exemptions, and also a "special safeguard mechanism" which would permit tariff increases in response to import surges.

Analysis of Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2022-23 Report

26 Feb 2024

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The per capita monthly household expenditure more than doubled in 2022-23 as compared to 2011-12, according to the latest study by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO).

Context:

As per the 2022-23 report, rising inequality between the top and bottom of the pyramid.
Urban and rural households register higher expenditure, spending less on food items.
New methodology and questionnaire used in Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23.

About the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO):

The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) comes under the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation headed by a Director General.
It is responsible for the conduct of large-scale sample surveys in diverse fields on an All-India basis.
Primarily data are collected through nationwide household surveys on various socio-economic subjects, Annual Survey of Industries (ASI), etc.
Besides these surveys, NSSO collects data on rural and urban prices and plays a significant role in the improvement of crop statistics through supervision of the area enumeration and crop estimation surveys of the State agencies.
It also maintains a frame of urban area units for use in sample surveys in urban areas.

The NSSO has four Divisions:

Survey Design and Research Division (SDRD): This Division, located at Kolkata, is responsible for the technical planning of surveys, formulation of concepts and definitions, sampling design, designing of inquiry schedules, drawing up of tabulation plans, and analysis and presentation of survey results.
Field Operations Division (FOD): The Division, with its headquarters at Delhi/Faridabad, is responsible for the collection of primary data for the surveys undertaken by NSS.
Data Processing Division (DPD): The Division, with its headquarters at Kolkata is responsible for sample selection, software development, processing, validation and tabulation of the data collected through surveys.
Survey Coordination Division (SCD): This Division, located in New Delhi, coordinates all the activities of different Divisions of NSS.
- It also brings out the bi-annual journal of NSS, titled “Sarvekshana”, and organizes National Seminars on the results of various Socio-economic surveys undertaken by NSS.

Key Insights From the 2022-23 Survey:

Evolution of Food Expenditure: Over the past two decades, there has been a notable shift in spending patterns on food in India.
- Between 1999-2000 and 2022-23, both urban and rural households witnessed a gradual decline in the share of expenditure allocated to food.
- This period marks the first instance where food expenditure has dropped to below 50% in rural India and below 40% in urban India.
Changing Dietary Preferences: The composition of food consumption has also undergone significant changes.
- Cereals and pulses have seen a reduction in their share of overall food consumption expenditure, while spending on milk has surged, surpassing that on cereals and pulses combined.
- In a noteworthy shift, the average Indian now spends more on fruits and vegetables than on food grains.
- Furthermore, expenditure on animal proteins like eggs, fish, and meat has shown a growing trend, indicating a preference for animal-based proteins over plant-based ones.
Rise in Processed Food Consumption: There has been an observed increase in the share of expenditure allocated to processed foods, beverages, and purchased cooked meals.
- This trend aligns with the Engel Curve hypothesis, suggesting that as incomes rise, households allocate a smaller proportion of their spending to food and tend to prefer superior items over inferior ones.
Closing Rural-Urban Consumption Gap: Consumption growth in rural areas has outpaced that in urban areas, leading to a narrowing of the rural-urban consumption divide.
- If this trend continues, it could potentially lead to parity in urban and rural incomes and consumption patterns in the future.
Challenges in Inflation Calculation: The findings of the latest Household Consumption Expenditure (HCE) Survey underscore the need to review the inflation basket.
- The current Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation calculation, established in 2012, may not accurately reflect contemporary consumption patterns.
- For instance, the disparity between the weightage assigned to cereals in the CPI basket and actual expenditure on cereals by rural households highlights the need for recalibration.
Insights on Poverty Reduction: According to NITI Aayog CEO B V R Subrahmanyam, the latest survey indicates a reduction in poverty to five per cent nationwide.
- Both rural and urban areas are witnessing increased prosperity, as evidenced by rising per capita monthly expenditure.
Demand for Legal Guarantee to MSP: While there is a demand for a legal guarantee to Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 23 crops, including food grains and sugarcane, the survey data suggests that the growth in the farm sector is being primarily driven by livestock, fisheries, and horticulture crops.
- This poses a pertinent question regarding the promotion of production: should the focus be on crops outside the MSP purview, such as milk, fish, poultry products, fruits, and vegetables, given their growing consumption trends?

BharatGPT Unveils Hanooman, a New Suite of Indic Generative AI Models

24 Feb 2024

The NB8 visit to India focuses on cooperation and trust

24 Feb 2024

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hosted the India-Nordic-Baltic meeting on the sidelines of the ongoing Raisina Dialogue 2024 recently.

What are the Nordic-Baltic Countries?

The Nordic-Baltic countries, also known as the NB8, are a group of Northern European countries that share historical, cultural, and geopolitical ties.
The group includes
- Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, and
- Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
These countries collaborate on various regional issues, such as security, economy, environment, and culture, and often work together within international organisations and forums.
The term "Nordic-Baltic" highlights the close relationship and cooperation between these neighbouring states in the Baltic Sea region.

India's Relations with NB8 Countries:

India's collaboration with NB8 nations is broadening, exemplified by initiatives like the India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, the India-Norway Task Force on Blue Economy, and cooperation on sustainability and ICT with Finland, including the 'LeadIT' (Leadership for Industry Transition) initiative with Sweden.
Cooperation extends across various sectors, including innovation, green transition, maritime affairs, healthcare, intellectual property rights, emerging technologies, space exploration, and artificial intelligence.
Trade and investment between the NB8 region and India are on a steady rise, reflecting deepening economic ties.
Moreover, the security dynamics of the Nordic-Baltic region and the Indo-Pacific are intertwined, underlining the interconnectedness of regional security challenges.

Significance of NB8:

The NB8 nations embody advanced economies characterised by their outward orientation, emphasis on innovation, complementarity, and seamless integration into the European Common Market, the world's largest single market area.
The Baltic states, in particular, stand out as pioneers in IT, digitization, cyber technology, and green innovations, showcasing their leadership in these critical domains.
Moreover, all NB8 members share a steadfast commitment to democracy and human rights, serving as advocates for an international order grounded in principles of multilateralism and adherence to international law.

NB8 Proposals for India:

In light of the Ukraine conflict and its ripple effects on global food and energy security, supply chains, macro-financial stability, inflation, and growth, the NB8 seeks to collaborate with India in the following ways:
Recognizing Shared Challenges: In an increasingly interconnected world, challenges such as the Ukraine conflict, global health crises, climate-related events, and geopolitical tensions affect us all.
- Acknowledging these shared challenges underscores the necessity for collaborative efforts to address them effectively.
Embracing a Positive Agenda: There is an urgent imperative to pivot towards a more positive agenda for global cooperation.
- Leveraging our mutual commitment to the multilateral system, the NB8 proposes to enhance dialogue and cooperation on issues that are paramount to India's priorities and those of other global partners.

PM Modi unveils of Sant Ravidas statue in Varanasi on 647th birth anniversary

24 Feb 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently said that the present government is taking forward the teachings and ideals of Sant Ravidas while following the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas aur Sabka Prayas’.

Who is Guru Ravidas?

Guru Ravidass (also Ravidas, Rohidas and Ruhidas in eastern India) was a North Indian Guru mystic of the bhakti movement who was active in the 15th century CE.
Venerated in the region of Uttar Pradesh as well as the Indian state of Maharashtra, his devotional songs and verses made a lasting impact upon the bhakti movement.
He is often given the honorific Guru.
He was a socio-religious reformer, a thinker, a theosophist, a humanist, a poet, a traveller, a pacifist and a spiritual figure before whom even head-priests of Benaras lay prostrate to pay homage.
His birthday comes every year at Puran Mashi in the month of Magh.
His mother’s name was Mata Kalsi and his father’s name was Baba Santokh Dass.
Guru Ravidass was born into a humble family which was considered untouchable as per the social order prevailing at that time in Hindu society.
He spearheaded the fight against man-made discrimination based on caste, colour or creed and preached the lofty ideas of socialism, secularism, equality and fraternity.
He taught the lessons of universal brotherhood, tolerance, and the message of loving your neighbour, which got more importance in today’s world.
Guru Ravidass fulfilled Guru Nanak Dev’s request by donating old manuscripts, which contained a collection of Guru Ravidass’s verses and poems.
- The earliest collection of these poems is available in Sri Guru Granth Sahib.
- It was compiled by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Guru of the Sikhs.
- There are 41 verses of Guru Ravidass in the Sikh Holy Book, Guru Granth Sahib.
Meera Bai, a revered figure in Hindu spiritualism, is said to have considered Guru Ravidas as her spiritual Guru.
It is said that Guru Ravidass disappeared from the world, leaving behind only his footprints.
- Some believe that Guru Ravidass lived in Banaras during his last days, dying a natural death at the age of 126 years.

Govt amends electricity rules to speed up new connections, promote EVs and solar PV systems

24 Feb 2024

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Recently, the government amended the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules 2020, allowing consumers to now obtain separate electricity connections for charging their electric vehicles, and reducing the time period for obtaining a new electricity connection.

Context:

The Government of India has recently approved the amendments to the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020.
According to the Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri R. K. Singh, these amendments aim to expedite the process of obtaining new electricity connections.
Encompassing various facets including billing, grievance redressal, compensation, and timeframes for new connections, these rules are designed to streamline consumer experiences.
Moreover, they extend support to prosumers engaged in renewable energy generation.
The amendments, as highlighted by the Minister, are poised to enhance consumer empowerment, fostering a more consumer-centric electricity ecosystem.

Major Amendments to the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020:

Streamlining Rooftop Solar Installation: Amendments exempt the requirement for technical feasibility studies for rooftop solar systems up to 10 kW capacity.
- For systems exceeding 10 kW, the timeframe for feasibility studies has been condensed from twenty to fifteen days, with automatic approval if deadlines are missed.
- Commissioning timelines for distribution licensees have been shortened from thirty to fifteen days.
Dedicated Connections for Electric Vehicle Charging: Consumers can now secure separate electricity connections for charging Electric Vehicles (EVs), aligning with national emission reduction targets and Net Zero aspirations by 2070.
Accelerated Connection Processes: New electricity connection timelines have been slashed from seven to three days in metropolitan areas, from fifteen to seven days in other municipal areas, and from thirty to fifteen days in rural regions.
- Exceptions apply in rural hilly terrains, maintaining the existing thirty-day period.
Enhanced Consumer Rights in Residential Complexes: Residents in cooperative housing societies and residential colonies gain the option of individual or single-point connections, decided through transparent ballots conducted by Distribution Companies.
- Tariff parity is ensured between single-point and individual connections.
Prompt Meter Installation for Complaints: Distribution licensees are mandated to install additional metres within five days of receiving complaints to verify consumption for a minimum of three months, enhancing consumer confidence and billing accuracy.

First moon-landing by private company

24 Feb 2024

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Fifty-two years after the last successful Apollo mission, a US-made spacecraft landed on the Moon recently which also marks the arrival of private space companies on the lunar surface.

What is Odysseus Lunar Exploration?

Odysseus is a spacecraft built by Intuitive Machines, embarked on its journey from Earth aboard a Falcon 9 rocket by SpaceX recently.
- Intuitive Machines, headquartered in Houston, USA, boasts a decade-long legacy in space exploration endeavours.
Loaded with six NASA payloads, Odysseus set its course for the Moon.
Its lander module, Nova-C, achieved the milestone of landing in the Moon's south pole region, following Chandrayaan-3's similar feat last year.
This marks the third successful moon-landing event in under a year, alongside Chandrayaan-3 and Japan's SLIM (Smart Lander for Investigating Moon).

Mission Objectives:

The primary aim of the lunar lander is to assess the environmental conditions at the Moon's south pole.
This assessment holds significant importance as NASA gears up for a crewed mission in September 2026 with Artemis III.
Before sending astronauts to this area, NASA seeks to gather crucial data, including insights into water presence and accessibility, to inform mission planning.

Funding:

Under the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, NASA allocated $118 million to Intuitive Machines for this mission.
CLPS has engaged at least 14 private companies to ferry NASA payloads to the Moon, fostering a collaborative environment aimed at nurturing the private space industry's capabilities in lunar exploration technology and science.

The Significance of Odysseus:

Advancing Long-Term Lunar Presence: Odysseus' successful landing heralds a transformative phase in lunar exploration, aiming to establish infrastructure and a technological ecosystem capable of sustaining extended human presence.
Diverging from Past Lunar Missions: In contrast to the moon landings of the 1960s and 1970s spearheaded by the US and the Soviet Union, Odysseus' mission focuses on leveraging lunar resources for sustained exploration.
- While historic moon landings were remarkable feats, technological limitations of the time hindered the immediate utilisation of lunar resources such as mining.
Supporting US Commitment to Moon Exploration via Artemis Program: Odysseus' touchdown aligns with the US commitment to rekindle lunar exploration through the ambitious Artemis program.
- This endeavour transcends mere lunar landing missions, aiming to establish essential infrastructure and a thriving lunar economy conducive to comprehensive exploration.
Unlocking Lunar Potential as a Gateway to Deep Space: By laying the groundwork for lunar infrastructure and economic activity, missions like Odysseus pave the way for leveraging the Moon as a springboard for deeper space exploration, offering nations unprecedented opportunities for cosmic discovery.

Kiru Hydropower Corruption Case: CBI Searches J&K Ex-Governor Satya Pal Malik’s Premises

23 Feb 2024

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The CBI conducted searches at the premises of former Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik and 29 other locations recently in connection with alleged corruption in the Rs 2,200-crore Kiru Hydropower project.

What are the Corruption Allegations Surrounding the Kiru Hydel Project?

During his tenure as the governor of Jammu and Kashmir from August 23, 2018, to October 30, 2019, Satya Pal Malik claimed that he was offered a Rs 300-crore bribe to approve two files, one of which pertained to the project.
In 2022, the J&K government requested a CBI investigation into alleged misconduct, previously highlighted by Satya Pal Malik, in the awarding of two government contracts.
Concerns have been raised regarding the award of civil works, particularly to Patel Engineering Ltd, a prominent infrastructure and construction company established in 1949.
The CBI has initiated action against the former CVPPPL chairman, MD, and Directors, as well as Patel Engineering.
According to the FIR, an inquiry by the J&K Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Power Department had been conducted.
The FIR alleges non-compliance with e-tendering guidelines in the awarding of civil works for the project.
Additionally, accusations of substandard work and failure to employ local youth have been levelled against the hydel project.

What is the Kiru Hydel Power Project?

The 624MW Kiru hydroelectric project is being developed as a run-of-river scheme in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, a union territory in India.
Location of the Kiru project: The Kiru hydropower project is being built along the Chenab River near the villages of Patharnakki and Kiru, approximately 42 km from Kishtwar.
- It will be located between the Kirthai II hydroelectric project to its upstream and the Kwar hydroelectric project to its downstream.
The project is being developed by the Chenab Valley Power Projects (CVPPPL) joint venture (JV) between:
- National Hydroelectric Power (NHPC, 49%)
- Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development (JKSPDC, 49%) and
- The Power Trading Corporation (PTC, 2%)
The Ministry of Environment Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) awarded environmental clearance for the hydroelectric project in 2016 while the foundation stone was laid in February 2019.
The project is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 4,287 crore and is expected to start commercial operations in July 2025.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the investment in the project in March 2019.
Apart from helping address the energy demand across northern India and the state’s rural areas, it could aid small-scale and cottage industries.

Advantages of the Kiru Hydroelectric Power Project:

This project aims to alleviate the energy shortage in Northern India while also enhancing the transportation, education, healthcare, and road infrastructure in the area.
By bringing electricity to rural communities, the project will lessen the reliance of residents on alternative energy sources.
The heightened power availability will foster the growth of small-scale and cottage industries, generating employment opportunities and revenue for the local populace.

What is a Run-of-river Project?

Run-of-river hydropower is a facility that channels flowing water from a river through a canal or penstock to spin a turbine.
Typically a run-of-river project will have little or no storage facility.
Run-of-river provides a continuous supply of electricity (base load), with some flexibility of operation for daily fluctuations in demand through water flow that is regulated by the facility.

Race to the global eradication of Guinea worm disease nears the finish line

23 Feb 2024

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The world is on the brink of a public health triumph as it closes in on eradicating Guinea worm disease. There were more than 3.5 million cases of this disease in the 1980s, but according to the WHO, they dwindled to 14 cases in 2021, 13 in 2022, and just six in 2023.

What is Guinea Worm Disease?

Dracunculiasis is also called guinea worm disease (GWD).
It is an infection caused by a parasite called Dracunculus medinensis (guinea worm).
- This parasite is an organism that survives by deriving nutrients and feeding off another organism.
GWD spreads through drinking contaminated water.
It is presently eradicated in most parts of the world but is still seen in remote parts of Africa and some remote rural areas in the world where there is no access to clean drinking water.
GWD is considered endemic in three African countries, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Mali.
In recent years, a few cases of GWD in animals, especially dogs, have been reported in developed countries as well.
GWD is a serious condition, that causes debilitating pain and complications, affecting the quality of life

Symptoms:

People infected with Guinea worm don’t typically have any symptoms until about a year after they're first infected.
It’s not until the worm is about to erupt from the skin that people start to feel sick.
What that happens, the symptoms of Guinea worm disease can include Fever, Nausea and vomiting, Diarrhoea, Shortness of breath, Burning, itching, pain, and swelling where the worm is in the body (often the legs and feet) and Blister where the worm breaks through the skin.

Impact:

Guinea worm disease isn’t often deadly, but it can cause serious complications, lifelong disabilities, and financial hardship for those involved.
The pain involved is often so intense that it’s difficult for people to work, go to school, or care for themselves or others.
This lasts an average of 8.5 weeks, though lifelong disability is common.

Dracunculiasis Treatment:

There is no vaccine or drug developed to prevent or treat this disease.
The only means available is the management of the disease which is removing the whole worm and caring for the wound caused by it and avoiding infection in the process or exposure to the guinea worm larvae at all costs, especially by avoiding contaminated drinking water and stagnant water sources.
Without proper treatment, wounds caused by the worm can become infected by bacteria, leading to sepsis, septic arthritis, and contractures (when joints lock and deform).
- In some cases, these infections become life-threatening.

Earth’s early evolution: Fresh insights from rocks formed 3.5 billion years ago

23 Feb 2024

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Exploring ancient cratons such as the Singhbhum Craton in India, alongside similar formations in South Africa and Australia, provides unparalleled insights into the early stages of our planet's development, reaching back approximately 3.5 billion years.

What is Singhbhum Craton?

The Singhbhum Craton encompasses a vast expanse of rugged terrain, primarily spanning regions in Jharkhand and Odisha, situated between the Chhota Nagpur plateau and the Eastern Ghats.
Dating back approximately 3.5 billion years, this ancient segment of the Earth's crust offers valuable insights into early geological processes.
Its oldest rock formations consist predominantly of volcanic and sedimentary rocks, referred to as greenstone successions.
- Greenstones are characterised by submarine volcanic rocks with minor sedimentary components.
Geologically akin to greenstone belts in South Africa's Barberton and Nondweni regions and the Pilbara Craton in Western Australia, these areas experienced extensive submarine mafic volcanic activity, rich in magnesium oxide, between 3.5 and 3.3 billion years ago, with preserved features like pillowed lava and komatiites.

Significance:

The Singhbhum Craton sheds light on early tectonic activities during the Archaean era, enhancing our understanding of the Earth's formative stages.
Its distinctive geological characteristics, particularly the presence of greenstone belts, yield invaluable data on surface and atmospheric processes crucial for theorising about early habitable conditions and the emergence of life on Earth.

What are Cratons?

A craton is a stable and ancient part of Earth's lithosphere that has experienced long-term tectonic and geomorphic stability.
It is considered to be the nucleus of a continent and is characterised by its thick and cold lithosphere.
Cratons can undergo destruction, which is defined as a geological process resulting in the loss of craton stability due to changes in its physical and chemical properties.
The mechanisms responsible for craton destruction include oceanic plate subduction, rollback and retreat of subducting plates, stagnation and dehydration of subducting plates in the mantle transition zone, melting of the mantle caused by dehydration of stagnant slabs, non-steady flow in the upper mantle induced by melting, and changes like the lithospheric mantle.
Craton destruction can lead to crustal thinning, surface uplift, and the concentration of mineral deposits.

Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY)

23 Feb 2024

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The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, being the Nodal Department for the welfare of senior citizens, develops and implements programmes and policies for these groups in close collaboration with State Governments, Non-Governmental Organisations and civil society.

About the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY):

It is a Central Sector Scheme to improve the quality of life of the Senior Citizens.
The project is implemented by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Aims and Objectives:

The main objective of the Scheme is to improve the quality of life of Senior Citizens by providing basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care and entertainment opportunities and by encouraging productive and active ageing through providing support for capacity building of State/ UT Governments/Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)/Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) / local bodies and the community at large.

The components of the AVYAY Scheme are as under:-

- Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC)
- State Action Plan for Senior Citizens (SAPSrC)
- Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)
- Elderline – National Helpline for Senior Citizens
- Senior-care Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE)
- Geriatric Caregivers Training

Components of the AVYAY Scheme:

Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC): Grant aid is provided to Non-Governmental/ Voluntary Organizations for running and maintenance of Senior Citizens' Homes (old age homes), continuous care homes, etc.
- Facilities like shelter, nutrition, medicare and entertainment are provided free of cost to indigent senior citizens.
State Action Plan for Senior Citizens (SAPSrC): Grant in aid is released to States/ UTs for the creation of a pool of trained Geriatric Caregivers for senior citizens, for carrying a special drive for Cataract Surgeries for Senior Citizens and State Specific Activities for the welfare of senior citizens, especially who are indigent in the States/UTs.
Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY): To provide for senior citizens, suffering from any age-related disability/infirmity such as low vision, hearing impairment, loss of teeth and loco-motor disabilities.
- The eligible senior citizens under this component are those who are in the BPL Category or have monthly income up to Rs.15000/.
- Generic and non-generic devices are distributed to the senior citizens through the camps.
Elderline: National Helpline for Senior Citizens (14567): The Ministry has set up the National Helpline for Senior Citizens to provide free information, Guidance, Emotional Support and field intervention in cases of abuse and rescues.
Senior-care Ageing Growth Engine (SAGE): To promote out-of-the-box and innovative solutions for commonly faced problems, innovative start-ups are identified and encouraged to develop products, processes and services for the welfare of the elderly under this initiative.
- The initiative is implemented through IFCI Venture Capital Funds Ltd. (Investment Manager).
Geriatric Caregivers Training: To bridge the gap in supply and increasing demand in the field of geriatric caregivers and also to create a cadre of professional caregivers in the field of geriatrics.
- The component is implemented through the National Institute of Social Defence and at present 3,180 geriatric caregivers have been trained.

In a first, CERN scientists carry out laser cooling of Positronium

23 Feb 2024

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In a first, an international team of physicists from the Anti-hydrogen Experiment: Gravity, Interferometry, Spectroscopy (AEgIS) collaboration has achieved a breakthrough by demonstrating the laser cooling of Positronium.

About Anti-hydrogen Experiment: Gravity, Interferometry, Spectroscopy (AEgIS):

AEgIS is an experiment at the Antiproton Decelerator facility at CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research).
It is a collaboration of physicists from a number of countries in Europe and from India.
In 2018, AEgIS demonstrated the first pulsed production of antihydrogen atoms, by interacting pulse-produced positronium (an atom consisting of only an electron and a positron) with cold, trapped antiprotons.
The primary scientific goal of the Antihydrogen Experiment: Gravity, Interferometry, Spectroscopy (AEgIS) is the direct measurement of the Earth's gravitational acceleration, g, on antihydrogen.

What is Positronium?

Positronium is a bound state system of a positron and an electron, similar to the hydrogen atom, where an electron orbits around a proton.
In the case of positronium, the positron and the electron orbit around their common centre of mass.
The system is unstable, and the two particles eventually annihilate each other, releasing two or more gamma ray photons.
Positronium has two possible states:
- The singlet state (para-positronium), in which the electron and the positron spins are antiparallel and the system has a shorter lifetime, and
- The triplet state (ortho-positronium), in which the electron and the positron spins are parallel, and the system has a longer lifetime.
Positronium has been studied extensively in experimental and theoretical physics because it provides a simple system for testing quantum electrodynamics (QED) and for studying the properties of matter and antimatter.
It also has potential applications in fields such as material science, plasma physics, and astrophysics.

What is Antimatter?

Antimatter shares similarities with ordinary matter, except for its opposite electric charge.
Often referred to as "mirror" matter, antimatter pairs with ordinary matter particles.
For example, while an electron possesses a negative charge, its antimatter counterpart is a positron, which carries a positive charge and has the same mass as an electron.
Positrons, antiprotons, and antineutrons are the antimatter counterparts of electrons, protons, and neutrons, respectively, collectively known as antiparticles.
These antiparticles can combine to form anti-atoms and theoretically could lead to the formation of antimatter regions within our universe.
However, the coexistence of matter and antimatter is short-lived due to their tendency to annihilate upon contact, resulting in the release of substantial energy in the form of gamma rays or elementary particles.
Antimatter, like matter, emerged during the Big Bang.
Scientists have produced antimatter particles through high-speed collisions in large particle accelerators like the Large Hadron Collider operated by CERN outside Geneva.
Additionally, antiparticles are sporadically generated throughout the universe through natural processes.

Eminent Jurist Senior Advocate Fali Nariman passes away

22 Feb 2024

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Recently, eminent jurist and senior advocate of the Supreme Court Fali S Nariman died at the age of 95.

Who was Fali S Nariman?

Fali S Nariman was born on January 10, 1929, in Rangoon, then part of British India.
He began his legal career by enrolling as an advocate of the Bombay High Court in November 1950.
His stature grew, and he was designated as a senior advocate in 1961.
In 1972, he moved to New Delhi to practise in the Supreme Court of India.
In May 1972, Nariman assumed the role of additional solicitor-general of India; however, he resigned a day after the Emergency was imposed on June 26, 1975.
He also served as the president of the International Council for Commercial Arbitration and chaired the Executive Committee of the International Commission of Jurists, Geneva, from 1995 to 1997.
His son, Justice Rohinton F Nariman, formerly served as a judge on the Supreme Court.
Nariman received the Padma Bhushan in January 1991 and in 2007 he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan.

What Were Some of Nariman's Landmark Cases?

The Golak Nath case: In the historic judgement, the Supreme Court held that the Parliament cannot make a law which is capable of infringing the fundamental rights of citizens.
- It came up after two brothers in Punjab challenged the Constitution (17) Amendment Act, 1964, which came into effect by amending Article 31A of the Constitution. (This article deals with the acquisition of estates).
- Nariman, not only supported the petitioners but also appeared to argue on the issue representing the intervenors in the case.
- They argued that Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution under Article 368 did not include articles contained in Part III of the Constitution dealing with fundamental rights.
- Following the hearing of the case submitted in 1967, an eleven-judge bench agreed with the petitioner’s submissions pointing out that Article 13(2) states that Parliament cannot make a law which infringes fundamental rights.
The Kesavananda Bharati case: The Kesavananda Bharati case is known for setting a benchmark in the Indian judiciary and had Nariman’s prompt representation in the SC.
- He assisted noted Advocate Nanabhoy Palkhivala in the famous case that led to the path-breaking judgement laying down the basic structure doctrine of the Constitution, clipping Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution.
- The 1973 verdict simultaneously gave the judiciary the authority to review any constitutional amendment on grounds of violation of the basic structure of the Constitution.
The Bhopal Gas Tragedy case: In 1984, the Bhopal gas tragedy where 42 tons of toxic chemicals leaked from a pesticide plant owned by Union Carbide India Limited, resulting in thousands of deaths and environmental damage in the following years.
- The Supreme Court began hearing the case for compensation to the victims in 1988.
- Senior Advocate Nariman appeared, representing Union Carbide, and offered to pay a sum of 426 million dollars as compensation to the victims of the tragedy.
- In 1989, Union Carbide settled with the central government and agreed to pay 470 million dollars as compensation.
The Cauvery Water Dispute case: Nariman represented Karnataka for over 30 years in the water-sharing dispute with Tamil Nadu.
- In 2016, the Supreme Court ordered the Karnataka government to release 6,000 cusecs (cubic feet per second) of water from September 21 to September 27.
- The Karnataka legislative assembly, however, passed a resolution stating that they did not have water to spare and chose to defy the court’s orders.
- Due to this non-compliance, Nariman refused to argue the case on behalf of the Karnataka government any further.
- On February 16, 2018, the court in its final judgement took note of Nariman’s stance on the issue and necessarily mentioned that Nariman had courageously lived up to the highest tradition of the Bar.
- The court then proceeded to reduce Karnataka’s annual water releases to 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) from 192 TMC.
Disproportionate assets case against former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa: AIADMK leader and former- Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalitha had been accused of misappropriating funds during her tenure between 1991 and 1995.
- A Sessions Court in Bangalore in September 2014 found that she had acquired property disproportionate to her known income and imposed a Rs 100 crore fine on her.
- This sentence was upheld by the Karnataka High Court a month later leading to an appeal at the Supreme Court.
- Nariman appeared on behalf of Jayalalitha in October 2014 and convinced the court to grant bail against executing the fine and suspend the sentence passed by the Sessions judge in Bangalore.
The 1981 Second Judges case: The Supreme Court held that the primacy of the Chief Justice of India’s recommendation in judicial appointment and transfer can be turned down on cogent grounds by the government.
- However, the judicial discussions finally led to the creation of the collegium system of appointment of judges to constitutional courts in 1993, when the top court came out with its judgement in the second judge’s case.
- Nariman had stated that the advice given through consultation with the CJI must be seen as binding to protect the independence of the judiciary, as judges would be in a better position to determine the suitability and competence of candidates.
- In 1993, the nine-judge bench agreed with Nariman’s arguments and established the Supreme Court Collegium.
The COVID-19 case: Nariman represented the Parsi community in its dispute over the protocol and standard operating procedure for handling of dead bodies of Parsi Zoroastrian COVID-19 victims under which metallic nets were to be installed above ‘Tower of Silence’ so that birds did not feed on the corpses and carry the killer virus elsewhere

Cabinet approves Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP) for the period 2021-26

22 Feb 2024

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Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the continuation of “Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)” with a total outlay of Rs. 4,100 crore for a period of 5 years from 2021-22 to 2025-26.

About the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP):

The FMBAP Scheme is being implemented throughout the country for effective flood management, erosion control and anti-sea erosion and to help in maintaining peace along the border.
The scheme benefits towns, villages, industrial establishments, communication links, agricultural fields, infrastructure etc. from floods and erosion in the country.
- The catchment area treatment works will help in the reduction of sediment load into rivers.
The Scheme aims at the completion of the ongoing projects already approved under FMP.

The Scheme has two components:

Under the Flood Management Programme (FMP) component of FMBAP with an outlay of Rs. 2940 crore, central assistance will be provided to State Governments for taking up critical works related to flood control, anti-erosion, drainage development and anti-sea erosion, etc.
- The pattern of funding to be followed is 90% (Centre): 10% (State) for Special Category States (8 North-Eastern States and Hilly States of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and UT of Jammu & Kashmir) and 60% (Centre):40% (State) for General/ Non-Special Category States.
Under the River Management and Border Areas (RMBA) component of FMBAP with an outlay of Rs. 1160 crore, flood control and anti-erosion work on common border rivers with neighbouring countries including hydrological observations and flood forecasting, and investigation & pre-construction activities of joint water resources projects (with neighbouring countries) on common border rivers will be taken up with 100% central assistance.
The Scheme has the provision of incentivizing the States which implement flood plain zoning, recognized as an effective non-structural measure for flood management.

Importance:

While the primary duty of flood management lies with the State Governments, the Union Government actively promotes and advocates for the adoption of modern technology and innovative approaches.
Additionally, projects executed under the RMBA component serve to safeguard critical installations of security agencies and border outposts situated along border rivers from the perils of floods and erosion.
Furthermore, the scheme includes provisions for incentivizing states that implement flood plain zoning, a recognized and effective non-structural measure for flood management.

Will the ‘Paruveta Festival’ celebrated in Andhra’s Ahobilam get UNESCO recognition?

22 Feb 2024

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INTACH is striving to obtain UNESCO recognition for the yearly 'Paruveta' festival, emphasising its cultural significance.

About the Paruveta Festival:

Paruveta Festival, also known as the 'mock hunting festival', is a celebrated tradition at the Sri Narasimha Swamy temple in Ahobilam, Andhra Pradesh.
It stands out as a symbol of communal harmony, where devotees from various religious backgrounds, including Muslims, come together to offer prayers.

Origin and Significance:

According to folklore, the festival commemorates Lord Vishnu's incarnation as Narasimha, who married Chenchulakshmi, a tribal girl, symbolising unity across different communities.
The festival's rituals, typically observed during Vijayadashami or Sankranti, extend for a 'mandala' period of forty days in Ahobilam.

Activities and Customs:

During the festival, the temple deity is carried to the 32 Chenchu tribal villages surrounding Ahobilam for forty days.
The journey begins with a symbolic act where tribals shoot arrows at the deity's palanquin, signifying protection and reverence.
Chenchus participated by undertaking 'Narasimha Deeksha', wearing yellow robes and Tulasi Mala, while observing celibacy.
The temple staff reside in these villages throughout the festival, showcasing the tradition of a casteless society with no traces of untouchability.

Key Points about Chenchu Tribes:

Geographic Distribution: Chenchu tribes primarily inhabit the hills of southern India, particularly in Andhra Pradesh.
- Additionally, Chenchu communities can be found in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Orissa.
Language and Communication: Their native language, known as Chenchu, belongs to the Dravidian language family.
- While many Chenchu individuals speak Telugu, their traditional language holds cultural significance.
Livelihood and Occupation: Historically, Chenchu people pursued a nomadic lifestyle, relying on food gathering.
- However, due to factors such as agricultural expansion, many have transitioned to working as farmers or forest labourers.
Housing and Settlements: Chenchu dwellings are typically hive-shaped structures constructed from wattle thatch, composed of interwoven poles, twigs, reeds, or branches.
- These houses reflect their traditional architectural style and are adapted to their environment.
Social Structure: Chenchu society is organised into clans, which are extended family units, as well as local groups and individual families.
- They adhere to exogamous marriage practices, prohibiting unions within the same clan.
- Additionally, Chenchu kinship is patrilineal, tracing descent through male lineage.

Unauthorised online lending apps high on the FSDC scanner

22 Feb 2024

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Fresh measures to curb unauthorised online lending apps’ operations could be on the anvil, following deliberations on the issue at the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently.

About the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC):

The Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) is a high-level body established by the Government of India in 2010 to address macroeconomic and financial stability issues.
Although not a statutory body, it operates under the Financial Stability Division of the Department of Economic Affairs within the Ministry of Finance.

Background:

In response to the global financial crisis of 2008, recommendations were made by the Raghuram Rajan Committee for the creation of a centralised regulatory body to oversee India's financial system.
The establishment of FSDC reflects India's proactive approach to enhance preparedness for future financial challenges.

Composition:

Chaired by the Union Finance Minister, the council comprises key stakeholders including the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), finance and economic affairs officials, regulatory body chairpersons, and other relevant authorities.
The Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs serves as the council's secretary.

Responsibilities:

FSDC is entrusted with the task of promoting financial stability, coordinating policy responses to systemic risks, and fostering the development of India's financial sector.

Concerns and Future Directions:

Concerns have been raised about potential encroachment on the autonomy of sectoral regulators due to FSDC's leadership by the Union Finance Minister.
To address this, it's crucial to safeguard the independence of regulatory bodies and establish clear guidelines to ensure effective coordination without undermining regulatory authority.

What is Digital Lending?

Digital lending refers to the process of accessing credit online, facilitated through web platforms or mobile applications.
This approach leverages technology across various stages of the lending process, including customer acquisition, credit assessment, approval, fund disbursement, recovery, and customer service.

Key Features:

Utilises technology for end-to-end lending operations, enhancing efficiency and accessibility.
Offers flexibility in credit options and facilitates swift transactions, appealing to modern borrowers.
Prominent examples include Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) schemes, which provide short-term financing for purchases, allowing consumers to defer immediate payments.

Drivers of Growth:

Increased adoption is driven by widespread smartphone usage and the convenience of online transactions.
Flexibility in credit offerings and simplified application processes contribute to the popularity of digital lending platforms.
BNPL services, in particular, cater to consumers seeking deferred payment options for purchases and services.

Centre increases Fair and Remunerative Prices of sugarcane

22 Feb 2024

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The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs recently approved ?340/quintal as the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane for the sugar season 2024-25 at a sugar recovery rate of 10.25%.

What is the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP)?

FRP was introduced by the government in 2009 by an amendment to the Sugarcane (Control) Order, 1966.
It replaced the Statutory Minimum Price (SMP) on the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) consultation.
The FRP system assured timely payment to farmers, irrespective of the profit and loss to sugar mills.
- Further, the new system made it mandatory for sugar mills to pay the farmers within 14 days of delivery of sugarcane.
Additionally, the FRP system introduced grading on the basis of sugar recovery rate from sugarcane wherein a premium was paid to the farmer on higher recovery and a reduction in rates on lower recovery.
The FRP is based on the Rangarajan Committee report on reorganising the sugarcane industry.

Factors Considered for Announcing FRP:

- Cost of production of sugarcane
- Return to the growers from alternative crops and the general trend of prices of agricultural commodities
- Availability of sugar to consumers at a fair price
- The price at which sugar produced from sugarcane is sold by sugar producers
- Recovery of sugar from sugarcane
- The realisation made from the sale of by-products viz. molasses, bagasse and press mud or their imputed value
- Reasonable margins for the growers of sugarcane on account of risk and profits

Effect of the New FRP:

Sugar production in India was hit hard in the October-December 2023 quarter as production fell by 11.21 million metric tonnes;
- It was 12 million in the same quarter the previous year.
- The increase in FRP is going to increase the cost for producers.
The increased FRP will benefit over five crore sugarcane farmers in the country, however, the increase in production cost could affect end-consumers as well.
Factors such as FRP hikes, akin to MSP, make it attractive to farmers but also increase prices in the local market as mills pass on that cost to consumers

WHO launches digital health platform agreed upon in India’s G20 presidency

21 Feb 2024

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Achieving one of the three priority areas agreed upon during India’s G20 presidency in 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently launched the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) virtually, a platform for sharing knowledge and digital products among countries.

About Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH):

The Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) is a network managed by the World Health Organization (WHO), dedicated to enhancing and coordinating efforts for country-led digital health transformation through collaborative partnerships and knowledge sharing.
- It was launched by the WHO and the Government of India during the G20 Health Ministerial Meeting in Gandhinagar.
Functioning as a platform for inter-country knowledge exchange and digital product dissemination, GIDH strives to achieve several key objectives through collective action:
- Assess and prioritise countries' requirements for sustainable digital health transformation.
- Enhance the alignment of digital health resources and address unfunded priorities at the country level.
- Facilitate the accelerated attainment of the strategic objectives outlined in the Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020-2025.
- Promote capacity building and synergize efforts to support local development, maintenance, and adaptation of digital health technologies to evolving needs.
Comprising four primary components, GIDH operates as a network of networks:
- Country Needs Tracker: Tracks and prioritises country-specific digital health requirements.
- Country Resource Portal: Provides a comprehensive map of available digital health resources within each country.
- Transformation Toolbox: Shares quality-assured digital tools to support country-led digital health initiatives.
- Knowledge Exchange: Facilitates the exchange of insights and best practices among member countries.
GIDH extends support to countries in three fundamental ways:
- By attentively addressing their needs
- By fostering resource alignment to prevent fragmentation, and
- By offering access to quality-assured digital products.
Membership in GIDH is open to all institutions actively involved in the digital health domain.

What is Digital Health?

Digital health denotes the utilisation of technology, encompassing mobile devices, software applications, and various digital tools, to enhance health outcomes and streamline healthcare delivery.
Essentially, it represents an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of technology and healthcare, integrating a diverse array of concepts and innovations.
This encompasses a broad spectrum of technologies and services, spanning telemedicine, electronic health records, wearable devices, health information exchange, and more.
Examples of notable digital health initiatives include India’s CoWIN platform and UNICEF's RapidPro and FamilyConnect programs.
RapidPro, UNICEF’s real-time information platform, serves as a foundational component in its digital health portfolio.
FamilyConnect, another UNICEF initiative, delivers targeted, lifecycle-based messages via SMS to various recipients, including pregnant women, new mothers, and heads of households.

India Initiatives on Digital Health:

National Digital Health Mission (NDHM): Designed to establish a comprehensive national digital health ecosystem featuring unique health IDs, electronic health records (EHRs), and a platform for health data exchange.
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM): Aims to develop a digital infrastructure for the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (ABHIM), incorporating health registries, electronic claim processing, and telemedicine services.
E-Sanjeevani Telemedicine Platform: Enables virtual consultations between healthcare providers and patients nationwide, enhancing access to medical care.
Jan Arogya Setu App and CoWIN Platform: Offers access to healthcare services, facilitates appointment scheduling, and disseminates COVID-19-related information.
Digital Aarogya Mitra (DAM): Implements a community health worker program utilising technology for data collection and community-based health interventions.

Malta becomes the 119th member of the International Solar Alliance

21 Feb 2024

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Malta became the 119th country to join the International Solar Alliance recently.

About the International Solar Alliance (ISA):

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an alliance of more than 120 signatory countries that aims to reduce the dependence on non-renewable sources of energy like fossil fuels.
Currently, 118 countries are signatories to the ISA Framework Agreement.
The ISA is an action-oriented, member-driven, collaborative platform for increased deployment of solar energy technologies as a means for bringing energy access, ensuring energy security, and driving energy transition in its member countries.
- The platform strives to develop and deploy cost-effective and transformational energy solutions powered by the sun to help member countries develop low-carbon growth trajectories, with a particular focus on delivering impact in countries categorised as Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
The ISA was conceived as a joint effort by India and France to mobilise efforts against climate change through the deployment of solar energy solutions.
It was conceptualised on the sidelines of the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Paris in 2015.

Role of India:

As a founding member, India holds a pivotal position within the alliance, serving both as a host nation and a major contributor to achieving its objectives.
The ISA marks a historic milestone as the first international organisation to establish its secretariat in India.
With a target of generating 100 GW of solar energy by 2022, India's commitment represents a significant portion of the ISA's overall goal.

Recent Developments:

The ISA was granted Observer Status by the UN General Assembly, fostering closer collaboration between the alliance and the United Nations to advance global energy growth and development.
The approval of the 'Solar Facility' by the ISA introduces a payment guarantee mechanism aimed at incentivizing investments in solar projects, further driving progress towards sustainable energy initiatives.

India contributes $1 million to fund combating poverty and hunger

21 Feb 2024

Global leaders converge in Delhi for Raisina Dialogue 2024

21 Feb 2024

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The ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue will be held from today till Friday (February 23) in New Delhi.

What is the Raisina Dialogue?

The Raisina Dialogue is India’s premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics committed to addressing the most challenging issues facing the global community.
Every year, leaders in politics, business, media, and civil society converge in New Delhi to discuss the state of the world and explore opportunities for cooperation on a wide range of contemporary matters.
The Dialogue is structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion, involving heads of state, cabinet ministers and local government officials, who are joined by thought leaders from the private sector, media and academia.
The conference is hosted by the Observer Research Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
This effort is supported by a number of institutions, organisations and individuals, who are committed to the mission of the conference.
The theme of the 2024 edition is “Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create”.
During the three-day conference, the participants will engage with each other over six “thematic pillars”. These include:
- Tech Frontiers: Regulations & Realities
- Peace with the Planet: Invest & Innovate
- War & Peace: Armouries & Asymmetries
- Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions & Inclusion
- The Post 2030 Agenda: People & Progress; and
- Defending Democracy: Society & Sovereignty.

After 30 years, Buddha relics travel to Thailand

21 Feb 2024

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Four of the 20 relics of Lord Buddha preserved at the National Museum are being taken to Thailand for a month-long exposition beginning recently, in a rare trip abroad for the delicate antiquities recovered more than a century ago.

About the Relics of Lord Buddha:

The relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana are known as the ‘Kapilvastu Relics.’
The relics date back to around the 4th or 5th Century BC.
They were found in Bihar’s Piprahwa — a site that is believed to be the ancient city of Kapilvastu.
- Piprahwa today is located in Uttar Pradesh’s Siddharthnagar district.
The relics were discovered by a team of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials in the 1970s.
- The ASI conducted excavations at Piprahwa from 1971-77 under the supervision of the archaeology director KM Srivastava.

History:

Lord Buddha achieved Mahaparinirvana at the age of 80 in Kushinagar.
The Mallas of Kushinagara cremated his body with ceremonies befitting a ‘Universal King’ (‘cakravartin’).
His holy relics, from the funeral pyre, were collected, divided and given by Brahmin priest Dhona of Kushinagar to kings and priests.
- The eight shares were distributed among Ajatashatru of Magadha, the Licchavis of Vaishali, the Sakyas of Kapilavastu, Mallas of Kushinagar, Bullies of Allakappa, the Mallas of Pava, the Koliyas of Ramagrama and a Brahmana of Vethadipa.
- The sacred relics were commemorated in eight different stupas.
Two more stupas came into existence, one over the urn in which the relics had been collected and one over the embers.
Thus, stupas erected over the bodily relics of Buddha (Saririka-stupas) are the earliest surviving Buddhist shrines.
It is stated that Ashoka (circa 272-232 BC), being an ardent follower of Buddhism, opened up seven of these eight stupas, and collected a major portion of the relics for enshrinement within innumerable stupas built by him to popularise Buddhism and spread dharma.
In 1898, the discovery of an inscribed casket by William Claxton Peppé, a British colonial engineer and an estate manager at a Buddhist stupa site at Piprahwa, was an epoch-making incident.
- The inscription on the lid referred to the relics of Buddha and his community.
The bone relics present in the stone coffer were presented to King Rama V of Thailand.
The relics were further divided into three shares and gifted to Thailand, Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
- In Thailand, the holy relic has been enshrined in a chedi on the top of Suwanbanphot, Bangkok.
Every year, during the Loi Krathong Festival, there is a seven-day and seven-night celebration, which has become a tradition to worship the Buddha’s relics.

La Nina impacted air quality in India in the winter of 2022

20 Feb 2024

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A new study suggests that monsoon rainfall over India, which is strongly influenced by El Niño and La Niña events—alternating warming and cooling of the eastern Pacific Ocean impacting global weather may also affect air quality in the country.

Key Findings of the New Study on the Impact of La Niña on Air Quality in India:

According to the researchers at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (Bengaluru) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (Pune), the strong influence of El Niño and La Niña events on monsoon rainfall over India, driven by the alternating warming and cooling of the eastern Pacific Ocean, with far-reaching effects on global weather patterns.
Remarkably, this study marks the first time that air quality in Indian cities has been directly linked to a La Niña event, suggesting an indirect connection to climate change, which intensifies the severity of El Niño and La Niña occurrences.
Traditionally, northern Indian cities, notably Delhi, face elevated concentrations of PM2.5 pollutants from October to January.
- However, the winter of 2022 witnessed a notable deviation from this trend, with northern cities experiencing cleaner air than usual, while western and southern cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai saw worsened air quality.
Specifically, Delhi observed a 10% reduction in PM2.5 concentrations, contrasted with a 30% increase in Mumbai and a 20% rise in Bengaluru.
The researchers, investigating this anomaly, identified the potent effects of the La Niña event, notably stronger than typical occurrences, leading to significant changes in wind circulation patterns over India.
- This impact became pronounced in the third year of La Niña, suggesting a cumulative effect that may amplify over time.
While La Niña events are associated with improved air quality in northern India, the study emphasizes the need for further research to understand the potential impacts of El Niño events, which may produce contrasting effects on air quality across the country.

What are El Niño and La Niña?

El Niño refers to a band of warmer water spreading from west to east in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.
- Similarly, a La Niña occurs when the band of water spreads east to west and is cooler.
Both phenomena affect the weather worldwide and can have drastic effects on economies that depend on rainfall.
Together, El Niño and La Niña make up a cyclical process called the El Niño Southern Oscillation.
An El Niño year creates a global warming crisis in miniature because the warm water spreading across the tropical Pacific releases a large amount of heat into the atmosphere.
El Niño: El Niño is characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.
- In India, El Niño events often correlate with below-average rainfall during the monsoon season.
- This can lead to drought conditions in some regions, affecting agriculture and water resources.
- El Niño can also influence temperature patterns, with some parts of India experiencing warmer temperatures during El Niño events.
La Niña: La Niña is characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.
- In India, La Niña events often correlate with above-average rainfall during the monsoon season.
- This can lead to increased precipitation in some regions, potentially causing flooding, while other areas may experience drought conditions.
- La Niña can also influence temperature patterns, with some parts of India experiencing cooler temperatures during La Niña events.

Impact of La Niña on Air Quality in India:

Altering Wind Patterns: During the winter of 2022, the typical north-westerly winds, carrying agricultural pollutants from Punjab and Haryana towards Delhi and the Gangetic plains, were disrupted.
- Instead, wind circulation shifted to a north-south direction, diverting pollutants away from Delhi.
- Consequently, pollutants bypassed Delhi, travelling over Rajasthan and Gujarat towards southern regions.
Modifying Local Wind Circulation near Mumbai: In Mumbai, the local wind circulation, which alternates between land-to-sea and sea-to-land flows every few days, experienced prolonged unidirectional winds.
- This sustained wind pattern prevented the dispersal of pollutants from the city, leading to their accumulation within Mumbai's atmosphere throughout the winter of 2022.
These changes in wind patterns, influenced by La Niña, significantly impacted air quality dynamics in India, highlighting the intricate relationship between climate phenomena and regional atmospheric conditions.

Gold Hunt by Villagers Reveals Ancient Harappan Settlement in Gujarat

20 Feb 2024

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The newly discovered Harappan settlement at Lodrani village in the Kutch region of Gujarat has sparked widespread interest in the fascinating remains of this ancient civilisation, making it an important site for archaeological exploration and research.

Features of Harappan site Morodharo:

Morodharo is a fortified settlement of the Harappan era, with the fortification measuring 102 m to the west and 58 m north to the south.
- The thickness of the wall is 3.3 m on average.
Morodhara has a 10x10 m platform on the southwest side and a well on the northeast side.
Burial cairns have been found at Morodharo.
- A cairn is an intentionally constructed mound of stones, typically created for marking a location or serving as a burial mound.
Harappan pottery with perforated jar sherds, reserved slipware and terracotta cakes have also been unearthed.
All these items have a striking resemblance to those found in Dholavira.

About Harappan Civilization:

The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization was South Asia's first urban civilization, flourishing concurrently with Mesopotamia and Egypt.
It encompassed the most extensive territory, covering approximately 800,000 square kilometres, compared to its contemporaries.
Prominent cities during the Harappan period included Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro in present-day Pakistan, along with Dholavira, Lothal, and Surkotada in Gujarat, India, among others.
Urban planning in Harappan cities followed a meticulous grid layout, with streets intersecting at right angles, dividing the cities into neat rectangular blocks.
The streets and alleys were deliberately designed for efficient movement, accommodating carts and pedestrians, often featuring covered drains alongside.
For defence and security, the cities were enclosed by sturdy walls made of mud bricks, shielding against intruders and natural calamities.
Each city was structured into an elevated citadel and a lower town, with the former housing monumental structures like granaries and administrative buildings.
Residential areas comprised multi-story brick houses clustered around courtyards, some equipped with private wells and well-ventilated bathrooms.
A sophisticated drainage system ensured efficient waste disposal, with individual house drains connected to street-level drainage networks.
Granaries and storage facilities were strategically positioned to manage surplus agricultural yields, reflecting advanced urban planning and resource management.

India, and ASEAN discuss the review of the trade agreement

20 Feb 2024

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India hosted the 3rd meeting of the AITIGA Joint Committee, which focused on reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi from February 16th to 19th, 2024.

About the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA):

The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is a trade deal between the ten member states of ASEAN and India.
ASEAN and India signed the Agreement at the 7th ASEAN Economic Ministers-India Consultations in Bangkok, Thailand in 2009.
The Agreement, which came into effect in 2010, is sometimes referred to as the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement.
The Agreement originated out of the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation between India and ASEAN created in 2003.
- The Framework Agreement laid a sound basis for the establishment of an ASEAN-India Free Trade Area (FTA), which includes FTA in goods, services and investment.
The Agreement has led to steadily increasing trade between ASEAN and India since its signing.
- In 2019-20, trade between India and ASEAN was worth US$86 billion.

About ASEAN:

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN is an intergovernmental organization of ten Southeast Asian countries:
- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
ASEAN's primary objectives are to promote political and economic cooperation and regional stability among its member states.
The organization operates on the principles of mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and consensus-building. ASEAN's motto, "One Vision, One Identity, One Community," underscores its commitment to fostering unity and solidarity among Southeast Asian nations.
Economically, ASEAN has made significant strides towards integration through initiatives like the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), aimed at creating a single market and production base.
- This has facilitated trade, investment, and economic development within the region.
Additionally, ASEAN serves as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on a wide range of issues, including security, environmental sustainability, cultural exchange, and disaster management.

BSNL floats Rs 65,000 crore tender for phase-III BharatNet project

20 Feb 2024

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BSNL, the state-owned telecommunications company, has initiated a tender process amounting to approximately Rs 65,000 crore for the implementation of the phase-III BharatNet project.

What is the BharatNet Phase III Project?

The BharatNet phase-III project adopts a three-level architecture:
- Internet leased line bandwidth
- Middle-mile connectivity, and
- Last-mile connectivity
It aims to involve village-level entrepreneurs or Udyamis in providing last-mile connectivity to households on a revenue-sharing basis.
BSNL aims to provide 15 million home fibre connections over five years using the BharatNet Udyami model.

About BharatNet Project:

The BharatNet Project is one of the largest rural telecom projects in the world.
It aimed at providing broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats across India in a phased manner.
Its core objective is to ensure equitable access to broadband services for all telecom service providers, fostering the deployment of services like e-health, e-education, and e-governance in rural and remote areas.
Initiated in 2011 and executed by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), a Special Purpose Vehicle established in 2012, the project operates in three phases.
Phase I launched in 2011, focused on creating the National Optical Fibre Network, leveraging existing infrastructure and laying additional fibre to bridge connectivity gaps up to the Gram Panchayat level.
Phase II, approved in 2017, builds upon Phase I’s experiences, aligning with the Digital India vision.
- It adopts a flexible approach, integrating various media such as Optical Fibre Cable (OFC), Radio, and satellite to connect Gram Panchayats, utilizing models like State-led, Private Sector, and CPSU Models for implementation.
Phase III, spanning from 2019 to 2023, aims to establish a robust, future-ready network with district-to-block fibre connectivity, featuring ring topology for redundancy.
- This comprehensive approach ensures the creation of a resilient and inclusive telecom infrastructure, facilitating socio-economic development in rural India.

Hundred years ago, Satyendra Nath Bose changed physics forever

20 Feb 2024

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In 2024, we commemorate the centenary of Bose's pivotal discovery of the precise equations governing the behaviour of collections of photons, fundamental particles of light.

About Satyendra Nath Bose:

Satyendra Nath Bose (1894-1974) was an eminent Indian physicist renowned for his pioneering contributions to theoretical physics, notably in the realms of quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics.
His groundbreaking research laid the groundwork for Bose-Einstein statistics and the theoretical elucidation of Bose-Einstein condensate, a novel state of matter.
Bose's profound insights not only advanced the understanding of fundamental physics but also played a pivotal role in refining the Standard Model of Particle Physics.
His visionary work eventually paved the way for significant discoveries in particle physics, including the identification of the Higgs Boson, colloquially referred to as the "God Particle."

Major Contributions of Satyendra Nath Bose:

Foundation of Bose-Einstein Statistics and Bosons: In 1924, Bose formulated a revolutionary explanation for Planck's law of black-body radiation using quantum mechanics principles, introducing the concept of "Bose-Einstein statistics."
- This theory delineates the behaviour of particles known as "bosons," characterized by integer spin.
- Bose-Einstein statistics elucidate how bosons, such as photons and atoms, preferentially occupy the same quantum state, a behaviour distinct from fermions governed by the Pauli exclusion principle.
- This groundbreaking work laid the groundwork for understanding particle behaviour at low temperatures and foretold the existence of the Bose-Einstein condensate, a novel state of matter.
Prediction of Bose-Einstein Condensate: Bose's collaboration with Einstein in statistical mechanics led to the theoretical prediction of the Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC), a revolutionary concept in quantum physics.
- According to Bose-Einstein statistics, at ultra-low temperatures approaching absolute zero, bosons can congregate in the lowest energy state, forming a condensed state.
- Often dubbed the "fifth state of matter," BEC occurs when bosons lose sufficient energy to coalesce into a single quantum state, creating a cohesive "super-particle" cloud.
- Experimental confirmation of Bose-Einstein condensation in 1995, decades after Bose's theoretical proposal, garnered Eric Cornell, Carl Wieman, and Wolfgang Ketterle the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2001.
Together with Meghnad Saha, he published the first English translation of Einstein’s papers on general relativity.
His dedication to research and scientific integrity earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan and the Fellowship of the Royal Society.

Warming up to climate change: How does climate change impact extreme weather events?

19 Feb 2024

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Extreme weather is becoming more frequent and more intense in many places around the world because of climate change.

How Does Climate Change Impact Extreme Weather Events?

The Earth's average temperature has gone up by at least 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1850, mostly because of human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
This temperature rise has led to more frequent and stronger extreme weather events worldwide, such as heatwaves, droughts, floods, hurricanes, and wildfires.
It's hard to directly blame one single weather event on climate change because there are many factors involved.
However, studies can tell us if climate change made a particular event worse or more likely to happen.
- For example, after a deadly heatwave in Western Europe in 2019, a study found that climate change made that heatwave five times more likely to occur.
- In India, heatwaves have become longer because of global warming, and they're expected to get even worse in the future.
- Climate models predict that by the 2040s, heatwaves might become 12 times more common.
Higher temperatures also make droughts worse.
- In East Africa, for instance, a severe drought happened between 2020 and 2022, leading to famine and displacing millions of people.
- A report found that climate change made droughts like this at least 100 times more likely in that region.
Warmer temperatures also contribute to wildfires by drying out land and making it easier for fires to start and spread.
- In Canada, for example, a study showed that climate change doubled the chances of extreme fire conditions.
- This was particularly concerning because Canada recently faced its worst wildfire season ever.
As temperatures rise, the air can hold more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall and more flooding during storms.
- Warm air can also dry out the soil, making droughts worse. But when warm, moist air meets cooler air, it can lead to more intense storms and flooding.
There's also evidence that climate change is making hurricanes stronger and more frequent.
- Warmer oceans provide more energy for hurricanes to form and intensify.
- The oceans have absorbed a lot of the extra heat from greenhouse gases, making them warmer.
- This, in turn, leads to stronger storms and more damage when they hit land.
So, while climate change doesn't directly cause any single weather event, it's making extreme weather events more common and more severe, putting people and ecosystems at risk.

Bird flu outbreak in Andhra: Could H5N1 spark the next pandemic?

19 Feb 2024

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A bird flu outbreak in poultry in Andhra Pradesh’s Nellore district was reported recently. Laboratory tests by the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal confirmed that it was caused by the type A strain of the H5N1 variant of the avian influenza virus.

What is Bird Flu/Avian Influenza?

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a viral respiratory illness primarily affecting birds.
It's caused by specific strains of the Influenza A virus.
Bird flu spreads between both wild and domesticated birds.
It has also been passed from birds to humans who are in close contact with poultry or other birds.
There is no clear evidence that the virus can be transmitted from human to human.
- However, this may have happened in rare cases, where a person has become ill after caring for a sick family member.
While most types don't infect humans, certain strains like H5N1, H7N9, and H5N6 have caused concern due to their ability to transmit to humans in rare cases.
Transmission:
- Birds: Spreads easily between birds through bodily fluids (saliva, faeces, nasal discharge) and contaminated environments.
- Humans: Primarily occurs through direct contact with infected birds or surfaces, inhaling infected droplets, or consuming undercooked poultry meat from infected birds.
Symptoms:

The symptoms of bird flu in humans are similar to those of regular influenza and include:
- Can range from mild (fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches) to severe (pneumonia, respiratory failure, multi-organ failure, death).
- Symptoms usually appear within 3-7 days of exposure.
Treatment: Antiviral medications like Tamiflu have proven effective in managing human infections caused by avian influenza viruses, reducing both the severity of symptoms and the likelihood of fatalities.

Avian Influenza in India:

Initial Incidence: The first instance of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in India occurred in 2006 in Navapur, Maharashtra, marking the onset of recurrent annual outbreaks.
- The emergence of H5N8 was documented in India in November 2016, primarily affecting wild birds in five states, with Kerala reporting the highest number of cases.
- This disease has been identified in 24 states and union territories, prompting the culling of over 9 million birds to curb its spread.
Corresponding Strategy: India's strategy for managing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) revolves around a "detect and cull" approach, as delineated in the National Action Plan for Prevention, Control, and Containment of Avian Influenza (revised - 2021).

Banks to conduct periodic performance reviews of empanelled advocates to fast-track cases in DRTs

19 Feb 2024

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Banks will conduct periodical reviews of the performance of empanelled advocates at debt recovery tribunals (DRTs) and rationalise the cases assigned to them based on performance.

What is the Debt Recovery Tribunal?

Debt Recovery Tribunal is a quasi-judicial body formed under the Recovery of Debts Due to Banks and Financial Institutions (RDDBFI) Act, 1993 to facilitate recovery of loans by banks and financial institutions to the customers.
It was introduced as a response to the growing issue of Non-performing Assets (NPAs) and the need for a dedicated mechanism to resolve disputes related to debt recovery.
These tribunals were instituted to offer a swifter and more effective alternative to traditional civil courts for the resolution of matters concerning debt recovery by banks and financial institutions.
Its Appellate Tribunal is the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT).
- Under Section 22 of the RDDBFI Act, 1993, both DRT and DRAT are mandated to adhere to the principles of natural justice, and proceedings before them are deemed to be judicial.

Jurisdiction of Debt Recovery Tribunal:

They are empowered to adjudicate cases brought forth by banks, financial institutions, and related entities seeking the recovery of outstanding amounts.
DRTs preside over matters surpassing a designated monetary threshold, and their rulings carry the weight of civil court decrees.
The scope of DRT jurisdiction encompasses a broad spectrum of financial claims, encompassing loans, advances, and financial aid extended by banks and financial institutions.

Powers of DRT:

Under Section 22(2) of the RDDBFI Act, 1993, the DRT possesses the following powers:
- Summoning individuals and compelling them to testify under oath.
- Demanding the disclosure and presentation of documents.
- Accepting evidence through affidavits.
- Issuing commissions to examine witnesses or documents.
- Revisiting its rulings.
- Rejecting applications due to default or adjudicating them in absentia.
- Revoking any order of dismissal stemming from default or any order passed in absentia.
- Addressing any other matters stipulated by regulations.
The organisational framework of the Debt Recovery Tribunal:
- DRTs fall under the purview of the Ministry of Finance and operate akin to judicial courts.
- Each DRT is helmed by a Presiding Officer, who must hold qualifications equivalent to that of a District Judge.
- The Presiding Officer is appointed for a tenure of five years or until reaching the age of 62, whichever comes first.
- Appointment of the Presiding Officer is vested in the Central Government.
At present, 39 DRTs and 5 DRATs are functioning across the country.
- Each DRT and DRAT are headed by a Presiding Officer and a Chairperson respectively.

Key aspect in poll bond case still alive: Money Bill route

19 Feb 2024

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Even as a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court struck down the electoral bonds scheme as unconstitutional recently, it saved one aspect of the challenge for another day and a larger bench – the issue of the government using the money Bill route to bring in the laws that introduced the electoral bonds.

News Summary:

A recent ruling by a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court invalidated the electoral bonds scheme, citing it as unconstitutional.
However, the court reserved one aspect of the challenge for further review by a larger bench – specifically, the government's use of the money Bill route to enact the laws introducing the electoral bonds.

The Supreme Court highlighted that:

The examination of introducing these amendments through a money Bill under Article 110 of the Constitution was not addressed.
The interpretation of Article 110 of the Constitution has been referred to a seven-judge Bench and remains pending judicial review.

What are Money Bills?

According to Article 110, a money Bill encompasses provisions related to taxes, government borrowing, and expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India, among other financial matters.
Article 109 outlines the process for the passage of such Bills, granting predominant authority to the Lok Sabha in their enactment.
The Speaker is responsible for certifying a Bill as a Money Bill, with the Speaker's decision being final.
- In the past seven years, the government has utilised the money Bill route to introduce various legislations, notably including the Aadhaar Act, 2016, and the Finance Act, 2017.

Other Instances of Government Utilising Money Bill Route:

Several significant legislations have been enacted by the government through the money Bill route, including:
- The Finance Acts of 2016 and 2018, introduced amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, of 2010.
- The Tribunals Reforms Act was passed as a money Bill in 2017.
- The rigorous amendments to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in 2022, alongside the enactment of the Aadhaar Act in 2018.
  - The Supreme Court has upheld the validity of the PMLA amendments and the legality of the Aadhaar Act.
Notably, Chief Justice of India Chandrachud dissented in the five-judge bench decision that upheld the Aadhaar Act, criticising the government's use of the money Bill route as a subversion of the Constitution.
However, these laws may still face scrutiny and potential invalidation if the court determines that they were enacted through improper procedure, namely, utilising the money Bill route.

Difference Between Money Bills and Financial Bills:

While every Money Bill is categorised as a Financial Bill, not every Financial Bill qualifies as a Money Bill.
- For instance, a Finance Bill solely dedicated to tax proposals is deemed a Money Bill.
Conversely, a Financial Bill may include provisions on taxation or expenditure alongside other subjects.
The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Bill, 2015, which establishes funds under the Public Account of India and states, serves as an example of a Financial Bill.

The process for passing these two types of bills varies considerably.

- The Rajya Sabha lacks the authority to reject or amend a Money Bill.
- Following passage by the Lok Sabha, Money Bills are referred to the Rajya Sabha for recommendations.
- Within 14 days, the Rajya Sabha must return the Bill to the Lok Sabha with its suggestions, which are not binding.
- Should the Lok Sabha reject the recommendations, the Bill is considered passed by both Houses in its original form from the Lok Sabha.
- If the Rajya Sabha fails to provide recommendations within 14 days, the same outcome applies.
- However, both Houses of Parliament must approve a Financial Bill.
While an ordinary Bill can originate in either House, a Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, per Article 117(1).
Moreover, only on the President's recommendation can anyone introduce or propose Money Bills in the Lok Sabha.
Amendments related to reducing or abolishing any tax are exempt from requiring the President's recommendation.
The essential conditions for a Financial Bill to attain Money Bill status are that it must solely originate in the Lok Sabha, not the Rajya Sabha, and must be introduced upon the President's recommendation.

INCOIS, ISRO to study rip currents for safer beaches

19 Feb 2024

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Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have embarked on a project to continuously monitor and issue operational forecast alerts of rip currents.

What is a Rip Current?

Rip currents are channelled currents of water flowing away from shore at surf beaches.
They typically extend from near the shoreline, through the surf zone and past the line of breaking waves. (The surf zone is the area between the high tide level on the beach to the seaward side of breaking waves.)

Formation of Rip Currents:

Rip currents form when waves break near the shoreline, piling up water between the breaking waves and the beach.
One of the ways this water returns to sea is to form a rip current, a narrow stream of water moving swiftly away from shore, often perpendicular to the shoreline.

Size of the Rip Currents:

Rip currents can be as narrow as 10 or 20 feet in width though they may be up to ten times wider.
- The length of the rip current also varies.
Rip currents begin to slow down as they move offshore, beyond the breaking waves, but sometimes extend for hundreds of feet beyond the surf zone.

Speed of the Rip Current:

Rip current speeds can vary. Sometimes they are too slow to be considered dangerous.
However, under certain wave, tide, and beach-shape conditions the speeds can quickly become dangerous.

Are All Rip Currents Dangerous?

Rip currents are present on many beaches every day of the year, but they are usually too slow to be dangerous to beachgoers.
However, under certain wave, tide, and beach-shape conditions they can increase to dangerous speeds.
The strength and speed of a rip current will likely increase as wave height and wave period increase.

How Do Rip Currents Result in the Drowning of Swimmers?

Drowning deaths occur when people pulled offshore are unable to keep themselves afloat and swim to shore.
- This may be due to any combination of fear, panic, exhaustion, or lack of swimming skills.
Rip currents are the greatest surf zone hazard to all beachgoers. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea.
- Rip currents are particularly dangerous for weak and non-swimmers.

ISRO’s ‘Naughty Boy’ Rocket Launches INSAT-3DS (Indian Express)

17 Feb 2024

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently launched its weather satellite INSAT-3DS board spacecraft Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) F14, nicknamed the ‘naughty boy’ for its spotty record.

What is the GSLV-F14?

The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), standing at a height of 51.7 metres, is a three-stage launch vehicle with a liftoff mass of 420 tonnes.
- First stage: Its first stage (GS1) features a solid propellant (S139) motor with 139 tons of propellant and four earth-storable propellant stages (L40) strapons, each carrying 40 tons of liquid propellant.
- Second Stage: The second stage (GS2) also utilises an earth-storable propellant system with a 40-ton propellant load.
- Third Stage: The third stage (GS3) is equipped with a cryogenic system containing 15 tons of propellant, consisting of liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid hydrogen (LH2).
GSLV-F14 serves as a versatile launch vehicle, capable of deploying various types of spacecraft for communication, navigation, earth resource surveys, and other specialised missions.

GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission Overview and Key Goals:

INSAT-3DS Satellite marks a significant advancement in the Third Generation of Meteorological Satellite series from Geostationary Orbit, with substantial contributions from Indian industries.
Fully funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), the mission aims to enhance meteorological services, complementing the existing capabilities of INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites.

Key Objectives:

Earth Observation and Oceanic Monitoring: Utilise various spectral channels to monitor Earth's surface, conduct oceanic observations, and assess environmental conditions critical for meteorology.
Atmospheric Parameter Profiling: Provide vertical profiles of essential meteorological parameters within the atmosphere, enhancing our understanding of atmospheric dynamics.
Data Collection and Dissemination: Facilitate the collection and dissemination of data from Data Collection Platforms (DCPs), ensuring timely access to crucial meteorological information.
Satellite Aided Search and Rescue (SAR) Services: Enable Satellite Aided Search and Rescue services, enhancing emergency response capabilities through advanced satellite technology.

Significance of the GSLV-F14/INSAT-3DS Mission:

The launch of INSAT-3DS holds a lot of significance for India's space agency as it is equipped to provide extremely accurate weather forecast information by studying the surface of the ocean, also being helpful in disaster prevention.
The GSLV has encountered challenges in the past, with four out of 15 launches facing setbacks, contrasting with the higher success rates of ISRO's PSLV and LVM-3.
The success of this mission is critical, especially considering the upcoming launch of the Earth observation satellite, NISAR, later this year, a collaborative effort between NASA and ISRO.
INSAT-3DS, with a mission lifespan of 10 years, will assume the roles of INSAT-3D (2013) and INSAT-3DR (2016), which have reached the end of their operational lives.
This mission will enhance meteorological forecasting capabilities, enabling better prediction of extreme weather events like thunderstorms, providing visibility assessments for aviation, and facilitating research on forest fires, smoke, snow cover, and climate dynamics.

OpenAI launches Sora (Indian Express)

17 Feb 2024

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OpenAI has unveiled a new generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) model that can convert a text prompt into video, an area of GenAI that was thus far fraught with inconsistencies.

What is OpenAI's Sora?

Sora is an AI model developed by OpenAI –– built on past research in DALL·E and GPT models –– and is capable of generating videos based on text instructions.
It can also animate a static image, transforming it into a dynamic video presentation.
Sora can create full videos in one go or add more to already created videos to make them longer.
It can produce videos up to one minute in duration, ensuring high visual quality and accuracy.
Sora can generate complex scenes with various characters, precise actions, and detailed backgrounds.
- Not only does the model understand the user's instructions, but it also interprets how these elements would appear in real-life situations.
The model has a deep understanding of language, enabling it to accurately interpret prompts and generate compelling characters that express vibrant emotions.
Sora can also create multiple shots within a single generated video that accurately portrays characters and visual style.

Limitations:

Despite its impressive capabilities, OpenAI acknowledges certain limitations in the current iteration of Sora.
The model may encounter challenges in accurately simulating complex physics within scenes, leading to potential discrepancies in cause-and-effect scenarios.
- For instance, while depicting a person taking a bite out of a cookie, Sora may struggle to consistently render a corresponding bite mark on the cookie in subsequent frames.

RBI Put Restraints on a Certain Card Network (Indian Express)

17 Feb 2024

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has ordered a certain card network to stop “unauthorised payments” made using business cards.

What is a Card Network?

Card networks connect banks, merchants, and customers (card users) to one another so that transactions can be carried out smoothly and securely.
Card networks are operating in the background every time a customer uses her card to make a payment.
There are five authorised card networks in India:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- RuPay
- Diners Club, and
- American Express

Reasons Behind the RBI Order:

Payments to Non-Card-Accepting Entities: The network facilitated card payments from corporations for commercial transactions, transferring the funds to non-card-accepting recipients via IMPS, RTGS, or NEFT without proper authorization, violating the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, 2007.
Non-Adherence to KYC Requirements: Additionally, the RBI expressed concerns regarding non-compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) norms in these transactions.

What are the RBI’s Concerns?

Under Section 4 of the PSS Act, such a payment system requires authorisation, which had not been obtained in this case.
There were two other concerns as well.
- First, the intermediary in such an arrangement pooled a large amount of funds into an account that was not a designated account under the PSS Act.
- Second, transactions processed under this arrangement did not comply with the ‘originator and beneficiary information’ requirements, as stipulated under the ‘Master Direction on KYC’ issued by the RBI.
Steps taken by the RBI: The RBI has instructed the card network to suspend all such arrangements until further notice.
- However, regular usage of business credit cards remains unaffected.

Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) (Indian Express)

17 Feb 2024

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Researchers have now, for the first time, detected the presence of water molecules on the surface of an asteroid using the data from NASA's now-retired SOFIA airborne observatory.

About Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA):

SOFIA is a powerful, general-purpose infrared observatory used to study the birth of new stars, planetary nebulae and supernova remnants, the atmospheres of Solar System objects, and many more.
Earth’s atmosphere protects us from harmful radiation, but it also blocks a lot of light useful for astronomy.
- For that reason, NASA and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) built the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) to fly aboard a modified commercial aircraft capable of flying above 99% of the light-blocking atmosphere.
SOFIA is carried aboard an aeroplane capable of flying at an altitude of 13 kilometres, higher than 99% of the infrared-absorbing atmosphere.
- First flown in 2007, SOFIA provided the first measurements of Pluto’s atmosphere, mapped the dust and magnetic fields around black holes, and provided a wealth of information about star-forming nebulae.
The telescope consists of a 2.5-meter (8.2-foot) mirror and a suite of scientific instruments including:
- Photometers to measure the brightness of sources
- Spectrometers to split the light into its component wavelengths, and
- A polarimeter to measure the polarisation of light caused by dust particles.
Astronomer Gerard Kuiper is best known for his prediction of the Kuiper Belt of icy outer Solar System bodies, but in 1965, he used a high-flying NASA aeroplane to study Venus in infrared light, pioneering the use of aircraft for astronomy.
- SOFIA is Kuiper’s spiritual descendant, built on a larger scale and using a dedicated aeroplane.
- The SOFIA telescope is carried by a Boeing 747SP (“special purpose”) designed for long-duration flights.
- The aeroplane was modified in several ways, including a large opening on the side of the telescope.
To operate under these conditions, SOFIA is lightweight and built to withstand mechanical vibrations and turbulence from air flowing across the opening in the side of the aeroplane.
The aeroplane is capable of ten-hour flights, with flight paths chosen to keep ahead of the sunrise and maximise the amount of darkness.
SOFIA achieved full operational capability in 2014 and prematurely ended in 2022 after operating for 12 years.

India initiates Anti-Dumping Probe into Solar Glass Imports from China and Vietnam (TOI)

17 Feb 2024

Melting Glaciers Threaten Gulf Stream Collapse by 2025 (India Today)

16 Feb 2024

Coal Ministry Hosts Industry Interaction on Coal Gasification (ET)

16 Feb 2024

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The Ministry of Coal has announced it will host an Industry Interaction on February 16, 2024, in Hyderabad to discuss the development of coal and lignite gasification projects across India.

What is Coal Gasification?

Coal gasification is a process where coal undergoes partial oxidation with air, oxygen, steam, or carbon dioxide to produce a fuel gas.
- This gas serves as an alternative to piped natural gas or methane for energy generation.
Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) is a technique involving the conversion of coal into gas within the seam, extracted through wells.
Production of Syngas: This process yields Syngas, a mixture primarily comprising methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and water vapour (H2O).
- Syngas finds applications in producing fertilisers, fuels, solvents, and synthetic materials.
Significance: In manufacturing, steel companies traditionally rely on costly imported coking coal. Syngas derived from coal gasification offers a cost-effective alternative.
- It is utilized in electricity generation, chemical feedstock production, and hydrogen-based applications like ammonia production and fueling a hydrogen economy.

Advantages of Coal Gasification:

Coal gasification offers a solution to local pollution issues.
It is deemed environmentally cleaner than direct coal combustion.
Decreasing dependence on imported natural gas, methanol, ammonia, and other vital commodities, enhances energy security.
This technology has the potential to mitigate environmental impacts by curbing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable approaches, aligning with India's global objectives for a more environmentally sustainable future.

Concerns Associated with Coal Gasification Plants?

The main disadvantage of coal gasification is that it is an expensive process.
The process can produce a number of harmful emissions, including carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and mercury.
The process produces a lot of ash, which can pollute the environment.
The process uses a lot of water, which can lead to water shortages in areas where it is used.

The Global Pulses Conference (The Hindu)

16 Feb 2024

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The Global Pulses Conference, an annual meeting of pulses producers, processors and traders, suggested that India augment the production of pulses to meet the nutritional requirements.

About the Global Pulses Confederation (GPC):

The Global Pulses Confederation (GPC) serves as a global representative body for the pulse industry.
Stakeholders: It encompasses various stakeholders within the pulse industry, such as growers, researchers, traders, government entities, processors, and consumers.
Headquarters: The GPC is based in Dubai and operates under the licensing of the Dubai Multi Commodity Centre (DMCC).
The Global Pulses Conference, held annually, took place in New Delhi this year.

Key Observations from the Conference:

Self-Sufficiency Target: India aims to achieve self-sufficiency in pulses production by 2027, having already attained this status in chickpeas and various other pulse crops, with minor gaps remaining in pigeon peas and black gram.
Decadal Growth: Pulse production has witnessed a significant 60% growth, increasing from 171 lakh tonnes in 2014 to 270 lakh tonnes in 2024.
Minimum Support Price (MSP): The government has guaranteed farmers a minimum support price set at 50% above the actual cost of production, ensuring lucrative returns on investment.
- Current MSP rates reflect remarkable increases, such as 117% in masoor, 90% in moong, and substantial hikes in chana dal, toor, and urad compared to a decade ago.
Government Initiatives: Efforts include the introduction of new seed varieties and the expansion of tur and black gram cultivation to bolster production.
Importance of Pulse Crops: Pulse cultivation not only enriches soil health but also provides nutritional benefits, particularly for smallholding farmers.
- Improved cultivation practices promise widespread benefits for all stakeholders involved.

Status of Pulse Production in India:

Production Trends: Over the past decade, pulse production in India has surged by 60%, escalating from 171 lakh tonnes in 2014 to 270 lakh tonnes in 2024.
Global Standing: India boasts the distinction of being the world's largest producer, consumer, and importer of pulses. It contributes 25% to global production, consumes 27% of the world's total, and imports 14%.
Agricultural Landscape: Pulses occupy approximately 20% of the foodgrain area in India and contribute 7-10% to the nation's total foodgrain production.
Cultivation Seasons: While pulses are cultivated in both Kharif and Rabi seasons, Rabi pulses account for over 60% of the total production.
Variety Distribution: Among pulse varieties, Gram leads the production, comprising roughly 40% of the total output, followed by Tur/Arhar at 15-20%, and Urad/Black Matpe and Moong each contributing approximately 8-10%.
Self-Sufficiency: India has achieved self-sufficiency in chickpeas (chana) and various other pulse crops, with minor shortfalls, observed only in pigeon peas (tur) and black gram.

DoT Unveils 'Sangam: Digital Twin' Initiative (TOI)

16 Feb 2024

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The Department of Telecommunications has introduced the 'Sangam: Digital Twin' initiative, which aims to transform infrastructure planning and design through innovation and the integration of advanced technologies.

What is Sangam: Digital Twin initiative?

Digital Twin technology creates virtual replicas of physical assets, enabling monitoring, simulation, and analysis for adaptive outcomes.
'Sangam: Digital Twin' consists of two stages:
- The first is exploratory for creative exploration, and
- The second is for the practical demonstration of specific use cases, creating a future blueprint for collaboration in future infrastructure projects.
The initiative aligns with advancements in communication, computation and sensing over the past decade, fostering a collaborative approach to reshape infrastructure planning and design.
'Sangam: Digital Twin' integrates 5G, IoT, AI, AR/VR, AI native 6G, Digital Twin and next-gen computational technologies to break silos and promote a whole-of-nation approach.
The new initiative aims to transform ideas into solutions, bridging the gap between conceptualisation and realisation, and fostering advancements in infrastructure.
Sangam encourages a holistic approach to innovation, uniting stakeholders to harness unified data and collective intelligence.
It is aimed at creating an ecosystem that maximises the value of technological advancements for development.
Sangam aims to demonstrate the practical implementation of innovative infrastructure planning solutions, providing a model framework for collaboration and a future blueprint for scaling successful strategies in future projects.
The platform also offers a blog for pre-registered participants to connect, share insights, and engage in discussions.

Significance of Digital Twins:

Facilitates remote monitoring, making it applicable for use in hazardous operations.
Enhances predictive capabilities, assisting in making informed policy decisions.
Improves operational efficiency, thereby ensuring the maintenance of output quality.
Assists in urban planning by generating various simulations and forecasts.

The Schengen Area in Europe (The Hindu)

16 Feb 2024

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Kosovo recently achieved visa-free entry to the Schengen zone in Europe, the world's largest area of unrestricted movement. Now, citizens of Kosovo can visit the Schengen zone as tourists for up to 90 days within 180 days.

Why Kosovo's Schengen Application Was Delayed for Years?

Despite the European Commission's clearance of Pristina's readiness to address issues like illegal migration and corruption in 2018, Kosovo faced prolonged delays in obtaining Schengen visa-free status.
The primary obstacle stemmed from opposition from various EU members who did not acknowledge Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008.
Moreover, Kosovo lacks legal statehood recognition from the UN and is not acknowledged by key global players like Russia and China.

What is the Schengen Zone?

The Schengen Zone is an area that encompasses much of Europe and enables visa-free and border-free travel within it.
- The Schengen zone is named after the Schengen Agreement, which was signed in 1985 in Schengen, Luxembourg.
The Schengen Zone acts as a single jurisdiction that allows travellers to cross borders without stopping for any border checks and therefore enables those who live close to international borders to come and go with ease.
It currently includes 27 countries in Europe, though not all are members of the European Union.
- The exceptions are Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Iceland.
Croatia, an EU member since 2013, joined Schengen in 2023, while Romania and Bulgaria, EU members since 2007, will gain partial Schengen entry from 31 March 2024.

Is Admission to Schengen Mandatory for EU Members?

When the Schengen agreement took effect in 1995, only seven of the entire 15-member union at the time joined the passport-free area.
Today, 23 of the 27 EU states are part of the passport-free zone, excluding Cyprus, Romania, Bulgaria and Ireland.
The Schengen area comprises 27 countries, including four non-EU members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Norway.
It is important not to confuse the status of the four countries with the recent entry of Kosovo and the other five western Balkan entrants which are not counted among the Schengen 27 members.

What are the Advantages of the EU’s Border-free Policy?

For nationals of any country, the benefit is the freedom to travel with a single Schengen visa to other European nations within the borderless area.
For EU states, the Visa-free borderless travel, alongside the single currency adopted by 20 EU countries, is the most visible symbol of European integration.

What are the Challenges Faced by the Schengen Region?

The Schengen region faced significant challenges, particularly during the Eurozone sovereign debt crisis of the past decade.
The influx of migrants from conflict areas in Africa and West Asia, coupled with the rise of anti-immigrant sentiments fueled by far-right populist parties in Europe, added strain to the region.
At one point, there were discussions within the EU about potentially excluding Mediterranean border countries from the Schengen Area, as some individual states considered reintroducing border controls unilaterally.

8th Century Kotravai Sculpture from Pallava Period Discovered (Indian Express)

15 Feb 2024

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Recently, archaeologists discovered an eighth-century Kotravai sculpture, an artefact that dates back to the Pallava period, near Ulundurpet, Tamil Nadu.

About the Kotravai Sculpture:

Kotravai sculpture is made in a slab stone of five-feet height and four-feet width.
The idol is depicted with eight hands, indicating its origin in the eighth century during the Pallava period.
The sculpture depicts various elements such as chakkara, sword, bell, and abhaya mudra in the right hands.
Conch, bow, shield, and Uru Mudhra are shown in the left side hands along with bangles in all hands.
The presence of trishul (soolam) and lion (simmam) on the right side of head, and blackbuck (kavarimann) on the left side.
Kotravai is portrayed standing on the head of a buffalo, with two guards on each side.

About the Pallava Dynasty:

The Pallava Dynasty, a prominent power in South India, thrived from the 3rd to the 9th centuries.
Their dominion encompassed the northern regions of Tamil Nadu, portions of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, with Kanchipuram serving as their capital.
The Pallavas were known for their patronage of Buddhism, Jainism, and Brahminical faith, as well as their support for music, painting, and literature.
Origins: Initially vassals of the Andhra Satavahanas, the Pallavas gained autonomy following the latter's decline in Amaravati.
Gradually expanding southward, they established their capital in Kanchipuram during the 4th century CE.
Under the reigns of Mahendravarman I (571 - 630 CE) and Narasimhavarman I (630 - 668 CE), the Pallava realm experienced significant growth in wealth and power.
According to the accounts of Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang, Bodhidharma, the founder of the Chan (Zen) school of Buddhism in China, was purportedly a prince of the Pallava empire.
- The Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang visited Kanchipuram, the capital of Pallavas, during the reign of Narasimha Varman I and lauded their benevolent governance.

Architectural Contributions of the Pallavas:

The Pallava Dynasty is renowned for its patronage of Dravidian architecture, particularly temple construction.
- They played a pivotal role in the evolution from rock-cut architecture to stone temples.
Their most celebrated architectural achievements can be found in Mahabalipuram, which flourished as a significant hub of art, architecture, and literature during Pallava rule.
- Narasimhavarman II commissioned notable structures such as the Kailasanatha Temple in Kanchipuram and the Shore Temple.
Among these temples, Kailasanatha and Vaikuntaperumal stand out for their architectural excellence.
- The Vaikuntaperumal shrine, erected in the 8th century AD, is renowned for its intricate sculptures depicting Pallava history.
Religion: The Pallavas embraced Shaivism, a predominant local religion, thereby aligning themselves with Dravidian cultural traditions.

Military Engagements and Decline of the Pallava Dynasty:

Throughout their reign, the Pallavas engaged in persistent conflicts with both the Chalukya Dynasty to the north and the Tamil kingdoms of Chola and Pandyas to the south.
The Pallavas faced ongoing battles with the Chalukyas of Badami and ultimately succumbed to the supremacy of the Chola kings in the 8th century CE.
The ascent of the Rashtrakutas marked the decline of the Pallava Dynasty.

In 897 AD, Vijayalaya, the Chola King, decisively defeated Aparajitavarman, the last Pallava King, thereby sealing the fate of the Pallava Dynasty.

Alaskapox Claims One Life in US (TOI)

15 Feb 2024

PM Modi addresses World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai (MEA)

15 Feb 2024

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Prime Minister Modi attended the World Government Summit 2024 as guest of honour in Dubai recently.

What is the World Governments Summit?

The World Governance Summit serves as a worldwide platform committed to shaping the trajectory of government initiatives across the globe.
This annual gathering takes place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, convening leaders and experts from various sectors.
Each year, the Summit sets the agenda for the forthcoming era of governance, emphasising the utilisation of innovation and technology to address pressing global challenges.
Since its establishment in 2013, the Summit has been steadfast in its mission to influence the evolution of governmental practices and foster a brighter future for humanity.

World Governance Summit Organization:

The World Governance Summit Organization operates as an impartial, nonprofit entity with a global reach, dedicated to influencing the future landscape of governance.
Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the organisation serves as a nexus for collaboration and idea exchange among governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.
2024 Summit: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Theme - 'Shaping Future Governments'

Key Highlights of PM Modi's Speech:

Streamlining Government Operations: The Prime Minister addressed the evolving landscape of governance, emphasising India's adoption of transformative reforms under the ethos of "Minimum Government, Maximum Governance.”
Human-Centred Governance: Drawing from India's experience leveraging digital technology for welfare, inclusivity, and sustainability, he advocated for a human-centred approach to governance.
- He highlighted India's focus on people's participation, last-mile delivery, and women-led development to foster an inclusive society.
Need for Global Collaboration: Given the interconnected nature of the world, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of governments collaborating and learning from each other to tackle future challenges effectively.
Model of Governance: Highlighting the current imperative, the Prime Minister underscored the necessity for governance to be inclusive, technologically adept, transparent, and environmentally sustainable.
- He outlined priorities such as Ease of Living, Justice, Mobility, Innovation, and Business in public service delivery.
India's Climate Change Commitment: Reaffirming India's unwavering commitment to climate change action, he urged people to join Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) to foster a sustainable world.
Leadership Role of India: The Prime Minister elaborated on India's leadership role, particularly as the chair of G-20, highlighting efforts to address global challenges and elevate development concerns of the Global South.
- He advocated for reforming multilateral institutions to give greater voice to the Global South in decision-making processes.
India as a Global Partner: Emphasising India's commitment to global progress, he reiterated India's role as a "Vishwa Bandhu" (friend of the world), pledging continued contributions to global advancement.

China Moves its Nationals into its Vacant ‘Defence Villages’ Along LAC (Indian Express)

15 Feb 2024

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Chinese nationals have started occupying several of their model “Xiaokang” border defence villages across India’s north-eastern borders which the country has been building along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 2019.

News Summary:

Chinese activity has been observed in several villages situated on its side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) opposite the Lohit Valley and the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh.
Over the past five years, China has been undertaking the construction of 628 "well-off villages" along India's borders with the Tibet Autonomous Region, encompassing regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.
The precise purpose of these villages remains ambiguous, although the structures are believed to serve as "dual-use infrastructure," serving both civilian and military functions.

What is the Line of Actual Control (LAC)?

The LAC serves as the boundary separating areas under Indian administration from those under Chinese administration.
However, it is not a formally agreed-upon boundary, lacking delineation on maps or physical demarcation on the ground.
India views the LAC as approximately 3,488 km in length, while China's perspective estimates it to be around 2,000 km.
The LAC is segmented into three sectors: the eastern sector covering Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, the middle sector spanning Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and the western sector in Ladakh.
India's official boundary line, as depicted on maps released by the Survey of India, encompasses both Aksai Chin and Gilgit-Baltistan, diverging from the LAC.
Consequently, the LAC does not coincide with India's claim line.
For China, the LAC generally aligns with its claim line, except in the eastern sector, where it asserts control over the entire territory of Arunachal Pradesh, which it regards as South Tibet.

Dispute over the LAC and Controversy Surrounding Claim Lines in Ladakh:

India disputes the validity of the Line of Actual Control (LAC), asserting that it is a construct devised by China.
The Chinese demarcation appears as a series of disconnected points on a map, lacking a clear and consistent delineation.
India contends that the line should exclude territorial gains made through aggression in 1962 and instead reflect the positions as of September 8, 1962, before the Chinese incursion.
This ambiguity in the Chinese definition of the LAC leaves room for China to pursue incremental changes on the ground through military actions, as evidenced by the clash in the Galwan Valley between the Indian Army and the Chinese PLA in 2020.
Aksai Chin, located in the Ladakh region of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, was not part of British India, despite being under British Empire control.
As a result, while the eastern boundary was clearly defined in 1914 with the signing of the Shimla Agreement on the McMahon Line by British India, the western boundary in Ladakh remained unresolved.
These historical maps, still officially recognized today, formed the basis of engagements with China, ultimately culminating in the 1962 War.

Infrastructure Development along the LAC:

Consistently, China has enhanced its existing infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), focusing on improving connectivity through mountain passes, constructing roads, bridges, and model villages.
Additionally, China has been constructing infrastructure, including border villages, within Bhutanese territory.
Over the past three to four years, India has intensified efforts to bolster its border infrastructure, encompassing initiatives to enhance forward connectivity, establish alternative routes to the LAC, and connect remote areas.
India's Vibrant Villages program aims to modernise 663 border villages, providing them with essential amenities in the initial phase.
- Notably, 17 of these villages located along the borders with China in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh have been earmarked for development as pilot projects under this program.
Moreover, significant progress is underway on three major highways in Arunachal Pradesh:
- The Trans-Arunachal Highway
- The Frontier Highway, and
- The East-West Industrial Corridor Highway.

Stone Age Wall Discovered Beneath the Baltic Sea (India Today)

15 Feb 2024

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A megastructure found in the Baltic Sea may represent one of the oldest known hunting structures used in the Stone Age — and could change what’s known about how hunter-gatherers lived around 11,000 years ago.

About the Blinkerwall:

The Blinkerwall is the oldest known megastructure crafted by humans in Europe.
It is around a kilometre-long structure that lies hidden in the Bay of Mecklenburg, submerged under 21 metres of water.
It consists of approximately 1,400 smaller stones intricately positioned to connect almost 300 larger boulders, some of which were deemed too massive for human groups to have manoeuvred.
The total weight of the wall's stones exceeds 142 tonnes, making it improbable that natural processes, such as tsunamis or glacial movements, formed it.
It likely dates back over 10,000 years, sinking beneath rising sea levels around 8,500 years ago.
This positions it among the oldest known examples of hunting architecture globally and potentially designates it as the oldest man-made megastructure in Europe.

About the Baltic Sea:

The Baltic Sea is a semi-enclosed inland sea situated in Northern Europe.
As an arm of the North Atlantic Ocean, it stretches northward from the latitude of southern Denmark nearly to the Arctic Circle, acting as a divider between the Scandinavian Peninsula and the rest of continental Europe.
With a coastline spanning approximately 8,000 km, the Baltic Sea is bordered by several countries, including Sweden, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Germany, Denmark, and Russia.
Covering an area of around 377,000 sq.km, the sea measures approximately 1,600 km in length and 193 km in width.
It is linked to the White Sea via the White Sea Canal and to the North Sea's German Bight through the Kiel Canal, while it connects to the Atlantic Ocean through the Danish Straits.
The Baltic Sea encompasses three significant gulfs: the Gulf of Bothnia to the north, the Gulf of Finland to the east, and the Gulf of Riga slightly to the south.
Renowned as the world's largest brackish inland water body, the Baltic Sea exhibits lower water salinity levels compared to the World Oceans due to freshwater influx from the surrounding land and its shallow depth.
More than 250 rivers and streams discharge into the Baltic Sea, with the Neva River being the largest among them.
The sea boasts over 20 islands and archipelagos, with Gotland, located off the coast of Sweden, ranking as the largest island in the Baltic Sea.

Farmers’ Protest 2.0 and MSP Demand (The Hindu)

14 Feb 2024

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India's Farmers are back on the streets yet again, demanding guarantees on Minimum Support Prices, work on the Swaminathan Committee report, Electricity amendment bill, and debt waiver.

Why are Farmers Protesting?

Farmers have demanded MSP assurance across all crops, implementing Swaminathan Commission recommendations, debt relief, pensions for farmers, and withdrawing cases against past protestors.
Advocacy for India's exit from WTO and free-trade agreements are also demands that have been put forth by the farmers.

What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP)?

Minimum Support Price (MSP) is the lowest rate at which government procurement agencies buy crops from farmers.
It shields farmers from market fluctuations, offering stability and income security.
MSP is crucial for ensuring fair prices for farmers and is determined by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), considering factors like production costs, market trends, and demand-supply dynamics.
Established in 1965, CACP operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
After the CACP submits its recommendations, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister of India, makes the final decision on MSP levels.

Which Crops are Covered Under MSP?

Kharif crops such as Paddy, Jowar, Bajra, Ragi, Maize, Arhar, Moong, Urad, Cotton, Groundnut, Sunflower Seed, Soybean, and Sesamum.
Rabi crops such as Wheat, Barley, Gram, Masur, Rapeseeds & Mustard, Safflower, and Toria.
- Additionally, MSP is announced for Copra, De-husked Coconut, and Jute, and Fair Remunerative Prices are declared for Sugarcane.

How is MSP Calculated?

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) is calculated by considering both the explicit and implicit costs incurred by farmers.
Explicit costs cover expenses like chemicals, fertilisers, seeds, and hired labour, while implicit costs include factors such as family labour and rent.
These variables are represented by A2, FL, and C2.
- A2 refers to the expenses for inputs like chemicals, fertilisers, seeds, and hired labour for crop growth, production, and maintenance.
- A2 + FL includes both actual and implicit costs, such as family labour.
- C2 incorporates A2 + FL along with fixed capital assets and rent paid by farmers.
Additionally, the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) takes into account various other factors:
- Cost of cultivation per hectare and crop costs in different regions.
- Cost of production per quintal and regional differences.
- Market prices of relevant crops and their fluctuations.
- Other production and labour costs, along with associated changes.
- Prices of commodities bought or sold by farmers and any fluctuations.
- Information on product supply, including area, yield, production, imports, exports, and stocks with public agencies or industries.
- Demand information across regions, including total and per capita consumption, processing industry trends, and capacity.

What Changes Did the Swaminathan Formula Propose?

The National Commission on Farmers, chaired by agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan, in 2004, submitted a report to the government in 2006, suggesting that the solution to the farm crisis was to provide remunerative prices to the farmer.
- The commission recommended that the MSP should be 1.5 times the farmers’ input costs.
For the calculation of input costs, however, the Swaminathan Commission laid down a different formula.
- Along with the paid-out cost (A2) and the imputed value of family labour (FL), also included the interest on the value of owned capital assets, rent paid for leased-in land, or the rental value of owned land (C2).
Key difference:
- The government sets MSP at 1.5 times the Cost of Production (CoP), where Cop is A2+FL.
- The Swaminathan Commission, however, suggests that CoP should be based on C2, proposing the 'C2+50 per cent' formula for setting MSP.

National Generic Document Registration System (PIB)

14 Feb 2024

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Recently, the Secretary, Department of Land Resources, rolled out the National Generic Document Registration System (NDGRS) throughout Assam along with the launch of Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) seeding of geo-referenced Cadastral Maps.

About National Generic Document Registration System:

The Department of Land Resources has developed the National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS) as part of the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP).
- As many as 28 States / UTs have adopted the NGDRS for Land Records.
The NGDRS application is developed by the National Informatics Centre, Pune.
It is a common, generic application developed for registration departments across the country under the One Nation One Software initiative.

Objectives of NGDRS:

With technology being one of the major enablers, it is ensured that registrations and delivery of documents to the parties happen faster in comparison to the conventional methods. The broad level objectives are:
- One Nation One Software
- Generic platform for registration of properties and document across the country
- Citizen empowerment by enabling property valuation and online document submission
- A single platform of all the stakeholders in registration process

Features of NGDRS:

It is a nationwide registration department application that is generic, standardised, and adaptable.
Sub-registrars, citizens, and apex users from registration departments are the intended users of this program.
NGDRS makes it easier for states to set up state-specific instances and customise the program to meet their needs.
With its comprehensive user interface for document and property registration, the program makes it possible for citizens to continue with online land purchases.
They are able to determine the circle rate for land, determine the type of land, and value properties based on current rates.
The inability to transact in properties that are prohibited—such as government, tribal, mortgaged, etc.—helps them eventually determine where and what kind of land to purchase.
After that, clients may schedule appointments in advance, apply online for document submission, and make quick payments.
Purchasers of real estate only need to make one visit to the sub-registrar's office, and that should be during the final registration and signing process.

What is ULPIN?

It is the distinct blockchain ID, and the land parcel's ULPIN from BhuNaksha allows for a unique identification.
Every land parcel has a unique 14-digit alphanumeric identification number, often known as the AADHAR or fingerprint for land.
The identification relies on georeferenced cadastral maps and is based on the land parcel's longitude and latitude.
ULPIN has the following advantages: it guarantees transaction uniqueness, maintains current spatial records, connects property transactions, shares land record data across departments and financial institutions, and gets rid of fraudulent transactions.

Revised Guidelines for Community Radio Stations (ET)

14 Feb 2024

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With a view to ensuring the growth of the community radio sector, the Union government on Tuesday increased the advertising time for community radio stations as well as the tariff rate for advertisements.

What are Community Radio Stations (CRSs?

Community radio stations (CRSs) are low-power radio stations with a coverage area of approximately a 10-15 km radius, depending on the area’s geography, which is meant to be set up and operated by local communities.
They offer a platform where content is disseminated in localized dialects and regional languages.
Local, context-specific issues are raised and discussed in these stations in local idioms.
India's first community radio station (CRS) was inaugurated on the campus of Anna University in 2004.
- Currently, there are 481 CRSs in India.

About the Revised Policy Guidelines:

Under the revised policy, the government has permitted any eligible organisation functional in multiple districts to set up a maximum of six community radio stations in different districts.
The advertising time for community radio stations has been increased from seven minutes per hour to 12 minutes per hour, while the rate of advertisement has been hiked from Rs 52 to Rs 74 per 10 seconds, the guidelines stated.
The policy also fixed the validity of the letter of intent issued to an organisation to one year, with a buffer of three months to the applicant for any unforeseen circumstances.
The revised policy guidelines are expected to fuel the growth of the community radio sector.
The guidelines stated that the licensee would set up an advisory and content committee comprising members of the local community, with 50 per cent representation for women.

Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) (DST)

14 Feb 2024

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Recently, researchers at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) have pioneered a novel method for directly synthesising CNTs on glass substrates at a temperature of 750 °C.

What are Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs)?

A carbon nanotube is a small cylindrical carbon structure made out of graphene.
The tube comprises hexagonal structures.
- Despite their very small size, carbon nanotubes are very strong.
Carbon nanotubes are also known as “Buckytubes” because they resemble R. Buckminster Fuller’s geodesic domes.
They are pivotal in advancing modern technology by showcasing extraordinary properties.
Applications: They have found applications in diverse fields, including rechargeable batteries, flexible electronics, aerospace, transparent electrodes, touch screens, supercapacitors, and medicine.
Recent Developments: The experiment employs the Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition Technique (PECVD), in which a spiral-shaped fused hollow cathode source is specifically constructed to create plasma.
- This novel method avoids the requirement for high temperatures and does not require a transition metal catalyst.

Why is It Necessary?

Metal catalysts (Fe, Co, and Ni) and high temperatures (~1000 0C) are needed for conventional CNT production procedures.
Concerns about biocompatibility arise with these catalysts for possible biomedical uses.
A fascinating area of nanotechnology, the removal of these catalysts from CNTs presents a huge financial hurdle, underscoring the urgent need for cleaner, more sustainable CNT synthesis techniques.
Clean CNTs that can be used in biomedical settings, optoelectronics, and energy studies may now be produced.

Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) (Earth Org)

14 Feb 2024

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The circulation of the Atlantic Ocean, a key component in global climate regulation, is “on route” to a tipping point, according to a new study, which describes the findings as “bad news for the climate system and humanity.”

What is Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)?

The ocean’s water is constantly circulated by currents.
- Tidal currents occur close to shore and are influenced by the sun and moon and the surface currents are influenced by the wind.
However, other, much slower currents that occur from the surface to the seafloor are driven by changes in the saltiness and ocean temperature, a process called thermohaline circulation.
- These currents are carried in a large "global conveyor belt," which includes the AMOC.
AMOC stands for Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation.
The AMOC circulates water from north to south and back in a long cycle within the Atlantic Ocean.
- This circulation brings warmth to various parts of the globe and also carries nutrients necessary to sustain ocean life.
The circulation process begins as warm water near the surface moves toward the poles (such as the Gulf Stream in the North Atlantic), where it cools and forms sea ice.
As this ice forms, salt is left behind in the ocean water.
Due to the large amount of salt in the water, it becomes denser, sinks down, and is carried southwards in the depths below.
Eventually, the water gets pulled back up towards the surface and warms up in a process called upwelling, completing the cycle.
The entire circulation cycle of the AMOC, and the global conveyor belt, is quite slow.
It takes an estimated 1,000 years for a parcel (any given cubic meter) of water to complete its journey along the belt.
Even though the whole process is slow on its own, there is some evidence that the AMOC is slowing down further.

Is the AMOC Slowing Down?

As our climate continues to change, there is a possibility that the AMOC will slow down, or come to a complete stop.
While research shows it is weakening over the past century, whether or not it will continue to slow or stop circulating completely remains uncertain.
If the AMOC does continue to slow down, however, it could have far-reaching climate impacts.
- For example, if the planet continues to warm, freshwater from melting ice at the poles would shift the rain belt in South Africa, causing droughts for millions of people.

What Would Happen if AMOC Failed?

AMOC acts as a sort of "switch" for the climate, particularly in Europe and the northern hemisphere.
It would result in less precipitation in regions like Europe, North America, China, and certain regions of Russia in Asia, as well as widespread cooling throughout the northern hemisphere.
The Amazon rainforest might become dry and drought-prone as a result of the extra heat brought on by a collapsing AMOC, and it might even become a savannah state.
In certain areas, monsoon development and rainfall might be impeded by a slowing in AMOC.
There might be less rainfall in the Sahel (the West African monsoon area), less summer monsoon circulation in South Asia and India, and more winter storms in Europe.
The summer monsoon circulation over the Indian subcontinent and the sea level pressure gradient are both weakened by a weakening of the land-sea heat gradient.

India's retail inflation moderates to 5.10 per cent in January (The Hindu)

13 Feb 2024

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India's retail inflation has eased to 5.10% on an annual basis, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation.

What is Retail Inflation or CPI-based Inflation?

Retail inflation, also known as Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation tracks the change in retail prices of goods and services which households purchase for their daily consumption.
CPI is released by The National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
To measure inflation, we estimate how much CPI has increased in terms of percentage change over the same period the previous year.
- If prices have fallen, it is known as deflation (negative inflation).
The Central Bank (RBI) pays very close attention to this figure in its role of maintaining price stability in the economy.
The CPI monitors retail prices at a certain level for a particular commodity; and price movement of goods and services at rural, urban and all-India levels.
- The change in the price index over a period of time is referred to as CPI-based inflation or retail inflation.
Generally, CPI is used as a macroeconomic indicator of inflation, as a tool by the central bank and government for inflation targeting and for inspecting price stability, and as a deflator in the national accounts.
CPI also helps understand the real value of salaries, wages, and pensions, the purchasing power of the nation’s currency, and regulating rates.
CPI, one of the most important statistics to ascertain economic health, is generally based on the weighted average of the prices of commodities.
- It basically gives an idea of the cost of the standard of living.
CPI specifically identifies periods of deflation or inflation for consumers in their day-to-day living expenses.
- If there is inflation (when goods and services cost more) the CPI will rise over a period of time.
- If the CPI drops, that means there is deflation or a steady reduction in the prices of goods and services.

How is CPI calculated (CPI formula)?

To calculate CPI, multiply 100 by the fraction of the cost price of the current period and the base period.
CPI formula: (Price of the basket in current period / Price of the basket in base period) x 100

Odisha’s Gupteswar Forest Is Now A Biodiversity Heritage Site (TOI)

13 Feb 2024

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Gupteswar forest in the Koraput district of Odisha has been officially declared the fourth biodiversity heritage site (BHS) in the state.

What is a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS)?

A Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) is a unique ecosystem with rich biodiversity that is designated for special protection and conservation.
These sites are typically declared by individual states or local bodies under the provisions of the Biological Diversity Act, of 2002, in India.

Who can Declare BHS?

Under Section 37 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 the State Government in consultation with local bodies may notify areas of biodiversity importance as Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS).
The ‘Biodiversity Heritage Sites’ (BHS) are unique ecosystems having rich biodiversity comprising of any one or more of the following components:
- The richness of wild as well as domesticated species or intra-specific categories.
- High endemism.
- Presence of rare and threatened species, keystone species, and species of evolutionary significance.
- Wild ancestors of domestic/cultivated species or their varieties.
- Past pre-eminence of biological components represented by fossil beds and having significant cultural, ethical or aesthetic values are important for the maintenance of cultural diversity, with or without a long history of human association with them.
“The creation of BHS may not put any restriction on the prevailing practices and usages of the local communities, other than those voluntarily decided by them.
- The purpose of declaring BHS is to enhance the quality of life of the local communities through conservation of such sites.”

The main objectives of declaring an area as a BHS are:

To conserve biological diversity, including genetic diversity, ecosystem diversity, and species diversity.
To protect habitats of rare, endemic, and threatened species.
To promote sustainable use of biodiversity.
To maintain cultural diversity and traditional knowledge associated with biodiversity.
To raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation.

Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS) of India:

Revival of Weimar Triangle (The Hindu)

13 Feb 2024

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The governments of Poland, France and Germany vowed Monday to make Europe a security and defence power with a greater ability to back Ukraine, amid concerns that former U.S. President Donald Trump might return to the White House and allow Russia to expand its aggression on the continent.

What is the Weimar Triangle?

The Weimar Triangle is a regional alliance of three European countries:
- France
- Germany
- Poland
It was established in 1991 in the German city of Weimar, with the aim of promoting cooperation between the three countries on cross-border and European issues.
The Weimar Triangle is not a formal organization, but rather a platform for dialogue and cooperation.
The three countries hold regular summits, typically at the level of heads of state or government, and their foreign ministers also meet frequently.
The Weimar Triangle also includes cooperation between parliaments, militaries, scientists, and cultural institutions.

Significance of the Weimar Triangle:

The Weimar Triangle has played a significant role in European integration.
- It helped to support Poland's emergence from communism and its accession to the European Union in 2004.
In recent years, the Weimar Triangle has taken on a renewed importance as Europe has faced a number of challenges, including the Ukraine crisis and the rise of populism.
The three countries have worked together to promote stability and cooperation in Europe.

Some of the key areas of cooperation between the Weimar Triangle countries:

Security: The three countries cooperate on a range of security issues, including defence, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity.
Economy: The Weimar Triangle countries are major trading partners, and they work together to promote economic growth and integration.
Energy: The three countries are working together to develop a more secure and sustainable energy supply.
Climate change: The Weimar Triangle countries are committed to combating climate change and have pledged to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement.
Culture: The three countries have a rich cultural heritage, and they work together to promote cultural exchange and understanding.

Greening India's Wastelands with Agroforestry (GROW) Report and Portal (DD News)

13 Feb 2024

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NITI Aayog recently unveiled the Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal, aiming to bolster efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable land use across India.

About the Greening India's Wastelands with Agroforestry (GROW) Portal:

The "Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW)-Suitability Mapping" portal offers universal access to state and district-level data.
Hosted on the Bhuvan website, the GROW initiative aligns with national commitments to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 and create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
Led by NITI Aayog, the initiative involved collaboration from various institutions and utilized advanced technologies like remote sensing and GIS to assess agroforestry suitability across all Indian districts.
Through thematic datasets, the project developed an Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI) for national-level prioritization of greening and restoration projects.
Based on analysis of five remote sensing-derived thematic layers - land use, wasteland, slope, water proximity, and soil organic content - the system provides information on areas suitable for agroforestry across India.
It classifies areas as highly suitable, moderately suitable, and less suitable for agroforestry.
Key features include generating district-level information on wasteland areas suitable for agroforestry, area prioritization regimes, live maps, area analysis-statistic reports, and an interactive mode/tool for flexibility in handling weights based on local conditions/needs.

Government Emphasis on Agroforestry in Budget Allocation:

The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2022-23 has underscored the promotion of agroforestry and private forestry as a priority.
Recognizing the critical goods and services provided by agroforestry, the budget aligns with the country's commitment to sustainable land use practices.

India's Agroforestry Leadership and Global Alignments:

As the seventh-largest country globally, India faces challenges such as increased build-up areas, degraded land, and imbalanced resources.
Approximately 16.96% of the Total Geographical Area (TGA) is a wasteland, necessitating transformation for productive use.
India's pioneering National Agroforestry Policy, initiated in 2014, aims to enhance productivity, profitability, and sustainability through agroecological land use systems.
Agroforestry aligns with global commitments, including the Paris Agreement, Bonn Challenge, UN Sustainable Development Goals, United Nations Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD), Doubling Farmers Income, Green India Mission, and more.
India's proactive stance in promoting agroforestry contributes significantly to these international efforts, fostering a sustainable and resilient future.

Floor Test in the Bihar Legislative Assembly (Indian Express)

13 Feb 2024

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Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's coalition government with the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday won a crucial trust vote in the Bihar Assembly.

What is a Floor Test?

A floor test (also called a ‘trust vote’) is held in legislative bodies, to find out whether the government that is suspected to have lost the majority still retains the confidence of the House.
- This is done through a vote among the members.
When the House is in session, it is the Speaker who can call for a floor test but when the Assembly is not in session, the Governor’s residuary powers under Article 163 allow him to call for a floor test.”
Further, “In 2020, the Supreme Court, in Shivraj Singh Chouhan & Ors versus Speaker, Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly & Ors, upheld the powers of the Speaker to call for a floor test if there is a prima facie view that the government has lost its majority.”

What Happens During a Floor Test?

In case the majority held by the government is questioned, the leader of the party which claims to have the majority has to move a vote of confidence and prove a majority among those present and voting.
The CM moves a motion seeking a vote of confidence, on which MLAs who are present in the House vote.
- If the majority of members vote in favour, the government survives;
- If the CM loses the vote, the government has to resign.
This happens both in Parliament and the state Legislative Assemblies.
Voting can be conducted by either a voice vote, in which MLAs respond to the motion verbally.
- Voting electronically involves the casting of votes by pressing a button, after which the numbers for each side are displayed on a board.
- In a physical division of votes, lawmakers cast votes in a ballot box, which are then counted.
Also in situations when there are differences within a coalition government, the Governor can ask the Chief Minister to prove majority in the house.
There is another test, the Composite Floor Test, which is conducted only when more than one person stakes a claim to form the government.
- When the majority is not clear, the governor might call for a special session to see who has the majority.
- The majority is counted based on those present and voting.
- This can also be done through a voice vote where the member can respond orally or through division voting.
- Some legislators may be absent or choose not to vote.
In division vote, voting can be done through electronic gadgets, ballots or slips.
The person who has the majority will form the government.
- In case of a tie, the speaker can also cast his vote under Article 100 of the constitution.

Regulating India's Online Gaming Industry (Indian Express)

12 Feb 2024

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The government will act as a regulator for the online gaming sector rather than an industry-led self-regulatory organization (SRO).

What are Online Games?

Online games refer to games that are played over some form of computer network, most often the Internet.
Online games can range from simple text-based games to games incorporating complex graphics and virtual worlds populated by many players simultaneously.

Types of Online Gaming:

e-Sports: Originally played offline or on gaming consoles, e-Sports now thrive in the online realm, featuring structured competitions among professional players or teams.
Fantasy Sports: These games involve assembling virtual teams composed of real-life athletes from different sports teams.
- Points are earned based on the actual performance of these athletes, as seen in platforms like Dream11.
Online Casual Games: These diversions can be skill-based, where success relies on mental or physical prowess, or chance-based, where outcomes are determined by random events, like dice rolls.

How Big is India's Online Gaming Industry?

The online gaming sector in India is primarily nurtured by a burgeoning startup ecosystem, boasting a robust 27% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).
Projections suggest that the integration of AI and online gaming could contribute up to $300 billion to India's GDP by 2026-27.
India leads the global charts in terms of the percentage of new paying users (NPUs) in gaming, soaring from 40% in 2020 to an anticipated 50% in 2021.
Transactional gaming revenue witnessed a notable 26% surge in India, with the number of paying players escalating from 80 million in 2020 to 95 million in 2021, as per a FICCI report.

Challenges Confronting India's Online Gaming Sector:

Regulatory Void: The absence of a regulatory framework poses challenges in implementing essential measures such as grievance redressal, player protection, data security, and curbing deceptive advertisements.
Illegal Offshore Markets: Illicit offshore gambling and betting platforms pose threats to financial integrity and national security, with estimated annual tax losses to India amounting to $45 billion.
Interstate Quandary: Varied state regulations on online gaming create inconsistencies, compounded by the Internet's borderless nature, making enforcement difficult.
Societal Implications: The surge in online gaming raises concerns about addiction, mental health, financial fraud, and privacy breaches, warranting a comprehensive approach to address these issues.

The Problem of Self-Regulatory Bodies Under the IT Rules:

The implementation of the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 represented a significant stride in regulatory oversight.
- According to these rules, online real-money gaming platforms must obtain approval from a regulatory authority, while those not involving real money are exempt from such requirements.
In April 2023, the government issued online gaming regulations and provided a three-month window for the industry to propose Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs).
However, the proposals submitted were predominantly influenced by gaming companies and their industry associations, raising concerns about their ability to function as impartial regulatory bodies.

NAL Successfully Tested High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) at Challakere, Karnataka (TOI)

12 Feb 2024

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Scientists from city-based National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), a Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) lab, achieved a breakthrough by successfully testing an unmanned aerial vehicle called High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) at Chitradurga's Challakere in Karnataka.

News Summary:

National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has achieved a milestone with the successful testing of an unmanned aerial vehicle known as the High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) in Challakere, Karnataka.
This innovative system, measuring 5 meters in length with an impressive 11-meter wingspan and weighing 23 kg, soared to an altitude of approximately 3 km and maintained its position for an impressive duration of eight hours.
A comprehensive series of tests is slated, with the ultimate goal of developing a full-fledged aircraft boasting a remarkable 30-meter wingspan comparable to a Boeing 737 by the year 2027.
- This advanced craft is anticipated to ascend to an impressive altitude of 23 km and remain airborne for a remarkable period of at least 90 days.
NAL's ambitious agenda includes the design and construction of various components essential for the HAPS, including propellers, battery management systems, carbon-composite airframes, flight-control systems, and high-powered electric motors capable of withstanding extreme temperature variations.
Additionally, in a separate endeavour, a Bengaluru-based private company recently conducted the inaugural test flight of a solar-powered, long-endurance drone, achieving an impressive flight duration of 21 hours.

About High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS):

Since the 1990s, numerous global initiatives have been undertaken to explore the potential applications of High Altitude Pseudo Satellites, also known as High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS).
Positioned above 20 km altitude in the stratosphere, these unmanned aircraft are designed for exceptionally long-duration flights, spanning months or even years.
HAPS encompass various aircraft types, including airplanes, airships, and balloons.

Benefits/Advantages of HAPS:

These solar-powered vehicles bridge the gap between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating in lower altitudes and traditional satellites in space.
- They offer a wide array of applications, including telecommunications, emergency/public safety communications, intelligent transportation systems, maritime surveillance, environmental monitoring, and land border control.
Compared to ground-based communication networks, HAPS can cover larger areas with minimal interference and facilitate data transfer between satellites and ground-based telecom networks.
Unlike traditional satellites, which are costly to construct and launch, HAPS are more cost-effective and easier to deploy.
It has both military and civilian applications, including intelligence, surveillance, telecommunication, and disaster response.
The technology offers lower latency and can connect to multiple ground stations.

Significance for India:

In India, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announced in 2022 its collaboration with a startup company to develop a "futuristic" high-altitude pseudo satellite.
- Given India's extensive land borders stretching approximately 15,000 km and a coastline spanning 7,500 km, securing these borders is paramount, necessitating diverse solutions.
Hovering at the Earth's atmospheric edge, HAPS offer valuable services for efficient border surveillance, tracking enemy movements deep into territories or seas, and conducting round-the-clock missions.
- Equipped with advanced optical and infrared cameras, state-of-the-art sensors, and other sophisticated technology, these aerial platforms are ideal for border patrolling, target tracking, maritime surveillance, navigation, and even missile detection.
China's Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), a state-owned aerospace and defense conglomerate, has been actively developing various HAPS platforms for surveillance purposes.
In 2018, it successfully tested the solar-powered Morning Star drone, renowned for its prolonged airborne endurance.

What Is Nazool Land Which Is At The Heart Of Haldwani Violence? (Indian Express)

12 Feb 2024

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Violence erupted in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani district recently after the administration conducted a demolition drive at the site of a mosque and madrasa, allegedly on Nazool land, killing five and injuring many more.

What is Nazool Land?

Nazool land is owned by the government but most often not directly administered as state property.
- The state generally allots such land to any entity on lease for a fixed period, between 15 and 99 years.
In case the lease term is expiring, one can approach the authority to renew the lease by submitting a written application to the Revenue Department of the local development authority.
- The government is free to either renew the lease or cancel it — taking back Nazool land.
In almost all major cities of India, Nazool land has been allotted to different entities for a variety of different purposes.

How did Nazool Land Emerge?

During British rule, kings and kingdoms which opposed the British frequently revolted against them, leading to several battles between them and the British Army.
- Upon defeating these kings in battle, the British would often take their land away from them.
After India gained Independence, the British vacated these lands.
- But with kings and royals often lacking proper documentation to prove prior ownership, these lands were marked as Nazool land — to be owned by the respective state governments.

How Does the Government Use Nazool Land?

The government generally uses Nazool land for public purposes like building schools, hospitals, Gram Panchayat buildings, etc.
- Several cities in India have also seen large tracts of land denoted as Nazool land used for housing societies, generally on lease.
Very often, the state does not directly administer Nazool land but rather leases it to different entities.
While several states have brought in government orders for framing rules for Nazool land, The Nazool Lands (Transfer) Rules, 1956 is the law mostly used for Nazool land adjudication.

New Education Policy Taking Forward Swami Dayanand’s Vision (Indian Express)

12 Feb 2024

PM-SVANidhi Boosted the Annual Income of Street Vendors (Indian Express)

12 Feb 2024

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A study that evaluated the impact of the PM SVANidhi, a small working capital loan scheme for street vendors, has found that the first tranche of `10,000 led to an additional annual income of `23,460 for each beneficiary.

News Summary:

Commissioned by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the study was conducted by the Centre for Analytical Finance at the Indian School of Business (ISB) from January to June 2023.
Although the report's findings will inform the Ministry's assessment of the PM SVANidhi scheme, it is not expected to be publicly released.

Key Findings of the Report:

94% of beneficiaries who received the initial Rs 10,000 loan reported using it for business investments, rising to 98% for those who received a second loan.
The first loan contributed to an average additional monthly income of Rs 1,955, totalling Rs 23,460 over the one-year loan period.
Approximately 13.9% of disbursed loans were categorized as non-performing assets (NPAs), indicating no payments for three months or more.
Beneficiaries demonstrated a lower debt-to-income (DTI) ratio compared to typical small businesses, indicating high creditworthiness.
Despite the PM SVANidhi program, there was limited improvement in street vendors accessing formal credit from other sources, with only 9% having loans from financial institutions.

What is PM SVANidhi?

The Prime Minister Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) stands as a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, launched on June 1, 2020.
Its core aim is to extend accessible credit to street vendors, enabling them to revive their businesses and achieve self-reliance.
The scheme is specifically tailored to empower street vendors, including hawkers, rehri walas, thelewala, and those operating in urban and peri-urban areas.
PM SVANidhi facilitates eligible street vendors to obtain working capital loans devoid of collateral requirements.
- These loans, with a maximum cap of Rs. 10,000 and a one-year tenure, are intended to support vendors in procuring essential items, securing raw materials, and meeting their operational expenses.
Furthermore, the scheme offers a 7% interest subsidy to vendors who repay their loans promptly, promoting timely repayments and fostering financial discipline.

How Does PM SVANidhi Work?

The PM SVANidhi scheme operates through a streamlined and accessible application process designed to maximize participation and outreach among street vendors.
Vendors can apply for the scheme via a dedicated online portal or through Common Service Centers (CSCs) established nationwide.
Once the application is submitted, it undergoes a brief verification process conducted by relevant authorities.
- Upon successful verification, the loan amount is directly transferred to the vendor's bank account.
- Vendors can then utilize the funds to revive their businesses, purchase inventory, and cover operational expenses.

Key Features and Benefits of PM SVANidhi:

Affordable Credit: PM SVANidhi offers accessible working capital loans of up to Rs. 10,000 to street vendors, facilitating credit access without the need for collateral.
Interest Subsidy: The scheme provides a 7% interest subsidy to vendors who repay their loans promptly, incentivizing timely repayments and easing financial burdens.
Digital Empowerment: PM SVANidhi promotes digital transactions and payments among street vendors, fostering adaptation to evolving business practices and enhancing financial literacy.
Enhanced Livelihood: By availing of PM SVANidhi benefits, street vendors can improve their livelihoods, expand their businesses, and generate sustainable income for themselves and their families.
Access to Social Security Schemes: Street vendors enrolled in PM SVANidhi are eligible for various social security schemes, including Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), providing financial coverage and protection during unforeseen events.

Conclusion

The Prime Minister Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme stands as a beacon of hope for street vendors throughout India. By offering accessible credit, digital empowerment, and access to social security schemes, PM SVANidhi is propelling the advancement and prosperity of street vendors, empowering them to establish sustainable livelihoods. This groundbreaking initiative, with its manifold advantages and inspiring success stories, underscores the Government of India's dedication to fostering an inclusive and self-sufficient economy.

7th Indian Ocean Conference 2024 (The Hindu)

10 Feb 2024

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During the inauguration of the Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted the escalating concerns of smaller countries in the region regarding the militarization of the Indian Ocean and the increasing "great power rivalry."

What is the Indian Ocean Conference (IOC)?

The Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) is an annual international event that centres on the geopolitical, economic, and strategic significance of the Indian Ocean region.
It serves as a platform for policymakers, scholars, business leaders, and civil society representatives to discuss security, trade, and cooperation within the Indian Ocean area.
Established in 2016, the conference's first edition took place in Singapore.
Notably, the 6th IOC convened in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 2023.
Organized by the India Foundation in collaboration with various regional organizations, the IOC facilitates dialogue and collaboration on key issues impacting the Indian Ocean region.

Key Points from EAM Jaishankar’s Speech:

Addressing Challenges in the Indian Ocean: Jaishankar highlighted the spectrum of challenges in the Indian Ocean, ranging from threats to maritime traffic like piracy and terrorism to concerns about international law, freedom of navigation, and sovereignty.
- He emphasized the interconnected nature of transnational and non-traditional threats, including those arising from illegal activities.
Concerns about Grey Areas: Expressing concern about grey areas, Jaishankar noted that some issues, such as those related to climate change and natural disasters, are increasingly visible.
- He also discussed disruptive events and their impact, along with the consequences of distant crises like fuel and food shortages.
- Additionally, unsustainable debt, opaque lending practices, and unviable projects are affecting countries in the region.
Structural Challenges of Globalization: Jaishankar discussed the structural challenges inherent in the current form of globalization, emphasizing over-concentrations in manufacturing and technology.
- He highlighted the importance of dispersing production across different geographies, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasized the need for reliable and resilient supply chains.
- Additionally, he noted the significance of trust and transparency in the digital era and the emergence of artificial intelligence.
Drivers of the Future: Jaishankar underscored the importance of focusing on drivers of the future, such as digital technology, electric mobility, green hydrogen, and sustainable shipping, for a sustainable future.

About the Indian Ocean Region (IOR):

The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) comprises the Indian Ocean and its adjacent territories, including coastal states and islands.
Extending from the African coast in the west to the Australian coast in the east, and from the Arabian Peninsula and the Persian Gulf in the north to the southern coast of Sri Lanka and Australia in the south, the IOR covers approximately 70.6 million square kilometres, making it the world's third-largest ocean.

Significance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR):

Geopolitical Importance: Positioned as a major transit route for global trade, the IOR facilitates the transportation of vital commodities, including oil and gas.
- It hosts critical chokepoints like the Strait of Malacca and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa.
Economic Importance: Boasting several rapidly developing economies like India, China, and various Southeast Asian nations, the IOR is rich in natural resources, attracting substantial foreign investment.
- With 64% of the global population and 60% of the global GDP, the region plays a significant role in the global economy.
Security Importance: The IOR is a region of paramount security significance, confronting challenges such as terrorism, piracy, and maritime security threats.
- It has witnessed heightened military activity from major powers like the US, India, and China in recent times.
Environmental Importance: Home to diverse marine ecosystems like coral reefs and mangrove forests, the IOR supports biodiversity and sustains local communities.
- However, it faces environmental risks due to climate change, including rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events.

Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of RBI (The Hindu)

10 Feb 2024

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The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has prudently opted to persist with its objective of ‘ensuring that inflation progressively aligns to the target’ by keeping benchmark interest rates unchanged, and sticking with its stance of ‘withdrawal of accommodation’.

About the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC):

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a committee of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), chaired by its Governor.
The RBI shall organise at least four meetings of the Monetary Policy Committee in a year.
Established under Section 45ZB of the RBI Act, 1934, the government forms this six-member committee.

Composition of MPC:

Comprising six members, three are from the RBI, while the remaining members are appointed by the Government of India.
Members include the RBI Governor (Chairperson), the RBI Deputy Governor responsible for monetary policy, one official nominated by the RBI Board, and three members proposed by the Government of India (chaired by the Cabinet Secretary).
MPC members serve a single four-year term and are not eligible for reappointment.

Functions:

The primary responsibility of the MPC is to determine the benchmark policy interest rate (repo rate) to manage inflation within the prescribed target level.
The current mandate of the committee is to maintain annual consumer price index (CPI) inflation at 4% within a band of +/- 2% until March 31, 2026.

Earth System Model (HT)

10 Feb 2024

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The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology is developing a first-for-India Earth System Model to improve climate forecasts and predict climate impacts.

What is an Earth System Model (ESM)?

An Earth System Model (ESM) is a complex computer program that simulates the interactions between the various components of our planet's climate system, including the atmosphere, oceans, land, ice, and biosphere.
These models are crucial for understanding past, present, and future climate trends, and are used for purposes like:
- Improving weather forecasts: By accounting for intricate interactions between different parts of the Earth system, ESMs can potentially lead to more accurate weather predictions, particularly for longer-term forecasts.
- Predicting climate change impacts: By simulating different scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions and other influencing factors, ESMs can project how climate change might affect specific regions and aspects like temperature, precipitation, and sea level rise.
- Informing adaptation and mitigation strategies: With insights into potential climate impacts, policymakers and individuals can make informed decisions about adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate change.

India's Earth System Model:

Recognizing the importance of such models, India is currently developing its first-ever indigenous Earth System Model, led by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and the Centre for Climate Change Research (CCCR).
An amount of ?192.28 crores has been sanctioned under the Monsoon Convection, Clouds and Climate Change (MC4) sub-scheme to develop the climate forecasting system
This project, funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, aims to:
- Enhance forecast accuracy: The model will incorporate advanced features to improve the reliability of weather forecasts, particularly for monsoons that are crucial for India's agriculture.
- Facilitate long-term climate studies: By simulating various climate scenarios, the model will provide valuable insights into potential future climate changes affecting India.
- Predict climate impacts: This model will help assess the risks and potential impacts of climate change on various sectors like agriculture, water resources, and coastal ecosystems.
The project is expected to be completed by 2025 and is believed to be a significant step towards improving India's understanding and preparedness for the challenges posed by climate change.

About the Monsoon Convection, Clouds, and Climate Change (MC4) Sub-Scheme:

The MC4 initiative aims to enhance our understanding of monsoonal precipitation changes and their implications in a warming climate by enhancing observational databases and climate models.
Its overarching objective is to refine our understanding of the interactions between monsoon dynamics, clouds, aerosols, precipitation, and the water cycle within a changing climate context.

The nodal ministry overseeing this effort is the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

What is an Earth System Model (ESM)?

An Earth System Model (ESM) is a complex computer program that simulates the interactions between the various components of our planet's climate system, including the atmosphere, oceans, land, ice, and biosphere.
These models are crucial for understanding past, present, and future climate trends, and are used for purposes like:
- Improving weather forecasts: By accounting for intricate interactions between different parts of the Earth system, ESMs can potentially lead to more accurate weather predictions, particularly for longer-term forecasts.
- Predicting climate change impacts: By simulating different scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions and other influencing factors, ESMs can project how climate change might affect specific regions and aspects like temperature, precipitation, and sea level rise.
- Informing adaptation and mitigation strategies: With insights into potential climate impacts, policymakers and individuals can make informed decisions about adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate change.

India's Earth System Model:

Recognizing the importance of such models, India is currently developing its first-ever indigenous Earth System Model, led by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) and the Centre for Climate Change Research (CCCR).
An amount of ?192.28 crores has been sanctioned under the Monsoon Convection, Clouds and Climate Change (MC4) sub-scheme to develop the climate forecasting system
This project, funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, aims to:
- Enhance forecast accuracy: The model will incorporate advanced features to improve the reliability of weather forecasts, particularly for monsoons that are crucial for India's agriculture.
- Facilitate long-term climate studies: By simulating various climate scenarios, the model will provide valuable insights into potential future climate changes affecting India.
- Predict climate impacts: This model will help assess the risks and potential impacts of climate change on various sectors like agriculture, water resources, and coastal ecosystems.
The project is expected to be completed by 2025 and is believed to be a significant step towards improving India's understanding and preparedness for the challenges posed by climate change.

About the Monsoon Convection, Clouds, and Climate Change (MC4) Sub-Scheme:

The MC4 initiative aims to enhance our understanding of monsoonal precipitation changes and their implications in a warming climate by enhancing observational databases and climate models.

Its overarching objective is to refine our understanding of the interactions between monsoon dynamics, clouds, aerosols, precipitation, and the water cycle within a changing climate context.
The nodal ministry overseeing this effort is the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

Preamble to the Constitution of India (Indian Express)

10 Feb 2024

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The Supreme Court recently wondered if the Preamble to the Constitution could have been amended while retaining the date when the Constitution was adopted.

Background:

In historical context, the Preamble underwent a solitary amendment in December 1976 via the 42nd Constitutional Amendment during the Indira Gandhi Government.
- This amendment introduced two modifications: replacing "unity of the nation" with "unity and integrity of the nation," and inserting "socialist" and "secular" between "sovereign" and "democratic."
Initially, the Preamble described India as a "sovereign, democratic republic."
Notably, the Supreme Court affirmed in the Kesavananda Bharati case that the Preamble constitutes an integral component of the Constitution, subject to Parliament's amending authority, provided the fundamental structure remains intact.

About the Preamble of the Indian Constitution:

The Preamble to the Constitution of India draws inspiration primarily from the 'Objective Resolution' penned by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946.
It serves as a concise introduction, outlining the foundational principles and aspirations of the nation. Key components include:
- Source of Constitutional Authority: It affirms that the Constitution derives its authority from the people of India.
- Nature of the Indian State: It declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republican Polity.
- Objectives of the Constitution: It articulates Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity as the core objectives.
- Adoption Date: It designates November 26, 1949, as the date of adoption.
Significance:
- Acts as a guiding framework for interpreting the Constitution and formulating laws.
- Defines the national aspirations and goals.
- Highlights the importance of fundamental rights and values for all citizens.
- Fosters a sense of national unity and identity.

Is the Preamble a Part of the Constitution of India?

In the Berubari Union Case of 1960, the Supreme Court stated that the Preamble is not a formal part of the Constitution.
- However, it acknowledged that the Preamble provides insight into the intentions of the Constitution makers, thus aiding in interpreting any ambiguities within the Constitution.
The Kesavananda Bharati Case of 1973 marked a reversal of this stance.
- The Supreme Court declared the Preamble as an intrinsic part of the Constitution, attributing it significant interpretive value.
- It emphasized that the Preamble plays a crucial role in understanding the spirit and objectives of the Constitution, guiding the interpretation of its provisions.
In the LIC of India Case of 1995, the Supreme Court reiterated that the Preamble is indeed an integral component of the Constitution.
However, it clarified that while the Preamble holds symbolic importance and helps in understanding the Constitution's essence, it cannot be directly enforced as a law in Indian courts.

Can the Preamble be Amended?

An essential debate revolves around whether the Preamble can undergo amendments under Article 368.
In the Kesavananda Bharati Case of 1973, the Supreme Court established that the Preamble constitutes a fundamental aspect of the Constitution and is therefore amenable to amendments.
However, any such amendment must adhere to the principle that the 'Basic Structure' of the Constitution remains untouched.

Polygamy in India: Insights and debates surrounding Uniform Civil Code (Indian Express)

10 Feb 2024

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The Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly recently passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill, 2024 after a two-day discussion. The Bill brings uniformity in personal laws, governing things such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance, across communities in the state (excluding tribals).

What is Polygamy?

Polygamy involves the practice of having multiple spouses simultaneously, which can include either wives or husbands.
It manifests in two primary forms:
- Polygyny, where a man is married to several women concurrently, and
- Polyandry, where a woman is married to multiple men concurrently.

Who can have "multiple wives"?

Under Hindu law, which applies to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, the practice of polygamy is prohibited.
- Individuals governed by Hindu law can face criminal proceedings under Sections 494 and 495 of the Indian Penal Code.
- The Special Marriage Act, as well as Christian and Parsi laws, also outlaw bigamy.
However, the Shariat Protection Act exempts Muslims in India from the ban on polygamy.
- Additionally, due to the protection granted to cultural practices of scheduled tribes, polygynous marriages can be found in tribal groups across northeastern states, Odisha, Telangana, and other regions.
Courts have had to face cases where a man converted to Islam from other religions to marry a second wife.
- While the Supreme Court, in its 1994 Sarla Mudgal verdict, declared that conversion solely for a second marriage is invalid, the Law Commission reports from 1961 and 2009 have emphasized the need to clarify the legal position of the "second wife" in a converted Muslim marriage and address the rights of any children born from such a union.

What does the data say?

Government data on polygamy can be obtained from two main sources — the decadal census and the National Family Health Survey (NFHS). Both have certain limitations.
The census does not directly collect data on polygamy.
- Rather its incidence is inferred from the difference in the number of married men and the number of married women in the country.
  - More married women than men point to the prevalence of situations where men have married more than once.

What does the census data say?

According to the census of 2011, there are 28.65 crore married men in India, compared to 29.3 crore married women.
- The difference between the two numbers — 65.71 lakh — can be explained either by the incidence of polygamy or men going abroad.
The highest discrepancy in the population of married men and women can be found among Hindus (who make up the largest number of Indians), followed by Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Sikhs, and Buddhists.
- However, when compared to their respective shares in the total population, Muslims and Christians report the greatest difference.

What does NFHS data say?

The NFHS-5 showed the prevalence of polygamy (the percentage of women who reported their husbands had other wives) was highest among Christians (2.1%), followed by Muslims (1.9%), and Hindus (1.3%), looking at religion.
- Overall, Scheduled Tribes reported the highest incidence at 2.4%.
A June 2022 study by the International Institute of Population Sciences (IIPS) showed that polygynous marriages (one man married to more than one woman at a time) have decreased from 1.9% in 2005-06 to 1.4% in 2019-21, among the whole population.
Buddhists, who reported a 3.8% incidence of polygyny in 2005-06, saw the sharpest dip of 65.79% to 1.3% in 2019-21.
- The incidence of polygyny in the total population fell by 26.31%.

Constitutional Perspective and Supreme Court's Insights:

India, as a secular state, upholds the principle of equality among religions, ensuring that no religion holds superiority or inferiority over another.
The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens, and any legislation conflicting with these rights is considered unconstitutional.
- Article 13 of the Constitution invalidates any law inconsistent with Part III of the Constitution.
- Article 14 ensures equal treatment and protection under the law for every individual within India's territory.
In a 2021 verdict, the Supreme Court highlighted India's recognition of a plural legal system, allowing different religious communities to abide by distinct 'personal laws.'
However, these personal laws must adhere to constitutional validity and morality, ensuring they do not infringe upon Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Constitution.

Bharat Ratna for former PMs Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao, scientist Swaminathan (Indian Express)

09 Feb 2024

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The Union government on February 9, 2024, announced former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh, P.V. Narasimha Rao and agriculture scientist M.S. Swaminathan will be honoured with the country’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna posthumously.

News Summary:

The government recently conferred the Bharat Ratna for former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, who is known for his leading role in India's 'Green Revolution', posthumously.
- Earlier, the government had announced Bharat Ratna, for veteran BJP politician LK Advani and socialist icon and former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur.

Who was PV Narasimha Rao?

Pamulaparthi Venkata Narasimha Rao (28 June 1921 – 23 December 2004) was a lawyer and a towering Congress leader in undivided Andhra Pradesh, who became the 9th prime minister of India.
- He ruled the country between 1991 and 1996.
In 1991, when India was facing a foreign reserves crisis, Narasimha Rao's government brought about three big-ticket economic reforms -- globalisation, liberalisation and privatisation.
PV Narasimha Rao was the first person from South India to become the prime minister of India.
He was born in a Telugu Niyogi Brahmin family in the Laknepalli village of Narsampet mandal, Warangal.
- The district is currently in Telangana.
He was a freedom fighter who took part in Hyderabad's Vande Mataram movement in the late 1930s.
After Independence, PV Narasimha Rao became a full-time politician.
He was elected as an MLA for the first time in 1957.
- Till 1971, he assumed many ministerial positions in the state government. He became the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh in 1971.
He was known as an Indira Gandhi loyalist and supported her in 1969 when the Congress vertically split into two parts.
Rao also served as a member of parliament from Andhra Pradesh and handled home, defence and foreign affairs portfolios as a central minister.
In 1991, he had almost retired, however, he came back to active politics after the assassination of Congress President and Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's assassination.
He was also the first Congress PM outside the Nehru-Gandhi family.
He broke several conventions as the prime minister.
- He appointed economist Manmohan Singh as his finance minister.
- Together, they brought about economic reforms.

Who was Chaudhary Charan Singh?

Chaudhary Charan Singh was born in a middle-class farmer family in Meerut in 1902.
He started his political career with the Congress.
He was first elected to the Uttar Pradesh assembly in 1937 from Chhaprauli and later got re-elected in 1946, 1952, 1962 and 1967.
Chaudhary Charan Singh was appointed as a parliamentary secretary in Govind Ballabh Pant's government in 1946.
- He worked in several departments before being appointed a cabinet minister for justice and information in 1951.
In 1967, he quit the Congress and became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh for the first time after being elected as the leader of the Sanyukta Vidhayak Dal coalition.
- He became the chief minister for the second time in 1970.
In 1979 after the Jana Sangh (BJP's predecessor) pulled out of the 18-month-old Morarji Desai-led Janata Party government.
Congress (I) decided to extend support to Chaudhary Charan Singh who took oath as prime minister on July 28, 1979.
- But before he could prove his majority in the Lok Sabha, Indira Gandhi withdrew support to his government and Singh resigned.
- He continued to remain as caretaker PM till January 14, 1980.

Who was MS Swaminathan?

M.S. Swaminathan is an eminent Indian agricultural scientist and geneticist hailed as the "Father of the Green Revolution" in India.
Born on August 7, 1925, Swaminathan's groundbreaking research and advocacy have significantly contributed to India's agricultural development and food security.
He played a crucial role in introducing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice, which revolutionized agricultural productivity in the country during the 1960s and 1970s.
Swaminathan has received numerous awards and honours for his contributions to agriculture and sustainable development, and he continues to be a leading voice in global efforts to address food security and environmental sustainability.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY) (PIB)

09 Feb 2024

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Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.

About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana:

Implemented as a Central Sector Sub-scheme within the broader framework of the PMMSY, this initiative aims to bolster the fisheries sector.
Funding: With an estimated outlay of Rs. 6,000 crore, the scheme comprises 50% public finance, including contributions from the World Bank and the AFD, and the remaining 50% anticipated investment from beneficiaries and the private sector.
Duration: Operational for four years from FY 2023-24 to FY 2026-27, spanning all States and Union Territories.

Intended Beneficiaries:

Fishers, Fish (Aquaculture) Farmers, Fish workers, Fish Vendors or such other persons directly engaged in the fisheries value chain.
Micro and Small enterprises in the form of Proprietary Firms, Partnership Firms and Companies registered in India, Societies, Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs), Cooperatives, Federations, Village Level Organizations like Self Help Groups (SHGs), Fish Farmers Producer Organizations (FFPOs) and Startups engaged in fisheries and aquaculture value chains.
FFPOs also include Farmer's Producer Organizations (FPOs).
Any other beneficiaries that may be included by the Department of Fisheries, Gol as targeted beneficiaries.

Aims and objectives of PM-MKSSY:

Gradual Formalization of the unorganized fisheries sector through self-registration of fishers, fish farmers and supportive workers under a National Fisheries Sector Digital Platform including the creation of work-based digital identities of fish workers for improved service delivery.
Facilitating access to institutional financing fisheries sector micro and small enterprises.
Providing a one-time incentive to beneficiaries for purchasing aquaculture insurance.
incentivising fisheries and aquaculture microenterprises through performance grants for improving fisheries sector value-chain efficiencies including the creation and maintenance of jobs.
Incentivising micro and small enterprises through performance grants for the adoption and expansion of fish and fishery product safety and quality assurance systems including the creation and maintenance of jobs.

What is a White Paper in Economics? Types and Main Purpose (Indian Express)

09 Feb 2024

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented a “white paper” on the Indian economy in Parliament recently.

What is a White Paper?

A White Paper is a report, guide, research-based paper or formal government document that presents expert analysis about a topic or solution to a problem, or policy proposals, often bound in white covers.
They have been used historically to introduce new policies or legislation and gauge public reaction to government initiatives, schemes or policies.

Types of White Paper:

There are three types of white paper Economic White Paper, Budget White Paper, and Policy White Paper.
- Economic White Paper: It contains an analysis of the current state of the economy and talks about the challenges, and opportunities it faces.
  - The paper also contains the government’s plans and strategies to address the issues.
- Budget White Paper: A Budget White Paper contains government budgetary priorities, spending schemes, revenue sources, and fiscal projections among other issues.
- Policy White Paper: A Policy White Paper talks about a specific policy, scheme or program of the government to address a particular issue or problem in the economy.

What is the use of White Paper?

The purpose of a white paper on the economy is to inform the public, Parliament, and stakeholders about a government's policy, vision, goals, plans, and actions being taken to safeguard the economic interests of the country.
The document can also be used as a tool for consultation and feedback, as it invites comments and suggestions from various parties on the proposed policies or programs.
A white paper can also influence public opinion and shape the political debate on economic issues.

Key Insights from the White Paper on the Indian Economy and its Objectives:

The comprehensive 58-page document is structured into three primary segments.
- Section 1 delves into the macroeconomic landscape during the UPA's 10-year tenure.
- Section 2 presents an overview of various corruption scandals that occurred under the UPA administration.
- Section 3 outlines the strategies employed by the NDA to revitalize the economy.

Objectives of the white paper presented by FM:

To elucidate the governance, economic, and fiscal challenges inherited by the NDA government upon assuming office in 2014.
To shed light on the policies and initiatives undertaken by the NDA government since 2014 to rejuvenate the economy.
To stimulate a more informed discourse on the significance of national interest and fiscal responsibility in governance, transcending political expediency.

Most Important Claims in the White Paper:

The UPA era was marred by policy missteps and corruption scandals, notably non-transparent auctions of public resources like coal and telecom spectrum.
In the aftermath of the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, the UPA's pursuit of high economic growth undermined macroeconomic stability, leading to challenges such as high inflation and fiscal deficit.
Capital expenditure as a percentage of total expenditure declined significantly during the UPA tenure, impeding infrastructure development and economic growth.
The White Paper highlights improvements under the NDA, including lower inflation rates and enhanced efficacy of schemes like Jan Dhan and Swachh Bharat Mission.
The NDA government's proactive measures have steered the economy away from crisis, positioning India as one of the top global contributors to growth.
Overall, the White Paper underscores the NDA's efforts to address economic challenges and foster sustainable growth in India.

What Insights Can We Draw from the Above Assertions?

Examining the economic performance spanning two decades, especially in consecutive terms, presents a formidable challenge due to the multitude of factors influencing both the economy and its measurement methodologies.
- For example, the significant fluctuations in domestic inflation during the latter years of the UPA administration can largely be attributed to the volatile cost of crude oil.
During FY12 to FY14, crude oil prices fluctuated between $111 and $105 per barrel, significantly impacting inflation rates. Subsequently, oil prices declined to $84 in FY15 and further to $46 in FY16.
While the NDA government has achieved noteworthy milestones such as the implementation of GST and IBC, the white paper fails to acknowledge shortcomings within the economy.
Notably, it overlooks critical issues such as unemployment, and the absence of a formal measure of poverty since 2011 is not addressed.

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) (The Hindu)

09 Feb 2024

About 400 Smart Cities Mission Projects are Likely to Miss June 30 Deadline (Indian Express)

09 Feb 2024

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Recently, the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Secretary Manoj Joshi told the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Housing and Urban Affairs that Some projects under the Smart Cities Mission would not be able to meet the June 30 deadline and the respective state governments would be responsible for completing them thereafter.

Key Highlights of the Report:

Approximately 400 Smart City Mission (SCM) projects are facing challenges in meeting the extended deadline of June 2024, according to a recent report by the Parliamentary committee.
These projects, being implemented by around ten cities under the Center's flagship SCM, are at risk of not being completed within the timeframe.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has granted a second extension to the Smart Cities Mission, giving it until June 2024 to finalize pending work.
- However, if these projects are not completed by then, the respective state governments will be responsible for completing them at their own expense.
The role of the ministry extends beyond merely transferring funds; it also involves overseeing project execution and ensuring successful completion.
- Despite the challenges, the ministry has emphasized that there will be no further extensions to the mission.
Delays have been attributed to various factors, including difficulties in relocating local populations, legal hurdles such as land procurement issues, frequent turnover of smart cities' CEOs, and delays in projects requiring coordination with other government entities.
In light of these challenges, the committee has proposed extending the Smart Cities Mission to Tier-2 cities located within 50-100 km of capital cities and tourist destinations.
- Additionally, the committee has highlighted the importance of protecting privacy rights, especially given the extensive deployment of surveillance technology like CCTV cameras and Integrated Command and Control Centers across all 100 cities involved in the mission.

What is the Smart Cities Mission (SCM)?

The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was initiated on 25th June 2015, to foster urban centers that offer essential infrastructure and a sustainable, clean environment.
Through a competitive process spanning from 2016 to 2018, 100 cities were selected for development as Smart Cities, each receiving five years from their selection to complete designated projects.
Administered as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), the program entails financial support from the Central Government amounting to Rs. 48,000 crores over five years, equating to an average of Rs. 100 crore per city per year, matched by an equivalent contribution from the State or Urban Local Body (ULB).
Guided by six core principles, the Smart Cities initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for residents through the implementation of innovative solutions, fostering economic growth, and addressing social, economic, physical, and institutional aspects of urban development. It prioritizes sustainable and inclusive progress, endeavouring to establish scalable models that can serve as beacons for other cities aspiring for advancement.

Financing for the Smart Cities Mission entails shared responsibilities between the Central Government, state governments, and ULBs, requiring equal contributions for project implementation.
- As of December 1, 2023, significant progress has been made, with 6,419 projects worth Rs. 1,25,105 crore completed out of a total of 7,970 projects valued at Rs. 1,70,400 crore.
- An additional 1,551 projects worth Rs. 45,295 crore are currently in progress, though certain cities, particularly those in the North-Eastern and Himalayan regions, as well as small Union Territories, face challenges in keeping pace.
Budget allocations for the Smart Cities proposal have seen adjustments, with a reduction in the outlay from Rs. 7,634 crores to Rs. 7,535 crores in the revised budget for 2023-24, and a further decrease to Rs. 2,236 crores for the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Prithvi Vigyan Scheme to Bolster Earth Science Research Approved by Cabinet (Indian Express)

08 Feb 2024

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The Union Cabinet has approved a Rs 4,797 crore research scheme to boost and maintain research momentum in the fields of ocean, atmospheric and polar sciences.

What is PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)?:

The PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI) will be an umbrella scheme spearheaded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences to help continue many of the ongoing research projects covering the period from 2021 to 2026.
This scheme encompasses five existing sub-schemes:
- Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services (ACROSS)
- Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART)
- Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER)
- Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE)
- Research, Education, Training and Outreach (REACHOUT)
The principal objectives of the comprehensive PRITHVI Scheme are as follows:
- Enhancing and maintaining long-term observations across the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere to monitor critical indicators of the Earth System and its changes.
- Developing modelling systems to comprehend and forecast weather patterns, ocean dynamics, and climate-related hazards, while advancing the understanding of climate change science.
- Exploring the polar and high seas regions to uncover new phenomena and resources.
- Innovating technology for the exploration and sustainable utilization of oceanic resources benefits society at large.
- Translating insights from Earth systems science into services that contribute to societal well-being, environmental preservation, and economic prosperity.
- This scheme is poised to foster the development of integrated, multidisciplinary earth science research and innovative initiatives across various institutes under the MoES umbrella.

Significance of the PRITHVI Scheme:

Under the PRITHVI Scheme, the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) plays a pivotal role in delivering vital services concerning weather, climate, oceanography, coastal conditions, hydrology, seismology, and natural hazards.
These services play a crucial role in issuing forecasts, warnings, and alerts for a wide array of natural disasters, including tropical cyclones, floods, tsunamis, and earthquakes.
- By facilitating disaster preparedness and risk mitigation, they contribute significantly to safeguarding lives and property.
Earth System Sciences encompass a comprehensive study of the interconnected components of the Earth, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere, along with their intricate interactions.
The PRITHVI Scheme is designed to address these components comprehensively, enhancing our understanding of Earth System Sciences and delivering dependable services for the nation's benefit.
Through integrated research and development endeavours across diverse MoES institutes, the scheme is poised to tackle major challenges in weather forecasting, climate science, oceanography, cryospheric studies, and seismology.
- These efforts aim to explore sustainable methods for harnessing both biological and non-biological resources, ensuring responsible utilization of our planet's resources.

Support to Students for Participating in Competitions Abroad (SSPCA) Initiative (India Today)

08 Feb 2024

World Sustainable Development Summit 2024 (TERI)

08 Feb 2024

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Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the World Sustainable Development Summit in New Delhi recently in the presence of Prime Minister of Guyana Mark Phillips.

About the World Sustainable Development (WSDS) Summit:

The WSDS Summit, organized annually by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), stands as a flagship event in the realm of sustainable development.
Instituted in 2001, the Summit series boasts a distinguished legacy spanning over two decades, dedicated to advancing 'sustainable development' as a universally embraced objective.
Distinguished as the sole independently convened international summit on sustainable development and environment originating from the Global South, the WSDS endeavours to forge enduring solutions for the global community.
- It achieves this by convening the world's foremost leaders and intellectuals on a singular platform.
The upcoming WSDS 2024 marks the 23rd edition of this significant summit, revolving around the theme 'Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice'.

Key Facts about The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI):

TERI stands as a premier think tank committed to conducting research aimed at fostering sustainable development in India and across the Global South.
Established in 1974 as an information centre focusing on energy issues, TERI expanded its scope to encompass multifaceted research, policy analysis, consultancy, and implementation initiatives.
TERI's research endeavours, commencing in the late 1980s, are rooted in its steadfast belief that the efficient utilization of energy and sustainable management of natural resources are indispensable for developmental progress.
Across various sectors, TERI concentrates its efforts on:
- Promoting the efficient utilization of resources
- Enhancing access to and adoption of sustainable practices and inputs
- Mitigating environmental and climate impacts
TERI's headquarters are located in New Delhi, serving as a hub for its diverse activities and initiatives.

Lok Sabha passes Finance Bill (Indian Express)

08 Feb 2024

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The Lower House of Parliament recently passed the Finance Bill moved by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Context:

The Lok Sabha passed the Finance Bill, 2024 by voice vote recently.
Also, the House passed the Appropriation Bill, granting authorization for government expenditures for four months in the upcoming fiscal year.
- The Appropriation Bill is a significant legislative measure that empowers the government to utilize public funds allocated in the annual budget.
- It serves to uphold accountability and transparency by necessitating parliamentary approval for expenditures and prevents unauthorized withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund of India.
Furthermore, the lower house sanctioned the Rs 1.8 lakh crore budget for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

What is a Finance Bill?

The Finance Bill, classified as a Money Bill under Article 110 of the Constitution, is an annual presentation in the Lok Sabha following the Union Budget announcement.
It encapsulates the government's fiscal proposals concerning taxation, expenditure, and other financial affairs.
Through this bill, the government submits its proposals for imposing new taxes, altering the existing tax framework, or extending the current tax structure beyond the approved period to Parliament.
Accompanied by a Memorandum elucidating its provisions, the Finance Bill is exclusively introduced in the Lok Sabha, though amendments can be recommended by the Rajya Sabha.
Approval from both houses of Parliament is requisite for the bill to become law, with a mandate for passage within 75 days of its introduction.
While all Money Bills fall under the category of Financial Bills, not all Financial Bills qualify as Money Bills.
- For instance, a Finance Bill solely focusing on tax proposals is classified as a Money Bill.
- Conversely, a Bill addressing taxation or expenditure alongside other subjects is categorized as a Financial Bill.
Thus, if a Bill entails government expenditure along with other matters, it is designated as a financial bill.

Highlights of the 2024 Finance Bill:

Stability in Income Tax: With the impending general elections in April-May 2024, the bill prioritizes continuity by retaining the current tax framework for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
Targeted Relief Measures: Incorporates slight tax concessions tailored to particular sectors or taxpayer groups.
Promotion of Economic Expansion: Encompasses provisions aimed at fostering infrastructure enhancement, investment stimulation, and streamlining business operations.
Fiscal Discipline: Pursues fiscal consolidation objectives through proposed strategies to manage expenditures or enhance revenue generation.

Extending the Retirement Age of Supreme Court and High Court Judges (Indian Express)

08 Feb 2024

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The government has told a parliamentary panel that extending the retirement age of Supreme Court and High Court judges based on their performance may not be practical.

Key Insights from the Report on Judicial Processes and Reform:

On August 07, 2023, the Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, and Law and Justice, chaired by Mr. Sushil Kumar Modi, presented its findings.
Among its significant findings and recommendations, the Committee emphasized the necessity of raising the retirement age for judges.
- They highlighted the importance of aligning this age with advancements in medical sciences and increased life expectancy.
At present, Supreme Court (SC) and High Court (HC) judges retire at 65 and 62 years, respectively.
- The Committee proposes amending relevant Articles (124 and 217) of the Constitution to extend these retirement ages.
- The retirement age of the High Court Judges was increased from 60 to 62 years, after the 15th constitutional Amendment according to section 4 of the Constitutional Act 1963.
Furthermore, the Committee suggests implementing a system of appraisal by the SC Collegium to assess judges' performance and health conditions, as well as the quality and quantity of judgments delivered, before extending their tenure.

Debate Regarding the Retirement Age for Supreme Court (SC) and High Court (HC) Judges:

Retiring SC judges have frequently reflected on their time in office, often feeling that their tenure didn't allow them sufficient opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the judiciary.
- In 2022, former Chief Justice of India (CJI) N.V. Ramana engaged in a dialogue with Justice Stephen Breyer of the US Supreme Court, who chose to retire at age 83 after serving for 27 years.
Expressing his views, CJI Ramana, who was scheduled to retire after 8.5 years on the SC bench, remarked that 65 seemed 'too early an age for retirement.'
Despite this, CJI Ramana's tenure surpassed that of most other SC judges.
Among the current 32 Judges of the SC, only CJI Chandrachud, and Justices J.B. Pardiwala, K.V. Viswanathan, and Dipankar Datta are expected to exceed the 8-year mark.
These judges represent a minority who surpass the average tenure of sitting SC judges, which stands at 5.4 years.

Why is the Government Resistant to Elevating the Retirement Age for SC and HC Judges?

The government asserts that raising the retirement age for Supreme Court (SC) and High Court (HC) judges might lead to potential issues of favouritism.
They argue that such a move would grant excessive authority to the SC Collegium, potentially diminishing parliamentary oversight in evaluating judges for tenure extensions.
Additionally, the government expresses concerns that this change could subject judges to external pressures, compromising their ability to maintain impartiality.
Moreover, they highlight the strain it would place on the already limited human resources within the Judiciary and the Executive involved in the appointment process.

Additional Insights from the Report on Judicial Processes and Reform:

Establishment of Regional SC Benches: The Committee highlighted the challenge faced by litigants from distant regions due to the centralized nature of the Supreme Court in Delhi.
- They proposed leveraging Article 130 to create regional benches in four or five locations.
- These regional benches would handle appellate matters, while constitutional issues would remain under Delhi's jurisdiction.
Enhancing Social Diversity in Judicial Appointments: Recognizing a diversity deficit in the higher judiciary, the Committee pointed out the low representation of marginalized communities.
- They noted that since 2018, only a small percentage of High Court judges belonged to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
- To address this, the Committee recommended that the Supreme Court and High Court Collegiums prioritize the nomination of women and candidates from marginalized communities, including minorities.
Implementation of Mandatory Asset Declaration: While constitutional functionaries and government servants are obligated to declare their assets annually, judges are exempt from this requirement.
- The Committee urged the central government to enact legislation mandating higher judiciary judges to disclose their assets and liabilities each year to the appropriate authority.
Revision of Vacation Practices in SC and HCs: The Committee observed that simultaneous vacations for the entire court contribute to case backlog and inconvenience for litigants.
- They proposed a staggered vacation system, wherein judges take leave at different times throughout the year, to mitigate this issue.
Publication of Annual Reports by HCs: Presently, only a few High Courts publish annual reports, unlike the Supreme Court, which regularly issues its report.
- The Committee recommended that the Department of Justice collaborate with the Supreme Court to ensure that all High Courts prepare and publish their annual reports, promoting transparency and accountability in judicial operations.

Rajya Sabha passes Bills to add PVTGs of Odisha, A.P. in ST lists (Indian Express)

07 Feb 2024

SAMARTH Centers (PIB)

07 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News

Recently, the Minister of State for Heavy Industries informed the Lok Sabha about SAMARTH Centres.

About SAMARTH Centres:

The Smart Advanced Manufacturing and Rapid Transformation Hub (SAMARTH) centers are established under the Scheme for "Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector."
These centers play a crucial role in assisting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing workforce training and raising awareness about Industry 4.0 technologies through:
- Organizing seminars, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events on Industry 4.0.
- Conducting training sessions to create awareness about Industry 4.0.
- Offering consultancy services (including in areas such as IoT hardware, software development, and data analytics) and providing incubation support to start-ups, including MSMEs.

Key Highlights of the Enhancement of Competitiveness in the Indian Capital Goods Sector Scheme:

Initiated by the Ministry of Heavy Industries, this scheme aims to address technological obsolescence and improve access to quality industrial infrastructure and common facilities.
Phase I of the scheme was launched in November 2014, focusing on skill development, infrastructure enhancement, and technology development in the Capital Goods Sector.
Phase II, commenced on January 25, 2022, aims to amplify the impact created by Phase I by fostering a strong and globally competitive capital goods sector, contributing at least 25% to the manufacturing sector.

Components of the Scheme:

Identification of Technologies through Technology Innovation Portals.
Establishment of four New Advanced Centres of Excellence and augmentation of Existing Centres of Excellence.
Promotion of skilling in the Capital Goods Sector, including the creation of qualification packages for skill levels 6 and above.
Establishment of four Common Engineering Facility Centres (CEFCs) and augmentation of existing CEFCs.
Augmentation of Existing Testing and Certification Centres.
Establishment of ten Industry Accelerators for Technology Development.

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PIB)

07 Feb 2024

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PACS have been allowed by the Government to operate Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK) under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana of Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (GOI).

About Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras:

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras are established as part of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, initiated by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers in November 2008.

Objective:

The primary objective is to ensure the availability of quality medicines at affordable prices for all segments of society, particularly the economically disadvantaged, thereby reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
These Kendras offer generic drugs that are equivalent in quality and efficacy to expensive branded drugs but are available at significantly lower prices.
All essential therapeutic medicines are stocked in Jan Aushadhi Stores, along with allied medical products commonly found in chemist shops, enhancing the viability of operating a Jan Aushadhi store.
The Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), established under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India, with the support of all Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), coordinates the procurement, supply, and marketing of generic drugs through the PMBKs.

Eligibility to Open a Jan Aushadhi Kendra:

State Governments, reputable NGOs, trusts, private hospitals, charitable institutions, doctors, unemployed pharmacists, and individual entrepreneurs are eligible to apply for establishing a new Jan Aushadhi Kendra.
Applicants are required to employ a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B Pharma) or Diploma in Pharmacy (D Pharma) degree holder as a pharmacist in their proposed store.

The Nagoya Protocol (Down To Earth)

07 Feb 2024

Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme (India Today)

07 Feb 2024

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Recently, the Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship launched the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme.

About the Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme:

The Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme ensures equitable access to high-quality educational systems by facilitating a seamless transition from secondary to higher education and providing financial support to meritorious students from Navodaya Vidyalayas who lack financial means.
It embodies a holistic approach to empowerment, aiming to expand educational opportunities, especially for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
The programme aims to secure assistance and funding from non-governmental partners and private sources, including CSR grants, national and international donors, and impact investors.
Initially, the programme will benefit students in grades XI and XII studying in Navodaya Vidyalayas across the country.
A dedicated fintech platform has been developed under Vidyanjali to disburse sponsorships to students through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
This platform plays a crucial role in data management, application processing, progress tracking, grant disbursement monitoring, fund utilization monitoring, generating impact reports for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), recognizing notable student achievements, and publicly acknowledging the support of funders, among other functions.

What is EdCIL?

Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL) is the sole Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Established on June 17, 1981, under the Companies Act, 1956, it holds the distinction of being categorized as a 'Mini Ratna Organisation' by the Government of India.
EdCIL provides consultancy and technical services in various domains of education and human resource development, both domestically and globally.
Its clientele includes numerous state and central government departments, public sector undertakings (PSUs), and autonomous bodies such as Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), Kendriya Vidyalayas, and Navodaya Vidyalayas.

India to sign 78 bn deal to extend Qatar LNG imports (Indian Express)

06 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

India and Qatar are likely to ink a deal recently to extend the supply of 7.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for another 20 years beyond 2028.

Context:

India wants to increase the share of natural gas in its primary energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from a little over 6 per cent at present.
- The country already depends on LNG imports to meet around half of its gas demand, and as demand grows, imports of the natural gas are also set to grow.
World’s largest exporter of LNG, Qatar, accounts for over half of India’s imports.
- India imported a total of 19.85 million tonnes of LNG in 2022-23 (FY23), of which 10.74 million tonnes, or 54 per cent, came from Doha.
- India’s total imports from Qatar in FY23 were valued at $16.81 billion, of which LNG imports alone were worth $8.32 billion, or 49.5 per cent of the overall imports from Doha.
Natural gas is seen as a significantly cleaner alternative to conventional petroleum fuels like diesel and petrol and is usually cheaper than crude oil.
For India, which has an import dependency of over 85 per cent in the case of crude oil, natural gas is seen as more affordable as well as a transition fuel in the country’s energy transition pathway.

Trade Relationship Dynamics between India and Qatar:

In the trade relationship between India and Qatar, there exists a significant trade imbalance favoring Qatar.
Qatar stands as India's largest source of liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is gas cooled to liquid form for sea transportation.

Import Dependency on Gas:

India's import reliance on natural gas stands at around 50%, with a governmental focus on increasing gas consumption likely leading to further import escalation in the future.
Petronet LNG, India's primary LNG importer, holds a long-term contract with Qatar for importing 8.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG. Moreover, Qatar's gas holds a substantial share in India's LNG procurements from the spot market.

Demand for Natural Gas in India:

India has set an ambitious target to elevate the share of natural gas in its primary energy mix to 15% by 2030, up from slightly over 6% at present.
This aspiration is poised to drive a rapid surge in LNG imports in the upcoming years. Natural gas is perceived as a notably cleaner alternative to traditional petroleum fuels like diesel and petrol, and often comes at a lower cost than crude oil.
Given India's over 85% import dependency on crude oil, gas emerges as both more economically viable and a smoother transition fuel in the energy transformation trajectory.

Trade Dynamics: India's Import from Qatar and Export to Qatar

In FY 2022-23, India's total imports from Qatar amounted to $16.81 billion, with LNG imports constituting $8.32 billion of the total.
While Indian LNG importers are endeavoring to diversify their sources, reducing heavy reliance on Qatar may take considerable time.
On the export front, India's exports to Qatar were valued at only $1.97 billion in FY 2022-23, encompassing cereals, copper articles, iron and steel articles, vegetables, fruits, spices, and processed food products.

Global LNG Market Trends:

The global LNG market currently leans towards sellers, especially following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which disrupted Russian natural gas supplies to Europe.
This disruption triggered a surge in LNG spot cargo prices globally.
Unlike term contracts, spot LNG market prices are subject to higher volatility, with prices rising steeply in times of tight supply and falling sharply during a supply glut.

Future Outlook of the LNG Market:

Industry experts predict a shift in the global LNG market dynamics over the next few years, transitioning into a buyer's market due to the surge in new LNG export projects.
A buyer's market arises when there is an excess supply of goods or services compared to demand, granting buyers more negotiating leverage.
Despite this anticipated shift, it may take several years for this scenario to materialize, with a substantial portion of new LNG export capacity expected to originate from Qatar itself.

International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (DownToEarth)

06 Feb 2024

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Experts from The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) called for ‘bold action’ and ‘urgent finance’ to prevent collapse of nature in High Mountain Asia on February 5, 2024, in the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu.

About the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD):

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is an intergovernmental knowledge and learning center dedicated to serving the communities of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region.
Established and inaugurated on December 5, 1983, its mission is to generate and share knowledge that informs regional policy and action, attracting investments to facilitate the transition to greener, more inclusive, and climate-resilient development.

Membership and Governance:

ICIMOD's member countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
- Its highest governing body is the Board of Governors, composed of representatives from each member country and independent members nominated by the ICIMOD Support Group based on their professional expertise and experience.

Functions and Objectives:

The center serves the HKH region by generating and sharing information and knowledge to address critical mountain-related challenges.
- It bridges scientific research with policy formulation and practical on-the-ground implementation.
- Furthermore, ICIMOD provides a regional platform for experts, planners, policymakers, and practitioners to exchange ideas and perspectives, facilitating sustainable mountain development.
Headquarters of ICIMOD is in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Key Facts about the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Region:

The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region spans 3,500 km across eight countries, from Afghanistan in the west to Myanmar in the east.
It serves as the source of ten major Asian river systems, including the Amu Darya, Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra, and others.
The HKH region plays a vital role in providing water, ecosystem services, and livelihoods to the people living within its boundaries.

Israel discovers 6-million-year-old giant underwater canyon of Messinian Event (TOI)

06 Feb 2024

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The Israel Geological Survey announced recently that Israeli geologists discovered a huge underwater canyon on the bottom of the Eastern Mediterranean that was formed about 6 million years ago.

What is Messinian Event?

The Messinian Event, also referred to as the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC).
It marks a significant geological occurrence during which the Mediterranean Sea experienced a cycle of partial or near-complete desiccation, making it one of the most severe ecological crises in Earth's history.
This event unfolded approximately 6 million years ago (MYA) and persisted until around 5.3 MYA.
The process began with the severance of the connection between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
- This disconnection resulted from a combination of reduced sea levels globally and the collision of the European and African plates, causing the land to rise.
- Consequently, the Mediterranean experienced significant evaporation, as its evaporation rate exceeded its precipitation rate.
- Without a substantial influx of water from the Atlantic, the sea began to evaporate rapidly.
During this period, a vast underground canyon formed, with rivers cutting deep into the basin floor, creating a canyon much larger than the Grand Canyon, reaching depths of up to 2,000 meters (6562 feet).
- As the Mediterranean water evaporated, salt deposits, primarily composed of Halite and Gypsum, accumulated on the basin floor, some reaching depths of 800 meters (2,500 feet).
Despite the rapid evaporation, salt deposition did not keep pace, resulting in an increase in water salinity.
- The heightened salinity levels made the Mediterranean inhospitable to marine life, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
- Eventually, the sea dried up almost entirely, culminating in the Zanclean flood when the Atlantic Ocean reclaimed the basin.

What is Deep-sea Canyon?

Deep-sea canyons, such as those formed during the Messinian Event, are steep valleys carved into the seafloor of the continental slope, extending onto the continental shelf.
These canyons vary in size and shape and have been sculpted by various erosional processes, including river flows during periods of low sea levels, mudslides, debris flows, and turbidity currents.

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024 (Indian Express)

06 Feb 2024

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The Centre on Monday introduced a Bill that would enable it to prescribe the norms for nominating chairpersons of State Pollution Control Boards, exempt certain industrial units from restrictions, and decriminalize “minor offenses” related to water pollution.

News Summary:

The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024 has been introduced in the Rajya Sabha.
It is applicable to Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan, with the potential to extend to other states through resolutions under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
The Bill empowers the Centre to exempt certain industrial plants from restrictions and issue guidelines related to industry establishment.

About Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024:

Enacted in 1974, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act aimed to prevent and control water pollution, establishing penal provisions for non-compliance.

Rationale for the Amendment:

The Amendment Bill underscores the importance of democratic governance, emphasizing trust in people and institutions. It addresses the outdated regulations leading to a trust deficit.

Key Amendments Proposed:

The Amendment Bill seeks to modernize the existing penal provisions, replacing imprisonment with fines for minor violations. This move aligns with the principles of Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business.

Major Features of the Amendment Bill:

The Bill proposes several key changes, including:
- Prescribing the process for nominating the chairman of the State Pollution Control Board by the Central Government.
- Granting the Central government authority to exempt certain industrial plants from restrictions on new outlets and discharges.
- Issuing guidelines on matters related to the establishment of industries by the Central government.
- Decriminalizing minor offenses and substituting them with monetary penalties.
- Specifying the adjudication process for penalties by officers of appropriate rank.
- Outlining penalties for non-compliance with regulations regarding new outlets, discharges, and sewage.
- Allocation of penalty amounts to the Environmental Protection Fund established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Mera Gaon, Meri Dharohar (MGMD)(PIB)

06 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Government of India has decided to map and document all villages under Mera Gaon, Meri Dharohar (MGMD) Programme.

About the Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar Programme:

The Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD) programme is a nationwide initiative led by the Ministry of Culture, launched on July 27, 2023, under the National Mission on Cultural Mapping.
Its primary aim is to compile detailed information about the life, history, and cultural essence of Indian villages and make this data accessible to both virtual and real-time visitors.

Key Components and Categories:

Under the MGMD, information is collected across seven broad categories, including:
- Arts and Crafts Village
- Ecologically Oriented Village
- Scholastic Village Linked with Textual and Scriptural Traditions of India
- Epic Village linked with Ramayana, Mahabharata, and/or Puranic legends and oral epics
- Historical Village linked with Local and National History
- Architectural Heritage Village
Any other distinctive characteristic, such as fishing village, horticulture village, shepherding village, etc.

Objectives:

The primary objective of the project is to culturally map India's 6.5 lakh villages across 29 States and 7 Union Territories on a comprehensive virtual platform.
Through MGMD, individuals will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in India's diverse and vibrant cultural heritage.

Core Ideals and Benefits:

The fundamental aim of the project is to foster appreciation for India's rich cultural traditions, thereby promoting economic growth, social harmony, and artistic development in rural communities. The programme is envisioned as a catalyst for showcasing and preserving India's cultural diversity.

Financial Outlay and Scheme Components:

A financial outlay of Rs. 353.46 Crore has been approved under the scheme of Financial Assistance for Promotion of Art and Culture, comprising eight scheme components:
- Financial Assistance to Cultural organizations with National Presence
- Cultural Function & Production Grant (CFPG)
- Financial Assistance for the Preservation & Development of Cultural Heritage of the Himalayas
- Financial Assistance for the Preservation & Development of Buddhist/Tibetan Organization
- Financial Assistance for Building Grants including Studio Theatres
- Financial Assistance For Allied Cultural Activities
- Scheme for Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage
Through these components, the programme aims to provide comprehensive support for the preservation and promotion of India's rich cultural heritage.

National Agriculture Market or eNAM (Financial Express)

05 Feb 2024

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With more states opening up or facilitating trade of agricultural commodities on the electronic -National Agriculture Market (eNAM), a spurt in trading among various markets within the state as well as at the inter-state level is being witnessed.

What is the National Agriculture Market (eNAM)?

eNAM is an online trading platform dedicated to agricultural commodities in India.
Launched on April 14, 2016, it is wholly funded by the Government of India.
The Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC), operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, takes the lead in implementing e-NAM

Objectives of eNAM:

The primary goal is to enhance marketing opportunities for farmers by establishing a competitive and transparent price discovery system.
It also facilitates online payment options for buyers, aiming to streamline the selling process for farmers.

Network and Structure:

The NAM portal connects existing agricultural markets, including APMC/RMC market yards, sub-market yards, private markets, and unregulated markets.
By creating a centralized online platform, e-NAM unifies agricultural markets nationwide for efficient commodity price discovery.

Key Features:

- Farmers can showcase products in nearby markets, allowing traders from any location to provide quotes.
- Single-window services encompass all APMC-related activities, including commodity details, buy-and-sell offers, and direct e-payment settlements to farmers' accounts.

Facilitating Trade:
- eNAM allows traders, buyers, and commission agents to obtain licenses from state-level authorities without physical presence requirements.
- Quality standards and infrastructure for testing are harmonized in every market, including provision for Soil Testing Laboratories in selected mandis.
Stakeholder Benefits:
- Designed for the collective benefit of farmers, mandis, traders, buyers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and exporters.
- Stakeholder advantages include transparent online trading, real-time price discovery, reduced transaction costs, and availability of commodity prices on the e-NAM mobile app.
Additional Benefits:
- Farmers receive details of commodity prices, quantity sold, and quality certification through SMS.
- The system promotes a more efficient supply chain and facilitates warehouse-based sales.
- Online payments are directly deposited into farmers' bank accounts, ensuring a seamless and secure financial transaction process.

INS Sandhayak - the Indian Navy’s First Survey Vessel Large (SVL) Ship (TOI)

05 Feb 2024

Hydrothermal System Beneath the Waters of Lake Rotorua in New Zealand's North Island (India Today)

05 Feb 2024

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In a big revelation, scientists have unveiled a hidden hydrothermal system beneath the waters of Lake Rotorua, a site steeped in Maori legend and situated atop a dormant volcanic crater on New Zealand's North Island.

What are Hydrothermal Systems?

Hydrothermal systems manifest in regions with intense heat, occurring both on continents near convergent plate boundaries and on the ocean floor in proximity to mid-ocean ridges.
Three essential components—fluids, heat, and permeable rock structures—are crucial for their formation.
Formation Dynamics:
- These systems are frequently situated near mid-ocean ridges, where tectonic plates diverge, leading to the creation of new seafloor.
Operational Mechanism:
- Hydrothermal systems initiate as seawater infiltrates fractures in the oceanic crust, gaining heat from the Earth's interior as it descends.
- Interacting with the oceanic crust, the seawater, reaching temperatures of 350-400 degrees Celsius, undergoes chemical modifications, extracting elements from the rocks.
- Despite the extreme pressure at ocean depths preventing boiling, this process generates hydrothermal fluid—a mixture of gasses and dissolved elements, including metals.
Return to the Seafloor:
- The superheated fluid is ejected back to the seafloor and rapidly cools upon contact with near-freezing ocean bottom waters.
Chimney-Like Deposits:
- Chemicals dissolved in the fluid precipitate at the vent, creating chimney-like deposits.
- These formations support unique deep-sea chemosynthetic communities—organisms relying on chemicals, not photosynthesis, to sustain their metabolism.

Uniform Civil Code (Indian Express)

05 Feb 2024

“Pineapple Express” Sweeps California, Atmospheric River Leaves State In Distress (India Today)

05 Feb 2024

Multidimensional Poverty in India (Indian Express)

03 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently, In her Interim Budget speech, the Union Finance Minister informed that nearly 25 crore people have been raised from multi-dimensional poverty in the last 10 years.

What is Multidimensional Poverty?

Multidimensional Poverty refers to the complex nature of poverty, where individuals or communities experience various simultaneous disadvantages.
- These may include inadequate health, malnutrition, limited access to clean water and electricity, substandard living conditions, and limited educational or employment opportunities.
Merely focusing on income as a poverty indicator fails to fully grasp the depth and breadth of deprivation experienced by individuals.
- Multidimensional Poverty recognizes that poverty encompasses more than just economic factors; it encompasses a range of dimensions that impact well-being and quality of life.
This approach to measuring poverty incorporates not only income or consumption levels but also considers deprivations in education and access to essential infrastructure.
- The international poverty line, set at $2.15 per day (in 2017 purchasing power parity terms) by the World Bank, serves as a benchmark for evaluating monetary value but is complemented by a broader assessment of various dimensions of deprivation.

What is the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index?

The Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) serves as a vital tool for assessing acute multidimensional poverty in over 100 developing nations.
Published collaboratively by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and the UNDP's Human Development Report Office, it provides a comprehensive framework for tracking deprivation across three key dimensions and ten indicators.
This index operates on a scale from 0 to 1, with higher values indicating greater levels of poverty.
According to MPI methodology, individuals experiencing deprivation in a third or more of the weighted indicators are classified as "MPI poor."

India's Progress and Comparison:

According to the 2023 Global MPI report, India successfully uplifted 415 million people out of poverty between 2005-06 and 2019-21, marking a significant achievement in poverty alleviation efforts.
- India is among 25 nations that have effectively halved their global MPI values within 15 years.

Comparison with India's National MPI:

In addition to the global MPI, India has its own National Multidimensional Poverty Index.
Published by NITI Aayog, India's MPI incorporates two additional indicators:
- Maternal health (under the health dimension) and
- Bank account ownership (under the standard of living dimension).
This modification aligns the MPI with India's specific national priorities, offering a nuanced understanding of poverty dynamics within the country.

GHAR (GO Home and Re-Unite) Portal for Restoration and Repatriation of Child (PIB)

03 Feb 2024

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The Ministry of Women and Child Development developed the “Track Child Portal”, which enables tracking of the missing and found children in all States/UTs including Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, North Eastern States and Jharkhand.

What is the GHAR Portal?

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has developed and launched the portal GHAR - Go Home and Reunite, with the sole purpose of restoration and repatriation of children.
The GHAR portal has been developed to digitally monitor and track the restoration and repatriation of children.
Here's how the portal can help strayed children go home and reunite with their families:
- The portal digitally tracks and monitors children who are in the juvenile justice system and have to be repatriated to another country, state or district.
- It allows the digital transfer of cases of children to the Juvenile Justice Board/Child Welfare Committee of the state concerned.
  - It will help in speedy repatriation of children.
- Where there is a requirement for a translator/interpreter/expert, a request will be sent to the state government concerned.
- Child welfare committees and district child protection officers can ensure proper restoration and rehabilitation of children by digitally monitoring the progress of the case of the child.
- A checklist format will be provided in the forms so that the children who are being hard to repatriate or children who are not getting their entitled compensation or other monetary benefits can be identified.
- A list of government-implemented schemes will be provided so that at the time of restoration the Child Welfare Committees can link the child with the schemes to strengthen the family and ensure that the child remains with his/her family.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development is administering the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (JJ Act, 2015) (as amended in 2021) and the Rules thereunder, to ensure the safety, security, dignity and well-being of children.
- The Act provides for the protection of children in need of care and protection and those in conflict with the law by catering to their basic needs through care, protection, development, treatment and social reintegration.
Under the JJ Act, 2015, the Child Welfare Committees have been empowered to make decisions regarding the children in need of care and protection for the children’s best interest.
- They are also mandated to monitor the functioning of the Child Care Institutions (CCIs).
- Similarly, under section 106 of the JJ Act, 2015, every state government has to constitute a District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) for every district to take up matters relating to children to ensure the implementation of the JJ Act, 2015 and its rules thereunder.
To ensure effective coordination in child safety, protection and development, District Magistrates have been made the heads of DCPUs.
- DMs have been empowered to review the functioning of DCPUs and CWCs at regular intervals to ensure prompt decisions as per provisions of the JJ Act and Rules are taken by these bodies, keeping in mind the best interests of the children.

: Law Commission of India (Indian Express)

03 Feb 2024

Govt To Sell Bharat Rice At Rs 29/Kg in Retail Market (Indian Express)

03 Feb 2024

Three New Major Railway Corridors Announced Under PM GatiShakti in the Interim Budget 2024-25 (PIB)

03 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Interim Budget for 2024-25 announcement for implementation of three Economic Railway Corridors identified under the PM GatiShakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity.

Context:

The Interim Budget for 2024-25 has laid the groundwork for implementing three major Economic Railway Corridors under the PM GatiShakti initiative.
This will enable multi-modal connectivity, including:
- Energy, mineral, and cement corridors
- Port connectivity corridors and
- High-traffic density corridors

Significance of the Three Corridors:

Logistics Efficiency Boost: These Corridors serve as catalysts for enhancing logistics efficiency, thereby cutting down on the costs associated with rail transportation.
- By streamlining rail movements, they pave the way for smoother and more cost-effective logistics operations.
Alleviating Rail Congestion: One of their primary roles is to alleviate congestion on heavily trafficked rail routes.
- By diverting some of the traffic to these designated Corridors, the strain on high-density rail networks is relieved, ensuring smoother and more reliable transportation across the board.
Promoting Modal Shift: The Corridors play a pivotal role in encouraging a modal shift from road to rail and coastal shipping.
- By providing efficient rail connections and integrating coastal shipping options, they offer viable alternatives to traditional road transport, thereby reducing congestion on highways and minimizing environmental impact.
Environmental Sustainability: A key benefit of these Corridors is the reduction of the carbon footprint associated with logistics operations.
- By promoting more environmentally friendly modes of transportation such as rail and coastal shipping, they contribute to mitigating the environmental impact of freight movement, fostering sustainability in logistics practices.

About PM GatiShakti National Master Plan:

The government of India initiated the Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti National Master Plan to transform the nation's infrastructure.
PM Modi launched the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP) on 13th October 2021, on the 75th Independence Day to provide multimodal connectivity infrastructure to various economic zones.
The scheme is expected to smooth out the execution of projects across the nation and foster coordination between different ministries engaged with these projects.

Advantages of PM Gati Shakti:

It lays out a centralised portal to unite the infrastructural initiatives of 16 central ministries and departments.

Facilitates these ministries, gives a centralised transportation and logistics grid for smoother data flow and sped up project clearance.
Large-scale infrastructure projects like UDAAN, expansion of the railway network, Bharatmala, Sagarmala, inland waterways, and Bharat Net will be executed by the Gati Shakti master plan.
The Gati Shakti master plan aims to create employment potential for a large number of individuals.
The plan's three primary targets are smooth multimodal connectivity, enhanced prioritisation and optimal usage of resources to create capacities on time, and resolution of issues like standardisation, disjointed planning and clearances.
The Gati Shakti mission aims to create world-class infrastructure in the country and foster logistical synergy across various modes of movement.
The general objective of the drive is to increase competitiveness and economic development in India.

Expansion of Nano DAP (Indian Express)

02 Feb 2024

US Approved Sale of 31 Predator Drones to India (India Today)

02 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

In a significant development that underscores the deepening strategic partnership between India and the United States, the US State Department has approved a landmark Foreign Military Sale to the Indian government.

News Summary:

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency has formally notified the US Congress regarding a potential military sale of MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones and associated equipment to the Government of India.

What is a Drone?

Drones are aerial vehicles powered by various means, capable of autonomous flight or remote piloting, and can carry payloads, lethal or nonlethal, depending on the mission.

Key Features of MQ-9B SkyGuardian Drones:

Designed for extended over-the-horizon flights lasting over 30 hours, facilitated by satellite connectivity.
Incorporates advanced capabilities to safely operate in civilian airspace, facilitating joint operations with civil authorities for real-time situational awareness.
Equipped with sophisticated maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, enabling real-time monitoring and patrolling both above and below the ocean's surface.

Significance of Drone Technology in Defense:

Strategic Importance: Drones offer valuable intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, providing real-time visuals and data to support decision-making processes.
- They also reduce risks to personnel and offer cost-effective alternatives to conventional manned aircraft.
Tactical Advantages: Drones enable precision strikes with minimal collateral damage, enhance coordination and logistics in challenging terrains, and facilitate operations in remote or hostile environments.

Challenges Associated with Drones:

Complex Airspace Management: The integration of drones into India's airspace necessitates a robust management framework to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Adverse Weather Conditions: Factors like strong winds can affect drone operations, highlighting the need for resilient systems capable of operating in varied environmental conditions.
Privacy and Safety Concerns: There are concerns regarding the potential misuse of drones for breaching privacy and safety regulations, emphasizing the importance of stringent regulations and oversight mechanisms.

Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (PIB)

02 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the continuation of the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) to be implemented under the Infrastructure Development Fund (IDF) with an outlay of Rs.29,610.25 crore for another three years up to 2025-26.

About the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund:

This initiative operates as a Central Sector Scheme aimed at incentivizing investments from various entities, including individual entrepreneurs, private companies, MSMEs, Farmer’s Producers Organizations (FPOs), and Section 8 companies.
These investments are directed towards establishing infrastructure for:
- Dairy processing and value addition
- Meat processing and value addition
- Animal feed plants

Objectives:

Facilitating the expansion of milk and meat processing capacity and diversification of products, thereby granting unorganized rural milk and meat producers greater access to organized markets.
Enhancing price realization for producers and ensuring the availability of quality milk and meat products for domestic consumers.
Promoting exports and elevating the sector's contribution to export revenue.
Providing quality concentrated animal feed to cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat, pig, and poultry, ensuring balanced rations at affordable prices.
The Government of India offers a 3% interest subvention for a period of 8 years, including a two-year moratorium, for loans covering up to 90% of the investment.
- These loans are accessible from scheduled banks, the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), NABARD, and NDDB.
- Notably, government entities and cooperatives are excluded from availing benefits under this scheme.

What is Animal Husbandry?

Animal husbandry encompasses the controlled cultivation, management, and production of domestic animals, with a focus on enhancing desirable qualities through breeding.
It serves as a vital branch of agriculture dedicated to animals raised for various purposes such as meat, fibre, milk, and other products.
This involves day-to-day care, selective breeding, and the overall management of livestock.
In India, animal husbandry plays a crucial role in the livelihoods of many farmers, offering significant self-employment opportunities, particularly for landless labourers, small and marginal farmers, and women.
The sector contributes to providing affordable and nutritious food to millions of Indians through the production of meat, eggs, milk, and other essential items.
Additionally, it serves as a valuable source of raw materials such as hides, skins, bones, blood, and fat.
Animals are often regarded as the best insurance against natural calamities like drought, famine, and other adversities, providing a degree of stability to farmers in unpredictable conditions.

Digital Detox for Responsible Gaming (TOI)

02 Feb 2024

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The Karnataka government recently said it would launch a 'Digital Detox' initiative in collaboration with the All India Game Developers Forum (AIGDF), with special emphasis on gaming and social media.

What is Digital Detox?

A digital detox entails voluntarily refraining from using digital devices like smartphones, computers, and social media platforms for a defined period.
This period can range from a few hours to as long as a week or even a month.
Research indicates that approximately 25% of smartphone owners aged 18 to 44 cannot recall the last time they were separated from their phones.

Benefits:

Overcoming Technology Addiction: Studies reveal that around 61% of individuals acknowledge their addiction to the internet and digital screens.
- A digital detox aids in combating this addiction.
Enhanced Mental Health: Disconnecting from technology can alleviate stress and anxiety, thereby fostering improved mental health and overall well-being.
Increased Productivity and Creativity: Taking a break from continuous digital engagement bolsters focus and concentration, leading to heightened productivity and creativity.
Improved Sleep: Excessive screen time has been linked to poor sleep quality. A digital detox helps in promoting better sleep by reducing exposure to blue light and stimulating content.
Enhanced Communication Skills: Reducing online time allows for more face-to-face interactions, nurturing better communication skills and social connections.

Challenges:

Feelings of Disconnection: Detox participants may feel disconnected from friends and family members.
Fear of Missing Out: Participants may experience FOMO (fear of missing out) or anxiety about missing important information.
Boredom or Restlessness: Detoxes may lead to feelings of boredom or restlessness.
Withdrawal Symptoms: Some individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety or boredom.

Way forward:

Start Small: Initiate the detox with shorter periods and gradually extend the duration.
Inform Others: Notify friends and family about the detox to avoid misinterpretations.
Engage in Healthy Activities: Utilize detox time for activities like reading, spending time outdoors, or exercising.
Minimize Notifications: Turn off device notifications and store them out of sight.
Reward Progress: Offer yourself incentives for achieving detox goals.

Conclusion

Digital dependence can contribute to mental health issues, shorter attention spans, and strained interpersonal relationships. While technology offers convenience and connectivity, excessive screen time exacts a toll. A digital detox presents an opportunity to enhance mental and physical well-being, as well as nurture healthier relationships. With proper planning and commitment, a successful and fulfilling detox experience is achievable.

Improved Fiscal Resilience Amid Modest Tax Buoyancy (Indian Express)

02 Feb 2024

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The government’s aim to restrict the fiscal deficit to 5.8 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as against 5.9 per cent budgeted earlier for the financial year and the push to restrict the fiscal deficit target to below 4.5 per cent by 2025-26 rides on the back of a strong buoyancy in tax revenues.

What is Tax Buoyancy?

Tax buoyancy elucidates the correlation between fluctuations in government tax revenue growth and changes in Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
This concept underscores the intrinsic link between the government's tax earnings and economic expansion.
Essentially, as the economy accelerates, government tax revenue experiences a corresponding increase.
Tax buoyancy delineates the responsiveness of tax revenue growth to alterations in GDP, signifying its sensitivity to economic fluctuations.
A buoyant tax exhibits a revenue surge without necessitating a rise in tax rates, contingent upon factors such as the tax base's magnitude, tax administration efficiency, and the simplicity and rationality of tax structures.
Typically, direct taxes demonstrate higher buoyancy, being more responsive to GDP growth rates.

What is Tax Elasticity?

Tax elasticity, akin to tax buoyancy, refers to variations in tax revenue consequent to changes in tax rates.
- For instance, assessing how tax revenue fluctuates when the government reduces corporate income tax from 30 percent to 25 percent illustrates tax elasticity.
This concept underscores the dynamic relationship between tax rates and revenue generation, reflecting the degree of responsiveness of tax revenue to alterations in tax rates.

About the Laffer Curve:

The Laffer Curve, pioneered by economist Arthur Laffer in 1974, illustrates the interplay between tax rates and government tax revenue collection.
This economic theory posits that tax rates exceeding a certain threshold diminish tax revenue by disincentivizing workforce participation.
It suggests the existence of an optimal tax rate that maximizes total tax revenue.
By visually depicting the inverse relationship between tax rates and tax revenue, the Laffer Curve highlights the complexities of tax policy and the importance of balancing tax rates to achieve revenue optimization.

RBI Action Against Paytm Payments Bank (Indian Express)

01 Feb 2024

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently barred Paytm Payments Bank from offering all its core services — including accounts and wallets — from March, effectively crippling the company’s business.

News Summary

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed Paytm Payment Bank to halt accepting money in any customer account, including wallets and prepaid instruments like FASTags, from March 1.
This action comes due to ongoing non-compliance and significant supervisory concerns highlighted by the RBI.

What Does the RBI Directive Include?

Barred Services: Paytm Payment Bank is prohibited from offering most of its essential services.
Account Closure: Paytm cannot accept deposits or top-ups after February 29, and nodal accounts of its parent company, One97 Communications, and Paytm Payments Services, must be terminated by February 29.
Transaction Settlement: All pending transactions and nodal accounts initiated by February 29 must be settled by March 15.
Customer Withdrawals: Customers are permitted to freely withdraw or use the money from their Paytm accounts, including savings and current accounts, prepaid instruments, FASTags, etc., within their available balance.

Reasons Behind the Action:

Ongoing Scrutiny: Paytm Payment Bank has been under RBI scrutiny since 2018.
Compliance Concerns: While specifics were not disclosed, it's believed the action stems from RBI's concerns about KYC compliance and IT-related issues.
Data Security: RBI is cautious about safeguarding depositors' money and protecting data.
- Concerns arose when Paytm Payment Bank and its parent company lacked sufficient barriers to prevent unauthorized access to data by China-based entities with indirect stakes in the parent company.

What is a Payments Bank?

Payment banks function similarly to traditional banks but on a smaller scale and without engaging in credit risk.
Established based on recommendations from the Nachiket Mor Committee, their primary objective is to promote financial inclusion by providing banking and financial services to underserved areas, including migrant workers, low-income households, and small entrepreneurs.

Legal Framework and Features:

Registered as public limited companies under the Companies Act 2013 and licensed under Section 22 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949, payments banks operate under various regulations such as the Banking Regulation Act 1949, RBI Act 1934, and Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999.

Key features include:

Differentiation: Payments banks are distinct from universal banks and operate on a smaller scale.
Capital Requirement: The minimum paid-up equity capital for payment banks is set at 100 crores, with promoters required to contribute at least 40% during the first five years of operation.
Permissible Activities: Payments banks can accept deposits up to Rs. 2,00,000, invest in government securities to meet statutory liquidity requirements and provide various banking services such as remittance, mobile payments, ATM/debit cards, and net banking.
- Additionally, they can serve as banking correspondents for other banks.
Limitations: Payments banks are restricted from issuing loans and credit cards, accepting time deposits or NRI deposits, and establishing subsidiaries for non-banking financial activities.

Blue Economy 2.0 (Indian Express)

01 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The Interim Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on (February 1) stressed environment-friendly development through the promotion of a ‘blue economy’.

What are the Proposals in the Interim Budget Regarding the Blue Economy?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans to launch a scheme focusing on restoration, adaptation measures, coastal aquaculture, and mariculture, adopting an integrated and multi-sectoral approach.
Restoration and adaptation measures aim to preserve ocean health during economic activities, while aquaculture involves farming aquatic plants and animals, and mariculture focuses on rearing marine creatures in saltwater.
Additionally, five integrated aqua parks will be established, and the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) will be strengthened to increase aquaculture productivity, double exports to Rs 1 lakh crore, and create 55 lakh employment opportunities in the near future.

What is the Blue Economy?

While the term blue economy can simply refer to economic activities related to the sea and the coasts, it is generally understood to have an element of sustainability in it.
Thus, the European Commission defines it as “all economic activities related to oceans, seas and coasts.
It covers a wide range of interlinked established and emerging sectors”; the World Bank says the blue economy is the “sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.”
For a country like India, with a long coastline, diversity in terms of fish and other ocean produce, and multiple tourism opportunities, the blue economy is highly significant.

Does India Have a Blue Economy Policy?

The blue economy 2.0. a draft policy framework on India’s Blue Economy was first released in July 2022.
The policy document contained “key recommendations on National Accounting Framework for Blue Economy and Ocean Governance, Coastal Marine Spatial Planning and Tourism Priority, Marine Fisheries, Aquaculture and Fish Processing.
Manufacturing, Emerging Industries, Trade, Technology, Services and Skill Development, Logistics, Infrastructure and Shipping, Coastal and Deep-Sea Mining and Offshore Energy and Security, Strategic Dimensions and International Engagement.”
When the G20 summit was hosted in New Delhi under India’s presidency, the Comptroller & Auditor General of India (CAG) chaired the Engagement Group for Supreme Audit Institutions (SAls) of the member countries in June 2023. Two priorities for the SAI20 deliberations were blue economy and responsible Artificial Intelligence.

CBSE Proposes New Plan For Class 10 & 12 (Indian Express)

01 Feb 2024

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CBSE is reported to have proposed significant changes to the academic framework for secondary and higher secondary education, including a shift from studying two languages to three in Class 10, with the requirement that at least two must be native Indian languages.

Key Highlights of the Proposal:

Proposed Changes for Class 10:

Transition from studying two languages to three, with a stipulation that at least two must be native Indian languages.
Potential requirement for students to pass in 10 subjects, contrasting with the current mandate of five.

Proposed Changes for Class 12:

Shift to studying two languages instead of one, with the condition that at least one must be a native Indian language.
Introduction of a necessity to clear examinations in six subjects for high school graduation, up from the existing requirement of five.

The objective behind the Proposed Changes:

These modifications are part of CBSE's broader initiative to implement a national credit framework in school education, addressing the absence of a formalized credit system in the standard curriculum.

Academic Year and National Learning Hours:

According to the CBSE plan, an academic year will comprise 1200 notional learning hours, equivalent to earning 40 credits.
- Notional learning denotes the specified time required for an average student to achieve set outcomes.
- This encompasses both academic learning at school and non-academic or experiential learning outside of it.

Storage of Earned Credits:

The scheme of studies has been adjusted to outline teaching hours and credits earned for each subject.
- These earned credits will be digitally stored in the Academic Bank of Credits, accessible through a linked Digilocker account.

What is the National Credit Framework (NCrF)?

The draft NCrF was introduced by the Union Ministry of Education (MoE) in 2022, based on recommendations from an inter-ministerial committee.
It serves as a guideline for schools, colleges, and universities to adopt the credit system, marking the inclusion of the entire school education system under its purview.
Previously, only the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) followed a credit system, but the NCrF extended its coverage to include skill and vocational education.

Proposed Benefits of NCrF for Various Stakeholders:

Students:
- Facilitates multidisciplinary education with flexible curricula.
- Eliminates distinctions between different streams like arts, science, social sciences, and commerce.
- Rewards students with credits for academic, skill, and experiential learning.
- Expands core learning to encompass both foundational and cognitive aspects.
Institutions:
- Fosters collaboration between institutions.
- Simplifies and standardizes credit mechanisms.
- Emphasizes research and innovation.
- Utilizes institutional infrastructure efficiently.
Government:
- Expected to increase student enrollment rates.
- Complements India's demographic dividend, aiming to become the Skill Capital of the World.
Industry:
- Enables students to acquire NSQF-approved foundational skills from the industry, enhancing employability.
- Allows for quick educational upgradation and up-skilling through micro-credentials.

Significance of NCrF:

Aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by integrating academic and vocational domains for flexibility and mobility.
Facilitates re-entry into the education system for students who have dropped out.
Promotes Recognition of Prior Learning, acknowledging skills acquired informally through various means.

Enforcement Directorate (ED) Arrests Jharkhand CM in a Corruption Case (Indian Express)

01 Feb 2024

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Why is it in the News?

Recently Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren was arrested by the officials of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the land scam case.

News Summary:

Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren became the third state chief minister to be arrested after the Enforcement Directorate took him into custody in a money laundering case.
Before Hemant Soren, his father Shibu Soren and Madhu Koda were arrested.
He was arrested in a case related to an illegal change of ownership of land in Jharkhand.

What is the Enforcement Directorate (ED)?

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is a multi-disciplinary agency tasked with investigating money laundering offenses and violations of foreign exchange laws.
It operates under the Department of Revenue within the Ministry of Finance and upholds strict compliance with the Constitution and laws of India.

Structure:

Headquarters: Located in New Delhi, the ED is headed by the Director of Enforcement.
Regional Offices: The agency has five regional offices situated in Mumbai, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kolkata, and Delhi, each overseen by Special Directors of Enforcement.
Recruitment: Officers are recruited directly and transferred from other investigative agencies, comprising personnel from the Indian Revenue Services (IRS), Indian Police Services (IPS), and Indian Administrative Services (IAS), including roles such as Income Tax officers, Excise officers, Customs officers, and police officials.
Tenure: Typically, officers serve a two-year term, extendable to five years with three annual extensions.
- Amendments to the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946, and the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Act, 2003, enable the government to extend the tenure of directors for one year after completing their initial two-year terms.

Functions:

COFEPOSA: Empowered by the Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act, 1974 (COFEPOSA), the ED can initiate cases of preventive detention related to violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).
Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA): This civil law aims to regulate external trade and payments, with the ED responsible for investigating suspected contraventions, adjudicating cases, and imposing penalties.
Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA): Enacted to combat money laundering, the ED is tasked with tracing assets derived from crime proceeds, attaching property, and prosecuting offenders through Special Courts.
Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018 (FEOA): Introduced to address economic offenders seeking refuge abroad, the ED enforces this law by attaching properties of fugitives and confiscating assets, thereby deterring offenders from evading Indian law.

5 Wetlands Added to The Global List of Wetlands of International Importance under Ramsar Convention (TOI)

01 Feb 2024

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Ahead of World Wetlands Day, five more wetlands in India got the tag of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, making it the fourth largest country in terms of the number of sites on the list.

About the New Ramsar sites:

The five newly added Indian sites in the list are Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest in Tamil Nadu, and Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve, Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve and Aghanashini Estuary in Karnataka.
In India, Tamil Nadu continues to have the maximum number of Ramsar sites (16) followed by Uttar Pradesh (10).

Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu): Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary is one of the largest inland wetlands of Tamil Nadu and is a significant source of groundwater recharge for the area.
- Water from the wetland is utilized by the villagers for cultivating crops such as paddy, sugar cane, cotton, corn, and split red gram.
- Karaivetti has one of the largest congregations of waterbirds in the State of Tamil Nadu.
The Longwood Shola Reserve Forest (Tamil Nadu): The Longwood Shola Reserve Forest derives its name from the Tamil word, "Solai", which means ‘tropical rainforest’.
- The ‘Sholas’ are found in the upper reaches of the Nilgiris, Anamalais, Palni hills, Kalakadu, Mundanthurai and Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu.
- These forested wetlands serve as habitats for the globally endangered Black-chinned Nilgiri Laughing thrush (Strophocincla cachinnans), Nilgiri Blue Robin (Myiomela major), and vulnerable Nilgiri Wood-pigeon (Columba elphinstonii).
- As many as 14 out of 26 endemic bird species of the Western Ghats are found in these wetlands.
Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve (Karnataka): Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve is a human made Village Irrigation Tank built centuries back and is spread over an area of 98.76ha.
- It is an ecologically important wetland, rich in biodiversity, comprising over 210 species of plants, mammal species, reptiles, birds etc.
- It supports more than 1% of the biogeographic population of Painted Stork and Black-headed Ibis.
Aghanashini Estuary (Karnataka): Aghanashini Estuary is formed at the confluence of the Aghanashini River with the Arabian Sea.
- The brackish water of the Estuary provides diverse ecosystem services including flood and erosion risk mitigation, biodiversity conservation and livelihood support.
- The wetland also provides livelihoods to families by supporting fishing, agriculture, collection of edible bivalves and crabs, shrimp aquaculture, traditional fish farming in the estuarine rice fields (locally known as Gazni rice fields), bivalve shell collection and salt production.
Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (??Karnataka): Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve, is a human-made wetland with an area of nearly 50 hectares which was constructed to store rainwater for irrigation purposes.
- The wetland harbors two vulnerable species, namely the Common pochard and River tern and four near-threatened species, namely the Oriental Darter Black-headed Ibis Woolly-necked Stork and Painted Stork.
- It is also one of the largest wintering grounds for the Bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) in Southern India.
- The wetland is a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) and is also listed as a priority area for conservation in India.

What is the Ramsar Convention?

The Ramsar Convention was signed on 2nd February 1971 to preserve the ecological character of their wetlands of international importance.
It is named after Ramsar, the Iranian city where the treaty was signed in 1971, and places chosen for conservation under it are given the tag ‘Ramsar site’.
The World Wetlands Day, celebrated on 2 February to raise global awareness about the importance of wetlands for human prosperity and a healthy planet.

India Ranks 93 on Corruption Perceptions Index 2023 (The Hindu)

31 Jan 2024

Elon Musk's Neuralink implants Brain Chip in First Human (Indian Express)

31 Jan 2024

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Recently, Elon Musk announced his brain chip company, Neuralink, has completed its first implant on a human patient.

What is Neuralink?

Neuralink is an upcoming medical device called a brain-computer interface that can help paralysed persons or amputees regain some sense of movement.
It will decode signals from a part of the brain that plans movements.
These signals will then be used to control external devices such as computers and mobile phones, allowing the participants to browse the web or play online games with just their thoughts even as their limbs are immobile.
Under the PRIME Study (short for Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface) an N1 implant will be surgically placed by an R1 robot in the brain.
- The N1 implant has 1,024 electrodes distributed across 64 threads that are thinner than human hair.
- The R1 robot has been designed to insert these threads very accurately in a specific region of the brain.

Current Scenario in the Brain-Computer Interface?

Recent breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces have led to remarkable advancements, including systems capable of translating neural signals into speech at nearly the speed of natural speech and bi-directional interfaces that offer sensory feedback to the brain.
In a notable development, researchers in Switzerland documented a case involving a man paralyzed from the waist down who regained the ability to walk.
- This feat was achieved through the use of a digital bridge that bypassed the damaged portion of his spinal cord.
- By employing a brain-spine interface, the signals from his brain were converted into stimulation for his spine, enabling him to walk again.
While it may take several years before such devices are commercially available, the scientific progress in this field is remarkable.
These advancements hold promise for individuals paralyzed due to accidents, offering potential mobility with the assistance of spinal implants.

What are the Challenges?

One of the main challenges of the technology is establishing the connection between the brain and the chips, allowing it to reliably interpret the signals from the brain.”
The use of conventional electronics for developing brain-computer interfaces results in a “mismatch with the soft tissue of the brain.”
- This can lead to tissue damage and immune response to the sensors.
Flexible electronics with tissue-like properties can help build interfaces that do not face these problems.
It can also help the systems adapt to changes in the brain volume during development, ageing and disease.

Eravikulam National Park to Close From February 1 for Nilgiri Tahr Breeding Season (The Hindu)

31 Jan 2024

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The Eravikulam National Park (ENP), the natural habitat of the Nilgiri tahr, will be closed for the calving season of the species from February 1 to March 31.

About Eravikulam National Park:

Eravikulam National Park also known as Rajamala National Park, is located in Kerala's Idukki district.
The park is administered under the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department and became a National park in 1978.
It is a 97 km2 national park located along the Western Ghats, Kerala.
- Anamudi, the highest peak in south India was located on the southern side of the park.
This is also the land of "Neelakurinji", a flower that blooms once in twelve years.
Wildlife in the Park: The park holds the maximum viable population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr including other little-known fauna Nilgiri marten, ruddy mongoose, small clawed otter, dusky striped squirrel etc.
Flora: Important flora includes Microtropis ramiflora, Actinodaphne bourdilloni, Pittosporum tetraspermium, Chrysopogon Zelanieus, Strobilanthus Kunthianus (Neela Kurinji) etc.
Mostly the park is busted with rolling grasslands, but several patches of shola forests are also found in the upper part of the valley.
The shola grasslands are exceptionally rich in balsams and orchids including the long thought extinct variety Brachycorythis wightii.
The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is seen in this park.

Key Facts about Nilgiri Tahr:

Nilgiri Tahr is a rare mountain animal found only in the southern part of the Western Ghats.
Scientific Name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius
Local Name: Varayaadu
They are famous for their ability to climb steep cliffs, which has earned them the nickname Mountain Monarch.
It is the official state animal of Tamil Nadu.
Distribution: Nilgiri Tahrs are mainly found in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, covering only about 5% of the Western Ghats.
Eravikulam National Park in Kerala is home to the largest population of Nilgiri Tahrs.
Habitat: They live in open grasslands at elevations between 1200 and 2600 meters in the South Western Ghats.
Characteristics: Nilgiri Tahrs have a sturdy body with short, coarse fur and a rough mane.
- Both males and females have curved horns, with males having larger horns, up to 40 cm long.
- Adult males have a light grey area on their backs, known as a 'saddle,' hence the name 'saddlebacks.'
- They have a short grey-brown or dark coat.
Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered
- Protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: Schedule I

Employer Rating Survey to Assess Women Participation in Workforce (Business Standard)

31 Jan 2024

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To bolster the representation of women in the workforce and advance gender equality, various ministries of the central government issued a series of advisories and surveys on Tuesday, aimed at industries and employers.

About the Survey:

This survey aims to evaluate the prevalence of women-friendly practices across the nation's workplaces.
The government is collecting information on several key aspects, including the establishment of internal complaints committees (ICC) for preventing sexual harassment, the provision of childcare facilities, ensuring pay equity, offering flexible or remote work options for women, and providing safe transportation during late hours.
Additionally, various ministries of the Central government have issued advisories to enhance women's representation in the workforce.

Factors Affecting Low Women Workforce Participation:

Cultural and Social Norms: Traditional gender roles and societal expectations often discourage women from pursuing full-time employment due to responsibilities for caregiving and homemaking, limiting their participation in the workforce.
Educational Barriers: Limited access to quality education can hinder women from acquiring the necessary skills and qualifications for certain jobs, further reducing their workforce participation.
Gender Pay Gap: Disparities in wages between men and women discourage women from entering or remaining in the workforce, contributing to lower participation rates.
Structural Constraints: India's manufacturing and service sectors often have rigid structures that limit employment opportunities, particularly in the informal sector where many women work.
Security Concerns: Instances of sexual harassment in the workplace create safety concerns for women, acting as a barrier to their participation in the labour force.

Government Initiatives Supporting Women's Empowerment:

Code on Wages, 2019: Ensures equal pay for equal work without discrimination based on gender, fostering fairness in wage practices across establishments.
Code on Occupational Safety, Health And Working Conditions (OSH), 2020: Proposes amendments to improve employment conditions for women workers, particularly in above-ground mines, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Maternity Benefit Act, 2017: Enhances maternity benefits and fosters a healthier work environment for pregnant and nursing women, promoting their well-being and work-life balance.
Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK): A national organization offering microfinance services to empower economically disadvantaged women, supporting their livelihood projects and economic independence.
National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM): Focuses on creating sustainable self-employment opportunities for rural women through skill training, capacity building, and financial assistance, enabling them to engage in income-generating activities.
MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act): Guarantees 100 days of wage employment annually to rural households, actively encouraging women's participation and ensuring equitable employment opportunities.

Way Forward

Continued government initiatives aimed at empowering women in the workforce through skill development and expanded employment opportunities have yielded positive results, as evidenced by the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) released by the Labour Bureau in 2023. This survey indicated a notable increase in women's participation, rising from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 37% in 2022-23.

Draft Indian Stamp Bill, 2023 (Indian Express)

31 Jan 2024

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The Centre has proposed repealing the Indian Stamp Act, of 1899 and bringing in a new law for the stamp duty regime in the country.

What is Stamp Duty?

A stamp duty is essentially a government tax, which is levied to register documents, like an agreement or transaction paper between two or more parties, with the registrar.
Usually, the amount specified is fixed based on the document’s nature or is charged at a certain percentage of the agreement value stated in the document.
Stamp duties can be levied on bills of exchange, cheques, promissory notes, bills of lading, letters of credit, policies of insurance, transfer of shares, debentures, proxies and receipts.
Accepted as valid evidence in a court of law, stamp duties are levied by the Centre but appropriated by the concerned states within their territories under Article 268 of the Constitution.

Notable Provisions of the Draft Indian Stamp Bill, 2023:

Several provisions of the Indian Stamp Act, of 1899 have now become “redundant” or “inoperative” Therefore, the ministry has proposed repealing the existing Act and substituting it with new legislation to “reflect the present realities and objectives.”

The draft Bill has introduced provisions for digital e-stamping.
- “Electronic stamp” or “e-stamp” means an electronically generated impression denoting the payment of stamp duty by electronic means or otherwise, according to Section 2 (18) of the Bill.
There are also provisions for digital signatures.
- Section 2 (17) of the Bill states that the words “executed” and “execution”, used for instruments, will mean “signed” and “signature” and include attribution of electronic records and electronic signatures, as defined under the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000.
The IT Act defines “electronic records” as “data, record or data generated, image or sound stored, received or sent in an electronic form or micro film or computer generated microfiche.”
- Meanwhile, digital or electronic signature refers to the authentication of any electronic record by a subscriber through an electronic method or procedure.
The draft Bill also proposes to raise penalties.
- It seeks to increase the maximum penalty amount from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 for contravening any provisions of the law and impose Rs 1,000 per day for repeated offences.

What is the Indian Stamp Act, of 1899?

The Indian Stamp Act, of 1899 is a fiscal or money-related statute that lays down the law relating to tax levied in the form of stamps on instruments recording transactions.
Under Section 2 of the Act, an instrument includes every document by which any right or liability is or purports to be, created, transferred, limited, extended, extinguished or recorded.
According to this Act, a “stamp” has been defined as “any mark, seal or endorsement by any agency or person duly authorised by the State Government, and includes an adhesive or impressed stamp, for the purposes of duty chargeable under this Act”.
Section 3 of the 1899 Act prescribes that certain instruments or documents shall be chargeable with the amount indicated in Schedule 1 of the Act.
- These include bills of exchange or promissory notes.

Framework for Voluntary Carbon Market in Agriculture Sector (Down To Earth)

30 Jan 2024

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Why is it in the News?

The central government recently launched a framework to promote voluntary carbon markets in the agriculture sector.

What are Carbon Markets?

Carbon markets are trading systems in which carbon credits are sold and bought.
Companies or individuals can use carbon markets to compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing carbon credits from entities that remove or reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
One tradable carbon credit equals one tonne of carbon dioxide or the equivalent amount of a different greenhouse gas reduced, sequestered or avoided.
When a credit is used to reduce, sequester, or avoid emissions, it becomes an offset and is no longer tradable.

Why are Carbon Markets Important?

Scientists warn that 2°C of warming will be exceeded during the 21st century unless we achieve deep reductions in GHG emissions now.
Effective action will require concerted and sufficient investment, knowing also that the costs of inaction will be far higher.
The latest IPCC report finds all countries are falling way short, with financial flows three to six times lower than levels needed by 2030 – and even starker differences in some regions of the world.
Many countries are turning to carbon markets as a key component in driving and financing the necessary transformation to tackle the climate crisis.

How Many Types of Carbon Markets Are There?

There are broadly two types of carbon markets: compliance and voluntary.
- Compliance markets are created as a result of any national, regional and/or international policy or regulatory requirement.
- Voluntary carbon markets (VCM)– national and international – refer to the issuance, buying and selling of carbon credits, on a voluntary basis.
The current supply of voluntary carbon credits comes mostly from private entities that develop carbon projects, or governments that develop programs certified by carbon standards that generate emission reductions and/or removals.

Importance of Establishing a VCM Framework in the Agricultural Sector:

Emission Concerns: Agriculture in India contributes approximately 15% of the nation's greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the urgent need for mitigation strategies.
Vulnerability: With around 50% of cultivated land being rainfed and more than 80% of farmers categorized as small or marginal, the sector is highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change.
National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (2010): This initiative focuses on promoting adaptation measures such as agroforestry, micro irrigation, and soil health management, which not only reduce emissions but also offer opportunities for carbon sequestration.
Additional Income Opportunities: Through the implementation of these practices, farmers can potentially generate additional income streams.

'Maratha Military Landscapes' to be India's nomination for UNESCO World Heritage List for 2024-25 (The Hindu)

30 Jan 2024

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'Maratha Military Landscapes' representing extraordinary fortification and military system envisioned by the Maratha rulers will be India's nomination for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for the 2024-25 cycle, the Culture Ministry said on January 29.

About Maratha Military Landscapes:

Developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, the nomination comprises the 12 components of Salher Fort, Shivneri Fort, Lohgad, Khanderi Fort, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala Fort, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, and Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.
These components are strategically distributed across diverse geographical and physiographic regions, highlighting the military prowess of the Maratha rule.
The landscapes showcase the integration of landscape, terrain, and physiographic characteristics distinctive to the Sahyadri mountain ranges, the Konkan Coast, the Deccan Plateau, and the Eastern Ghats in the Indian Peninsula.
Out of the more than 390 forts in Maharashtra, only 12 have been chosen under the 'Maratha Military Landscapes of India'.
The inception of the Maratha Military ideology dates back to the 17th century during the reign of the Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, continuing through subsequent rules until the Peshwa rule of 1818 CE.

UNESCO Nomination Criteria:

There are two categories of nomination- cultural and natural criteria.
The Maratha Military Landscapes is nominated under cultural criteria.
To fulfil this criterion, a site should bear unique testimony to cultural tradition, it should be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble, or landscape that illustrates significant stage(s) in human history and it should be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, ideas or beliefs, artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.

World Heritage Sites In India:

India presently boasts 42 World Heritage sites, with 34 cultural sites, 7 natural sites, and 1 mixed site.
Maharashtra alone has six World Heritage Sites including:
- The Ajanta Caves
- Ellora Caves
- Elephanta Caves
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
- Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, and
- The Western Ghats (a natural site)

Tentative List Recognition:

The Maratha Military Landscapes of India, included in the Tentative List of World Heritage sites in 2021, is the sixth cultural property nominated for inclusion in the World Heritage List from Maharashtra.

Govt Brings Non-urea Fertilisers Under Price Control (Indian Express)

30 Jan 2024

Delhi HC Upholds Validity of Anti-profiteering Provision of CGST Act (TOI)

30 Jan 2024

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Delhi High Court has upheld the constitutional validity of the anti-profiteering clause in the GST law, which mandates companies to pass on the benefit of lower taxes and input tax credits to consumers.

What is an ‘Anti-profiteering’ Activity?

Any reduction in the rate of GST tax on any supply of goods or services or the benefit of input tax credit should have been passed on to the recipient by way of a commensurate reduction in prices.
The wilful action of not changing the final price of the good or service by various means, despite the reduction in the rate of the tax for that particular good or service, amounts to “profiteering”.

How is the Anti-profiteering Mechanism Under the CGST Act?

CGST mandate a 3-tier structure for investigation and adjudication of the complaints regarding profiteering.
- a) National Anti-profiteering
- b) Authority Directorate General of Safeguards
- c) State-level screening committees and standing committee

How Does the Screening Committee and Standing Committee Work?

GST council may constitute a standing committee, having members from both state and central government.
Every state shall constitute one state-level screening committee.
- It will have one member from the state government and one member from the central government as nominated by the respective appropriate authority.
- The complaints or issues of local nature will be first examined by the screening committee.
State-level screening and standing committee will examine the complaint and determine the prime facie evidence to support the validity of the complaint.
If any committee satisfies that the supplier has contravened section 171 of the CGST Act, the case shall be transferred to DG Safeguards for further investigation.
The committees shall complete the investigation within a period of a month from the date of the receipt of the application.

What is the Role of DG Safeguards in the Anti-profiteering Mechanism?

DG safeguards are the main investigation arm in the anti-profiteering mechanism.
It can summon the interested parties make inquiries or call the relevant documents.
It can seek help from technical experts in the due course of investigation.
DG Safeguards shall complete the investigation within a period of three months from the date of receipt of the report from either screening or standing committee.
The period can be extended for another three months.

Who Can File the Complaint Against Profiteering?

Any consumer or organisation experiencing a non-reduction in the price of the goods or service despite the reduction in the rate of GST can file a complaint with proper evidence.
Any supplier, trader, wholesaler or retailer, who could not get the benefit of input tax credit on account of a reduction in the rate of GST, can also file the complaint with proper evidence.

Western Countries Halt UNRWA Funding Amid Gaza War (Indian Express)

30 Jan 2024

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UN officials recently urged countries to reconsider their decision to suspend funding for UNRWA, promising strict action against any staff member implicated in Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel.

Context:

Recently UN officials urged countries to reconsider their decision to suspend the funding for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).
- The agency highlighted that two million Palestinians in Gaza are dependent on UNRWA services.
The US and eight other Western countries, which together provided more than half of UNRWA’s 2022 budget, cut the money after Israel accused some of the agency’s staff members of involvement in the October 7 attack.

What is the United Nations Refugee Agency for Palestinians (UNRWA)?

UNRWA stands for UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East.
It was founded in 1949 to provide aid to about 700,000 Palestinians who were forced to leave their homes in what is now Israel during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
The UN agency operates in Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank, as well as Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan — countries where the refugees took shelter after their expulsion.
It runs education, health, relief and social services, microfinance and emergency assistance programmes inside and outside refugee camps based in the aforementioned areas.
- Currently, around 5.9 million Palestine refugees — most of them are descendants of original refugees — access the agency’s services.
- Over 1 million are sheltering in UNRWA schools and other facilities in Gaza.
Funding: UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions by donor states like the US.
- It also gets a limited subsidy from the UN, which is used only for administrative costs, the agency’s website said.

What has Israel accused UNRWA of?

Israel has alleged that 12 staff members of UNRWA were involved in the October 7 attack.
It has also claimed that Hamas siphons off funds given to UNRWA and fights from in and around the agency’s facilities.
Israel has alleged that “Hamas tunnels (are) running next to or under UNRWA facilities and accuses the agency of teaching hatred of Israel in its schools.

How has UNRWA Responded?

The UNRWA has denied all the allegations, saying it has no links to Hamas.
In the statement, UN officials said out of 12 staff members who were accused of being involved in the attack, nine have been terminated.
One is confirmed dead and the identity of the two others is being clarified.

What Happens Now?

UNRWA is crucial for the survival of people living in Gaza, which has plunged into a humanitarian crisis after the outbreak of the conflict.
The agency has been the main supplier of food, water and shelter to civilians of the enclave.
UNRWA, however, would run out of money needed for its aid work within weeks if the funding isn’t restored.

Modified Parbati-Kalisindh- Chambal-ERCP (PKC-ERCP) Link Project (Indian Express)

29 Jan 2024

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An MoU was signed by Rajasthan and MP with the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti Sunday for implementation of the Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal-ERCP (Modified PKC-ERCP) Link Project.

What is the Modified PKC-ERCP?

The Modified PKC-ERCP is an inter-state river linking project.
A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) will be finalised among Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and the Centre, covering the sharing of water, exchange of water, sharing of costs and benefits, implementation mechanisms, arrangements for management and control of water in the Chambal basin, etc.

What is the PKC link project?

The Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal (PKC) link project is one of the 30 links included in the National Perspectives Plan formulated by the erstwhile Union Ministry of Irrigation (now Ministry of Water Resources) and the Central Water Commission in the year 1980.
As per the National Water Development Agency (NWDA), the preliminary feasibility report of the Kalisindh-Chambal link canal project was prepared and circulated to the states concerned in September 1991.
The report proposed the diversion of water from river Newaj (a tributary of Kalisindh) and Kalisindh to the river Chambal at either the Rana Pratap Sagar dam or the Gandhi Sagar dam.
Rajasthan came up with the proposal of the ERCP in 2019, and to utilise water resources optimally, the Task Force for Interlinking of Rivers (TFILR) discussed its merger with the PKC link project.
- This integration was approved by the Special Committee for Interlinking of Rivers in December 2022.

What is the ERCP?

The Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) is aimed at the intra-basin transfer of water within the Chambal basin, by utilising surplus monsoon water available in the Kalisindh, Parvati, Mej and Chakan subbasins and diverting it into water deficit sub-basins of Banas, Gambhiri, Banganga and Parbati.
This will provide drinking and industrial water to 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan, namely Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Karauli, Sawai-Madhopur, Dausa, Jaipur, Ajmer, Tonk, Bundi, Kota, Baran, and Jhalawar.

What are the benefits of the modified project?

According to the Jal Shakti Ministry, the link project proposes to provide drinking and industrial water in 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan, and Malwa and Chambal regions of Madhya Pradesh, apart from providing irrigation in 2.8 lakh ha. area (or more) each in both states (total of 5.6 lakh ha or more).

What is River Interlinking?

River Interlinking involves the creation of artificial channels to connect rivers and water bodies, facilitating the transfer of water from regions of surplus to those facing deficits.
Importance of River Interlinking:
- Disaster Management: River Interlinking plays a crucial role in mitigating floods and droughts, aiding in effective disaster management strategies.
- Economic Benefits: It offers economic advantages such as enhanced irrigation facilities, increased hydro-power generation capacity, and improved inland navigation, contributing to regional development.
- Ecological Restoration: River Interlinking initiatives contribute to the restoration of river ecosystems and provide support to biodiversity in water-deficient regions, fostering ecological balance.
Concerns Associated with River Interlinking:
- Biodiversity Loss: One major concern revolves around the potential loss of biodiversity resulting from altering natural river courses and habitats.
- Community Displacement: Another significant issue is the displacement of communities residing in areas affected by river interlinking projects, highlighting social and humanitarian challenges.

About the National Perspective Plan:

The National Perspective Plan was formulated in 1980 under the purview of the Ministry of Irrigation (currently known as the Ministry of Jal Shakti) and the Central Water Commission.
Objective:
- The plan aims to address regional disparities by facilitating the inter-basin transfer of water resources, thereby minimizing imbalances across different regions of the country.
Components:
- The plan consists of 30 link projects categorized into two main components:
  - the Himalayan component, comprising 14 projects, and
  - the Peninsular component, consisting of 16 projects.

World's First 'Black Tiger Safari', to be Established in Odisha (TOI)

29 Jan 2024

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Odisha is gearing up to provide an unparalleled experience to visitors through its upcoming black tiger safari, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

What are Black Tigers or Melanistic Tigers?

Black tigers, also known as melanistic tigers, are a unique phenomenon resulting from a genetic condition called melanism.
- Melanism causes an increased production of melanin, a pigment responsible for hair, eye, and skin colouration, resulting in black or nearly black skin, feathers, or hair in animals.
In Simlipal Tiger Reserve, many royal Bengal tigers belong to a distinct lineage characterized by higher-than-normal levels of melanin.
These tigers exhibit black and yellow interspersed stripes on their coats, though they are not entirely black.
- Therefore, they are more accurately described as pseudo-melanistic.
As per the 2022 All-India Tiger Estimation, 16 tigers were recorded in Similipal Tiger Reserve, out of which 10 were melanistic.
However, ongoing tiger surveys conducted by the state government suggest that the actual number of royal Bengal tigers in Similipal Tiger Reserve may be higher than reported by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.

Factors Contributing to (Pseudo) Melanism:

Research conducted by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) in Bengaluru indicates that a single mutation in the gene Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) is responsible for the enlargement or spreading of black stripes into the yellow background of black tigers.
Genetic analyses and computer simulations suggest that Similipal's black tigers may have originated from a very small founding population of tigers and are likely inbred.
Additionally, the isolation of tigers in Similipal Tiger Reserve leads to breeding within the population, further contributing to the prevalence of melanism among these tigers.

About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR):

Similipal, which derives its name from the ‘Simul’ (Silk Cotton) tree, is a national park and a Tiger Reserve situated in the northern part of Orissa’s Mayurbhanj district.
It spans an expansive area of 2,750 square kilometres (1,060 square miles), bordering Jharkhand and West Bengal.
Similipal Tiger Reserve is a key component of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve, which encompasses three protected areas:
- Similipal Tiger Reserve
- Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and
- Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary
Biodiversity: Similipal is renowned for its rich biodiversity, boasting a diverse array of wildlife including the majestic Bengal tiger, the iconic Asian elephant, the formidable gaur, and the elusive chausingha.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves site since 2009, it stands as Asia's second-largest biosphere reserve, following the Gulf of Kachchh in Gujarat.
Notably, Similipal Tiger Reserve holds the distinction of being the sole natural habitat in India for melanistic royal Bengal tigers, adding to its ecological significance.

The Procedure of Appointment of a Chief Minister (The Hindu)

29 Jan 2024

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Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar took oath as Bihar Chief Minister for a record ninth time on Sunday, returning to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance just 18 months after he left it, in his fifth switch in political loyalties since 2015.

About Chief Minister:

According to Article 163 of the Indian Constitution, each state shall have a Council of Ministers led by the Chief Minister (CM) to assist and provide advice to the Governor in carrying out the state's functions.
In the parliamentary system of governance, the Chief Minister holds the actual executive authority within states.
While the Governor serves as the ceremonial head of the state, the Chief Minister serves as the head of the government.
In the Indian political framework, the Chief Minister's role is analogous to that of the Prime Minister at the national level.

Appointment Process of Chief Minister:

The Constitution of India does not lay down specific criteria for the appointment of a Chief Minister.
Article 164 of the Indian Constitution stipulates that the Governor is responsible for appointing the Chief Minister, albeit with certain limitations.
Traditionally, the leader of the largest party in the state legislature is typically chosen as the Chief Minister, following parliamentary conventions.
Even individuals who are not members of the state legislature (both Houses) can be appointed as Chief Minister for a temporary period of six months, during which they must secure election or nomination (in the case of a bicameral legislature).
In situations where no single party or pre-poll coalition secures a majority in the assembly (known as a hung assembly), the Governor exercises discretionary powers to appoint the Chief Minister, relying on individual judgment.
The Constitution does not mandate the Chief Minister-elect to demonstrate majority support in the state assembly before assuming office.
However, after the formation of the ministry, the Governor may request the Chief Minister to prove majority support within a reasonable timeframe.

Oath and Affirmation of Chief Minister:

The third Schedule of the Indian Constitution outlines the "Forms of Oaths or Affirmations" to be taken by public officials.
Typically, the Chief Minister's oath, solemnly administered by the Governor, constitutes a formal commitment to uphold the constitution and execute the responsibilities of the position with integrity and diligence.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Chief Minister:

The Chief Minister serves as the principal advisor to the Governor on matters pertaining to the convening and adjournment of state legislative sessions.
As the head of the State Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister acts as the primary liaison between the Governor and the Council of Ministers.
The Chief Minister possesses the authority to propose the dissolution of the legislative assembly to the Governor when deemed necessary.
Additionally, the Chief Minister assumes the role of vice-chairman of the relevant zonal council on a rotational basis, serving a term of one year.

Alabama in USA Carried Out the First Ever Execution Using Nitrogen Gas (Indian Express)

29 Jan 2024

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Alabama inmate Kenneth Smith was executed on January 25 by nitrogen hypoxia, marking the United States’ first execution using the method, and the first time in over four decades that a new method of execution was introduced since lethal injection was first used in 1982.

News Summary:

An Alabama death row inmate has been put to death by nitrogen gas, in the first known execution of its kind in the US.
His case marks the first known execution by nitrogen hypoxia, which his lawyers had argued amounted to a form of “cruel and unusual punishment”.
- Death by nitrogen gas is an untested procedure, and its opponents say it can cause unnecessary suffering.
Kenneth Smith, 58, was a contract killer who had been on the death row since 1996.

What is Nitrogen Hypoxia?

Nitrogen hypoxia is a style of execution wherein an inmate is made to inhale nitrogen instead of oxygen, leading to gradual asphyxiation.
To achieve this, a respirator mask is placed over the head of the inmate on death row.
- While the air we breathe is made up of 80 per cent nitrogen, it exists in combination with oxygen, rendering the colourless, odourless gas harmless.
However, if a person is deprived of oxygen and made to breathe in just nitrogen, the gas proves lethal.
When a high concentration of nitrogen is inhaled, it replaces the oxygen in the body and disables the respiratory system, causing death.

Why Nitrogen Hypoxia?

Nitrogen hypoxia is the first new method of execution to be introduced since 1982 when lethal injections began being used.
The drug needed to administer lethal injections to inmates on death row became harder to access over time, pushing authorities to scout for alternatives.
Further, there were reports of a surge in complications associated with the procedure as well.
As of now, only three states in the United States have approved the use of nitrogen gas to execute death row inmates, namely, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Mississippi.

Is Nitrogen Hypoxia Ethical?

There is little research regarding death by nitrogen hypoxia.
When the State is considering using a novel form of execution that has never been attempted anywhere, the public has an interest in ensuring the State has researched the method adequately and established procedures to minimise the pain and suffering of the condemned person.
The risks associated with this method of execution include the risks surrounding the chances of a gas leak if the mask is not secured well on the inmate.
The law requires that this execution not be cruel.

Key facts about Nitrogen:

The air around us, the atmosphere, is made up of about 78% nitrogen and only 21% oxygen.
The rest comprises water vapour, argon, neon, helium, hydrogen and xenon.
- Those are known as "permanent gases".
There is also a range of "variable gases" in the atmosphere.
- They include methane, ozone and carbon dioxide — with concentrations that can vary from day to day and region to region.
At a concentration of 78% in the atmosphere, nitrogen is safe to breathe.
- But it grows dangerous and potentially fatal once levels of nitrogen reach 80% or more.
Nitrogen has no odour, is tasteless, and colourless.
Nitrogen gas is inert, but certain soil bacteria can "fix" nitrogen into a usable form for plants and animals.
French chemist Antoine Laurent Lavoisier named nitrogen azote, meaning without life.
Nitrogen was sometimes referred to as 'burnt' or 'dephlogisticated' air.
Nitrogen compounds are found in foods, fertilizers, poisons, and explosives.
It is responsible for the orange-red, blue-green, blue-violet, and deep violet colours of the aurora.
Nitrogen has a valence of 3 or 5.
Discovery: Scottish physician Daniel Rutherford in 1772
Nitrogen is the fifth most abundant element in the universe.

PM Modi Inaugurates the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of the SC (The Hindu)

29 Jan 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said ?800 crore has been approved for the expansion of the Supreme Court building complex while underlining that “ease of justice is the right of every Indian citizen and the Supreme Court is its medium”.

About the Supreme Court of India (SC):

Historical Context:

The Supreme Court of India, inaugurated on January 26, 1950, coinciding with India's Republic Day, stands as the apex judicial body of the nation.
Article 124 of the Constitution states that “There shall be a Supreme Court of India.”
Situated on Tilak Marg, New Delhi, it initially operated from the Parliament House before relocating to its current edifice.
The present building of the Supreme Court was inaugurated on August 4, 1958, by the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

Judicial Composition:

The original Constitution envisioned a Supreme Court comprising a Chief Justice and seven puisne Judges, with subsequent increments authorized by Parliament to meet the burgeoning caseload.
- Presently, the Supreme Court consists of 34 Judges, including the Chief Justice, who convene in smaller benches of two or three, while larger benches of five or more, known as Constitution Benches, address critical constitutional matters or resolve conflicting decisions.

Jurisdiction and Powers:

Endowed with original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction, the Supreme Court serves as the final interpreter of the Constitution and the ultimate court of appeal.
Its exclusive original jurisdiction extends to disputes between the Government of India and States or between States (Article 131), while Article 32 empowers it to safeguard Fundamental Rights through writs.
Additionally, the Supreme Court exercises appellate jurisdiction over High Courts and other judicial bodies, with the power to entertain appeals on substantial questions of law and issue special leave to appeal under Article 136.
Special advisory jurisdiction is vested in the Supreme Court under Article 143, allowing it to deliberate on matters referred by the President of India.

Judicial Powers and Enforcement:

Empowered to issue writs and directions for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights, the Supreme Court wields authority to punish for contempt of court, including self-contempt.
It can reconsider its final judgments through curative petitions and holds the authority to transfer cases between High Courts and adjudicate on election petitions.

Binding Authority:

As the apex judicial body, judgments rendered by the Supreme Court carry binding precedent on all subordinate courts and tribunals across India, ensuring uniformity and consistency in legal interpretation and application.

AISHE report shows higher enrollment of women in higher education for 8 consecutive years (Indian Express)

27 Jan 2024

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In the last eight years, more women have enrolled in higher education compared to men, according to the 2021-22 All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) released recently.

Major Highlights of the AISHE Report 2021-22:

The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) for 2021–2022 has recently been released, and it highlights a notable change in enrolment trends.
Women have enrolled in higher education at a higher rate than men during the last eight years, which is a significant step toward gender parity in academic fields.

Women Lead the Surge:

According to the AISHE report, women now constitute 55 percent of the total increase in higher education enrollment, accounting for a staggering 91 lakh individuals since the academic year 2014-15.
The latest statistics indicate that out of the overall enrollment of 4.33 crore, 48 percent, or 2.07 crore, are women—a marginal uptick from the 2.01 crore recorded in the previous academic year.
The trend, characterized by a continuous surge in female enrollment since 2014-15, is particularly noteworthy.
The report highlights an 18.7 percent increase in the enrollment of women from 2017-18 to 2021-22, showcasing a consistent upward trajectory.

Narrowing the Gender Gap:

The gender gap in higher education is steadily narrowing, with the science stream standing out as a domain where women are making significant strides.
Notably, 52.1 percent of the 57.18 lakh students enrolled in science at the undergraduate, postgraduate, MPhil, and PhD levels are women.
The undergraduate level alone witnesses 51 percent of women in the science stream.
- However, disparities persist in certain disciplines, such as engineering and technology, where female enrollment lags significantly behind.
- The AISHE survey reveals that of the total students in undergraduate engineering programs, only 11.3 lakh are females, while 27.6 lakh are males.
In addition to undergraduate programs, the report sheds light on postgraduate and PhD levels, showcasing a remarkable 61.2 percent of women in postgraduate science programs and a significant 62 percent representation in PhD programs in the sciences.
State-wise Enrolment: The top 6 states in terms of student enrollment are Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Rajasthan, constituting 53.3% of total enrollment.

Number of Foreign Students: There are 46,878 foreign students enrolled in higher education, with the highest share from Nepal (28%).
Teaching Staff in Higher Education: The total number of faculty/teachers in 2021-22 is 15.98 lakh, with about 56.6% male and 43.4% female, showing an increase of 46,618 teachers over 2020-21.

This emerging trend is not only indicative of changing societal dynamics but also underlines the need for continued efforts to foster inclusivity and equal opportunities within the realm of higher education.
The report serves as a testament to the progress made while emphasizing the areas that still require attention and intervention.

About the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) Report:

The All India Survey on Higher Education serves as the primary source of comprehensive data regarding the state of higher education in India.
Published by the Ministry of Education, this survey has been ongoing since 2011, covering all higher educational institutions across the country.
It gathers detailed information on various aspects including student enrollment, faculty data, infrastructure, and finances.
The report relies on voluntary data submission by higher education institutions listed on the aishe.gov.in portal, with the accuracy of the data overseen by the respective institution's Nodal Officers.

What are incestuous ‘sapinda’ marriages, and why has the Delhi High Court reaffirmed the ban on them? (Indian Express)

27 Jan 2024

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Delhi High Court this week rejected a challenge to the constitutionality of Section 5(v) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (HMA), which prohibits marriage between two Hindus if they are “sapindas” of each other — “unless the custom or usage governing each of them permits of a marriage between the two”.

What was the Case?

In 2007, the marriage of a woman was declared void after her husband proved it was a sapinda marriage and she did not come from a community where such marriages were customary.
This decision was challenged in the Delhi High Court, which dismissed the appeal in October 2023.
The woman then petitioned the High Court again, challenging the legality of the sapinda marriage ban.
- She claimed that sapinda marriages take place even when there is no evidence of custom.
As a result, Section 5(v), which prohibits sapinda marriages unless an established custom exists, violates the right to equality guaranteed by Article 14 of the Constitution.
The petitioner also claimed the marriage had received the consent of both families, demonstrating its legitimacy.

What are Sapinda Marriages?

A sapinda marriage is one between two people who are related to each other to some extent.
- According to Section 3(f)(ii), “Two persons are said to be sapindas of each other if one is a lineal ascendant of the other within the limits of sapinda relationship, or if they have a common lineal ascendant who is within the limits of sapinda relationship with reference to each of them.”
According to the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA), on the mother's side, a Hindu person cannot marry anyone within three generations of them in the "line of ascent".
- On the father's side, this prohibition applies to anyone within five generations of the individual.
This means that on their mother's side, a person cannot marry their sibling (first generation), parents (second generation), grandparents (third generation), or anyone else who shares this ancestry within the three generations.
On their father's side, this prohibition would apply to their grandparents' grandparents as well as anyone within five generations of this ancestry.

Exceptions to the Prohibition Against Sapinda Marriages?

The only exception can be found within the same provision.
An exception arises when the customs of the individuals involved permit sapinda marriages.
The term "custom" is defined in Section 3(a) of the HMA.
- According to this section, a custom must have been consistently and uniformly practised for an extended period and must have gained sufficient recognition among Hindus in a specific locality, community, or family to be deemed legally binding.

Are Marriages Similar to Sapinda Marriages Allowed in Other Countries?

In several European countries, the laws on relationships that are considered incestuous are less stringent than in India.
- In France, the crime of incest was abolished under the Penal Code of 1810, so long as the marriage was between consenting adults.
Portuguese law also does not criminalise incest.
Under Italian law, incest is a crime only if it causes a “public scandal”.
In the United States, incestuous marriages are banned in all 50 states, though incestuous relationships between consenting adults are allowed in New Jersey and Rhode Island.

CSIR’s Republic Day Tableau highlights the Purple Revolution through Lavender Cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir (PIB)

27 Jan 2024

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The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research's Republic Day Tableau highlighted the unleashing of a Purple Revolution ushered through Lavender cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir.

What is the Purple Revolution?

The Purple Revolution or Lavender Revolution, launched by the Ministry of Science & Technology, aims to promote the indigenous aromatic crop-based agro-economy through the ‘aroma mission’ of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
The mission aims to increase the income of the farmers and promote lavender cultivation on a commercial scale.
- Lavender oil, which sells for, at least, Rs. 10,000 per litre, is the main commodity.
Other popular products include medicines, incense sticks, soaps, and air fresheners.
The cultivation of lavender is very cost-effective as it yields revenue immediately.
Jammu and Kashmir’s climatic conditions are conducive to lavender cultivation since the aromatic plant can withstand both chilly winters and pleasant summers.
Additionally, it is a low-maintenance crop, which can be used from its second year of plantation and blossoms for fifteen years.
- In its entirety, lavender production gives better returns when compared to other traditional crops.
Under the One District One Product-Districts as Export Hubs (ODOP-DEH) initiative, lavender cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir has experienced a significant boom.
- Lavender has been designated by the central government as a "Doda brand product" to promote the rare aromatic plant and boost the morale of farmers, entrepreneurs, and agribusinesses involved in its cultivation as part of this Aroma Mission.
The Aroma Mission through the Purple Revolution aims to bring about a revolutionary change in the fragrance industry, consequently promoting the expansion of the aroma sector and generating rural employment, through targeted interventions during cultivation, product refinement, market development and curating an expansion strategy for the lavender crop.

About Aroma Mission:

The Aroma Mission, launched in 2016, aims to enhance the cultivation of plants like lavender, Aloe Vera, Mehndi, Menthol, and Mint, known for their aromatic and medicinal properties.
Developed by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), this mission employs new technologies.
It seeks to revolutionize the aroma sector by improving agricultural practices, processing methods, and product development.
Additionally, it provides technical and infrastructure support to farmers and growers nationwide, ensuring fair prices through buy-back mechanisms.
The mission targets to expand cultivation by 30,000 hectares and catalyze aromatic crop cultivation in 60,000 hectares overall.
This expansion is expected to yield an extra 700 tonnes of essential oils used in perfumery, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, creating a business worth at least 200 crores.

Interim Budget 2024: Exporters seek higher allocation for MAI scheme (Business Standard)

27 Jan 2024

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Ahead of the interim Budget 2024, exporters have urged the government to allocate funds worth $3.88 billion for the Market Access Initiative (MAI) scheme to promote Indian exports and help them hit the ambitious $2 trillion target by 2030.

What is the Market Access Initiatives (MAI) Scheme?

The Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme is an Export Promotion Scheme envisaged to act as a catalyst to promote India’s exports on a sustained basis.
The scheme is formulated on a focus product-focus country approach to evolve specific markets and specific products through market studies/surveys.
Assistance would be provided to Export Promotion Organizations/Trade Promotion Organizations/National Level Institutions/ Research Institutions/Universities/Laboratories, Exporters etc., for enhancement of exports through accessing new markets or through increasing the share in the existing markets.
Under the Scheme, the level of assistance for each eligible activity has been fixed.
The following activities will be eligible for financial assistance under the Scheme:
- Marketing Projects Abroad
- Capacity Building
- Support for Statutory Compliances
- Studies
- Project Development
- Developing Foreign Trade Facilitation Web Portal
- To support Cottage and handicraft units

How does the MAI Scheme work?

The scheme’s primary goal is to facilitate export growth by enabling entities to enter new markets or enhance their presence in existing markets.
To accomplish this, the scheme provides predetermined levels of assistance for each eligible activity.
By directing attention to key products and specific markets, the MAI Scheme serves as a catalyst for driving India’s export expansion in a sustainable and strategic manner.

Who is eligible to receive assistance under the MAI Scheme?

Various entities are eligible to receive financial assistance under the MAI Scheme, including:
- Export promotion organizations
- Trade promotion organizations
- National level institutions
- Research institutions
- Universities
- Laboratories
- Individual exporters
- Start-ups

Who administers the MAI Scheme?

The MAI Scheme is administered by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Rare Golden Tiger takes a stroll in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park, video stuns people (HT)

27 Jan 2024

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A rare golden tiger was recently spotted in Kaziranga National Park taking a stroll and is the only known golden big cat in India.

What is a Golden Tiger?

A Golden Tiger, also called a Golden Tabby Tiger, is a Bengal tiger with a unique colour variation caused by a recessive gene.
The tiger looks golden because it has a mutation or a genetic variant.
- Basically, tigers have three colours: black, orange and white.
In the Golden Tiger, the black colour is missing and it is slightly faded.
- The golden colouring of these tigers comes from a recessive trait called 'wideband,' affecting how black pigments are produced during hair growth.
Golden tigers are not a distinct subspecies but rather a product of genetic diversity among Bengal tigers.
They are extremely rare in the wild and even more so in captivity.

About Kaziranga National Park:

Kaziranga National Park lies partly in the Golaghat District and partly in the Nagaon District of Assam.
It is the oldest park in Assam and covers an area of 430 sq km along the river Brahmaputra on the North and the Karbi Anglong hills on the South.
The National Highway 37 passes through the park area and tea estates, hemmed by table-top tea bushes.
Kaziranga National Park a world heritage site is famous for the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros, the landscape of Kaziranga is of sheer forest, tall elephant grass, rugged reeds, marshes & shallow pools.
- It was declared a National Park in 1974.
It is one of the last areas in eastern India undisturbed by a human presence.
It is inhabited by the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds.
Vegetation: Due to the difference in altitude between the eastern and western areas of the park, mainly four main types of vegetation’ like alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests.
Flora: Kumbhi, Indian gooseberry, cotton tree, and elephant Apple are among the famous trees that can be seen in the park.
Fauna: The forest region of Kaziranga Park is home to the world’s largest population of Indian Rhinoceros.
- Other animals that can be seen in the elephant grass, marshland and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests of Kaziranga are Hoolock Gibbon, Tiger, Leopard, Indian Elephant, Sloth Bear, Wild water buffalo, swamp deer, etc.
- Also in this park the good number of migratory bird species from Central Asia.

With the increase in tiger population every year, the government authorities declared Kaziranga a Tiger Reserve in the year 2006.

As Army launches Op Sarvashakti, recalling Sarpvinash of 2003, that crushed terror base in Pir Panjal (Indian Express)

25 Jan 2024

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The Army has launched Operation Sarvashakti in the Rajouri-Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir, deploying forces on both sides of the Pir Panjal range to target terrorists who have carried out a series of attacks on troops in the area.

What is Operation Sarvashakti?

In a bid to combat increasing terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, the Army has initiated Operation Sarvashakti, under which terrorists operating on both sides of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges in the Union Territory will be neutralised.
- There were three major attacks on the security forces in 2023, and over the past few years, 20 soldiers have been killed in terrorist ambushes in this area.
Operation Sarvashakti, as part of which at least three brigades of additional troops are being deployed in the sector from various reserve and strike corps formations in order to increase the density of troops and, therefore, the likelihood of contact with terrorists, recalls an earlier operation by the Army in the same forests more than two decades ago.
Back in 2003, Indian forces launched Operation Sarpvinash to flush out terrorists who had infiltrated from across the border and set up camps in the thick forests south of the Pir Panjal range, especially in the Hilkaka area in Poonch.

What was Operation Sarpvinash?

Operation Sarpvinash, launched in April 2003, marked a significant counter-insurgency effort in Jammu and Kashmir.
In response to intelligence indicating over 300 foreign terrorists establishing secure camps in Surankote and Hilkaka post-infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC), the three-month-long operation involved 10,000 troops in a challenging 150 sq km area.
Employing helicopters and ground forces, the operation neutralized approximately 100 terrorists, dismantled bunkers, and recovered weapons, explosives, and supplies.
Operation Sarpvinash successfully restored peace to the region until 2017-18, impacting the region's security dynamics.
- However, since 2021, there has been a resurgence of high-intensity attacks on security forces in this area.

Why is this area important strategically?

The areas south of Mendhar leading to the Pir Panjal range through Hilkaka constitute among the shortest routes of access for infiltrators from across the LoC into the Kashmir valley.
The terrorists chose this region to set up camps because dominating this area can potentially provide a conduit to personnel in the event of a military operation by the Pakistanis, and easier infiltration of terrorists.
The dense forests and steep mountain slopes offer both adequate cover and visual domination of the area.
Terrorists were able to merge with the foliage whenever Indian troops carried out searches in the area and inflicted casualties in case of contact.
All of these locational advantages for terrorists remain intact to some degree even now.

Centre approves incentive of Rs 8,500 crore for coal gasification projects (Indian Express)

25 Jan 2024

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In a bid to achieve the target of coal gasification of 100 million tonnes (MT) of coal by 2023 in India, the government recently approved Rs 8,500 crore incentives.

What is Coal Gasification?

Coal gasification is a thermo-chemical procedure wherein the pressure and heat of the gasifier disintegrate coal into its chemical components.
The resulting "syngas" are mostly carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen, with some other gaseous substances thrown in for good measure.
Coal gasification is an in-situ method wherein oxygen is infused into the seam together with water and ignited at high temperatures, causing coal to partly oxidised into hydrogen, CO, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and hydrogen sulphide (H2S).
Ex-situ reactors are designed to simulate the gasification process above the ground's surface.
- Sulphur in coal is transformed to H2S and trace volumes of carbonyl sulphide during the gasification process (COS).
- Acid gas removal technology can easily and cost-effectively discard these sulphur compounds.
There is no scrubber sludge produced by coal gasification plants, which necessitates careful and expensive disposal.
The majority of the wash water is reprocessed, and residual wastewater from gasification plants can be treated effectively.
As a result, coal gasification is regarded as a cleaner coal technology when compared to coal combustion.
Furthermore, coal could be used to generate a range of products using clean coal innovations such as hydrogen, methanol, and fertilisers via coal gasification.
Carbon fibres and plastic composites made from coal power plant ash/residue.

How can it be used?

Syngas, according to proponents of coal gasification, can be used to generate power, in energy-efficient fuel cell technology, or as chemical "building components" for industrial applications.
- The hydrogen can also be extracted and used to power a hydrogen economy.
Coal gas can also be transformed into a transportation fuel to be used in automobiles as a replacement for gasoline, but it is less efficient than the current output and combustion of petroleum-based gasoline.
Coal gasification is said to be more efficient than traditional coal burning since it can use the gases two times: the coal gases are first purified of contaminants before being fired inside a turbine to produce energy.
The gas turbine exhaust heat can be then collected and used to produce steam for a steam turbine generator.
- This is known as a combined process, and according to DOE, a coal gasification processing facility using this dual method can possibly attain an efficiency of 50% or higher, compared to the customary coal power plant, which is typically just above 30%.

Significance of Coal Gasification:

India announced environmental targets as its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement in 2016.
- In order to meet these objectives, coal gasification aids in the decrease of emission levels and the advancement of non-fossil fuel-based energy resources.
The syngas produced by coal gasification can be used to generate urea and a variety of products such as methanol, Dimethyl ether (DME), and olefins, allowing India to minimise imports and become self-sufficient.
Syngas CO and H2 are essential reducing agents for steel production and are regarded as an environmentally friendly technique of steel production because they reduce the import of furnace oil.
India has ambitious plans to produce active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) domestically rather than importing them from China.
- As a result, the potential of Syngas requirement for making APIs, as well as methanol as a solvent, is being investigated.
The synthesis gas can be used in an Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) system to generate electricity in an efficient and environmentally friendly manner.

Initiatives taken by India:

The Ministry of Coal, through Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, has taken the initiative, National Coal Gasification Mission, that is to utilise coal through coal gasification, with the goal of achieving 100 MT coal gasification by 2030.
- It has also been recommended that all coal companies assign a nodal officer and formulate a plan for gasifying at least 10 per cent of their coal production.
SHAKTI policy was implemented in coal gasification projects to minimise operating costs by allocating long-term coal linkages through auction.

What is National Voters’ Day?: Govt plans events around theme for 2024 (Indian Express)

25 Jan 2024

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India today is celebrating its 14th National Voters’ Day. It is celebrated annually on January 25 since 2011 to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India. The ECI was founded on January 25, 1950.

Why is National Voters’ Day celebrated?

National Voters’ Day aims to promote people’s participation in elections by encouraging and felicitating young voters and increasing voter enrolment.
It is also utilised to spread awareness among voters and to promote informed participation in the electoral process.
The day is celebrated at the national, state, district, constituency and polling booth levels, which makes it one of the largest celebrations in the country.
The date chosen for National Voters' Day commemorates the formation of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on January 25, 1950.
- The ECI is an autonomous constitutional body under Article 324 entrusted with the sacred responsibility of conducting free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
- Since its inception, the ECI has played a pivotal role in upholding the democratic principles of India, ensuring the voice of every citizen is heard.
The first National Voters’ Day was celebrated in 2011 under the leadership of the then Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) S Y Quraishi.
- Emulating India’s example, six countries, including Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal and Bhutan, have started celebrating National Voters Day.
National Voters’ Day pledge: As a part of the celebrations, all government offices, autonomous bodies, and organisations take a pledge on the day.
- Schools and educational Institutions across the country are encouraged to conduct activities such as debates, discussions, and competitions on the theme of Voters’ Day.

What is the theme for National Voters’ Day 2024?

The theme for this year is ‘Nothing Like Voting, I Vote For Sure’, which is a continuation of last year’s theme, and conveys an individual’s feeling and aspiration towards participation in the electoral process through the power of their vote.
The logo for this year’s theme is designed in such a way that it showcases the festivity and inclusivity of the electoral process.
- The Ashoka Chakra in the background represents the largest democracy in the world, whereas the inked finger represents the participation of each and every voter of the country.
- The tick mark in the logo stands for informed decision-making by the voter.

A shallow lake in Canada could reveal how life on Earth began (Space.com)

25 Jan 2024

NFRA to inspect Big 4, others in 2024 too (Financial Express)

25 Jan 2024

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The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is going to inspect the Big Four audit firms as well as other top auditors of large listed entities in 2024, an official familiar with the development told FE.

What is the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA)?

The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is a statutory body and was constituted on 1st October 2018 by the Government of India under Sub Section (1) of section 132 of the Companies Act, 2013.
It is responsible for setting accounting standards in the country.
- The Punjab National Bank fraud prompted the government to establish an NFRA as the legal regulator for the auditing profession.
Its mandate is to improve the quality and consistency of financial statements in the country and ensure that businesses and financial institutions disclose accurate and fair information.
The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is located in New Delhi.
The chairperson since March 2022 is Ajay Bhushan Pandey.
The NFRA can probe listed as well as unlisted public companies.
- Companies must have a paid-up capital of ?500 crores and an annual turnover of ?1,000 crores.

Functions and Duties:

As per Sub Section (2) of Section 132 of the Companies Act, 2013, the duties of the NFRA are to:
Recommend accounting and auditing policies and standards to be adopted by companies for approval by the Central Government;
Monitor and enforce compliance with accounting standards and auditing standards;
Oversee the quality of service of the professions associated with ensuring compliance with such standards and suggest measures for improvement in the quality of service;
Perform such other functions and duties as may be necessary or incidental to the aforesaid functions and duties.

Composition of the NFRA:

As mandated by the Companies Act, NFRA is comprised of a chairperson appointed by the Central Government and a maximum of 15 members.
The individuals selected for these roles must possess expertise in accountancy, auditing, finance, or law.
Furthermore, they are required to declare to the Central Government that there is no conflict of interest or lack of independence in their appointment.

Membership Qualifications:

All members, including the chairperson, who are in full-time employment, are prohibited from association with any audit firm (including related consultancy firms) during their term of office and for a period of two years after the completion of their term.

Powers of the NFRA:

The NFRA has the same powers as the Civil Court.
The NFRA has the authority to investigate matters of misconduct involving CAs and Chartered Accountants.
It can impose a penalty of not less than ?1 lakh but not exceeding 5 times the fees collected.
Also, the NFRA may also investigate and take action against individuals who violate the rules of professional conduct.
It has the power to initiate investigations on its own and upon referral from the Central Government.

India overtakes Hong Kong as the world’s fourth-largest stock market by market capitalisation (Live Mint)

24 Jan 2024

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Recently, India’s stock market has overtaken Hong Kong’s to rank as the fourth-biggest equity market globally for the first time.

News Summary:

As of January 22, 2024, data compiled by Bloomberg indicates that the combined value of shares listed on Indian exchanges has reached USD 4.33 trillion, surpassing Hong Kong's USD 4.29 trillion.
- The top three global stock markets are currently the United States, China, and Japan.

What is Stock Market?

A stock market is a platform where individual and institutional investors trade various securities, including stocks, bonds, Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), and derivatives.
Stock markets are categorized into two types:
- Primary Market: Involves the initial offering of new shares, bonds, etc.
- Secondary Market: Encompasses the trading of existing securities like equities and bonds.
  - Examples include stock exchanges such as the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Importance of Stock Market:

For Businesses: Facilitates access to capital, risk diversification, and supports business expansion.
For Investors: Offers better returns compared to traditional savings instruments, provides tax benefits, and contributes to capital growth.
For Society: Drives social impact through instruments like Social Impact Bonds, encourages sustainable investment via Green bonds and promotes responsible financial practices.
For Economy: Mobilizes idle savings, fosters entrepreneurship through venture capital funds, and plays a vital role in economic development.

Challenges in Indian Stock Markets:

High Volatility: Market fluctuations can be significant, posing challenges for investors.
Limited Issuer and Investor Base: Constraints on both issuers and investors can adversely impact liquidity.
Sub-optimal Corporate Debt Market: Dominance of government bonds hampers the growth of the corporate debt market.
Other Issues: Various factors, such as regulatory complexities and market inefficiencies, can affect the optimal functioning of Indian stock markets.

How is the Stock Market Regulated in India?

The stock market in India is regulated by various bodies, with the primary regulatory authority being the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
- SEBI is a statutory regulatory body established in 1992 to protect the interests of investors and promote the development of the securities market in India.
- It operates under the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992.
Also, while SEBI is the primary regulatory authority for the Indian stock market, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) supports its efforts by ensuring overall financial stability, implementing monetary policies, and regulating aspects related to banking and foreign investments.
Additionally, these bodies contribute to the nation's economic progress by facilitating capital formation.

What is end-to-end encryption? How does it secure information? (The Hindu)

24 Jan 2024

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There are several ways to encrypt information depending on the level of secrecy and protection required.

What is End-to-end Encryption (E2EE)?

End-to-end encryption (E2EE) is a type of messaging that keeps messages private from everyone, including the messaging service.
- When E2EE is used, a message only appears in decrypted form for the person sending the message and the person receiving the message.
- The sender is one "end" of the conversation and the recipient is the other "end"; hence the name "end-to-end."

How Does Encryption Work?

Encryption works by altering data so that only someone who possesses a specific piece of knowledge — known as the key — can interpret the data.
Keys can take different forms in different contexts.
- With communications over the Internet, a key is a string of bits that plays a role in the complex mathematical equations used to scramble and unscramble data.
With E2EE, the key that can encrypt and decrypt messages remains saved on a user's device.

What Kind of Encryption Does E2EE Use?

End-to-end encryption uses a specialized form of encryption called public key encryption (also sometimes called asymmetric encryption).
- Public key encryption enables two parties to communicate without having to send the secret key over an insecure channel.
Public key encryption relies on using two keys instead of one: a public key and a private key.
- While anyone, including the messaging service, can view the public key, only one person knows the private key.
- Data encrypted with the public key can only be decrypted with the private key (not the public key).
- This contrasts with symmetric encryption, where only one key is used to both encrypt and decrypt.

How Does End-to-end Encryption Support Privacy?

E2EE ensures that no one can see messages except for the two people who are communicating with each other.
When implemented properly, it does not require users to trust that a service will handle their data properly.
Thus, E2EE gives people total control over who can read their messages, enabling them to keep their messages private.

What are the Limitations of End-to-end Encryption?

E2EE keeps messages secure in transit (as they pass from one person to another).
- But it does not protect messages once they reach their destination.
E2EE is not guaranteed to be future-proof. When implemented correctly, modern encryption methods are strong enough to resist encryption-breaking efforts from even the most powerful computers in the world.
But the more powerful in the future like Quantum computers, if developed, would be able to crack modern encryption algorithms.
Using E2EE keeps messages secure in the present, but it may not keep them secure permanently.

Karpoori Thakur’s vision of social justice inspires our governance model: PM Modi (The Hindu)

24 Jan 2024

The need to overhaul a semiconductor scheme (The Hindu)

24 Jan 2024

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The semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme, set to undergo a mid-term appraisal, has so far approved only seven start-ups, falling significantly short of its intended goal of supporting 100 over a span of five years since its announcement.

About Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme:

Under the DLI scheme, government will provide financial incentives and design infrastructure to domestic companies, start-ups and MSMEs focussed on semiconductor design.
The DLI scheme has been announced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to offset the disabilities in the domestic industry involved in semiconductor design in order to not only move up in value-chain but also strengthen the semiconductor chip design ecosystem in the country.
C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing), a scientific society operating under MeitY, will serve as the nodal agency for implementation of the DLI scheme.

Objectives:

- Nurturing and facilitating the growth of the domestic companies, startups and MSMEs.
- Achieving significant indigenization in semiconductor content and IPs involved in the electronic products deployed in the country, thereby facilitating import substitution and value addition in the electronics sector.
- Strengthening and facilitating access to semiconductor design infrastructure for startups and MSMEs.

Duration: The scheme shall initially be for three (3) years from 01-01-2022.

The scheme has three components – Chip Design infrastructure support, Product Design Linked Incentive and Deployment Linked Incentive.
- Under the Chip Design infrastructure support, C-DAC will set the India Chip Centre to host the state-of-the-art design infrastructure (viz. EDA Tools, IP Cores and support for MPW (Multi Project Wafer fabrication) & post-silicon validation) and facilitate its access to supported companies.
- Under the Product Design Linked Incentive component, reimbursement of up to 50% of the eligible expenditure subject to a ceiling of ?15 Crore per application will be provided as fiscal support to the approved applicants who are engaged in semiconductor design.
- Under the Deployment Linked Incentive component, an incentive of 6% to 4% of net sales turnover over 5 years subject to a ceiling of ?30 Crore per application will be provided to approved applicants whose semiconductor design for Integrated Circuits (ICs), Chipsets, System on Chips (SoCs), Systems & IP Cores and semiconductor linked design are deployed in electronic products.
The DLI Scheme will also take a graded and pre-emptive approach to Identify the Products of national priorities and implement strategies for their complete or near complete indigenisation & deployment thereby taking steps towards the import substitution & value addition in strategic & societal sectors.

Rahul Gandhi prevented from visiting Batadrava Than Significance of this Assam shrine (Indian Express)

24 Jan 2024

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently prevented from visiting Assam’s Batadrava Than, where he was going as part of his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

What is the Batadrava Than?

The Batadrava Than, or Bordowa Than, is a temple complex at the birthplace of revered Vaishnavite reformer-saint Srimanta Sankardeva (1449-1568).
Located in Nagaon district, the Batadrava Than, or Bordowa Than, is one of the most sacred sites for Assamese Vaishnavites.
Sankardeva founded the first-ever Kirtan Ghar at Bordowa in 1494 AD to practise and preach the neo-Vaishnavite faith during the fifteenth century in Assam and propagated the Ek Saran Naam Dharma.
Various structures within the campus include Natghar (drama hall), Alohighar (guest room), Sabhaghar (assembly hall), Rabhaghar (music room), Hatipukhuri, Aakashi Ganga, Doul mandir (festive temple), and more.
There is also a mini-museum displaying historical articles and artefacts.
- Bordowa Than has a history of disputes over ownership, leading to its division into two satras: Narowa and Salaguri. In 1958, it was reunified under the banner of 'Bordowa Than,' with both former Satras combined, and a single Namghar was established.

What was Srimanta Sankardeva’s Philosophy?

He propagated the Ek Saran Naam Dharma.
The Ek Saran Naam Dharma focussed on worship in the form of bhakti (devotion) to Lord Krishna, through singing and congregational listening of His name and deeds.
Sankardeva espoused a society based on equality and fraternity, free from caste differences, orthodox Brahmanical rituals and sacrifices.
- His teaching focused on prayer and chanting (naam) instead of idol worship. His dharma was based on the four components of deva (god), naam (prayers), bhakats (devotees), and guru (teacher).
The Neo-Vaishnavite reformist movement that Sankardeva started is behind the monastic institutions called Thans/Sattras that dot Assam.
- As the saint travelled across Assam, spreading his teachings, these Sattras/Thans were established as centres of religious, social and cultural reforms in the 16th century.
Today, the Sattras promulgate Sankardeva’s unique “worship through art” approach with music (borgeet), dance (xattriya) and theatre (bhauna).
Each Sattra has a naamghar (worship hall) as its nucleus and is headed by an influential “Sattradhikar”.

Literary Contributions:

Srimanta Sankardev's significant literary works include 'Kirtan Ghosa' and 'Gunamala.'
- He is credited with composing sacred songs known as 'Borgeet.'
His penned dramas, recognized as 'Ankia Naat,' featured Sattriya Dance as an integral component during that era.
- In these 'Ankia Naats,' Srimanta Sankardev employed a narrative style through drama, often portraying the lives of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama.
- His inaugural dramatic piece was 'Chihnajatra,' followed by others like 'Kaliya Daman' and 'Patni Prasad.'
Remarkably, at the age of twelve, when he commenced formal education, he crafted a poem extolling Lord Vishnu titled 'Karatala Kamala Kamala Dala Nayana.'
- Notably, during this early phase, he composed the poem using only consonants, having not yet learned about vowels.

First meeting of Social Audit Advisory Body reviews social justice schemes (ET)

23 Jan 2024

Restoring Lake Victoria: CSE, Tanzanian authorities hold multi-nation stakeholder consultation (DownToEarth)

23 Jan 2024

With no iron or steel, Ayodhya temple is a study in sandstone (The Hindu)

23 Jan 2024

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A new landmark of India — both structural and spiritual — rose on Ayodhya's horizon on January 22 in the form of a new-age architectural marvel of elegant sandstones, diligently carved by craftspeople with dedication and devotion to Lord Ram.

Major Features of the Ram Temple:

No iron or steel has been used in the construction of the grand structure.
Stones have been sourced from Rajasthan's Bansi Paharpur area.
The entire temple superstructure will eventually be three storeys — ground plus two floors.
Nagara style: The temple complex, built in the traditional Nagara style, will be 380 feet long from the east to the west, 250 feet wide and 161 feet high.
- Each floor of the temple will be 20 feet high and have a total of 392 pillars and 44 gates.
Images of Lord Hanuman, other deities, peacocks and flower patterns have been carved onto the stones, lending the structure a divine look.
Unique feature: Around the grand temple is a rectangular periphery called percota, a feature found in temples in south India, but not generally in north India.
- The percota will be 14 feet wide and the periphery span 732 metres.
- The temple will be nestled within the percota periphery.
Ornate statues of elephants, lions, Lord Hanuman and Garuda were installed at the main entrance leading to the temple.
- These statues have also been made using sandstone brought from Bansi Paharpur.
An ancient Shiva temple that exists on the Kuber Tila has also been revitalised.
Green Complex: About 70 per cent of the complex will be a green area.
- "The green area includes portions which are very dense and, in some segments, even sunlight hardly filters through.
The complex will have two sewage treatment plants — a water treatment plant and a dedicated electricity line from the powerhouse.
- The fire brigade post will be able to source water from an underground reservoir.

Additional Architectural Aspects:

A time capsule, located approximately 2,000 feet below the ground beneath the temple, houses a copper plate inscribed with pertinent information about the Ram Mandir, Lord Rama, and Ayodhya.
The objective of this time capsule is to preserve the temple's identity for posterity, preventing it from fading into obscurity in the years to come.
Engineered as an earthquake-resistant structure, the temple boasts an estimated age of 2500 years.

PM Modi extends his greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas (Indian Express)

23 Jan 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas on 23rd January.

Why Parakram Diwas is Celebrated?

The government officially announced on January 19, 2021, that January 23 be observed as Parakram Diwas in order to pay tribute to Netaji’s relentless pursuit of India’s freedom.
The government of India has decided to celebrate his birthday on the 23rd day of January every year as “PARAKRAM DIWAS” to inspire people of the country, especially the youth, to act with fortitude in the face of adversity as Netaji did, and to infuse in them a spirit of patriotic fervour,” the Centre had said in a notification.
Parakram Diwas, which translates to “Day of Valour”.
In 2021, the first event took place at Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata.
In 2022, a hologram statue of Netaji was unveiled at India Gate, and in 2023, the 21 largest unnamed islands of Andaman & Nicobar Islands were named after the 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees and a model of National Memorial dedicated to Netaji which was supposed to be built on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, was unveiled.

Key Facts About Subhas Chandra Bose:

Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Orissa.
In 1920, he successfully passed the civil service examination but resigned from his position in April 1921 after learning about the nationalist turmoil in India.
A prominent Indian nationalist leader, he played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule.
Joined the Indian National Congress and actively participated in the struggle for independence.
Elected president of the Indian National Congress for two consecutive terms but resigned due to ideological conflicts with Mahatma Gandhi.
In 1939, Bose founded the Forward Bloc, an organization aimed at unifying anti-British forces in India.
Fled from India at the beginning of World War II, travelling to the Soviet Union, Germany, and Japan in pursuit of an alliance against British forces in India.
With Japanese assistance, reorganized and led the Indian National Army, comprising Indian prisoners-of-war and plantation workers from Southeast Asia.
Established the Azad Hind Government in exile with Japanese support, leading the Indian National Army in battles against the allies in Imphal and Burma.

PM Modi announces solar roof-top scheme for one crore households (HT)

23 Jan 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced the 'Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana' under which one crore households will get rooftop solar across the nation.

What is 'Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana'?

The scheme aims to equip one crore poor to middle-class households with rooftop solar panels in a bit to provide electricity from solar energy.
The scheme would not only reduce the electricity bill of the poor and middle class but would also make India self-reliant in the energy sector.
- Rooftop solar panels are the photovoltaic panels installed on the roof of a building which is connected to the main power supply unit.
- Thus, it reduces the consumption of grid-connected electricity and saves electricity costs for the consumer.
- In a solar rooftop system, there is only an upfront capital investment and minimal cost for maintenance.
Under this scheme, one crore households will get solar rooftops.
Moreover, it will offer additional income for surplus electricity generation.
The consumer can choose any vendor on the national portal and after installation, the subsidy is sent directly to the bank account of the consumer.
The Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana is a new scheme but very similar to the previously announced Rooftop Solar Programme in 2014.
- The previous scheme had aimed to produce 40,000 megawatts (MW) or 40 gigawatts (GW) of solar power by 2022.

India's Advancements in Solar Energy:

At the end of last year, 2023, India’s solar power generation stood at 73.31 GW, up from 2022’s 63.3 GW.
- However, rooftop solar power generation only stands at around 11.08 GW as of December 2023.
The total solar power generated in the nation, Rajasthan leads the pack with 18.7 GW while Gujarat follows with 10.5 GW.
- However, when talking about rooftop solar power, Gujarat is at peak position — with 2.8 GW — followed by Maharashtra at 1.7 GW.
India has more than 300 million households and an average of 300 sunny days each year, which has tremendous potential for rooftop solar installations in residential spaces.
However, experts note that despite several measures, India’s rooftop solar power generation is not where it should be, listing reasons for the situation.
- The primary reason for rooftop solar not becoming popular is that it is still an expensive option for many.
- There is also a lack of awareness.

Importance of Solar Power to India:

Harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity is important to India for multiple reasons.
If India wants to achieve its aim of becoming net zero by 2070, it has to look towards the sun.
In fact, at COP26, in November 2021, India committed to meet 50 per cent of its electricity requirements from renewable energy sources by 2030.
- For these aims to be met, India has to harness the full capacity of the sun.
Moreover, India’s share of global energy demand is predicted to double to 11 per cent in 2040, making it imperative to enhance energy security and self-sufficiency in power generation without increasing environmental costs.
- This increase in power demand is likely to increase India’s reliance on coal, oil and natural gas as a source of energy.
However, additional imports of oil and increased domestic production of coal will not only fall short of energy demand but will also entail economic and environmental costs.
- The expansion of solar power units and increased reliance on solar power allow India to enhance energy security in the face of rising demand.
Furthermore, India is already facing depleting groundwater levels, owing to which the nation must shift its energy resources away from water.

Davos meeting 2024: 5 key takeaways (Indian Express)

22 Jan 2024

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This year’s edition of the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting was held from January 15 to January 19.

Key Highlights from Davos Meeting 2024:

Artificial Intelligence (AI): The focal point of discussion at this year's World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting was Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Conversations delved into its transformative potential for human welfare, addressing concerns such as the necessity for regulation, apprehensions about job losses, risks associated with impersonation and misinformation, and the potential exacerbation of inequalities.
- Despite acknowledging these challenges, participants generally agreed that the positive aspects of AI outweigh the negatives, with no substantial threat to human intelligence.
War and Uncertainty: The summit underscored the risks emanating from a delicate geopolitical landscape, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe, threats to global supply chains, and uncertainties surrounding food security.
- Notably, the head of the Palestine Investment Fund estimated a requirement of at least $15 billion solely for the reconstruction of houses in Gaza.
- However, Arab states asserted their reluctance to fund reconstruction without a guarantee of lasting peace.
Climate: The imperative for businesses to adapt to climate change and nations to collaborate despite differences in combating it emerged as another key theme.
- Discussions emphasized the necessity for developed countries to assist in financing climate action in developing nations to prevent a widening inequality that could result in winners and losers.
China's Economy: Against the backdrop of a slowing economy, China sought increased investment from the West, which has experienced some cooling.
- With a GDP growth of 5.2% in 2023, still below pre-pandemic levels, China grappled with efforts by the United States to isolate it, particularly evident in the semiconductor trade standoff.
India-Specific Observations: McKinsey and Company's assessment of Davos 2024 highlighted India's rapid transformation as one of the fastest-growing large economies globally.
- The summit marked the launch of the Global Good Alliance for Gender Equity and Equality, endorsed by the WEF and the Government of India.
- Originating from the G20 Leaders' Declaration, the alliance aims to bring together global best practices, knowledge sharing, and investments in women's health, education, and enterprise.
- Supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the alliance will be hosted by the CII Centre for Women Leadership, with the World Economic Forum as a 'Network Partner' and Invest India as an 'Institutional Partner.'

About the World Economic Forum:

The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation.
The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.
It was established in 1971 by German engineer and economist Klaus Schwab.
It is a not-for-profit foundation and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Forum strives in all its efforts to demonstrate entrepreneurship in the global public interest while upholding the highest standards of governance.

Reports released by WEF:

- Global Gender Gap Index
- Global Risks Report
- Fostering Effective Energy Transition Report
- Global Cyber Security Outlook
- Global Competitiveness Report
- Travel and Tourism Development Index

About Davos Meet:

The World Economic Forum (WEF) organizes a meeting annually at the end of January in Davos, a mountain resort in Graubünden, in the eastern Alps region of Switzerland.
The Annual Meeting, also known as the Davos Agenda, has the objective of orienting global leaders on the imperatives of the year ahead.
This year's theme for the Annual Meeting in Davos is 'From Lab to Life: Science in Action'.

MeitY signs MoU with Cuba for cooperation on digital public infrastructure (ET)

22 Jan 2024

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India and Cuba have signed an MoU for cooperation in the field of sharing successful digital solutions implemented at the population scale for digital transformation.

India and Cuba Bilateral Relations:

India and Cuba share a robust and longstanding diplomatic camaraderie, marked by warmth and amity.
- In a gesture of early support, India was among the first nations to acknowledge and establish relations with the new Cuban government post the revolutionary events in January 1959.
Trade Dynamics: The bilateral trade engagement, while moderate, exhibits a diverse array of commodities.
- India exports pharmaceutical products, organic chemicals, plastic goods, medical equipment, engineering items, textiles, metal products, mineral oil products, and tools to Cuba.
- Conversely, Cuba primarily imports pharmaceuticals and tobacco products from India.
Energy Partnership: A pivotal facet of India-Cuba relations is their collaboration in the energy sector.
- As a member country and Vice-President of the Latin America & the Caribbean region at the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Cuba plays a significant role in fostering energy cooperation between the two nations.
Advancements in Science & Technology, Biotechnology, and Health: The bilateral relations in the domains of science, technology, and health have been fortified through ministerial-level visits from both nations.Development Collaboration: Prioritizing development assistance has been a cornerstone of their bilateral ties.
- India has extended disaster relief assistance to Cuba in the aftermath of hurricanes that have afflicted the region over the years.
Cultural Relations: Cuban appreciation for Indian culture and civilization is evident, with figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Rabindranath Tagore holding a special place in Cuban hearts.
Indian Diaspora: Although the Indian community in Cuba is relatively small, it includes descendants of Indians who migrated to Cuba in the early twentieth century from Jamaica and other parts of the West Indies to contribute to sugarcane plantations.

What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)?

DPI is a digital network that enables countries to safely and efficiently deliver economic opportunities and social services to all residents.
DPI can be compared to roads, which form a physical network that connects people and provides access to a huge range of goods and services.??
DPI allows people to open bank accounts and receive wages faster and more easily.
It allows governments to support citizens more quickly and efficiently, especially during emergencies.
- And it enables entrepreneurs to reach customers far and wide.??
A strong DPI has three foundational systems—identity, payments, and data exchange—that together can make life easier in important ways.?
When the three core systems—identity, payments, and data exchange—exist simultaneously and can talk to one another, people, businesses, and governments can reap the full benefits of DPI.
- Over time, safe and inclusive DPI creates vibrant and competitive economies.?

Indigenous mobile hospital saves life at ‘Pran Pratishta’ event in Ayodhya (The Hindu)

22 Jan 2024

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An Indigenous mobile hospital at the 'Pran Pratishta' event in Ayodhya played a life-saving role as 65-year-old Dharmacharya Pramukh and VHP member Ramkrishna Srivastava, experiencing a heart attack and sudden medical emergency, collapsed unconscious.

What is Aarogya Maitri Aid Cube?

It is India’s first portable hospital that can be airlifted to a disaster area and assembled in an hour.
This “flatpack” field hospital consists of 72 small cubes equipped with tents and customised medical equipment.
It is built under the Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri (BHISHM) and the hospital is reportedly designed to treat up to 200 patients.
The cubes, each of which weighs below 15kg and measures 38cm x 38cm x 38cm, are resilient enough to be dropped from a plane or helicopter.
The ‘Aarogya Maitri Cube Cage’ has three frames containing 12 mini-cubes.
- A single cage can fit a total of 36 mini-cubes.
At least five trained people are needed to assemble the cubes into a functional hospital in an hour.
- These cubes can be flown to a war zone or a remote area hit by natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods.
The product was developed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious ‘Project BHISHM’ which aims to support developing countries affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises.

How the portable hospital will help?

The portable hospital is capable of facilitating life-saving surgery on remote and tough terrains.
The 72 cubes contain different equipment such as portable ventilators, solar panel-based generators, ultrasound machines, digital imaging radiography machines, defibrillators, high-mounted OT lights, stretchers, modern surgical devices, and portable laboratories.
A line of Ayurvedic products was added to the list of items in the cubes at the suggestions of PM Modi.
“HLL Life Care is the government’s nodal agency for sourcing the Aarogya Maitri Cube, whereas the manufacturing has been undertaken by multiple sellers as it includes a variety of products.
Billed as the “world’s first portable disaster hospital”, the kit is waterproof and corrosion-proof.
- A tablet computer is installed inside the cube pack to prevent mistakes while setting up the structure.
If the immediate need at the site is for life-saving surgery, then the operating theatre can be assembled first. This takes just 10 minutes. The doctors can start surgery while the remaining cubes are assembled.”
The portable hospital can “provide critical medical care to 100 survivors for up to 48 hours, making it a lifeline on remote and tough terrains where immediate medical attention is needed. The cubes [which are self-sustained healthcare units] can handle bullet, burn, head, spinal and chest injuries, fractures, and major bleeding.
- India is now equipped and ready to supply this to any country in need.
t can also be utilised in regions across India that need medical support due to epidemics, high elevations, or challenging landscapes.
- This could play a significant role in the management of public health.
As a goodwill gesture, India has already given two Aarogya Maitri Cubes to Myanmar and one is being prepared for Sri Lanka.

After tiny chopper Ingenuity, NASA planning to send giant fixed-wing plane Maggie to Red Planet (TOI)

22 Jan 2024

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In its pursuit of extensively exploring Mars to find signs of water, Nasa is considering a proposed idea to send a giant fixed-wing plane to the Red Planet.

What is Ingenuity Mars Helicopter?

The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter is a small, autonomous aircraft that is part of NASA's Mars 2020 mission.
It was deployed to the surface of Mars on April 3, 2021, and made its first powered, controlled flight on another planet on April 19, 2021.
Ingenuity is a technology demonstration mission, and its main goal is to show that powered flight is possible on Mars.
- The helicopter has four carbon-fiber blades creating enough lift to overcome the thin Martian atmosphere.
- It is powered by solar cells and can fly for up to 90 seconds at a time.
Since its first flight, Ingenuity has completed 72 flights, far exceeding its original planned five flights.
- It has flown a total of 17 km and reached an altitude of 24 m.
- The helicopter has also helped to scout ahead for the Perseverance rover, taking images and collecting data from areas that the rover cannot reach.
Ingenuity's success has paved the way for future aerial exploration of Mars.
- Future helicopters could be used to scout for landing sites, study the Martian surface in more detail, and even carry small payloads of scientific instruments.

About Perseverance Rover:

Perseverance is a robotic rover exploring Jezero Crater on Mars as part of NASA's Mars 2020 mission.
Launched on July 30, 2020, it successfully landed on February 18, 2021, making it the most sophisticated and heaviest rover ever sent to Mars.

Mission Highlights:

Seeking signs of ancient microbial life: Perseverance is equipped with several instruments to analyze Martian rocks and soil for potential signs of past life.
Collecting rock samples: The rover drills and collects rock samples that will be cached on Mars for potential return to Earth by future missions.
Testing technology for future missions: Perseverance is demonstrating new technologies that will be crucial for future human exploration of Mars, such as the MOXIE instrument that produces oxygen from the Martian atmosphere and the Ingenuity helicopter, the first powered aircraft to fly on another planet.
Perseverance Achievements:
- Finding evidence of an ancient lake in Jezero Crater that may have been habitable for microbial life.
- Collecting the first rock samples from Mars that will be returned to Earth.
- Demonstrating the feasibility of using a helicopter on Mars (the Ingenuity helicopter hitched a ride with Perseverance).

Indian Immunologicals rolls out indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine (Financial Express)

22 Jan 2024

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Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) recently announced that it has launched India’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine, Havisure.

About Havisure Vaccine:

The vaccine is effective in preventing the disease and is recommended for children in routine immunization.
It is a two-dose vaccine wherein the first dose is administered at above 12 months of age and the second dose is given at least after 6 months of the first dose.
The vaccine is also recommended for individuals who are at risk of exposure or travel to the regions with high hepatitis A prevalence.
In addition to this people with occupational risk of infection and suffering from chronic liver diseases also need Hepatitis A vaccination.

Key Facts About Hepatitis A:

Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV).
The virus is primarily spread when an uninfected (and unvaccinated) person ingests food or water that is contaminated with the faeces of an infected person.
The disease is closely associated with unsafe water or food, inadequate sanitation, poor personal hygiene and unprotected sex.
- Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease but it can cause debilitating symptoms and rarely fulminant hepatitis (acute liver failure), which is often fatal.
Hepatitis A occurs sporadically and in epidemics worldwide, with a tendency for cyclic recurrences.
- Epidemics related to contaminated food or water can erupt explosively, such as the epidemic in Shanghai in 1988 that affected about 300,000 people.
They can also be prolonged, affecting communities for months through person-to-person transmission.
- Hepatitis A viruses persist in the environment and can withstand food production processes routinely used to inactivate or control bacterial pathogens.
Geographical distribution: Infection is common in low- and middle-income countries with poor sanitary conditions and hygienic practices, and most children (90%) have been infected with the hepatitis A virus before the age of 10 years, most often without symptoms.
Transmission: The hepatitis A virus is transmitted primarily by the fecal-oral route; that is when an uninfected person ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected person.
- In families, this may happen through dirty hands when an infected person prepares food for family members.
- Waterborne outbreaks, though infrequent, are usually associated with sewage-contaminated or inadequately treated water.
Symptoms: Symptoms of hepatitis A range from mild to severe and can include fever, malaise, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark-coloured urine and jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin).
- Not everyone who is infected will have all the symptoms.
Treatment: There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A.
- Recovery from symptoms following infection may be slow and can take several weeks or months.
Prevention: Improved sanitation, food safety and immunization are the most effective ways to combat hepatitis A.

‘Global Good Alliance for Gender Equity and Equality’ launched at Davos with support from India (DD)

20 Jan 2024

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Recently, India announced a new alliance for global good, gender equity, and equality at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting.

About Global Alliance for Global Good- Gender Equity and Equality:

It primary aims to unite global best practices, promote knowledge-sharing, and invest in women's health, education, and enterprise.
It follows the initiatives of the G20 framework, including the Business 20, Women 20, and G20 EMPOWER, building on the commitments of G20 leaders for the global community's benefit.
Aligned with multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality and Empowerment (SDG 5), and Global Partnership for Development (SDG 17), this initiative underscores India's dedication to gender equality in global development.
Supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, anchored by the CII Centre for Women Leadership, and with partnerships from the World Economic Forum and Invest India, the alliance reflects India's commitment to addressing gender-related issues within G20 nations under the principles of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Prayaas.'

About the World Economic Forum:

The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation.
The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.
It was established in 1971 by German engineer and economist Klaus Schwab.
It is a not-for-profit foundation and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Forum strives in all its efforts to demonstrate entrepreneurship in the global public interest while upholding the highest standards of governance.

Reports released by WEF:

- Global Gender Gap Index
- Global Risks Report
- Fostering Effective Energy Transition Report
- Global Cyber Security Outlook
- Global Competitiveness Report
- Travel and Tourism Development Index

Police think tank Bureau of Police Research and Development warns users of scams, data-breach acts on WhatsApp (The Hindu)

20 Jan 2024

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The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) has warned users of different scams perpetrated through messaging platform WhatsApp.

About the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD):

The Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D) was set up in 1970 under the Ministry of Home Affairs to identify the needs and problems of the police in the country.
It was also mandated to keep abreast of the latest developments in the fields of science and technology, both in India and abroad, to promote the use of appropriate technology in police work.
Over the years, the BPR&D has also been entrusted with the responsibility of monitoring the training needs and quality of training in the States and Central Police Organisations and assisting the same, as also assisting the States in modernization of the State Police Forces and Correctional Administration.
In the process, the BPR&D has also been tasked to assist the Ministry of Home Affairs and the CPFs, etc., in the development of Standards, Quality Requirements (QRs), etc., concerning various types of equipment and items about infrastructure.
- More recently, the BPR&D has also been entrusted with the responsibility of anchoring and coordinating the work of the National Police Mission.

BPRD's Roles and Responsibilities:

The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) plays a crucial role in elevating the functioning of police forces across the nation:
Policy Formulation and Guidance: Assists in formulating policies and strategies for police development.
- Guides to enhance the efficiency of police forces.
Interdepartmental Interface: Acts as a bridge between the police and other government departments for efficient resource and technology sharing.
Financial Assistance: Offers financial support to state governments for surveys, studies, and the development of specialized infrastructure and training.
Training and Awareness: Conducts seminars and workshops to educate police personnel on crime prevention and effective policing.
- Promotes awareness of policing importance and public order maintenance.
Development of Systems: Works towards developing systems like Community Policing, modern investigations, and effective technology and data management.

BPRD's Vision and Mission:

Vision: To facilitate the optimal deployment of police forces and related activities, enabling them to meet contemporary challenges.
Mission: To enhance police capabilities and those of stakeholders by providing resources and research-based knowledge, bridging gaps between evidence-based practice, policy formulation, and public outreach.
Focus Areas: BPRD prioritizes innovation, knowledge initiatives, and research in policing, public order, security, and related fields, creating models relevant to contemporary needs.
Overall Objective: BPRD is committed to developing capacity, fostering police professionalism, and promoting safety and public order in India through research, innovation, and strategic initiatives.

How the new Education Ministry guidelines will affect the coaching institutes (HT)

20 Jan 2024

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Taking cognisance of coaching centres charging exorbitant fees from students, promoting unhealthy competition and stress among students, and a rise in student suicides and other malpractices, a set of new guidelines were released by the Education Ministry.

Guidelines for Registration and Regulation of Coaching Centers 2024:

The guidelines define a 'coaching centre' as an establishment providing coaching for study programs, competitive exams, or academic support to more than 50 students at the school, college, and university levels, established, run, or administered by any person.

Key aspects of the guidelines include:

Registration Process: Coaching centres must apply for registration within their local jurisdiction, adhering to specified forms, fees, and document requirements.
- Each branch of a coaching centre is considered a separate entity, requiring individual registration.
Marketing Standards: Coaching centres are prohibited from making misleading promises or guarantees regarding ranks or marks.
- Transparency is mandated, with centres required to maintain an updated website containing detailed information.
Student Enrollment: Students below the age of 16 are not permitted for enrolment, and entry is allowed only after the completion of secondary school examinations.
Fee Structure: Tuition fees must be fair, with detailed receipts provided.
- A comprehensive prospectus must include information on courses, duration, facilities, fees, and refund procedures. Any fee increase during the course is prohibited.
Exit Policy: Pro-rata refunds are mandated within 10 days for mid-course withdrawals.
Infrastructure Requirements: Coaching centres must allocate a minimum of one square meter per student.
- Compliance with fire safety and building codes is essential, along with proper electrification, ventilation, lighting, security measures, and medical assistance.
Study Hours: Classes should not coincide with school hours, and weekly off for students and tutors is mandatory.
- Class sizes must align with a healthy teacher-student ratio.
Mental Wellbeing: Centers should establish mechanisms for immediate intervention and counselling for students in distress.
Complaint Mechanism: Students, parents, or tutors/employees can file complaints, to be resolved within thirty days by the competent authority or an inquiry committee.
Penalties: Penalties for violations include ?25,000 for the first offence, ?1 lakh for the second, and registration revocation for subsequent breaches.

PM declares Khelo India Youth Games 2023 open in Chennai (Indian Express)

20 Jan 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently declared the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 open at the Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai.

What is Khelo India?

The Khelo India programme has been introduced to revive the sports culture in India at the grassroots level by building a strong framework for all sports played in our country and establishing India as a great sporting nation.
Talented players identified in priority sports disciplines at various levels by the High-Powered Committee will be provided annual financial assistance of INR 5 lakh per annum for 8 years.

About the Khelo India Youth Games 2023:

The 6th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games is being hosted by Tamil Nadu, marking the first occurrence of the Games in South India.
Spanning from January 19th to 31st, 2024, the event will unfold across four cities in Tamil Nadu – Chennai, Madurai, Trichy, and Coimbatore.
With over 5600 athletes participating in more than 275 competitive events spanning 26 sports disciplines and one demo sport, this edition introduces Silambam, a traditional sport of Tamil Nadu, as a demo sport and includes Squash for the first time.
- Archery, athletics, badminton, and squash have been introduced first time in this edition.
The mascot, 'Veera Mangai,' pays tribute to Rani Velu Nachiyar, an Indian queen who courageously resisted British colonial rule.
The logo integrates the image of the poet Thiruvalluvar.
Objectives: The overarching objective of the Khelo India Youth Games is to rejuvenate India's grassroots sports culture, aiming to build a robust framework for all sports and position the nation as a prominent sporting entity.
Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the Games have been an annual tradition since their inception in 2018 in Delhi.

What is the Nagara style, in which Ayodhya’s Ram temple is being built (Indian Express)

20 Jan 2024

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The Ram temple in Ayodhya will be inaugurated on January 22. Chandrakant Sompura, 81, and his son Ashish, 51, have designed the complex in the Nagara style of temple architecture.

What is the Nagara style?

Originating around the 5th century AD, the Nagara style influenced temple architecture in several regions of India, from Northern India to Karnataka to parts of Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Gujarat, giving it its pan-India appeal.
Given that the temple will attract Hindu devotees from across the country, this is the most "inclusive" architectural style of Hinduism in that respect.
The word “Nagara” means “city,” and the style's close association with urban architectural principles made it suitable for a bustling town like Ayodhya while retaining Hindu temple elements that are familiar to devotees.
With carved pillars and towering spires, it seeks to echo the magnificent craftsmanship of the Khajuraho temples of Madhya Pradesh and the Sun Temple in Odisha’s Konark.
The Nagara style is not confined to a specific period — it flourished during the Gupta dynasty but continued to evolve through various regional kingdoms and empires that ruled over the northern parts of India.
The temple's architecture is characterised by its tower-like structures, known as 'shikhara' or spires, which rise vertically, symbolising the sacred mountain, Mount Meru, considered to be the centre of the physical, metaphysical and spiritual dimensions in Hindu, Jain and Buddhist cosmology.
- This temple architecture is also closely associated with both the Shaivite and Vaishnavite sects of Hinduism and known for its sculptural elements that echo scenes from Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

The typical Nagara temple layout:

The layout of Nagara-style temples follows a distinct pattern, reflecting the cosmic order and the journey of the soul towards liberation

The typical plan of the Nagara-style temple:

Vastu Purusha Mandala: At the core of Nagara temple design is the concept of Vastu Purusha Mandala, a sacred diagram representing the cosmic man.
- The temple’s plan is aligned with this mandala, ensuring that the deity’s sanctum aligns with the cosmic forces.
- This alignment reflects the belief that the temple is a microcosm of the universe, establishing a cosmic resonance.
Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum): The sanctum sanctorum, or garbhagriha, is the innermost and holiest chamber where the principal deity resides and is always located directly below the highest Sikhara.
- Often square, this chamber is a symbol of the womb of creation.
- The placement of the deity within this sacred space is meticulously calculated to maintain harmony with cosmic energies.
Pradakshina Patha (Circumambulation): Around the garbhagriha, there is a circumambulatory path called the pradakshina patha.
- This path allows devotees to walk in a clockwise direction around the deity, as a symbolic act of paying respect, seeking blessings, and expressing devotion.
- The pradakshina patha may be enclosed within the temple or form an outer pathway surrounding the main temple complex.
- It is believed that circumambulation harmonizes the individual with the divine and creates a spiritual connection.
Vimana (Tower): The Vimana, or tower, is the crowning glory of Nagara temples.
- The shikhara, as the main spire, represents Mount Meru, the mythical abode of the gods, meant to symbolize the ascent from the earthly realm to the celestial plane, creating a visual narrative of the soul’s journey towards spiritual awakening.
Mandapa (Congregation Hall): The mandapa, or congregation hall, serves as a communal space for rituals, gatherings, and celebrations. Supported by intricately carved pillars, the mandapa’s design is often open, allowing devotees to participate in ceremonies.
- The pillars themselves are adorned with sculptures depicting deities, mythological narratives, and celestial beings, contributing to the immersive spiritual experience.
Antarala (Vestibule): The antarala acts as a transitional space between the garbhagriha and the mandapa.
- It serves functional and symbolic purposes, symbolising the journey from the material to the divine.
- The antarala may house additional deities or intricate sculptures, further enhancing the spiritual ambience.
Ardhamandapa (Entrance Porch): The ardhamandapa, or entrance porch, serves as the threshold between the external world and the sacred interior.
- Often featuring ornate pillars and intricate carvings, the ardhamandapa is a visual prelude to the architectural splendour within.
- Devotees traverse this space as they enter the sanctified realm of the temple.
Peripheral Structures: Surrounding the central shrine are often smaller shrines and subsidiary structures, creating a complex architectural ensemble.
- These structures, known as subsidiary shrines or parivara devatas, pay homage to various deities associated with the main deity.
- The arrangement of these structures follows a harmonious pattern, contributing to the overall visual appeal of the temple complex.

Regional variations:

As a pan-India style, the Nagara architecture has regional variations that reflect the cultural ethos of where it is built.
Odisha: The Nagara style in the state is characterised by its exquisite stone carvings and towering spires.
- The temples of Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark in the state of Odisha exemplify this style.
- The temples showcase carvings of deities, mythical creatures, dancers, and musicians, evoking a sense of dynamic movement.
Gujarat: Known for its elegance and simplicity, the Gujarati Nagara style is epitomised by the Sun Temple in Modhera and the famous Somnath Temple.
- The main 'shikhara' in the state's temples are relatively modest in height compared to northern iterations.
- The emphasis is on the overall harmony of the temple’s complex measurements and the sculptural beauty.
Rajasthan: The style in this state has been noticeably influenced by distinctive elements of Rajput architecture — from fortified walls and ornate entryways.
- Look no further than the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu and the Sun Temple of Ranakpur for examples of this style.
- Distinct features include marble carvings and delicate detailing.
Karnataka: Nagara temples in the South have subdued shikharas compared to their northern temples.
- What is more, the emphasis is on pillar carvings and the subject matter is often famous scenes from mythology.
- The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi and the Lepakshi Veerabhadra Temple are notable Nagara-style temples in the south.
Madhya Pradesh: Central Indian temples often feature a variety of spires, emphasising the stepped shape.
- The sculptures focus on a wide range of themes, including mythological narratives, daily life, and spiritual pursuits.
- The Khajuraho complex, including the Lakshmana Temple, exemplifies the Nagara style in Central India.
Combining spiritual principles with aesthetics and craftsmanship, the Nagara style is an indelible part of India’s cultural and religious legacy.
The Ram temple draws from this same architectural legacy of Hinduism to create a religious monument that seeks to inspire the same awe that the centuries-old Indian temples continue to do.

Comparison to Dravida style:

The Dravida counterpart to the shikhara is the vimana. There exists, however, a fundamental difference.
In the Dravida-style temples, vimanas are typically smaller than the great gatehouses or gopurams, which are the most immediately striking architectural elements in a temple complex.
- Moreover, while shikharas are mentioned in southern Indian architectural sources, they refer to only the dome-shaped crowning cap atop the vimana.
The existence of gopurams also points to another unique feature of the Dravida style — the presence of a boundary wall.
- A few Nagara-style temple complexes are lined with distinctive boundary walls that are a part of the temple’s design.
This is one of Ayodhya’s Ram temple’s ‘hybrid’ features — although no elaborate gopuram has been built (citing paucity of space), a 732m long wall runs around the temple compound.

Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival begins in Arunachal; effective conservation of iconic birds urged (DTE)

19 Jan 2024

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The 9th edition of the Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF) commenced in the town of Seijosa in Arunachal Pradesh’s Pakke Kessang district on January 18, 2024, with a call to protect and conserve hornbills.

About Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival:

The first Pakke Paga Hornbill Festival (PPHF) took place in 2015 with the primary goal of acknowledging the Nyishi tribal group's significant role in hornbill conservation within the Pakke Tiger Reserve (PTR).
Additionally, the festival aimed to generate alternative sources of income for the region and raise awareness across India about the marvels of PTR and its surroundings.
The current year's festival is themed "Domutoh Domutoh, Paga hum Domutoh," meaning 'Let Our Hornbills Remain' in the Nyishi language.
The focus of this year's festival is to emphasize the crucial importance of preserving these iconic birds.

About the Great Indian Hornbill:

The Great Indian Hornbill is a bird family found in tropical and subtropical Africa, Asia, and Melanesia.
- It is the state bird of Kerala and Arunachal Pradesh in India.
The Great Indian Hornbill is now considered “Vulnerable” due to high hunting pressure, habitat loss, and deforestation.

Key Facts About Pakke Tiger Reserve:

Pakke Tiger Reserve is located in the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
It is bordered by the Tenga Reserve Forest to the North, the Doimara Reserve Forest to the West, and Nameri National Park and Tiger Reserve (Assam) to the South.
The region exhibits high species diversity and endemicity, acting as a transitional zone between the Indian and Malayan ecoregions.
Located North of the Brahmaputra River, Pakke Tiger Reserve is positioned in the transition zone between the Assam plains and the hilly forests of Arunachal Pradesh.
Vegetation primarily comprises tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.
Flora: Notable flora includes Polyalthia simiarum, Pterospermum acerifolium, Sterculia alata, Stereospermum chelonioides, Ailanthus grandis, and Duabanga grandiflor. Additionally, about eight species of bamboo are found in the area.
Fauna: The fauna of the reserve includes iconic species like the Tiger and elephant, as well as predators such as the Leopard and the Clouded leopard, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region.

ISRO develops second-generation Distress Alert Transmitter (The Hindu)

19 Jan 2024

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Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has developed an improvised Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) with advanced capabilities and features for the fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from fishing boats.

What is a Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT)?

The first version of DAT has been in operation since 2010, allowing fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from their fishing boats.
These messages are transmitted via a communication satellite to the Indian Mission Control Centre (INMCC), the central control station, where the alert signals are decoded to determine the identity and location of the distressed fishing boat.
The extracted information is then relayed to Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) under the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), enabling coordinated Search and Rescue operations to assist fishermen in distress.

About the Second Generation DAT (DAT-SG):

Leveraging advancements in satellite communication and navigation technology, ISRO has enhanced DAT into the Second Generation DAT (DAT-SG). DAT-SG not only allows fishermen to send distress alerts but also provides them with acknowledgements, assuring them that rescue operations are underway.
In addition to transmitting distress signals, DAT-SG can receive messages from control centres.
- This feature enables the sending of advance alert messages to fishermen about adverse weather conditions, cyclones, tsunamis, or other emergencies.
- Moreover, the system transmits information on Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs) to fishermen at regular intervals.
DAT-SG can be connected to mobile phones using a Bluetooth interface, and messages can be read in the native language through a mobile app.
- The central control centre employs a web-based network management system called "SAGARMITRA," which maintains a database of registered DAT-SGs.
- This system assists MRCCs in accessing real-time information about distressed boats, allowing the Indian Coast Guard to initiate Search & Rescue operations promptly during distress situations.

Why Kashmir and Ladakh are without snow this winter, its implications (Indian Express)

19 Jan 2024

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The Indian Himalayas are experiencing an unusual lack of snowfall this winter, impacting ski resorts and prompting holiday cancellations.

Key Highlights of the Report:

Unprecedented precipitation deficit: December witnessed an alarming 80% precipitation deficit in the western Himalayan region.
- The ongoing dry spell in January is attributed to the absence of active western disturbances this winter season, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Impact on freshwater resources: Experts warn of potential impacts on freshwater availability in the Himalayan region.
- The extended dry spell poses a threat to horticulture and agricultural production, raising concerns among experts.
Unseasonal blooming and alarming temperature anomalies: Despite being peak winter, Ladakh and Kashmir experienced unusually warm temperatures, leading to early crop blooming.
- A report by IMD scientists reveals maximum temperatures 5-8 degrees Celsius below normal over the northern plains since December 29.
Challenges to water levels and ecosystems: Experts also highlight the significance of the Chillai Kalan snowfall period as the only freshwater source.
- The prolonged dry spell has resulted in reduced water levels in rivers and streams, posing challenges to the region's ecosystems.

Factors contributing to severe weather conditions:

Scientists attribute the severe weather to three main factors:
- Lack of active western disturbances
- Prevailing El Nino conditions, and
- A strong jet stream.
El Nino, characterised by abnormal warming in the central Pacific Ocean, contributes to altered weather patterns.
Mechanics of fog formation: Scientists explain the three conditions required for fog formation: weak low-level winds, moisture, and overnight cooling.
- The lack of strong western disturbances disrupts these conditions, contributing to the prolonged fog.
Persistent jet streams and cold wave conditions: Strong jet streams prevailing over north India for the last five days have led to the subsidence of cold air, enhancing cold wave/cold day conditions.

These conditions are expected to continue over the next five days, intensifying the challenges posed by the ongoing weather anomalies.

National Quantum Mission to call for proposals to set up four tech hubs (PTI)

19 Jan 2024

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The government will set up a coordination cell to implement the National Quantum Mission (NQM) with a focus on establishing four technology hubs in the format of consortia of academia, research and development labs and industry.

What is the National Quantum Mission (NQM)?

The National Quantum Mission (NQM) will assist India take a giant leap into the future of technology.
India has entered the ranks of the select few nations actively pursuing the advancement of quantum technology by establishing this programme.
In 2023, the government sanctioned the National Quantum Mission (NQM), spanning from 2023-24 to 2030-31, with the following key features:
The mission aims to initiate, foster, and amplify scientific and industrial research and development in Quantum Technology (QT), establishing a dynamic and innovative ecosystem.
- Its ultimate goal is to propel quantum technology-led economic growth, foster the QT ecosystem, and position India as a leading nation in the field of Quantum Technologies & Applications.
It willl be implemented by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science & Technology.

Key Objectives:

Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits across platforms like superconducting and photonic technology within eight years.
- Implement satellite-based secure quantum communications over a 2000-kilometre range within India, ensuring long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries.
- Establish inter-city quantum key distribution over 2000 km and multi-node Quantum networks with quantum memories.
- Develop highly sensitive magnetometers in atomic systems and Atomic Clocks for precision timing, communications, and navigation.
- Support the design and synthesis of quantum materials like superconductors, novel semiconductor structures, and topological materials for quantum device fabrication.
- Develop single photon sources/detectors and entangled photon sources for applications in quantum communications, sensing, and metrology.

Implementation:

The mission involves the establishment of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in leading academic and National R&D institutes, focusing on Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices.
- These hubs will concentrate on generating new knowledge through basic and applied research and promote R&D in their respective domains.

Significance:

NQM has the potential to elevate India's Technology Development ecosystem to global competitiveness.
- It is expected to significantly benefit various sectors such as communication, health, finance, and energy, with applications ranging from drug design to space, banking, and security.
- The mission aligns with national priorities, including Digital India, Make in India, Skill India, Stand-up India, and Start-up India, and contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
With the launch of this mission, India will be the seventh country to have a dedicated quantum mission after the US, Austria, Finland, France, Canada and China.

What is Quantum Technology?

The term "quantum technology" is used to describe the research and development of techniques to build supercomputers with enhanced speed, security, and efficiency in data processing above conventional computers.
Quantum mechanics, which governs the behaviour of subatomic particles, is used to design these novel systems.
The peculiar characteristics of subatomic particles are the key to quantum technology's capabilities in processing massive quantities of information concurrently.

Telco body seeks USOF, tax reliefs in FY25 Union Budget (Live Mint)

19 Jan 2024

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Telecom services providers have urged the Ministry of Finance to suspend the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) till the existing corpus is exhausted.

About Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF):

The USOF was established through a parliamentary amendment to the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act, 2003.
Its primary goal is to ensure non-discriminatory access to affordable telecom services in rural and remote areas, thereby narrowing the digital gap between urban and rural regions.
For financially unviable rural and remote areas, the USOF provides subsidy support in the form of Net Cost or Viability Gap Funding (VGF).
- This encourages telecom service providers to expand their services to these areas, enhancing telecommunications and broadband accessibility.
Funding Mechanism: Telecom operators contribute to the USOF through a Universal Service Levy (USL), a percentage of their Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).
Administration: The USOF is overseen by the Administrator, USO Fund, appointed by the Central Government.
- It operates as an attached office under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications.

Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF):

Launched by USOF on October 1st, 2022, the TTDF Scheme targets domestic companies and institutions engaged in designing, developing, and commercializing telecommunication products and solutions.
- The scheme aims to facilitate affordable broadband and mobile services in rural and remote areas.
The initiative fosters connections between schools and diverse volunteers from the Indian Diaspora, including young professionals, retired teachers, retired government officials, NGOs, private sector companies, corporate institutions, and more.
Under the scheme, USOF is committed to developing standards to meet nationwide requirements and establishing an ecosystem for research, design, prototyping, use cases, pilots, and proof-of-concept testing.
- The scheme provides grants to Indian entities, encouraging the integration of indigenous technologies tailored to domestic needs.

Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI)

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), was constituted in 1995 as a non-governmental society registered under the Societies Act, 1860.
- The Association is dedicated to the advancement of modern communications through the establishment of a world-class cellular infrastructure and to delivering the benefits of affordable mobile communication services to the people of India.
- Today it is regarded as an important interface between the main stakeholders of the Indian Telecom Ecosystem, i.e. Government, Operators, Consumers, Equipment Manufacturers, and Content Providers.
COAI provides a forum for discussions and exchange of ideas between Service Providers, Policy Makers, Regulators, Technologists, etc., who share a common interest in the development of mobile telephony in the country.

India’s first graphene centre becomes reality (Indian Express)

18 Jan 2024

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The Union government recently launched India’s first graphene centre ‘India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG)’ at Maker Village Kochi.

About India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG):

India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG) is India’s first Graphene Centre.
It is a joint venture of the Digital University of Kerala, the Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET) and Tata Steel Limited.
Key Aspects: IICG is committed to advancing research and development, fostering product innovation, and enhancing capacity building in the field of Graphene and two-dimensional materials (2DM).
With a vision to bridge the gap between research and commercialization, IICG actively supports the Graphene-Aurora program initiated by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
This program aims to provide a comprehensive facility for startups and industries to facilitate seamless progression from research and development to commercialization.

About Graphene:

Graphene is a one-atom-thick layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, serves as the fundamental building block of Graphite, utilized in various applications, including pencil tips.
- Scientists first isolated Graphene in 2004.

Properties of Graphene:

Recognized as the world's thinnest material, Graphene boasts a thickness of only one atom, making it one million times thinner than human hair.
Despite its extreme thinness, Graphene exhibits exceptional strength, surpassing even steel and diamond.
It functions as an outstanding conductor of both heat and electricity, surpassing copper in electrical conductivity.
Remarkably transparent, Graphene absorbs only 2% of light.
Impermeable to gases, including lightweight gases like hydrogen and helium.

Applications:

Mechanical Strength: Used to enhance the strength of various materials.
Thermal Applications: Ideal for creating heat-spreading solutions, such as heat sinks or heat dissipation films.
- This has applications in microelectronics (e.g., improving the efficiency and lifespan of LED lighting) and larger applications like thermal foils for mobile devices.
Energy Storage: Due to its minimal thickness, Graphene possesses an exceptionally high surface-area-to-volume ratio, making it promising for use in batteries and supercapacitors.
- It holds the potential to enable energy storage devices, including batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells, with increased energy storage capacity and faster charging capabilities.
Future Potential: Graphene shows promise in various potential applications, including anti-corrosion coatings and paints, precise sensors, efficient electronics, flexible displays, solar panels, accelerated DNA sequencing, drug delivery systems, and more.

Telangana signs agreement with WEF for setting up C4IR in Hyderabad (The Hindu)

18 Jan 2024

Jagannath Temple corridor | An attempt to counter BJP’s Hindutva push ahead of elections (The Hindu)

18 Jan 2024

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Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday unveiled a sprawling heritage corridor around the Jagannath Temple in Puri, a project being seen as an attempt to counter the BJP’s Hindutva push ahead of the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections later this year.

About the Puri Heritage Corridor Project:

The Shree Jagannath Heritage Corridor, officially named Shree Mandir Parikrama, is a 75-metre-long heritage corridor around the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha.
Initiated in 2016, the Puri Heritage Corridor Project aims to enhance pilgrim amenities, bolster the temple's safety, and contribute to Puri's transformation into a world heritage city.
The comprehensive project entails the redevelopment of significant areas within the town and in proximity to the temple, catering to the needs of both visitors and tourists.
A phased implementation of 22 distinct projects is planned under the Augmentation of Basic Amenities and Development of Heritage and Architecture at Puri (ABADHA) scheme.
The project also aims to provide ample facilities and amenities for pilgrims and visitors, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable experience, while strengthening the safety and security of the temple and its devotees.

About Jagannath Temple:

Jagannath Temple believed to be built in the 12th century by King Anatavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
People call it ‘Yamanika Tirtha’ because they believe that the presence of Lord Jagannath nullifies the power of ‘Yama,’ the god of death, in Puri.
The temple, also known as the “White Pagoda” and part of the Char Dham pilgrimages, has four gates:
- The main Eastern ‘Singhdwara’ with two crouching lions,
- Southern ‘Ashwadwara,’
- Western 'Vyaghra Dwara,' and
- Northern ‘Hastidwara.’
Each gate has unique carvings representing different forms.
In front of the entrance stands the Aruna stambha or sun pillar, originally from the Sun Temple in Konark, adding to the historical and artistic significance of the Jagannath Temple.

An ancient system that could bring water to dry areas (DownToEarth)

18 Jan 2024

Who are the Shankaracharyas — and who was Adi Shankara? (Indian Express)

18 Jan 2024

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Recently, the four Shankaracharyas have said they will not attend the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22.

Who are the Shankaracharyas?

The Shankaracharyas are the "supreme authority" in Hinduism and for interpreting Hindu scriptures.
The shankaracharyas head the four principal monasteries or mutts that were established by the eighth-century Hindu saint Adi Shankara.
- They are based in Uttarakhand, Odisha, Karnataka and Gujarat.
Each mutt, called peetha or pitha in Sanskrit, was tasked to serve as the custodian of one Veda each and keep alive Vedic literature.
- Govardhan Math in Puri is the custodian of the Rig Veda.
- Dwarka Sharada Peetham in Gujarat is responsible for the Sam Veda.
- The Sringeri Sharada Peetham in Karnataka is responsible for the Yajur Veda and
- Jyotir Math in Uttarakhand's Joshimath for the Atharva Veda.
All the peethas are situated in the four cardinal directions and are amongst the most-revered pilgrimages in India.

Who was Adi Shankara?

The title "Shankaracharya", in fact, is derived from Adi Shankara, a Vedic scholar credited with reforming and reviving Hinduism during a time when Buddhists and Jains wielded influence.
Adi Shankara was born in Kalady village on the bank of the River Periyar in today Kerala’s Ernakulam district in the month of Vaishakha in 788 CE.
Also known as Jagadguru, Shankara had a short life (it is believed he died when he was just 32) but he had a big impact on Hindu religion.
Revered as an avatar of Lord Shiva, it is believed that he mastered the Vedas when he was just 16.
At a very young age, Shankara started criss-crossing the length and breadth of India to spread his commentaries on Brahama Sutras, Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita amid a rise in Jainism and Buddhism.

What is the legacy of Shankara?

Shankara’s legacy today transcends his contributions to metaphysics and theology.
His travels across the subcontinent have often been interpreted as a near-nationalistic project where faith, philosophy and geography are yoked together to imagine a Hindu India which transcended the political boundaries of his time.
And his four mathas, located in the North and South, East and West of India, are seen as the ultimate examples of this project.
- His mathas are thus also seen as keepers of Hindu faith and traditions.

What is Advaita Vedanta?

Shankara is most associated with Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy and spiritual discipline.
Advaita Vedanta articulates an ontological position of radical nondualism — it posits that all that we perceive is ultimately illusory (maya) and that the principle of Brahman (not the caste Brahmin) is the only true reality of all things, transcending empirical plurality.
- The fundamental thrust of Advaita Vedanta lies in the unity of atman or individual consciousness, and brahman or the ultimate reality.

Four Peethas aren't the four Dhams

The four peethas established by Adi Shankara should not be confused with the four dhams.
The four dhams, known as Char Dham, were also established by Adi Shankara.
The four dhams are at;
- Badrinath
- Dwarka
- Puri and
- Rameswaram.
The peethas are basically associated with the preservation and propagation of Hindu philosophy.

India signs an agreement to acquire five lithium mines in Argentina (Business Standard)

17 Jan 2024

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Recently the Indian govt. signed an agreement to acquire five lithium brine blocks for exploration and development in Argentina.

Context:

The Mines Ministry, operating through KhanijBidesh India Limited (KABIL), has entered into an agreement with Argentina's state-owned CAMYEN for the development of five lithium blocks.
- CAMYEN, officially known as Catamarca Minera Y Energetica Sociedad Del Estado, is headquartered in the Catamarca province of the Latin American nation.
Key Points: KABIL, a government-owned entity, will initiate the exploration and development activities for five lithium brine blocks—Cortadera-I, Cortadera-VII, Cortadera-VIII, Cateo-2022-01810132, and Cortadera-VI, collectively spanning an area of approximately 15,703 hectares.
As part of its expansion, KABIL is planning to establish a branch office in Catamarca, Argentina.
This marks a significant milestone as it represents the first lithium exploration and mining project undertaken by a government company in India.
Argentina, situated within the global "Lithium Triangle" alongside Chile and Bolivia, collectively possesses more than half of the world's total lithium resources.

Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL):

It is a Joint Venture Company among National Aluminium Company (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) and Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL).
It has been formed in August 2019.
KABIL is focusing on identifying and sourcing battery minerals like Lithium and Cobalt.
KABIL is a joint venture company focused on identifying, acquiring, developing, processing and making commercial use of strategic minerals in overseas locations for supply in India.

Current Statistics About Lithium in India:

India has recently discovered 5.9 million tonnes of lithium reserves in Jammu & Kashmir and ranks seventh globally.
The primary lithium reserve in India has been discovered in the Salal-Haimana area of Reasi District in Jammu and Kashmir, with additional smaller reserves identified in Karnataka.
Presently, India fulfils its entire lithium demand through imports.
In the fiscal year 2023, there was a notable increase in lithium imports in India, reaching approximately $3 billion (around ?24,900 crore), indicating a 58% growth compared to the figures in FY22.
More than 95% of India's lithium imports are sourced from China and Hong Kong.

Global Reserves of Lithium:

Approximately half of the world's lithium resources are concentrated in Latin America, primarily in countries such as Bolivia, Argentina and Chile along with significant deposits in USA, Australia and China.
- Bolivia has the highest identified lithium resources in the world with 20 million tonnes, as per the US Geological Survey data.
- Argentina has the second-largest lithium reserve estimated to be close to 20 million tonnes.
- The United States follows Argentina with 12 million tonnes of lithium reserves.
- Chile ranks fourth globally with 11 million tonnes of lithium reserves.
- Australia occupies the fifth spot with 7.9 million tonnes of lithium reserves, according to the available data.
- China, the largest country in Asia, ranks sixth globally with 6.8 million tonnes of lithium reserve. China, without having the largest lithium reserves, continues to dominate lithium mining and processing in the world.
Argentina holds a substantial portion, accounting for 20% of the world's total lithium resources, making it the second-largest contributor after Bolivia.
Argentina is a key participant in the 'Lithium Triangle,' alongside Chile and Bolivia.
- Collectively, these three nations possess over two-thirds of the global lithium resources.
- The Lithium Triangle is a region in the Andes known for its rich lithium reserves.
Notably, Argentina ranks second globally in terms of lithium resources, third in lithium reserves, and fourth in lithium production.

Importance of the Agreement:

This agreement holds strategic value as it enables India to enhance its lithium supply, fostering the growth of both countries' lithium mining and downstream sectors.
It contributes to the diversification of the supply chain for essential materials, aligning with the pursuit of Global Net Zero objectives.
Given that a significant portion, approximately 54%, of India's lithium imports are currently sourced from China, which dominates 80% of the global supply, this deal helps reduce dependence on a single supplier.
The initiative aligns with the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP), of which India is an active participant.

Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh launches the MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile Application for the Revised Fund Flow Procedure under the MPLAD Scheme (PIB)

17 Jan 2024

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Recently, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) Rao Inderjit Singh launched the MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile Application at Khurshid Lal Bhawan, New Delhi.

What is the e-SAKSHI Mobile Application?

The e-SAKSHI mobile application was devised for the revamped fund flow procedure within the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLAD).
It is poised to revolutionize the way Members of Parliament (MPs) engage with and oversee development projects in their constituencies.

Key Features of e-SAKSHI:

Convenience and Accessibility: MPs can seamlessly propose, track, and supervise projects with the application, ensuring convenience and accessibility at their fingertips.
Real-time Access: The application provides real-time access, enhancing decision-making by enabling swift responses to emerging needs or issues.
Streamlined Communication: e-SAKSHI facilitates streamlined communication between MPs and relevant authorities, promoting an efficient exchange of information.
Transparency: MPs receive instant updates on the status and progress of proposed projects, promoting transparency in the implementation process.
Budget Management: The application includes features for budget management, empowering MPs to monitor expenditures effectively.

Key Points about the MPLAD Scheme:

Introduced in 1993, MPLAD is a fully funded Government of India scheme where funds are released directly to district authorities as grants-in-aid.
The funds are non-lapsable, allowing the carry-forward of entitlement not released in a specific year to subsequent years, subject to eligibility.
MPs have an annual entitlement of ?5 crore per constituency, with their role limited to recommending works.
- District authorities are responsible for sanctioning, executing, and completing the recommended works within stipulated timelines.
Lok Sabha members recommend works in their respective constituencies, while Rajya Sabha members can recommend works anywhere in their elected state.
- Nominated members can recommend works nationwide.
MPLADS works can be implemented in areas affected by various natural calamities, ensuring a flexible and responsive approach to development needs.

In Assam, creeper conservation rides revived Karbi traditional game (The Hindu)

17 Jan 2024

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A dying traditional game, given a fresh lease of life at the ongoing Karbi Youth Festival (KYF) in central Assam’s Karbi Anglong district, has fuelled a drive for conserving a creeper with an African connection.

About African Dream Herb:

The African dream herb, also known by various names such as Giant sea bean, snuff box, and Entada rheedii, is a perennial climbing vine valued by African traditional healers for its ability to induce vivid dreams, facilitating efficient communication with ancestors.
Indigenous to Africa, Asia, Australia, and Madagascar, this vine thrives in tropical lowlands, along coastlines, river banks, woodlands, thickets, and riverine rainforests.
Uses: A paste derived from its leaves, bark, and roots serve purposes ranging from wound cleaning to treating burns and addressing jaundice in children.
The plant's tea, made from its entirety, aids in improving blood circulation to the brain and healing the aftermath of a stroke.
The bark is employed to treat ailments such as diarrhoea, dysentery, and parasitic infections.
This vine produces dark brown, spherical seeds, almost the size of a human patella or kneecap, used in the traditional game 'Hambi Kepathu,' associated with the origin of the Karbi community.

What is Hambi Kepathu?

Also known as Simrit in some regions of Karbi Anglong, Hambi Kepathu is played on three rectangular courts with two teams of three members each.
In this male-only game, players place a 'hambi' (glazed creeper seed) vertically on the midpoint of the boundary line for opponents to hit with their 'hambi.'
The name Hambi Kepathu is derived from the first syllables of the names of a Karbi sister-brother duo, adding to the array of traditional Karbi games such as 'Pholong' (spinning top), 'Thengtom Langvek' (torch swimming), and 'Kengdongdang' (bamboo stilt race).

PM pays homage to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on his Parkash Utsav (The Hindu)

17 Jan 2024

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January 17 marks the 357th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, the revered Sikh leader born in Patna, Bihar.

About Guru Gobind Singh:

Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th and the last Guru of the Sikhs, was born as Gobind Rai on December 22, 1666, in Patna, Bihar, to Guru Teg Bahadur, the ninth Guru of Sikhism.
Following the martyrdom of his father by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1675, Guru Gobind Singh assumed leadership at the age of nine.
Renowned as a warrior, poet, and prophet, Guru Gobind Singh is cherished by Sikhs for his defence of faith and advocacy for equality and justice.
- In 1699, Guru Gobind Singh formed the institution of the Khalsa and introduced the Five Ks — Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (wooden comb), Kara (iron or steel bracelet), Kirpan (sword), and Kacchera (short breeches).
He fought 14 wars against his oppressors and tyrants, but with ethical and moral principles, never taking captives, nor damaging places of worship; he was never the first to be the aggressor.
The notable conflicts include the Battle of Bhangani, the Battle of Nadaun, the Battle of Anandpur, the Battle of Chamkaur, the Battle of Muktsar, and the Battle of Khidrana
While continuing to lead with steely determination, Guru Gobind Singh faced with fortitude, the execution of his two sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh.
- The duo was bricked alive at Sirhind by the then-governor.
- He lost two more sons in the battle of Chamkaur Sahib, yet he stayed true to his goal.
- When the Mughal army, numbering over a lakh, marched against his troop of 40 soldiers, he marched on bravely, penning his famous hymn, mitr pyare nu haal muridan da kehna (Oh beloved friend of the Lord, see the plight of your disciples).
Guru Gobind is credited with finalising the manuscript of Guru Granth Sahib, declaring it to be the ultimate Guru of the Sikhs.
- His metaphysical, sublime and exquisite poetry has been immortalised in his composition, Dasam Granth, reflected in Jaap Sahib, Chandi Di Vaar, Tav Prasad savaiye and Benti Chaupai, among others.
- He wrote in Punjabi, Arabic, Braj Bhasa, Sanskrit and Persian and remains a much-revered guru.
He was assassinated in 1708, at the age of 41.

Defence upgrade roadmap: Apex body led by Prime Minister, MoD sci-tech unit (Indian Express)

17 Jan 2024

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The expert committee, led by Vijay Raghavan, the former principal scientific advisor, proposed that the country's defence technology roadmap be overseen by an apex body called the Defence Technology Council, with the Prime Minister serving as its chair.

The context in which the Vijay Raghavan Committee was Established:

Formed by the government last year, the committee was tasked with assessing the functioning of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- The committee's report, submitted this month, follows the government's initiative to address significant delays in various DRDO projects.
This scrutiny comes in response to concerns raised by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence, which noted that 23 out of 55 mission mode projects faced substantial delays.
- In 2022, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) highlighted that 67% of the 178 scrutinized projects failed to meet their initially proposed timelines.
The CAG attributed these delays to factors such as persistent alterations in design specifications, delays in completing user trials, and delays in placing supply orders.
- The prevalent practice of seeking multiple extensions for projects, particularly those designated under the Mission Mode category, has been identified as undermining the intended purpose of these initiatives.

Major Recommendations of the Vijay Raghavan Committee:

Establishment of the Defence Technology Council: Headed by the Prime Minister, with the Defence Minister and the National Security Advisor serving as Vice Presidents.
- This council is envisioned to play a pivotal role in charting the nation's defence technology roadmap, deciding on significant projects, and overseeing their execution.
- An executive committee, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, is proposed, featuring members such as the Principal Scientific Advisor, the three service chiefs, their vice chiefs, and representation from academia and industry.
Creation of the Department of Defence Science, Technology, and Innovation: To be led by a technocrat, this department aims to foster defence research and development within the academic and startup ecosystem.
- Additionally, it is designated as the secretariat for the Defence Tech Council chaired by the Prime Minister.
- Drawing expertise from scientists in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and academia, it will compile a knowledge repository on production expertise, conduct background research for the Defence Tech Council, and contribute to informed decisions on technology production.
Restructuring of DRDO's Focus: Recommends that DRDO concentrate on its original mission of research and development for defence purposes.
- The suggestion is for DRDO to abstain from involvement in productization, production cycles, and product management, tasks deemed more suitable for the private sector.
Currently, DRDO is engaged in all aspects of its projects, spanning from research and development to production.

The last batch of Mizoram Bru refugees permanently settled in Tripura (The Hindu)

16 Jan 2024

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The Tripura government has allocated land for the rehabilitation of the last batch of Mizoram Bru refugees, who were granted permanent settlement in Tripura through a Home Ministry-initiated quadripartite agreement signed on January 16, 2020.

Who are Bru refugees?

Brus, also referred to as Reangs, are a tribal community indigenous to northeast India and have historically resided in parts of Mizoram, Tripura, and Assam.
- In the state of Tripura, the Brus are a designated Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
Most Brus residing in Tripura today have suffered more than two decades of internal displacement, fleeing ethnic persecution primarily from the neighbouring state of Mizoram.

Bru-Reang Refugee Crisis:

It all started in 1995 when the Young Mizo Association and the Mizo Students' Association demanded that Brus be eliminated from Mizoram’s electoral rolls as they were not indigenous inhabitants.
Being ethnically distinct from the majority of Mizos, the Brus are often referred to as “Vai” in the state, meaning outsiders or non-Mizos.
Tensions escalated after the Brus retaliated against the Mizos’ attempts to disenfranchise them, and organized themselves into an armed group, the Bru National Liberation Front, and a political entity, the Bru National Union.
They also demanded the creation of a separate Bru Autonomous District Council (ADC) in western Mizoram as per the provisions of the sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution.
However, their attempts at seeking greater autonomy were foiled and resultant ethnic clashes forced many Reangs in Mamit, Kolasib and Lunglei districts of Mizoram to migrate to neighbouring Tripura in 1997.
Today, roughly 35,000 Reangs continue to reside in north Tripura’s Kanchanpur camp as refugees, as per Home Ministry estimates.

Have there been any attempts to resettle the Brus?

The state governments, along with the union government have made multiple attempts to send Brus back to their homeland in Mizoram.
- But until 2014, following eight rounds of resettlement, only an estimated 5,000 individuals, or 1622 Bru-Reang families returned to Mizoram in various batches.
In July 2018, the governments of Tripura, Mizoram, and the central government concluded a quadripartite pact with Bru community representatives to resettle refugees in Mizoram.
- This was however opposed by not only native Mizo groups but also by the Reangs who feared threats to life and further ethnic repression in their home state.
Efforts were still made to pursue the terms of this pact. The supply of free ration to relief camps was halted on instructions of the Home Ministry in a bid to hastily complete the repatriation of refugees, which resulted in at least six starvation deaths.
Sensing a failure of the 2018 pact, the four groups once again came together in January 2020 to sign another quadripartite pact to resettle the Brus, this time in the state of Tripura.
- The central government earmarked a Rs 600 crore package to aid the rehabilitation efforts, and the Bru families were promised a residential plot, a fixed deposit of Rs 4 lakh, a Rs 1.5 lakh grant to construct their houses, as well as free ration and a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 for a period of two years.
Additionally, the renewed 2020 pact also promised to include the displaced Reangs in the electoral rolls in Tripura.

Darjeeling zoo’s success with snow leopards: Why wild cats are fussy breeders (Indian Express)

16 Jan 2024

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The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) in Darjeeling has made headlines for successfully breeding 77 snow leopards since the 1980s, placing it next only to New York’s Bronx Zoo, which has produced 80 snow leopard cubs since it started breeding experiments with the species in the 1960s.

About Snow Leopard:

The snow leopard, also known as the ounce, is a large Asian cat belonging to the family Felidae, classified as Panthera uncia.
It preys on various animals, including marmots, wild sheep, ibex, and domestic livestock. As the apex predator in the mountain ecosystem, snow leopards serve as vital indicators of ecosystem health.
Habitat: Native to the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia, snow leopards are found in India, specifically in the western Himalayas covering Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh in the eastern Himalayas.
Threats to Survival: With an estimated 4,000 to 6,500 snow leopards remaining in the wild, around 500 of them are in India.
- Human settlement expansion, particularly livestock grazing, has escalated conflicts.
- Climate change, causing a rise in average temperatures across their habitat, poses an additional threat.
- Poaching, driven by illegal trades in pelts and body parts used in traditional Chinese medicine, further endangers their lives.
Protection Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
Conservation Efforts: The Government of India initiated Project Snow Leopard in 2009 to safeguard and conserve the snow leopard population and their habitats through participatory policies.
- Under the UNDP's SECURE Himalaya project in 2020, India's first Snow Leopard Conservation Centre was launched in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, promoting conservation efforts in the region.

About Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP):

Formerly known as the Himalayan Zoological Park, the PNHZP was established in August 1958 in Darjeeling, West Bengal.
Dedicated to the preservation of ecological balance in the Eastern Himalayas, the park pursues the following objectives:
Ex-situ Conservation and Captive Breeding: The park focuses on the ex-situ conservation and captive breeding of endangered Himalayan animal species.
Awareness and Education: Aiming to educate and motivate both local residents and visitors, the park conducts awareness campaigns highlighting the significance of Himalayan ecosystem conservation.
Applied Research: The PNHZP initiates applied research in animal biology, behaviour, and healthcare, contributing to a better understanding of these aspects.
Conservation Pioneering: Recognized as a conservation pioneer, the zoo initiated the first ex-situ conservation breeding program in 1986, commencing with the Snow Leopard conservation breeding project.
- The Red Panda project followed suit in 1990.
High-Altitude Zoo: The PNHZP holds the distinction of being the largest high-altitude zoo in the country, making significant strides in the conservation of endangered Eastern Himalayan species in India.

How do flights land safely despite fog and low visibility? The wizardry tech that makes it possible! (Financial Express)

16 Jan 2024

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In the past few days, the Delhi airport has experienced chaos, resulting in over 100 flight delays, 10 flights being diverted, and some even cancelled due to low visibility caused by dense fog conditions affecting flying operations.

What is an Instrument Landing System?

Fog, which is the suspension of water droplets near the ground, poses a considerable obstacle to aircraft operations during instances of reduced visibility.
This atmospheric condition results in thick mist which hampers flight operations, necessitating the reliance on instruments like the “Instrument Landing System” (ILS) to navigate through the obscured surroundings.

ILS is a standard International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) precision landing aid that is used to provide accurate azimuth (angular measurement in a spherical coordinate system) and descent guidance signals for guidance to flight for landing on the runway under adverse weather conditions.
To put things in perspective, ILS operates in tandem with ground-based equipment and avionic components on the aircraft, providing precise guidance to pilots during the critical phases of approach and landing.
- The ILS guiding system helps planes land in low visibility with the help of radio signals and also sometimes high-intensity lighting arrays.
- Among the various categories of ILS, Category 3 (CAT III) is the most significant due to its capability to support landing operations in low visibility conditions, thereby enhancing flight safety and operational efficiency.
At present, airports like Delhi, Amritsar, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Kolkata among others use CAT IIIB technology in India.
However, the absence of pilots or the ILS technology can lead to massive delays and cancellations.
- Moreover, a lot of financial and logistics are required to operate the technology which is still a distant dream at many airports around the country.

How does this system work?

Consisting of two main components—the localizer and the glide slope—the CAT safe system functions by transmitting radio signals that help pilots align their aircraft with the correct runway and maintain the appropriate descent path.
- The localizer ensures lateral alignment, guiding the aircraft along the correct azimuth toward the runway centerline.
- Simultaneously, the glide slope provides vertical guidance, aiding pilots in maintaining the proper descent angle for a safe landing.
Together, these components create a reliable and accurate navigational reference, allowing pilots to execute precision landings even when external visibility is severely compromised.
Notably, ILS-equipped runways are equipped with ground-based transmitters positioned at the end of the runway, emitting signals that are received by the aircraft’s onboard ILS receiver.
- As the aircraft approaches the runway, the pilot uses the visual and audible cues provided by the ILS to make real-time adjustments, ensuring that the aircraft remains aligned with the desired glide path.
In essence, the technology significantly enhances aviation safety and operational reliability by enabling pilots to conduct precise landings even in conditions that would otherwise pose a considerable risk.

NHAI cracks down on multiple FASTags for a single vehicle, launches ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ program (Financial Express)

16 Jan 2024

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The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced on Monday (January 15) that FASTags with valid balances but incomplete KYC will be deactivated by banks after January 31, 2024.

What is the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Program?

In a bid to enhance the efficiency of the electronic toll collection system and facilitate seamless movement at toll plazas, NHAI has initiated the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ program, discouraging the use of a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or linking multiple FASTags to a particular vehicle.
NHAI encourages FASTag users to complete the ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) process for their latest FASTag, aligning with RBI guidelines.
- To prevent inconvenience, users must ensure KYC completion for their latest FASTag and discard all previously issued FASTags through their respective banks.
- The initiative aims to deactivate or blacklist previous tags after January 31, 2024.

Ensuring seamless and comfortable journeys: The ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ initiative, coupled with the high penetration rate of FASTag at around 98% and over 8 crore users, is poised to streamline toll operations, ensuring efficient and comfortable journeys on national highways.

About FASTags:

FASTag serves as an electronic toll collection system in India, administered by the NHAI.
- Utilising Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, it facilitates toll payments directly from the linked prepaid or savings account or directly from the toll owner.
FASTag utilizes Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, allowing seamless toll payments while the vehicle is in motion.
Windscreen Affixation: FASTag is affixed on the vehicle's windscreen, providing a hassle-free experience for customers to drive through toll plazas without the need to stop for payments.
Automatic Deduction: Toll fares are automatically deducted from the linked account of the customer, ensuring a swift and cashless transaction.
Vehicle Specific: Once affixed to a vehicle, FASTag becomes vehicle-specific, preventing transferability to another vehicle.
Purchase from NETC Member Banks: FASTag can be conveniently purchased from any of the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) Member Banks.
Prepaid Account Recharge: In the case of linking FASTag to a prepaid account, customers need to recharge or top-up the tag based on their usage.

Govt cuts windfall tax on petroleum crude to Rs 1,700 per tonne (The Hindu)

16 Jan 2024

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The government has cut the windfall tax on domestically-produced crude oil to ?1,700 per tonne from ?2,300 per tonne with effect from January 16.

What is Windfall Tax?

A Windfall Tax is imposed by governments on specific industries that experience exceptionally high profits due to economic conditions surpassing the norm.
The term "windfall" denotes an unforeseen surge in profits, leading to the imposition of the windfall tax on the excess gains.
Imposition Criteria: Governments impose the Windfall Tax when there is a sudden and substantial increase in an industry's revenue.
- Notably, this increase must be unrelated to the company's intentional actions, such as business strategies or expansions, but instead linked to external events beyond its control.
- A Windfall Tax is typically triggered by external occurrences, such as the unexpected surge in profits observed in the oil and gas industries amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Tax Rates: Governments tax these windfall gains at rates higher than the standard tax rates applicable to regular profits.
Target Industries: Commonly, industries such as oil, gas, and mining become targets for windfall gains tax.

Objectives:

Redistribution of Gains: To redistribute unexpected profits, especially when high prices benefit producers at the expense of consumers.
Funding Social Welfare Schemes: Utilizing the windfall tax revenue to support social welfare initiatives.
Supplementary Revenue Source: Acting as an additional revenue stream for the government.
Addressing Trade Deficit: Providing a means for the government to mitigate the widening trade deficit in the country.

When Did India Introduce Windfall Tax?

To address the shortage of energy products on the domestic market, the Indian government added a special additional excise duty on the export of gasoline and diesel, known as the Windfall Tax, on July 1st, 2022.

Why are Countries Levying Windfall Taxes Now?

Since the past few years, gasoline prices, crude oil, gas, and coal have significantly increased.
- COVID-19 and the conflict between Ukraine and Russia made this increase even more pronounced.
- Because of this, energy companies profited handsomely at the expense of consumers, who now pay much higher prices for their energy use.
The UN Secretary-General, therefore, encouraged nations to impose windfall taxes on those companies that have greatly benefited from the rise in the price of fossil fuels.
- As a result, many countries, including the UK, Germany, and others, besides India, are considering imposing Windfall Taxes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a windfall tax is a tax that a government may impose or an additional tax that may be imposed on a business when it generates a sizable unanticipated profit, particularly if the company has benefited from favourable economic conditions.

Companies in specific economic sectors, such as the oil and gas industry, that profit from circumstances like commodity shortages that significantly drive up the cost of their goods at the expense of consumers may be subject to windfall taxes.

Goyal asks FCI officers to turn whistleblowers to curb corruption (The Hindu)

15 Jan 2024

Medical care on India’s trains is running late, with passengers at risk (The Hindu)

15 Jan 2024

In a big push for India's energy security, ONGC makes two significant gas discoveries in the Mahanadi basin block (Business World)

15 Jan 2024

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In a significant stride towards bolstering India's energy security, the state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has successfully unearthed two substantial natural gas reserves within the Mahanadi basin block in the Bay of Bengal.

About the Mahanadi River Basin:

Ranked as the 8th largest river basin in the country, the Mahanadi River Basin boasts a substantial catchment area spanning 139,681.51 sq. km, representing approximately 4.28% of the total geographical area of India.
Encompassing significant portions of Chhattisgarh and Odisha, along with smaller segments of Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, this basin stretches across diverse terrains and is surrounded by the Central India hills to the north, the Eastern Ghats to the south and east, and the Maikala range to the west.
The basin's physiographic features are categorized into four regions:
- The northern plateau
- The Eastern Ghats
- The coastal plain (a fertile delta area), and
- The erosional plains of the central tableland.
Notably, the basin receives about 90% of its rainfall during the monsoon season.
Agriculture dominates the landscape, covering 54.27% of the total area, while water bodies occupy 4.45%. Predominant soil types include red and yellow soils.

Key Characteristics of the Mahanadi River:

As one of the major east-flowing peninsular rivers in India, the Mahanadi River originates from the Sihawa range of hills in the Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh.
Water Potential: Second only to the Godavari River in terms of water potential among peninsular rivers, the Mahanadi River spans a total length of 851 km, with 357 km flowing through Chhattisgarh and 494 km through Odisha.
Tributaries: The river is augmented by left bank tributaries including the Seonath, Hasdeo, Mand, and Ib, while the right bank receives contributions from the Ong, Tel, and Jonk.
Hirakud Dam: An engineering marvel, the Hirakud Dam, recognized as the world's longest earthen dam at 26 km, is strategically located about 15 km from Sambalpur in Odisha, providing essential water management for the region.
The Mahanadi River plays a crucial role in the hydrology of Chilika Lake, designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
Approximately 61% of the lake's inland flow originates from the Mahanadi River system, mainly through its distributaries, Daya and Bhargabi.

Global surgery: why access to essential surgery is important (The Hindu)

15 Jan 2024

India celebrates 76th Army Day with pride and gratitude (TOI)

15 Jan 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupani Murmu conveyed their warm wishes to Indian Army personnel on the occasion of Army Day.

Why is Army Day celebrated?

On January 15, KM Cariappa took charge of the Indian Army from General Sir Francis Roy Bucher in 1949, who was the last British-serving Army chief.
KM Cariappa became the first-ever Indian General to command the Army in its long eventful journey.
Later, General Cariappa also became the Field Marshal of India.
KM Cariappa, who is popularly known as Kipper, received King's commission in 1919 and was part of the first group of Indian cadets at the Royal Military College in Sandhurst, UK.
- He was the first Indian who attended Staff College in Quetta and the first one to command a battalion.
In 1942, Cariappa raised the 7th Rajput Machine Gun which was later known as 17 Rajput.
He was conferred with Field Marshal Rank in 1986 and passed away in 1993 at the age of 94.

Indian Army Day 2024: Theme

The theme of the Indian Army Day 2024 is “In Service of the Nation”.
The theme of 2024 focuses on the main essence of the Army.
This year’s theme also resembles the motto of the Indian Army, “Service Before Self.”
This year marks the 76th Army Day.
- The parade will be held under the command of the Army's Central Command, which is headquartered in Lucknow.

Indian Army Day 2024: Significance

Indian Army Day is also known as Bhartiya Sena Diwas.
The day promises a grand celebration to honour the valour and service of the Army officers.
It also proves to be a day dedicated to spreading awareness and enthusiasm among the youth of the nation to join the Bhartiya Sena and serve the country selflessly.
Army Day is dedicated to appreciating and acknowledging the sacrifice and dedication of the Indian Army towards protecting the country from the illegal invasion of enemies and attacks.

Indian Army Day 2024: History

The Indian Army was established on 1 April 1895 by the British.
Initially, the Indian Army was known as the Royal Indian Army.
India attained Independence on 15 August 1947.
On 15 January 1949, the first Commander-in-Chief of India General K.M. Cariappa took over the rule of British Army Official General Sir Francis Roy Bucher. Since then, this historic moment has been celebrated as Bhartiya Sena Divas.
India is following the tradition of celebrating this grand day with great zeal and patriotism.
Since 15 January 1949, India has been self-reliant in the field of defence.

The first-ever IUCN assessment of the Himalayan Wolf is out. And it is grim (DownToEarth)

13 Jan 2024

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The Himalayan Wolf is a prominent lupine predator found across the Himalayas the taxonomic status which was a puzzle till late, has been assessed for the first time in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s Red List.

Key Findings:

Population Decline: The IUCN assessment highlights a persistent reduction in the habitat area, extent, and quality of Himalayan wolves.
- The estimated total population ranges from 2,275 to 3,792 mature individuals, with 227 to 378 in India.

Primary Threats:

Depredation Conflict: Arising from habitat modification, encroachment, and depletion of wild prey populations.
Hybridization with Dogs: Particularly in Ladakh and Spiti, where feral dog populations are on the rise.
Illegal Hunting: Driven by trade in fur and body parts, including paws, tongues, and heads.

About the Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus chanco):

It is also called Tibetan wolves, which live at more than 4,000 metres altitudes.
Habitat: It is found in the Himalayas (Nepal and India) and the Tibetan Plateau.
- Exhibits genetic adaptations to cope with hypoxic conditions.
Characteristics: Adorned with thick fur, displaying brown colouration on the back and tail, complemented by paler yellows on the face, limbs, and underside.
- Larger than Indian and European wolves.
- Shows a preference for wild prey over domestic options.
Conservation Status:
- IUCN’s Red List: Categorized as Vulnerable.
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I.
- CITES: Included in Appendix I.

Recommended Actions for the Conservation of Himalayan Wolves:

Ensure the preservation and restoration of robust wild prey populations and their natural habitats.
Foster collaborative transboundary initiatives to safeguard and conserve the species across its range of countries.
Integrate the Himalayan Wolf into comprehensive conservation programs for enhanced protection and sustainable management.

How GM mustard was developed, why the question of its approval has now reached the Supreme Court (Indian Express)

13 Jan 2024

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The Supreme Court recently questioned the Centre on why reports of the court-appointed Technical Experts Committee (TEC) on the biosafety of genetically modified (GM) crops were not looked into by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC).

Context:

The Supreme Court has raised concerns about the approval process for the transgenic mustard hybrid DMH-11, developed by Delhi University with herbicide-tolerant traits through genetic modification.
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) had recommended its environmental release in 2022, but the court questioned whether the reports from the court-appointed Technical Experts Committee (TEC) were adequately considered before approval.
DMH-11 contains two alien genes isolated from a soil bacterium called Bacillus amyloliquefaciens.
Indian scientists improvised the barnase/barster male sterility technique to produce the DMH-11.

- Barnase/barster male sterility technique is a 1990s breeding innovation technique pioneered in Belgium.
- Indian scientists arranged the genes in a way that will allow a large number of high-yielding varieties of mustard to be developed, which is normally not possible.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) undergo genome alterations, and transgenic organisms result from the introduction of foreign DNA sequences.
Approval process for transgenic crops:

- Safety assessments by committees are conducted before the open field tests.
- Transgenic plants must be better than non-GM variants and environmentally safe for commercial clearance.
- GEAC recommends environmental release.
- Final approval by MoEFCC.

Benefits of GM crops:

- Resistance against plant diseases.
- Improved yields
- Increased food security.

About the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC):

Establishment: GEAC operates as a statutory body mandated by the Environment Protection Act of 1986.
Responsibility: It holds the responsibility for evaluating proposals concerning the environmental release of Genetically Modified (GM) organisms and associated products.
GEAC operates under the purview of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

SC directs UOI to frame a policy to phase out heavy-duty diesel vehicles & replace them with BS VI (The New Indian Express)

13 Jan 2024

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The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to frame a policy within six months to replace heavy-duty diesel vehicles and replace them with BS VI vehicles, observing that the right to clean air is not the entitlement of people living in Delhi alone.

What are BS-VI Norms?

Bharat stage (BS) emission standards are laid down by the government to regulate the output of air pollutants from internal combustion engines and spark-ignition engine equipment, including motor vehicles.
The central government has mandated that vehicle makers must manufacture, sell and register only BS-VI (BS6) vehicles from April 1, 2020.
The first emission norms were introduced in India in 1991 for petrol and in 1992 for diesel vehicles.
- Following this, the catalytic converter became mandatory for petrol vehicles and unleaded petrol was introduced in the market.

What is the Difference Between BS4 and BS6?

Both BS-IV and BS-VI are unit emission norms that set the maximum permissible levels for pollutants that an automotive or a two-wheeler exhaust can emit.
- Compared to the BS4, BS6 emission standards are stricter
- Whereas makers use this variation to update their vehicles with new options and safety standards, the biggest modification comes in the permissible emission norms.

What area unit BSI, BSII, BSIII, BSIV, and BSVI emission norms?

The abbreviation BS refers to ‘Bharat Stage’.
- It is prefixed to the iteration of the actual emission norms.
- The primary rules with the soubriquet Asian nation 2000 were introduced in the year 2000, with the second and third iterations being introduced in 2001 and 2005 with the soubriquet BSII (BS2) and BSIII (BS3), respectively.
The fourth iteration, BSIV, was introduced in 2017 and therefore the delay between the introduction of BS3 and BS4 resulted in fast-tracking the BSVI or BS6 emission norms rather than BSV (BS5) norms.
- On 29 April 1999, the Supreme Court of India ruled that all vehicles in the country had to meet Euro I or India 2000 norms by June 1, 1999, and Euro II would be mandatory in the National Capital Region (NCR) from April 2000.
  - Carmakers were not prepared for this transition and in a subsequent judgment, the implementation of Euro II was deferred.
In 2002, the government accepted the report submitted by the Mashelkar committee, which proposed a road map for the rollout of Euro-based emission norms in India.
- It also recommended a phased implementation of future norms, with regulations being implemented in major cities first and extended to the rest of the country after a few years.
Based on the recommendations of the committee, the National Auto Fuel policy was announced officially in 2003.
- The road map for the implementation of the BS norms was laid out in 2010.
- The policy also created guidelines for auto fuels, reduction of pollution from older vehicles and R&D for air quality data creation and health administration.
The standards and the timeline for implementation are set by the Central Pollution Control Board under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Since October 2010, Bharat Stage (BS) III norms have been enforced across the country.
BS-IV emission norms were put in place in 13 major cities from April 2010, and the entire country from April 2017.
In 2016, the government announced that the country would skip the BS-V norms altogether and adopt BS-VI norms by 2020.

Science Ministry team visits Hawaii to take stock of international telescope project (The Hindu)

13 Jan 2024

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In a signal of renewed enthusiasm for a global scientific project, an official delegation from the Department of Science and Technology visited Mauna Kea, an inactive volcano on the island of Hawai’i in the United States, to discuss “challenges” to the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project.

About Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) Project:

The name "Thirty Metre" denotes the telescope's substantial 30-meter mirror diameter, composed of 492 glass segments seamlessly integrated.
It is an international collaboration involving institutions such as CalTech, the Universities of California, Canada, Japan, China, and India, facilitated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).
Significance: Upon completion, it will surpass the world's largest existing visible-light telescope in width by threefold.
- A larger mirror enables greater light collection, enhancing the telescope's capability to observe distant, faint objects.
It is projected to be over 200 times more sensitive than current telescopes and possess 12 times the resolving power of the Hubble Space Telescope.
Application: The TMT's primary purpose includes the study of exoplanets, specifically exploring whether their atmospheres contain water vapour or methane, potential indicators of extraterrestrial life.
Opposition against Construction: The proposed site, Mauna Kea in Hawaii, is contested due to its sacred significance to native Hawaiians, who perceive such projects as desecrating the mountain.

Contribution of India:

India expects to be a major contributor to the project and will provide:
Hardware (segment support assemblies, actuators, edge sensors, segment polishing, and segment coating)
Instrumentation (first light instruments), and
Software (observatory software and telescope control systems) worth $200 million.
- Of the 492 precisely polished mirrors that the telescope needs, India will contribute 83.
The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP) is leading the consortium of Indian institutions that are involved with the TMT project.

India gears up for HPV vaccine drive against cervical cancer (Indian Express)

13 Jan 2024

Ganga mission gets the power to allow treated sewage into water bodies (Indian Express)

12 Jan 2024

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The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), the Centre’s nodal agency responsible for the abatement of pollution in river Ganga and its tributaries, has assumed new powers under which it may now permit the discharge of treated sewage and effluent that conforms to the prescribed “norms” into the river, canal or water bodies.

About the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):

The National Clean Ganga Mission (NMCG) is a flagship programme developed by the National Council for the Rejuvenation, Protection and Management of the Ganga River, also known as the National Ganga Council.
It is registered as a society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
It came into existence on August 12th 2011 and is supported by the State-Level Program Management Groups (SPMGs) in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal.
The Government of India established this body to encourage a coordinated effort by the listed states to tackle the contamination of the Ganga River by offering financial and technological assistance.

Key objectives of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):

The project entails rehabilitating and boosting existing STPs and immediate short-term action to reduce pollution at the exit points on the riverfront in order to control the inflow of sewage.
To preserve the consistency of the water cycle without altering the fluctuations of the natural season.
Restore and control surface and groundwater supply.
Regenerate and preserve the natural flora of the city.
To preserve and invigorate the aquatic biodiversity and the riparian biodiversity of the Ganga River basin.
Enable the public to engage in the process of protecting, rejuvenating and maintaining the water.

Major functions of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):

Execution of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) work program
Integration of the National Ganga River Basin Project supported by the World Bank
Supervise and manage the execution of projects approved by the Government of India under NGRBA
To perform some additional research or duties as may be delegated by MoWR, RD & GJ in the context of restoration of the Ganga River
Layout regulations and procedures for the conduct of NMCG affairs and contribute or revise, vary or amend them as and when required
Grant or accept financial aid, loan securities or properties of any kind, and undertake and approve the management of any endowment trust, fund or gift that is not incompatible with the objectives of the NMCG.
Take all such action and take any other action that might seem appropriate or relevant to the accomplishment of the goals of the NGRBA.

Article 30 Not Intended To Ghettoise Minorities, Minority Institution Can Include Others In Administration: Supreme Court In AMU Case Hearing (Indian Express)

12 Jan 2024

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In a recent observation, the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, highlighted that the right granted to religious and linguistic minorities to establish and administer their educational institutions under Article 30(1) of the constitution was not intended to "ghettoise" them.

What is Article 30 of the Indian Constitution?

Article 30 of the Indian Constitution states the right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions.
- It says: “All minorities, whether based on religion or language, shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.”

When was Article 30 adopted?

Article 30 was adopted on December 8, 1948.

Features of Article 30 of the Indian Constitution:

Article 30 of the Indian constitution consists of provisions that safeguard various rights of the minority community in the country keeping in mind the principle of equality as well.
Article 30(1) says that all minorities, whether based on religion or language, shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
Article 30(1A) deals with the fixation of the amount for the acquisition of property of any educational institution established by minority groups.
Article 30(2) states that the government should not discriminate against any educational institution on the ground that it is under the management of a minority, whether based on religion or language while giving aid.

The debate around Article 30:

On December 8, 1948, the Constituent Assembly debated the need for imparting primary education in one's mother tongue.
- One of the members of the Assembly moved an amendment to restrict the scope of this article to linguistic minorities.
- He argued that a secular state should not recognise minorities based on religion.
Another member of the Assembly proposed to guarantee linguistic minorities the fundamental right to receive primary education in their language and script.
- He was concerned about the status of minority languages, even in regions which had a significant minority population.
The Constituent Assembly rejected the proposals.

What is Article 29 of the Indian Constitution?

Both Article 29 and Article 30 guarantee certain rights to minorities.
Article 29 protects the interests of minorities by making a provision that any citizen/section of citizens having a distinct language, script or culture has the right to conserve the same.
Article 29 mandates that no discrimination would be done on the grounds of religion, race, caste, language or any of them.

Concept of Minority in the Indian Constitution:

Religious minorities:

While Article 30 and Article 29 of the Constitution do not specify 'minorities' in India, it is classified into religious minorities and linguistic minorities.

Religious Minorities in India:

The basic ground for a community to be nominated as a religious minority is the numerical strength of the community.
- For example, in India, Hindus are the majority community.
- As India is a multi-religious country, it becomes important for the government to conserve and protect the religious minorities of the country.
Section 2, clause (c) of the National Commission of Minorities Act, declares six communities as minority communities. They are:
- Muslims
- Christians
- Buddhists
- Sikhs
- Jains and
- Zoroastrians (Parsis)

Linguistic Minorities:

A class or group of people whose mother language or mother tongue is different from that of the majority groups is known as the linguistic minority.
- The Constitution of India protects the interests of these linguistic minorities.

Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023 | Surat, Indore are the cleanest cities (The Hindu)

12 Jan 2024

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The President of India recently presented the ‘Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023’ at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

What is Swachh Survekshan?

Conducted annually, Swachh Survekshan is a comprehensive evaluation of cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitation standards in cities and towns throughout India.
- This initiative was launched as an integral component of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, specifically falling under the urban segment (SBA-Urban).
Initiated by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), the survey is executed in collaboration with the Quality Council of India (QCI).
- The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, launched on October 2, 2014, aims to achieve cleanliness and the eradication of open defecation in India by October 2, 2019.
- The campaign is bifurcated into rural (SBA-Gramin, overseen by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti) and urban (SBA-Urban, supervised by MoHUA).
Recently, on October 1, 2021, SBM-U 2.0 was introduced, focusing on ensuring universal access to sanitation facilities. Within this framework, the vision of attaining a Garbage-Free India has been emphasized.
Commencing with the first survey in 2016, covering 73 cities, Swachh Survekshan has expanded significantly to encompass 4242 locations in the 2020 survey.
- The evaluation methodology centres on two primary criteria: citizen feedback and field assessment.

Objectives of Swachh Survekshan: The primary goal of Swachh Survekshan is to encourage large-scale citizen participation and create awareness amongst all sections of society about the importance of working together towards making towns and cities better places to reside in.

About Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023:

Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023 were presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, under the auspices of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
The theme for the year 2023 centred around "Waste to Wealth" emphasizing sustainable waste management practices.
- For 2024, the theme is “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle”.
Indore (Madhya Pradesh) and Surat (Gujarat) jointly clinched the title of the cleanest cities in the country, with Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra) securing the third position.
- Remarkably, Indore maintained its top-ranking status for the seventh consecutive year.
In the category of clean cities with a population of less than 1 lakh, Sasvad, Patan, and Lonavala secured the top three positions, while Madhyamgram, Kalyani, and Haora in West Bengal found themselves at the bottom.
The cleanest cantonment was declared as Mhow Cantonment Board in Madhya Pradesh, and Chandigarh earned the SafaiMitra Surakshit Sheher recognition.
In the Ganga Towns category, Varanasi and Prayagraj secured the first and second positions, respectively.
Acknowledging overall cleanliness efforts, Maharashtra claimed the title of the best-performing state, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in the second and third positions.
- Odisha secured the fourth spot, with Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Karnataka, Goa, Haryana, and Bihar following suit.
Conversely, Rajasthan, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh found themselves at the lower end of the ranking.

Govt’s ZED scheme for MSMEs hits 1 lakh certification milestone; check scheme’s details (Financial Express)

12 Jan 2024

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The Zero Effect, Zero Defect scheme (ZED) by the MSME Ministry, which aims to encourage environmentally sustainable manufacturing practices among MSMEs, has achieved the 1 lakh certification milestone

What is the Zero Effect, Zero Defect (ZED) Scheme?

Launched in October 2016 and revamped in April 2022, the ZED scheme offers certification for environmentally conscious manufacturing under three certification levels (gold, silver and bronze) classified according to 20 performance-based parameters such as quality management, timely delivery, process control, waste management, etc.
The scheme provides financial assistance of up to 75 per cent of the total cost of certification, with a maximum subsidy ceiling of Rs 50,000 along with up to Rs 2 lakh support for handholding/consultancy to achieve the next certification level.
- For technology upgradation, the scheme offers assistance of up to Rs 3 lakhs for moving towards zero effect solutions/pollution control measures/cleaner technology.
MSMEs are charged Rs 10,000 for bronze certification, Rs 40,000 for silver certification, and Rs 90,000 for gold certification.
In December 2023, the MSME Ministry made the ZED scheme free for women-led MSMEs.
In addition, the government will now make a guaranteed payment of 100 per cent financial support for the certification cost under the scheme.
The ZED certification is valid for three years and the MSME units are required to re-apply for the certificate as per the validity of the scheme.
Currently, the scheme is applicable for manufacturing MSMEs only.
The government hasn’t announced the scheme’s model for services MSMEs yet.
The scheme is in line with the government’s plan to reduce the country’s CO2 emissions by 1 billion tons by 2030, reduce carbon intensity below 45 per cent by 2030 and finally make way for achieving a Net-Zero emission target by 2070.
The ZED Certification envisages the promotion of Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) practices amongst MSMEs so as to:
- Encourage and enable MSMEs to manufacture quality products using the latest technology, and tools & to constantly upgrade their processes for the achievement of high quality and high productivity with the least effect on the environment.
- Develop an Ecosystem for ZED Manufacturing in MSMEs, to enhance competitiveness and enable exports.
- Promote the adoption of ZED practices and recognise the efforts of successful MSMEs.
- Encourage MSMEs to achieve higher ZED Certification levels through graded incentives.
- Increase public awareness of demanding Zero Defect and Zero Effect products through the MSME Sustainable (ZED) Certification.
- Identify areas to improve upon, thereby assisting the Government in policy decisions and investment prioritization.

Mamata asks PM to officially list Bengali as a ‘classical language’ (The Hindu)

12 Jan 2024

World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2024 Report (The Hindu)

11 Jan 2024

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The global unemployment rate is set to increase in 2024 while growing social inequalities remain a concern, according to the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2024 report released in Vienna recently.

Key Findings:

Employment Trends: Joblessness and the jobs gap have both decreased below pre-pandemic levels, but global unemployment is expected to rise in 2024.
The macroeconomic environment witnessed a significant deterioration in 2023.
Global Economic Challenges: Ongoing geopolitical tensions and persistent inflation led to frequent and aggressive actions by central banks.
Monetary authorities in both advanced and emerging economies implemented the fastest interest rate increases since the 1980s, with widespread global repercussions.
Economic Slowdown in Key Economies: China, Türkiye, and Brazil experienced notable slowdowns, adversely affecting global industrial activity, investment, and trade.
Despite the economic slowdown, global growth in 2023 surpassed expectations, and labour markets displayed unexpected resilience.
Unemployment Dynamics: The global unemployment rate in 2023 improved modestly to 5.1% compared to 2022.
Labour market participation rates largely recovered from pandemic lows, but concerns arise about structural imbalances persisting.
Wage Trends: Real wages declined in most G20 countries as increases failed to keep pace with inflation.
Workers living in extreme poverty (earning less than US$2.15 per day per person in PPP terms) increased by about one million globally in 2023.
Positive real wage growth was observed in China, the Russian Federation, Mexico, India, and Türkiye.

Recommendations As per the Report:

Inclusive Labor Policies: Policymakers in rapidly ageing countries should focus on supporting the participation of groups with weak labour market attachment, including youth, women, and older workers.
Investment and Skills Strategies: Investment and skills policies should aim to enhance productivity, and potential growth, and promote a more productive utilization of technological progress.
Sectoral Improvements: Motivating workers who leave due to low pay and challenging working conditions can be achieved by improving conditions in sectors and occupations with these challenges.
International Workforce Matching: Facilitating the matching of internationally mobile workers to suitable jobs could alleviate some of the shortages in the labour market.
Long-Term Engagement: Recognizing that structural challenges in labour market adjustment are unlikely to vanish in the short term, it is crucial for governments and social partners to engage in ongoing efforts to address these challenges.

International Labour Organization (ILO)

The International Labour Organization (ILO) stands as the United Nations agency dedicated to the world of work.
Mission: The core mission of the ILO is to promote social and economic justice by establishing and advancing international labour standards.
Motto: At the heart of the ILO's mission is the pursuit of Decent Work for all, encapsulating the commitment to fostering conditions that are fair and dignified.
Headquarters: Situated in Geneva, Switzerland, the ILO operates from its global headquarters.
Parent Organization: Functioning under the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, the ILO is a vital component of the UN system.
Additionally, it is a member of the United Nations Development Group (UNDP), collaborating with other UN organizations to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.
Historical Background: Established in 1919 under the Treaty of Versailles, following the conclusion of World War I, the ILO was conceived with the conviction that enduring and universal peace could only be realized through a foundation of social justice.
In 1946, it transitioned into a specialized agency within the newly formed United Nations.
Membership: The ILO boasts a diverse membership, with 187 member states, encompassing 186 out of the 193 UN member states along with the Cook Islands.
Organizational Structure: Distinguishing itself as the only tripartite U.N. agency, the ILO brings together representatives from governments, employers, and workers of its 187-member states, fostering collaborative efforts in shaping global labour standards and policies.

The Process of Selecting Tableaux for the Republic Day Parade (Indian Express)

11 Jan 2024

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India’s Republic Day celebrations are incomplete without colourful tableaux cantering down the Kartavya Path (formally Rajpath). Showcasing India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, they add colour to the grand event on January 26.

Who can send tableaux to the Republic Day parade?

According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), each year, a select number of “State Governments/UT Administrations/Central/Ministries/Departments” send their tableaux to the Republic Day parade.
There is a rigorous application process which begins with interested parties submitting a concept note, along with design blueprints to the MoD.

How does the selection process work?

The tableaux proposals received are evaluated by a committee of experts appointed by the MoD, comprising prominent persons in the fields of art, culture, painting, sculpture, music, architecture, choreography, etc. The selection process happens in a phased manner.
STAGE 1 involves the assessment of the initial proposals and the design sketch/blueprint.
The Committee sits alongside official representatives of the participants and suggests modifications, if necessary.
A number of proposals may be rejected in this stage itself.
STAGE 2 involves the assessment of three-dimensional models of the proposals.
If the Committee is satisfied with the model, then the tableau is selected and further sent for fabrication.
The Committee can also suggest changes to models before selection.
Crucially, while the process is envisioned to be collaborative, the Committee has the final say on which tableaux are chosen, and can order any modifications they feel are required.

What is the basis of selection?

Selection depends upon a combination of factors including but not limited to visual appeal, impact on the masses, idea/theme of the tableaux, degree of detailing involved in the tableaux, music accompanying the tableaux, local artists used etc.
Each year, the MoD comes up with an overarching theme, under which, participants can showcase elements relevant to their respective state/UT/department in their tableaux.
This year’s theme is “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Bharat: Loktantra ki Matrika” (India: the Mother of Democracy).
The Defence Ministry also shares the basic guidelines about what all the tableaux can or should include.
The participating entities must engage “young qualified designers from renowned institutions”, electronic display walls for a bright display of images or content, moving elements using robotics or mechatronics, 3D printing could be used for certain elements, use of augmented or virtual reality, and special effects to improve the optics and visual effects of the tableau.
Extra weightage is given to tableaux which conform to these guidelines.
Importantly, the tableaux of two different states/ UTs must not be too similar, and eco-friendly materials must be used for their construction.

'Report Fish Disease' to Monitor Fish Diseases (TOI)

11 Jan 2024

Henley Passport Index 2024 (Indian Express)

11 Jan 2024

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The Henley Passport Index, which ranks the world’s most travel-friendly passports, has released its list for 2024, with European nations of France, Germany, Italy and Spain, and Asia’s Japan and Singapore sharing the number one spot.

Highlights of Henley Passport Index 2024:

The Henley Passport Index for 2024 ranks different passports according to the number of destinations their holders can visit without a prior visa or can avail of a visa on arrival, a visitor’s permit, or an electronic travel authority (ETA) on entering the destination.
The rankings are based on the analysis of data provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
It then provides a ‘Visa-free score’ which, essentially, is the number of destinations that the holders of that particular passport can travel to without a prior visa or can avail of a visa on arrival or other similar permits.
For instance, those holding the passports of the countries in the #1 spot had access to 194 visa-free destinations while those holding the Afghanistan passport ranked last at #104, had visa-free access to only 28 of them.
As per the latest rankings, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain hold the top spot as the world's most powerful passports, allowing visa-free entry to 194 global destinations.
Finland, Sweden and South Korea shared the second rank, while Austria, Denmark, Ireland and Netherlands occupied the third spot.
India, meanwhile, has improved its ranking and moved up to the 80th position from the previous year’s ranking of 84.
Those holding an Indian passport have visa-free access to 62 destinations.
World’s least powerful passports:
Afghanistan (Score: 28) - visa-free access to only 28 destinations
Syria (Score: 29) - visa-free access to only 29 destinations
Iraq (Score: 31) - visa-free access to only 31 destinations
Pakistan ( (Score: 34) - visa-free access to only 34 destinations

About Henley Passport Index:

The Henley Passport Index is the original, authoritative ranking of all the world’s passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.
The index is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) – the largest, most accurate travel information database – and enhanced by Henley & Partners’ research team.
It started in 2006 as the Henley & Partners Visa Restrictions Index (HVRI).
The Henley Passport Index compares the visa-free access of 199 different passports to 227 travel destinations.

Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) (Indian Express)

11 Jan 2024

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Recently India has flagged concerns relating to sensitive and confidential trade data of its exporters getting compromised while complying with the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

What Is Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)?

CBAM is a policy tool introduced by the European Union (EU) to reduce carbon emissions by imposing a carbon tax on imported products, ensuring that they are subject to the same carbon costs as products produced within the EU.
It is part of the EU's "Fit for 55 in 2030 package" to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.
The aim of CBAM is to prevent carbon-intensive imports from undermining the EU's climate objectives and to encourage the adoption of cleaner production practices around the world.
To implement CBAM, importers will need to declare the quantity of goods imported and their greenhouse gas emissions on an annual basis.
They will need to surrender a corresponding number of CBAM certificates to offset these emissions, and the price of these certificates will be based on the weekly average auction price of EU Emission Trading System (ETS) allowances in Euro/tonne of CO2 emitted.
It encourages non-EU countries to adopt stricter environmental regulations, reduce global carbon emissions, and prevent carbon leakage by discouraging companies from moving to countries with weaker environmental regulations.
Additionally, the revenue generated from CBAM will be used to support EU climate policies, which can serve as an example for other countries to promote green energy.

Impact of CBAM on India:

The EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism will have a negative impact on India's exports of metals such as iron, steel, and aluminium products.
The mechanism will subject these exports to extra scrutiny and impose carbon levies ranging from 19.8% to 52.7%, which could threaten India's major exports to the EU.
From 1st January 2026, the EU will start collecting the carbon tax on each consignment of steel, aluminium, cement, fertilizer, hydrogen and electricity, which could further harm India's exports to the EU.
The high carbon intensity of Indian products, due to coal being the dominant energy source, is a concern for the country as it may result in higher carbon tariffs from the EU.
India's use of coal is much higher than the EU and the global average, with coal-fired power accounting for almost 75% of India's energy consumption.
This makes direct and indirect emissions from industries like iron, steel and aluminium a significant worry for India.
The lack of a domestic carbon pricing scheme in India poses a risk to its export competitiveness, particularly for sectors such as refined petroleum products, organic chemicals, pharma medicaments, and textiles, which are among the top 20 goods imported by the EU from India.
Countries with a carbon pricing system may have a competitive advantage as they may pay less carbon tax or receive exemptions.
This risk could expand to other sectors in the future.

What can be done?

India can take a multi-pronged approach to mitigate the impact of the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on its exports.
One of the ways is to implement a Decarbonization Principle, which refers to reducing or eliminating greenhouse gas emissions from human activities such as transportation, power generation, manufacturing, and agriculture.
The government could complement its existing schemes such as the National Steel Policy and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme with a Decarbonization Principle.
This would encourage industries to focus on carbon efficiency, making their products more competitive in a carbon-conscious world.
Another way is to negotiate with the EU to recognize its energy taxes as equivalent to a carbon price.
India could also negotiate with the EU to transfer clean technologies and financing mechanisms to aid in making India's production sector more carbon efficient.
One way to finance this is to propose that a portion of the EU's CBAM revenue could be set aside to support India's climate commitments.
Additionally, India could begin preparing for the new system by establishing a Carbon Trading System, as China and Russia do.
India can encourage sustainable and eco-friendly production by providing incentives, which will enable the country to stay competitive in a more carbon-conscious future while achieving its 2070 Net Zero Targets. This will help India pursue its developmental goals and economic aspirations without any compromise.

DRDO anti-drone tech ready, handed over to BEL, private firms (The Hindu)

09 Jan 2024

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The counter-drone system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is ready for production and has already been demonstrated to armed services and other internal security agencies with some orders already placed.

Key Highlights from the Report:

The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has successfully engineered an indigenous counter-drone technology designed to counter various types of drone attacks, encompassing both soft and hard kill capabilities, particularly effective against micro drones.
Significance: This cutting-edge system employs a laser-based kill mechanism for the detection and destruction of drones in the airspace.
- Notably, it can proficiently detect and disrupt micro drones within a range of 3 kilometres, employing laser signals to neutralize targets situated at distances between 1 to 2.5 kilometres.
The technology has been seamlessly transferred to private industries, including Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Adani, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), and Icom.
- This strategic transfer enhances collaboration between the public and private sectors for the continued advancement and deployment of this crucial anti-drone technology.

What are Counter-Drone Systems?

Counter-drone systems serve as defensive mechanisms designed to thwart potential drone attacks through the processes of detection, identification, and neutralization.
These systems are broadly categorized as kinetic or non-kinetic.
Kinetic Systems: Kinetic counter-drone systems employ projectiles, such as bullets or missiles, to destroy an intruding drone.
- They integrate advanced sensors like radar for drone detection, coupled with a motorized platform to precisely aim and fire the weapon.
Non-Kinetic Systems: Non-kinetic counter-drone systems focus on disrupting flight capabilities or corrupting signals crucial for control and navigation.
- This is achieved by emitting noise signals at specific frequencies, rendering the drone incapable of receiving command signals.
- Additionally, non-kinetic systems may transmit false GPS signals, creating confusion in the drone's navigation system.

Centre asks Manipur government to study representation on removing Kuki-Chins from ST list (The Hindu)

09 Jan 2024

PM Modi wishes Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (The Hindu)

09 Jan 2024

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his wishes to the Indian diaspora on the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas and said their dedication towards preserving our rich heritage and strengthening global ties is commendable.

What is Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas?

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), also known as Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Day, is celebrated on January 9 to mark the contribution and achievements of the overseas Indian community to the development of India.
The day also commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, from South Africa to India in 1915, who led India's freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever.
Its format was later revised in 2015 to celebrate the event once every two years and to hold theme-based conferences during the intervening period with participation from overseas diaspora experts, policy-makers, and stakeholders.
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event of the Ministry of External Affairs.
It is held in different cities, to showcase the diversity and progress of different regions of India.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: History

Pravasi Bharatiya Diva was first celebrated in 2003.
It was an annual event earlier, but in 2015, the government revised its format to celebrate PBD once every two years.
To date, 17 conventions have been held.
The last Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was celebrated in the Indore of Madhya Pradesh in 2023.

Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards:

Another aspect of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards.
The awards were initiated in 2003 by the Indian Government to recognize the achievements and contributions of NRIs and PIOs in various fields such as education, science and technology, arts and culture, social work, public service, trade and industry, and philanthropy.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas: Significance

These conventions provide a platform for the overseas Indian community to engage with the Indian government and people of the land of their ancestors for mutually beneficial activities.
These conventions are also very useful in networking among the overseas Indian community residing in various parts of the world and enable them to share their experiences in various fields.

Switzerland’s decision to eliminate import duties limits FTA utility for India’ (Indian Express)

09 Jan 2024

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Switzerland’s policy to allow tariff-free entry for all industrial goods from all countries significantly limits India’s prospects of gains from India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) free trade agreement (FTA) that is currently being negotiated.

Context:

Within the broader context, the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) asserts that Switzerland's approach of granting tariff-free entry to all nations places constraints on the benefits India could potentially derive from the envisioned trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
This limitation arises as Switzerland has eliminated tariffs on various products, encompassing chemicals, consumer goods, vehicles, and clothing.

About the European Free Trade Association (EFTA):

The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is a regional trade organization and free trade area consisting of four European states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
The organization operates in parallel with the European Union (EU), and all four member states participate in the European Single Market and are part of the Schengen Area.
They are not, however, party to the European Union Customs Union.
It was established in 1960.
Trade Dynamics with India:
- In 2022, the combined merchandise trade between EFTA and India exceeded USD 6.1 billion.
- The predominant EFTA imports included organic chemicals (27.5%), with machinery (17.5%) and pharmaceutical products (11.4%) constituting the primary exports to India.

India’s Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with EFTA:

Negotiations on the trade deal commenced in 2008 and resumed in 2016.
The latest rounds covered diverse aspects such as trade in goods and services, rules of origin, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), trade and sustainable development, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, trade remedies, and customs and trade facilitation.

Impact of Switzerland’s Policy on India's Gains under EFTA:

Effect on Negotiations: Switzerland's decision significantly alters the dynamics of the ongoing India-EFTA trade agreement negotiations, posing implications for India's potential gains.
Increase in Market Competitiveness: Switzerland, as India's primary export destination in EFTA, has eliminated import duties, intensifying competition for Indian products despite the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with EFTA.
No Gains in Agricultural Exports: Exporting agricultural produce to Switzerland remains challenging due to tariff complexities, quality standards, and approval requirements. EFTA, including Switzerland, has shown reluctance to eliminate tariffs on basic agricultural produce.
Trade Deficit with Switzerland: In FY2023, India faced a substantial trade deficit with Switzerland, with imports totalling $15.79 billion compared to exports of $1.34 billion. Switzerland's policy is anticipated to widen this trade deficit further.
In essence, Switzerland's tariff-free policy introduces complexities in India's negotiations and hampers potential gains, particularly in the realm of agricultural exports, impacting the overall trade balance with EFTA.

: In a first, India set to chair, and host UNESCO's World Heritage Committee session in Delhi (HT)

09 Jan 2024

The logic behind momentum investing (The Hindu)

10 Jan 2024

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Traditionally, experts have advised investors to buy assets when they are selling at low prices, such as during times of a financial crisis, as assets could be found selling at prices well below their intrinsic value. Momentum investing is in stark contrast to this traditional logic.

What is Momentum investing?

Momentum investing refers to a style of investing wherein investors purchase assets such as stocks or bonds that are consistently rising in price while selling assets whose prices are falling.
- Momentum investors buy assets with rising prices in the hope that the upward price momentum of these assets would continue, thus allowing them to sell these assets at higher prices in the future to make profits.
- Similarly, they sell assets that are falling in price expecting the fall in prices to continue for some time.
Momentum investing is based on the philosophy that there can be discernible trends in asset prices and that these trends tend to persist over time.
The persistence of such trends gives investors an opportunity to recognise and participate in them early enough to make significant profits from their investments.

What is the Counter-logic?

Momentum investors often invest money in assets whose prices have scaled new all-time highs, even if these assets are trading at prices that are far above their intrinsic value.
- Many academic studies have shown that momentum investing can generate high returns that comfortably beat the benchmark indices.
Momentum investors generally do not conduct a deep analysis of the fundamental or intrinsic value of the assets in which they invest their money.
- They invest purely based on whether the price of an asset is showing a strong trend, either upward or downward, that they can ride on.
For this reason, many critics argue that momentum investing can cause an unsustainable rise or fall in prices as momentum investors are blind to the actual value of these assets.
This, they argue, can eventually lead to heavy losses for investors who are late to sell when the prices of these momentum-driven assets suddenly catch up with the assets’ intrinsic value.
Some investors may combine value investing, which is based on assessing the intrinsic value of an asset, with momentum investing.
- These investors believe that taking into account the existing trend in the price of an asset can help save time and boost investment returns.
It should be noted that traditional value investors believe in purchasing assets that are undervalued and selling them when the price of the asset has risen to match the asset’s intrinsic value.
It might, however, take many years before the price of an asset rises to fully match its intrinsic value.
Investors who combine value investing with momentum investing may be able to purchase an undervalued asset at just about the time when its price starts to trend towards its intrinsic value.
This prevents investor money from being locked in for years in assets whose prices go nowhere.

Land Ports Authority Releases Report on Gender-Inclusive Framework for Cross-Border Trade in India (NewsOnAIR)

10 Jan 2024

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Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) today released a report on 'Engendering Land Ports in India' in New Delhi. The main objective of the report is to develop a framework for gender-inclusive cross-border trade and tourism through land Ports in the country.

About the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI):

LPAI was established In 2012 as a statutory body under the LPAI Act of 2010.
It comes under the purview of the Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs.
Mandate: LPAI is entrusted with the development of cutting-edge infrastructure for its land ports.
- This infrastructure includes the construction of a Cargo Terminal Building, Passenger Terminal Building, deployment of mechanized equipment for cargo handling, implementation of security and surveillance measures at land ports, and the provision of forex counters.
Growth: From its inception with just two land ports in 2012, LPAI has played a significant role in expanding India's operational land ports to 11, facilitating connections across the country's land borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan.

Land Ports in India:

Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) are the official designations for land ports in India.
The country currently boasts 11 operational land ports, namely Attari, Agartala, Dawki, Petrapole, Raxaul, Rupaidiha, Jogbani, Moreh, Sutarkandi, Srimantapur, and the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at Dera Baba Nanak.
In the year 2023, significant trade activities were conducted through seven primary land ports: Attari, Agartala, Petrapole, Raxaul, Jogbani, Sutarkandi, and Srimantapur.
- These land ports played a crucial role in facilitating trade valued at Rs 76,000 crore and accommodating the movement of approximately 24 lakh passengers in the year 2023.

Why there is a Need for Land Ports in India?

Given its strategic central location, India shares an extensive international land border spanning over 15,000 kilometres with seven South Asian countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Numerous specified entry and exit points facilitate cross-border movements involving individuals, goods, and vehicles.
- However, the persistent challenge of inadequate infrastructure at these designated border checkpoints has posed a significant hurdle to regional trade, adversely affecting the smooth transit of both commodities and passengers.
Recognizing this obstacle, the Committee of Secretaries recommended the establishment of Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) in 2003.
- These ICPs were envisioned to offer state-of-the-art infrastructure facilities, addressing the deficiencies in the existing border infrastructure and promoting more efficient cross-border interactions.

Launch of the Traditional Medicine Morbidity codes of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani Chapter in International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11 as Module 2 (PIB)

10 Jan 2024

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The launch event for Module 2 of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11 TM Morbidity Codes is scheduled to take place in New Delhi on January 10, 2024.

What is the International Classification of Diseases?

Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) serves as a global standard for classifying diseases.
The existing global data on diseases is primarily rooted in modern biomedicine practices, guiding diagnoses within healthcare systems worldwide.
ICD plays a significant role on a global scale, offering crucial insights into the prevalence, causes, and consequences of human diseases and mortality.
It achieves this by incorporating reported and coded data, forming the basis for clinical terms in health records and disease statistics across primary, secondary, and tertiary care, as well as cause-of-death certificates.
The data and statistics derived from ICD coding contribute to various essential functions, including supporting payment systems, aiding in service planning, facilitating quality and safety administration, and driving health services research.
Moreover, the standardized data collection associated with ICD categories allows for large-scale research initiatives.
- It's important to note that the WHO ICD series currently does not include the classification of data and terminology related to diseases based on Ayush systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, etc.
The Central Bureau of Health Intelligence (CBHI), operating under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, serves as the WHO Collaboration Centre for ICD-related activities.
The CBHI plays a crucial role in collecting and disseminating data on various diseases and mortality.

What is the TM2 module of ICD11?

The Ministry of Ayush has introduced the Code for Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani Medicine, utilizing the National Ayush Morbidity and Standardised Electronic Portal (NAMASTE).
In partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), the Ministry of Ayush has collaboratively developed a comprehensive categorization of data and terminology about diseases based on Ayush systems, namely Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, within the TM2 module of the ICD11 series.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Ayush has formalized this collaboration by signing a Donor Agreement with the World Health Organization for the implementation of these initiatives.

Karnataka High Court bans mining around KRS Dam in Mandya: ‘can’t turn Nelson’s eye to possible danger’ (Indian Express)

10 Jan 2024

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The Karnataka High Court has suspended all mining licenses for stone quarrying within a 20-km radius of the Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) Dam in the Mysore-Mandya region of the state under provisions of the Dam Safety Act, 2021.

About the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam:

Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam is a gravity dam strategically positioned beneath the confluence of the Kaveri River with its tributaries, Hemavati and Lakshmana Tirtha, in Karnataka's Mandya district.
Usage: The dam serves crucial roles, providing water for irrigation in Mysore and Mandya while acting as a primary drinking water source for Mysore, Mandya, and Bengaluru.
- Additionally, it facilitates power generation at the Shivanasamudra hydroelectric power station.
- Water released from the KRS Dam travels into Tamil Nadu and is stored in the Mettur Dam in the Salem district.
History: Constructed during the reign of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the dam, completed in 1931, bears his name.
- The eminent Indian engineer Sir M. Visvesvaraya designed this impressive structure, commencing construction in 1911.
Features: Built with a combination of surki mortar and limestone, the dam spans 2,621 meters (8,600 ft) in length and stands 40 meters (130 ft) high.
- Exhibiting an arch type, it boasts 177 iron sluices, some equipped with automatic doors.
- The reservoir covers about 130 square kilometres, making it the largest in Asia at the time of construction.
- A captivating addition to the site is the Brindavan Gardens, an ornamental garden intricately linked with the dam.

Key Details About the Kaveri River:

Kaveri River, also spelt Cauvery, is a revered river in southern India, often referred to as the Ganga of South India.
Origin: The river originates from the Brahmagiri Hill in the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka.
Course: Flowing southeastward for a span of 765 km, Kaveri traverses through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, descending the Eastern Ghats with impressive cascades.
Basin Coverage: The Kaveri basin spans the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Outflow: Ultimately, the river empties into the Bay of Bengal at Poompuhar in the Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu.
Left Bank Tributaries: Notable left bank tributaries include Harangi, the Hemavati, the Shimsha, and the Arkavati.
Right Bank Tributaries: Major right bank contributors encompass Lakshmantirtha, the Kabbani, the Suvarnavati, the Bhavani, the Noyil, and the Amaravati.

Autonomous systems becoming the preferred choice in Order of Battle for nations across the globe: Navy Chief (The Hindu)

10 Jan 2024

Ram Temple opening brings fresh hope to Moradabad brass traders as orders for idols shoot up (The Hindu)

08 Jan 2024

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The industry, which till now produced utensils and home decorative items with intricate designs, is now flooded with orders for idols of Ram, Sita, Laxman and Hanuman

Brassware Industry Moradabad:

Moradabad was founded in 1600 by Murad, the son of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, and hence became known as Moradabad.
It is well-known for its brass work and has made a name for itself in the global handicraft market.
Moradabad, often referred to as the "Brass City" or Peetal Nagri, exports brassware to countries like the US, Britain, Canada, Germany, the Middle East, and Asia.
- Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, holds historical significance due to its exceptional hardness and workability.
In the 1980s, the industry witnessed diversification with the introduction of various metal wares such as brass, iron, and aluminum.
This expansion brought new technologies like electroplating, lacquering, and powder coating to Moradabad's art industry.
Notably, Moradabad Metal Craft (Word Mark) has received a geographical indication (GI) tag, emphasizing its unique identity and craftsmanship.
In the 18th century, Moradabad’s brass industry was boosted when the British East India Company began ordering large quantities of brass products for export.
- The demand for Moradabad’s brassware continued to grow throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, making it one of the most critical industries in the city.

What Categories of Brass are made in Moradabad?

Moradabad’s manufacturers produce a wide range of brass products, including:

Brass utensils: It includes a variety of brass utensils, such as pans, kettles, and jugs.
Brass lamps: Moradabad is also known for its brass lamps, which are used for decoration and lighting homes and businesses.
Brass statues: Brass spiritual suppliers also produce a wide range of brass God idols, Goddess statues, and Home decor statues.
Other brass products: In addition to the items mentioned above, Moradabad’s manufacturers also produce various other brass products, such as vases, ashtrays, candlesticks, and door knockers.

How AI can help detect cancer and why India’s biggest cancer treatment hospital is utilising it (Indian Express)

08 Jan 2024

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Given the escalating cases of cancer, the shortage of specialists poses a significant challenge in curbing fatalities. To address this gap, Mumbai’s Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), the biggest cancer hospital in India, is turning to artificial intelligence (AI).

Context:

With the rising cancer cases, a notable challenge is the shortage of specialists, impacting efforts to reduce fatalities.
To tackle this issue, Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) in Mumbai, India, the country's largest cancer hospital, is embracing artificial intelligence.
The hospital is leveraging deep learning to establish a Bio-Imaging Bank for cancer, employing AI to develop a tailored algorithm specific to cancer diagnosis.

What is the Role of AI in Cancer Detection and Treatment?

Early Detection through Identification of Tissue Changes and Potential Malignancies: AI analyzes radiological and pathological images, learning from extensive datasets to recognize unique features associated with various cancers.
- This technology facilitates early detection by identifying tissue changes and potential malignancies.
Predictive Models for Tumor Survival and Treatment Guidance: Comprehensive imaging generates longitudinal patient data, aiding in understanding behavior, treatment response, disease recurrence, and overall survival.
- AI and machine learning protocols utilize this data to develop predictive models for tumor survival and guide treatment aggressiveness.
Avoiding Unnecessary Chemotherapy: The creation of a tumor image bank allows for the development of algorithms for different tumors, assessing treatment responses directly from images and avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy for predicted non-responders.
Maintaining Diagnostic Quality while Decreasing Radiation Exposure: Tata Memorial Hospital has added data from 60,000 patients to the biobank over the past year.
- Using this data, AI successfully reduces radiation by enhancing images with AI algorithms, ensuring a significant decrease in radiation exposure to children without compromising diagnostic quality.
Potential to Reduce Cancer Fatalities in the Future:
- AI is poised to play a transformative role in cancer treatment, particularly in mitigating fatalities in rural India.
- Its potential lies in tailoring treatment approaches based on diverse patient profiles, optimizing therapy outcomes.
- AI swiftly detects cancer, eliminating the need for extensive tests and enabling even general practitioners to diagnose complex cancers.
- This technology is set to significantly enhance precision in cancer solutions.

What is Bio-Imaging Bank?

The overarching objective is to establish a robust repository incorporating radiology and pathology images intricately linked with clinical information, outcome data, treatment specifics, and additional metadata.
This strategic design aims at facilitating the training, validation, and rigorous testing of AI algorithms.
Functioning: In conjunction with creating the database, the project involves training and testing multiple AI algorithms using the accumulated data.
- It is tailored to address medically relevant tasks, including screening for lymph node metastases, nucleus segmentation and classification, biomarker prediction, and therapy response prediction.
Institutions Involved: The multi-institutional project receives funding from the Department of Biotechnology and collaborates with IIT-Bombay, RGCIRC-New Delhi, AIIMS-New Delhi, and PGIMER-Chandigarh.

Sarbananda Sonowal to chair the First Inland Waterways Development Council Meeting to be held tomorrow in Kolkata (PIB)

08 Jan 2024

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The Inland Waterways Authority of India, under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), is set to host the inaugural 'Inland Waterways Development Council' meeting on January 8, 2023, in Kolkata.

Key Initiatives to be Unveiled during the Meeting:

Marking the first session of the Inland Waterways Development Council.
The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) meeting will address vital issues related to the advancement of inland waterways in India through a comprehensive agenda.
Initiatives such as the “Harit Nauka – Guidelines for Green Transition of Inland Vessels” and the “River Cruise Tourism Roadmap 2047” will be launched as integral components of the agenda.
The meeting will center on critical aspects like fairway development, private sector engagement, and enhancing cargo transport efficiency in Inland Water Transport (IWT).
The agenda will also focus on promoting eco-friendly vessels for passenger transportation, exploring economic benefits in river cruise tourism, and advocating for sustainable practices in the development of inland waterways.

What is the Inland Waterways Development Council?

The Government of India established the Inland Waterways Development Council in 2023 with the active aim of comprehensively developing inland waterways and the associated Inland Water Transport (IWT) ecosystem.
The focus is on improving cargo efficiency, facilitating passenger movement, and promoting river cruise tourism, with the active engagement of States and Union Territories.

About Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI):

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) came into existence on 27th October 1986 for development and regulation of inland waterways for shipping and navigation.
The Authority primarily undertakes projects for development and maintenance of IWT infrastructure on national waterways through grants received from the Ministry of Shipping.
The head office of the Authority is at Noida.
The Authority also has its regional offices at Patna, Kolkata, Guwahati and Kochi and sub-offices at Allahabad, Varanasi, Farakka, Sahibganj, Haldia, Swroopganj, Hemnagar, Dibrugarh, Dhubri, Silchar, Kollam, Bhubaneswar and Vijayawada.

From red ant chutney to black rice, the 7 Odisha products that have bagged GI tags (Indian Express)

08 Jan 2024

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Seven products from Odisha, ranging from the Similipal Kai chutney made with red weaver ants to the embroidered Kapdaganda shawl, have bagged the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tag in recognition of their exclusivity to the state.

What is Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

Geographical Indications of goods refer to the place of origin of a product.
Such tags are accorded as they convey an assurance of quality and distinctiveness, attributable to the fact of its origin in a specific geographical locality, region or country.
In India, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, awards GIs.
A GI registration is given to an area, not a trader, but once a product gets the registration, traders dealing in the product can apply to sell it with the GI logo.
Authorised traders are each assigned a unique GI number.
If any unauthorised trader tries selling the product under that name, they can be prosecuted under The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
A marker of authentic products, the GI tags also help protect the interests of the local growers and artisans by preventing duplicity of the products and sale from unauthorised traders.
Consumers, through the tags, can know which goods are certified.

The Seven Products and Their Distinctiveness:

Kapdaganda shawl: Woven and embroidered by the women of the Dongria Kondh tribe, a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) in the Niyamgiri hills in Odisha’s Rayagada and Kalahandi districts, the shawl reflects the rich tribal heritage of the Dongria Kondhs.
- It is embroidered on an off-white coarse cloth with red, yellow and green coloured threads, with each colour holding significance.
  - Green symbolises the mountains and hills, and yellow stands for peace and happiness.
  - Red stands as the symbol of blood.
- The motifs in the shawls are mostly lines and triangles, believed to be a reflection of the importance of mountains for the community.
- The shawl is worn by both men and women and the Dongrias gift it to their family members as a token of love and affection.
Lanjia Saura Painting: The painting is also known as Idital. The artworks are famous for their beauty, aesthetics, ritualistic association and iconography.
- The art form belongs to the Lanjia Saura community, a PVTG largely residing in the Rayagada district.
- These paintings are in the form of exterior murals painted on the mud walls of homes.
- White paintings figure over a crimson-maroon background.
- It is believed that the Lanjia Sauras paint their walls with Idital artworks to show gratitude to their deities and forefathers, and also for the well-being of their community.
- Reflecting the love and affection of the primitive tribes for nature, they feature subjects like tribal humans, trees, animals, birds, the Sun and the Moon.
Koraput Kala Jeera Rice: The black-coloured rice variety, also known as the ‘Prince of Rice’, is famous for its aroma, taste, texture and nutritional value.
- Tribal farmers of the Koraput region have preserved the rice variety for around 1,000 years.
- As the rice grains resemble cumin seeds, it is also called Kala Jeera. Consumption of the rice variety helps in increasing haemoglobin levels and improves metabolism in the body.
- The farmers and producers of Koraput Kala Jeera rice have followed the traditional knowledge and practices in cultivation.
Similipal Kai chutney: The chutney made with red weaver ants is a traditional delicacy of the tribals in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district.
- The ants are found in the forests of Mayurbhanj, including in the Similipal forests – Asia’s second-largest biosphere.
- Rich in medicinal and nutritional value, the chutney is believed to be a good source of nutrients like protein, calcium, zinc, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, potassium, etc.
- The tribals prepare the Kai chutney by grinding the ants manually on a Sil Batta or the grinding stone.
- Mayurbhanj’s tribals also earn their livelihood by selling the red ants and the chutney made from the ants.
- They believe that its consumption helps boost immunity and prevents diseases.
Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal: Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal is known for its prickly thorns on the stems and the whole plant.
- The green and round fruits contain more seeds as compared to other genotypes.
- It is famous for its unique taste and relatively short quick cooking time. The plants are resistant to major insects and can be grown with minimal pesticide.
- It is being widely cultivated in Nayagarh district of the state.
Odisha Khajuri Guda: Odisha’s “Khajuri Guda” or jaggery is a natural sweetener extracted from date palm trees and has its origin in the Gajapati district.
- Traditionally, the jaggery is prepared in a trapezoidal form called ‘Patali Gur’ and is organic by nature.
- It is dark brown and has a unique taste.
Dhenkanal Magji: Dhenkanal Magji is a type of sweet made from cheese from buffalo milk, with distinct characteristics in terms of appearance, taste, flavour, shape, and size.
- It also has unique nutritional values that distinguish it from other cheese-based sweets.
The sweet is prepared by draining moisture from the cheese and then frying it, finally forming balls from the mixture.

iDEX innovators to exhibit futuristic technologies at Vibrant Gujarat summit (ET)

08 Jan 2024

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The Ministry of Defence on Sunday said that Innovations for Defence Excellence-Defence Innovation Organization (iDEX-DIO) will participate in the 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit from January 10 to 12 in Gandhinagar.

About iDEX:

iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence), the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Defence, Govt of India launched by Prime Minister Modi in 2018.
The objective of the scheme is to cultivate an innovation ecosystem in the Defence and Aerospace sector by collaborating with startups, innovators, MSMEs, incubators, and academia.
iDEX offers grants and support for R&D with significant potential for future adoption in Indian defense and aerospace.
It is currently engaged with around 400+ Startups and MSMEs, till now procurement of 31 items worth over Rs 2000 Cr. has been cleared.
Recognized as a game-changer in the defense ecosystem, iDEX has received the PM Award for Innovation in the defense sector.

What is the Vibrant Gujarat Summit?

The Government of Gujarat organizes the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, also known as Vibrant Gujarat, a biennial global business event held in the state of Gujarat, India.
It attracts business leaders, investors, corporations, thought leaders, and policymakers, serving as a platform to understand and explore business opportunities in Gujarat.
Launched in 2003 and now held every two years, the summit aims to promote Gujarat as an attractive investment destination, fostering partnerships and collaborations across various sectors.
Industry associations, both nationally and internationally, support the summit, making it one of Gujarat's crucial economic forums.
The event creates a platform for business leaders, policymakers, and investors to explore opportunities for investment, collaboration, and partnership in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, information technology, agriculture, healthcare, and more.
It facilitates discussions, negotiations, and agreements in these key sectors.
The Tenth edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit is being held from 10 to 12 January 2024 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Its theme is 'Gateway to the Future'.
This Tenth Edition of the Summit will celebrate “20 Years of Vibrant Gujarat as the Summit of Success”.
There are 34 Partner countries and 16 Partner organizations for this year’s Summit.
Further, the Ministry of Development of North-Eastern Region will utilize the Vibrant Gujarat platform to showcase investment opportunities in the North-Eastern regions.

‘Deep tech’ policy to be sent to Cabinet for approval, says scientific adviser (The Hindu)

06 Jan 2024

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The government will be sending a note, on a new ‘deep tech’ policy for India in the coming weeks to the Union Cabinet for approval, said Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor at a public event on January 5.

Key Details in the Draft NDTSP:

The Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) stands out through its key highlights, enhancing the existing Startup India policies by fostering an environment conducive to the growth of deep tech startups.
It addresses the unique challenges these startups face.
The draft NDTSP introduces new policy instruments and recommends essential policy changes under several themes, including nurturing research, development, and innovation, strengthening the intellectual property regime, facilitating access to funding, enabling shared infrastructure and resource sharing, creating supportive regulations, standards, and certifications, attracting human resources, initiating capacity building, promoting procurement and adoption, ensuring policy and program interlinkages, and sustaining deep tech startups.

India's 'Deep Tech' Startup Ecosystem faces significant challenges as outlined in the draft 'deep tech' policy:

As of May 2023, the DPIIT recognizes 10,298 startups, but only about 10% fall under the 'deep tech' category, indicating a need for more effort and support.
A major hurdle is the inadequate funding for 'deep tech' startups. Unlike fintech or retail software startups that require comparatively smaller funds, 'deep tech' startups demand significantly larger financial investments.
This financial gap poses a notable obstacle to their growth and development.

What is Deep Tech?

Deep technology, often referred to as "deep tech," encompasses advanced technologies rooted in substantial scientific or engineering innovations.
These innovations are considered "deep" due to their sophisticated and highly advanced nature, providing solutions to complex challenges or issues.
Examples of breakthroughs in deep tech include genomics, robotics, nanotechnology, and clean energy initiatives emerging from research labs and academia.
Deep-tech startups and companies are characterized by their pursuit of solutions to intricate problems through technologies and processes involving lengthy research and development cycles.
Importantly, businesses and startups that rely on easily replicable ideas do not qualify as deep tech startups.
Deep tech stands apart from high tech, which denotes a broader scope of technical innovations and advancements.
- Unlike high-tech companies, those in deep tech are primarily focused on profound scientific or engineering breakthroughs.

Isro’s futuristic fuel cell system could power space station (TOI)

06 Jan 2024

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Recently, a futuristic fuel cell-based power system was successfully tested by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to provide a sustainable and reliable power source for space stations.

What is a Fuel Cell?

Fuel cells, intricate devices powered by chemical reactions, have diverse applications spanning transportation, industrial sectors, commercial and residential buildings, and reversible grid energy storage systems.
Operationally, fuel cells consist of two electrodes—an anode and a cathode—immersed in an electrolyte.
- The anode, supplied with hydrogen fuel, undergoes oxidation to produce hydrogen ions and electrons.
- Simultaneously, the cathode, exposed to an oxidizer like oxygen, results in the production of water as hydrogen ions absorb electrons.
The voltage per unit cell is determined by the energy level disparity at the electrodes. While a single fuel cell generates a modest amount of direct-current electricity, practical use often involves assembling stacks of these cells.
Advantages: Advantages of fuel cells include lower or zero emissions, particularly with hydrogen fuel cells emitting only water, addressing climate concerns by avoiding carbon dioxide emissions.
They operate quietly with few moving parts, achieve higher efficiencies compared to combustion engines, and resemble batteries but offer prolonged electrical energy due to continuous external fuel and air/oxygen sources.
This longevity distinguishes them from batteries that rely on finite fuel material and oxidant, making fuel cells a sustainable and efficient choice for various applications.

About ISRO:

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is the pioneer space exploration agency of the Government of India, headquartered at Bengaluru.
ISRO was formed in 1969 with a vision to develop and harness space technology in national development, while pursuing planetary exploration and space science research.
ISRO replaced its predecessor, INCOSPAR (Indian National Committee for Space Research), established in 1962 by India’s first Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru and scientist Vikram Sarabhai, considered amongst the founding fathers of the Indian space program.

BRO Implements Indigenous Technology for Road Construction Near China Border in Arunachal Pradesh (TOI)

06 Jan 2024

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In order to improve operational capacity of the defence forces in the high-altitude areas along the Indo-China border in Arunachal Pradesh, the BRO will build bituminous roads using an indigenous technology, “Rejupave” developed by India’s oldest and premier road research organisation, CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI).

What is Rejupave Technology?

CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI), India's oldest road research organization, developed the Rejupave Technology.
It is beneficial for constructing high-altitude bituminous roads in low and sub-zero temperatures.
The technology actively reduces production and rolling temperatures of bituminous mixes by 30 to 400 degrees Celsius, ensuring minimal heat loss during transit in snowy conditions and long haulage times.
The bio-oil-based asphalt modifier of this technology significantly lowers the heating requirements of bituminous mixes and preserves mix temperature during transit.
In cold climatic regions, the 'Rejupave' asphalt modifier enhances long-term durability and resistance to thermal cracking under low-temperature conditions.
Additionally, it plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the eco-sensitive mountainous environment of Arunachal Pradesh.

About CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI):

Established in 1952, CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) stands as a premier national laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
CRRI's major research and development programs encompass a range of projects, including the design, construction, and maintenance of roads and runways, traffic and transportation planning for large and medium cities, management of roads in diverse terrains, improvement of marginal materials, utilization of industrial waste in road construction, and landslide control.
The institute extends its expertise by providing technical and consultancy services to various organizations both within India and internationally.
CRRI actively contributes to capacity building in highway engineering, empowering human resources to undertake and execute road and runway projects.

High-frequency waves detected in the Martian Upper Atmosphere could help understand plasma processes over Mars (PIB)

06 Jan 2024

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Recently, scientists have detected the existence of high-frequency plasma waves in the Martian Upper Atmosphere with novel narrowband and broadband features that can help to understand plasma processes in the Martian plasma environment.

What are Plasma Waves?

Plasma waves, commonly observed in Earth's magnetosphere, denote short-time scale fluctuations in electric and magnetic fields.
These waves play a crucial role in energizing and transporting charged particles within Earth's magnetosphere.
Specific plasma waves, like electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves, serve as a safeguard, cleansing Earth's radiation belt, known to pose threats to satellites.
Researchers, intrigued by this phenomenon, seek to understand the presence of diverse plasma waves around planets without intrinsic magnetic fields, such as Mars.

Key Observations:

Scientists utilized high-resolution electric field data from NASA's Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution Mission (MAVEN) spacecraft to examine high-frequency plasma waves in the Martian environment.
These waves manifest as either parallel-propagating electron oscillations (Langmuir waves) or perpendicular-propagating electron oscillations (upper-hybrid type waves) in Mars' magneto sheath region.
Two distinct wave modes, below and above the electron plasma frequency, were observed in the Martian magnetosphere.
Broadband and narrowband waves exhibited identifiable features in the frequency domain, with broadband waves displaying periodic patchy structures at intervals of 8–14 milliseconds.

Significance:

The presence of these waves offers a valuable tool to investigate how electrons gain or dissipate energy within the Martian plasma environment.

Cabinet clears PRITHVI initiative for ease of research in earth sciences (Indian Express)

06 Jan 2024

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The government Friday approved an initiative that will give it the flexibility to pursue research and use funds allocated to five different sub-schemes related to earth sciences over a five-year period.

About the PRITHVI Scheme:

The PRITHVI Scheme is an initiative by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) designed to deepen our understanding of the Earth and its essential indicators.
With a substantial allocation of Rs 4,797 crore spanning 2021-26, this comprehensive initiative aims to significantly advance research, modeling, and service delivery in critical domains like weather, climate, oceans, and polar regions.
The scheme amalgamates five existing sub-schemes:
- Atmosphere and Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems and Services (ACROSS)
- Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART)
- Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER)
- Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE)
- Research, Education, Training, and Outreach (REACHOUT).
Collectively, these programs strive to deepen our comprehension of Earth's vital signs and translate scientific knowledge into practical services for the benefit of society, the environment, and the economy.

Objectives:

A primary aim of PRITHVI is to enhance and sustain long-term observations across the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth.
This facilitates the recording and monitoring of vital signs and changes within the Earth System.
The scheme places emphasis on developing predictive models for weather, ocean, and climate hazards while advancing our understanding of climate change science.
Exploring polar regions and high seas is a significant aspect, targeting the discovery of new phenomena and resources.
The scheme underscores the development of technology for exploring and sustainably harnessing oceanic resources for societal applications.

Implementation:

Various components of the PRITHVI scheme are interdependent, executed in an integrated manner through the collective efforts of the institutes under the MoES.

10th century Kadamba inscription written in Kannada, Sanskrit found in Goa (The Hindu)

05 Jan 2024

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An inscription written in Kannada and Sanskrit and said to be of 10th century A.D. Kadamba period has been discovered in the Mahadeva temple at Cacoda in southern Goa.

About the Kadamba Inscription:

Discovery and Study of the Inscription: The inscription illuminates the Kadamba period in Goa, commencing with the auspicious phrase 'Be it well' (Swasthi Shri).
- It was discovered between the temples of Mahadev and Sateri-Betal at Cacoda in Goa.
Epigraphic Details: It chronicles the story of Gundayya, Talara Nevayya's son, who vowed to fulfill his father's desire by capturing a Gopura in the port of Goa.
- The inscription is engraved in Kannada and Nagari characters.
- Its literary style mirrors the Talangre inscription of Jayasimha I from the same period.
- The deciphering of the Kadamba stone inscription has brought to light its historical and socio-cultural importance.
Historical Narrative: The Kadambas of Goa served as subordinates to the Chalukyas.
- Kadamba Shasthadeva, appointed as Mahamandaleshwara of Goa by Chalukyan emperor Tailapa II, played a key role in overthrowing the Rashtrakutas.
- In 960 A.D., Kadamba Shasthadeva conquered Chandavara and the port of Gopakapattana (present Goa).
- Gundayya, Talara Nevayya's son, actively participated in the battle, successfully securing the port but sacrificing his own life.
- To commemorate his son's heroic fight, Talara Nevayya erected a memorial stone with the inscription in the Mahadev temple at Cacoda.
Socio-cultural Importance: Cacora village, situated near navigable waterways, establishes connections to the Upper Ghat region through the ancient route of Diggi ghat leading to Karnataka.
- Currently a census town under the Municipality of Curchorem Cacora in Goa, Cacoda hosts the Mahadev temple with its affiliated deities, showcasing the cultural richness and historical significance of the area.

Justice Gavai nominated as SC Legal Services Committee Chairman: What law says on free legal aid in India (Indian Express)

05 Jan 2024

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Supreme Court judge Justice BR Gavai has been nominated as the Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC), replacing Justice Sanjiv Khanna – the seniormost judge of the top court after the Chief Justice of India (CJI).

What is the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee?

The Supreme Court Legal Services Committee was constituted under Section 3A of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, to provide “free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of society”, in cases falling under the top court’s jurisdiction.
Section 3A of the Act states that the Central Authority (the National Legal Services Authority or NALSA) shall constitute the committee.
It consists of a sitting SC judge, who is the chairman, along with other members possessing the experience and qualifications prescribed by the Centre.
Both the chairman and other members will be nominated by the CJI. Further, the CJI can appoint the Secretary to the Committee.

Who does the SCLSC comprise?

As of date, the SCLSC consists of chairperson BR Gavai and nine members nominated by the CJI.
The Committee, in turn, can appoint officers and other employees as prescribed by the Centre, in consultation with the CJI.
Besides this, Rule 10 of the NALSA Rules, 1995, entails the numbers, experience, and qualifications of the SCLSC members.
Under Section 27 of the 1987 Act, the Centre is empowered to make rules in consultation with the CJI, by notification, to carry out the provisions of the Act.

What is the need for legal services and how is it dispensed to the people?

The need for providing legal services has been underlined in many provisions of the Indian Constitution.
Article 39A states, “The State shall secure that the operation of the legal system promotes justice, on a basis of equal opportunity, and shall, in particular, provide free legal aid, by suitable legislation or schemes or in any other way, to ensure that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities.”
Moreover, Articles 14 (right to equality) and 22(1) (rights to be informed of grounds for arrest) also make it obligatory for the State to ensure equality before the law and a legal system that promotes justice based on equal opportunity.
Although the idea of a legal aid programme was earlier floated in the 1950s, it was in 1980 that a committee at the national level was established under the chairmanship of then SC judge Justice PN Bhagwati.
The Committee for Implementing Legal Aid Schemes started monitoring legal aid activities throughout India.

What the Legal Services Authorities Act says?

In 1987, the Legal Services Authorities Act was enacted to give a statutory base to legal aid programmes.
It aims to provide free and competent legal services to eligible groups, including women, children, SC/ST and EWS categories, industrial workers, disabled persons, and others.
Under the Act, NALSA was constituted in 1995 to monitor and evaluate the implementation of legal aid programmes and to lay down policies for making legal services available.
A nationwide network has been envisaged under the Act for providing legal aid and assistance.
It also disburses funds and grants to State Legal Services Authorities and NGOs for implementing legal aid schemes and programmes.
Subsequently, in every state, State Legal Services Authorities (SLSA) were established to implement NALSA’s policies and directions, give free legal services to people, and conduct Lok Adalats.
An SLSA is headed by the Chief Justice of the respective High Court and includes the senior HC judge as its Executive Chairman.
While the HC Chief Justice is the patron-in-chief of the SLSA, the CJI is the patron-in-chief of NALSA.
Similarly, District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) and Taluk Legal Services Committees were established in districts and most taluks.
Situated in the District Courts Complex in every district, each DLSA is chaired by the District Judge of the respective district.
The Taluka or Sub-Divisional Legal Services Committees are headed by a senior civil judge.
Collectively, these bodies organise legal awareness camps, provide free legal services, and supply and obtain certified order copies and other legal documents, among other functions.

How graphene semiconductors can revolutionise electronics and computing (Front Line)

05 Jan 2024

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Recently, Scientists have made a breakthrough in electronics, creating the world’s first functional semiconductor made from graphene—a material known for being tough, flexible, light and with a high resistance.

What is Graphene?

Graphene is a single sheet of carbon atoms—a 2D material held together by the strongest chemical bonds known.
These carbons are arranged in tessellated hexagons, much like honeycomb.
It is an incredibly strong material. It’s so strong we can hold up a football with just one atomic layer of graphene.
Graphene is also incredibly flexible, making it ideal for use in electrical devices and batteries, or even printed on glass, plastics or fabrics.

Keys Properties of Graphene:

Strength: it is the strongest material ever measured, about 200 times stronger than steel.
- This is because the strong covalent bonds between carbon atoms in the hexagonal lattice make it very difficult to break apart.
Conductivity: Graphene is also an excellent conductor of heat and electricity.
- In fact, it is the best conductor of heat at room temperature of any known material.
- This is because the electrons in graphene can move freely through the lattice without encountering any obstacles.
Transparency: Graphene is almost completely transparent to light, absorbing only about 2.3% of visible light.
- This makes it a promising material for use in transparent electronics and solar cells.
Flexibility: Graphene is also incredibly flexible, and can be bent and folded without breaking.
- This makes it a good candidate for use in flexible electronics, such as wearable devices.
These properties make graphene a potential game-changer for a wide range of industries, including electronics, energy, transportation, and medicine.

Potential Applications of Graphene:

Electronics: Graphene could be used to make transistors that are much faster and more efficient than the silicon transistors used in today's electronics.
- This could lead to the development of smaller, lighter, and more powerful devices.
Energy: Graphene could be used to make solar cells that are more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity.
- It could also be used to make batteries that are lighter and have longer lifespans.
Transportation: Graphene could be used to make lighter and stronger airplanes and cars.
- It could also be used to make more efficient batteries for electric vehicles.
Medicine: Graphene could be used to make sensors that can detect diseases at an early stage.
- It could also be used to deliver drugs directly to diseased cells.

Drawback of Graphene:

Graphene has major drawbacks, which has prevented its use in electronics.
- One major issue is known as the “band gap problem.”
The band gap is a crucial electronic property that allows semiconductors to switch on and off.
- Graphene didn’t have a band gap—until now.

Despite its promise, graphene is still a relatively new material and there are a number of challenges that need to be overcome before it can be widely used.
- One challenge is that it is difficult and expensive to produce large sheets of high-quality graphene.
- Another challenge is that graphene is very sensitive to its environment, and its properties can be easily affected by the presence of even small amounts of impurities.
However, researchers are making rapid progress in overcoming these challenges, and it is likely that graphene will become a common material in the near future.
With its unique properties, graphene has the potential to revolutionize many different industries and improve our lives in countless ways.

PM’s school becomes base for week-long residential programme for students (The Hindu)

05 Jan 2024

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The Ministry of Education on Thursday launched ‘Prerana’, an experiential learning programme, which will operate from the vernacular school in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthplace Vadnagar, Gujarat where Mr. Modi studied when he was a student.

Context:

The Department of School Education & Literacy, operating under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has unveiled 'Prerana: An experiential learning program.'
This innovative initiative is specifically crafted to deliver a profound, distinctive, and motivational learning experience to its participants.
The overarching goal of this program is to cultivate and nurture leadership qualities among the individuals involved, thereby contributing to their holistic development and empowering them with the skills necessary for effective leadership in various contexts.

What is ‘Prerna’ Program?

Prerana is driven by a strong commitment to integrate principles of Indian education system and the philosophy of value-based education which is a corner stone of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
It is a week-long residential program for selected students of class IX to XII.
It is an experiential and inspirational learning program for students with the best-in-class technology where heritage meets innovation.
A batch of 20 selected students (10 boys and 10 girls) will attend the program, every week from various parts of the country.
Prerana program will run from a Vernacular School, established in 1888, in one of the oldest living cities of India, Vadnagar, district Mehsana, Gujarat.
The curriculum of Prerana School prepared by IIT Gandhi Nagar is rooted in nine value based themes:
- Swabhiman and Vinay
- Shaurya and Sahas
- Parishram and Samarpan
- Karuna and Sewa
- Vividhta and Ekta
- Satyanishtha and Shuchita
- Navachar and Jigyasa
- Shraddha aur Vishwas, and
- Swatantrata and Kartavya.
The program based on above themes will inspire the youth and foster respect for Bharat's unity in diversity, embodying the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" and will contribute by making the youth of today, a flame holder for Viksit Bharat.
Towards this endeavour, the participants will be guided by mentors from prestigious institutions.
Selection Procedure: Students can register through the portal, wherein applicants can fill the requisite details to be a part of the ambitious and aspirational Prerana program.
- The registered applicants will go through a selection process, as prescribed on the portal.
- Applicants can also join the selection procedure conducted at the School/block level, on designated ‘Prerana Utsav’ day, through various activities based on the ethos of Prerana to evaluate for well rounded personalities keen to shape the future of our nation.
- Upon selection, the 20 participants (10 boys and 10 girls) will be attending the Prerana program and embark on a journey of inspiration, innovation, and self-discovery.
After the program, the participants will carry the ethos of Prerana into their respective communities, become change makers and spark positive change to inspire others.

Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change submits proposals for Wetland City Accreditation under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands for cities of Indore, Bhopal and Udaipur (The New Indian Express)

05 Jan 2024

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MoEF&CC has submitted three nominations from India for Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) of Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) & Udaipur (Rajasthan) under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

What is Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)?

Recognizing the importance of wetlands in urban and peri-urban environments and to take appropriate measures to conserve and protect these wetlands, the Ramsar Convention during COP12 held in the year 2015 approved a voluntary Wetland City Accreditation system under Resolution XII.10.
- It recognizes cities which have taken exceptional steps to safeguard their urban wetlands.
The Wetland City Accreditation scheme aims to further promote the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands, as well as sustainable socio-economic benefits for local populations.
Additionally, the Accreditation seeks to encourage cities that are close to and dependent on wetlands.
- Primarily Wetlands of International Importance, but also wetlands with other conservation category status, to develop and strengthen a positive relationship with these valuable ecosystems.
To be formally accredited, a candidate for the Wetland City Accreditation should satisfy the standards used to implement each of the six international criteria mentioned Operational Guidance for WCA of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
This voluntary scheme provides an opportunity for cities that value their natural or human-made wetlands to gain international recognition and positive branding opportunities for their efforts in demonstrating strong positive relationships with wetlands.
The ongoing Amrit Dharohar initiative of the MoEF&CC announced as part of this year’s budget also aims to achieve similar goals by promoting unique conservation values of Ramsar Sites.
- In this context, WCA will not only generate public awareness about conservation of urban and peri-urban wetlands but will also help in implementation of Amrit Dharohar across the country.

The Three Nominated Cities Include:

Indore: Founded by Holkars, Indore is the cleanest city in India and the recipient of India’s Smart City Award 2023 for its best sanitation, water and urban environment.
- Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar Site in the city, has been recognised as an important site for water bird congregation and is being developed as a Bird Sanctuary.
- A strong network of more than 200 wetland mitras is engaged in bird conservation and sensitising local community to protect Sarus Crane.
Bhopal: One of the cleanest cities in India that has proposed conservation zones around the wetlands in its draft City Development Plan 2031.
- Bhoj Wetland, Ramsar Site is the city’s lifeline, equipped with the world-class wetlands interpretation centre, Jal Tarang.
- Additionally, the Bhopal Municipal Corporation has a dedicated Lake Conservation Cell.
- A network of more than 300 wetland mitras is engaged in wetland management and conservation of Sarus Crane.
Udaipur: Located in Rajasthan, the city is surrounded by five major wetlands, namely, Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai.

These wetlands are an integral part of the city’s culture and identity, help maintain the city’s microclimate, and provide a buffer from extreme events.

India to use SpaceX rocket to launch communications satellite (Indian Express)

04 Jan 2024

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of its communication satellite GSAT-20, weighing 4,700kg, an initiative marking India's entry into a new era of satellite technology.

Context:

The commercial arm of ISRO, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) will launch GSAT-20 (renamed as GSAT-N2), on-board SpaceX’s Falcon-9 during the second quarter of 2024.
ISRO's current flagship rocket, the LVM3, holds a maximum carrying capacity of four tons.
- Falling short by 700kg for the GSAT-20.
This satellite will cater to cellular backhaul service needs particularly to remote and unconnected regions.

What is GSAT 20 Satellite?

GSAT-20 is an Indian geostationary Ka-band high-throughput communications satellite.
GSAT 20 is built on the I-3K unified modular bus with electric-only propulsion.
- It will be India's first satellite to rely entirely on electric propulsion, which can be five to six times more efficient than chemical-based propulsion.
It features a Ka × Ka high-throughput communications payload with 70 Gbps throughput utilizing 32 spot beams with each 2 polarisations providing broadband services across the Indian region.
The satellite was initially set for a 2020 launch on a GSLV Mk.3 (2) rocket but got moved up to 2019 on an Ariane-5ECA+.
In 2021, the plan returned to a GSLV Mk.3 (2) launch.
In early 2024, a contract with SpaceX was signed for a Falcon-9 v1.2 (Block 5) launch.

What is SpaceX’s Falcon-9 Rocket?

Falcon 9 is a reusable, two-stage rocket designed and manufactured by SpaceX “for the reliable and safe transport of people and payloads into Earth orbit and beyond".
It is the world’s first orbital-class reusable rocket.
- Reusability allows SpaceX to re-fly the most expensive parts of the rocket, which in turn drives down the cost of space access," it added.
Till now, it has undertaken 285 launches, 243 landings, and 217 re-flights.

Centre, SEBI will regulate short selling, Solicitor-General tells Supreme Court (The Hindu)

04 Jan 2024

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The Supreme Court judgement records a statement made by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that the Union government and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) will take measures to regulate short selling.

What is Short Selling?

Short selling is a financial strategy where an investor or trader borrows securities, such as stocks, from a broker and sells them in the market with the expectation of buying them back at a lower price in the future.
Short selling is regulated by a circular notified by SEBI in December 2007.
This technique is employed by individuals who anticipate a decline in share prices, aiming to profit from their predictions.
The process involves selling shares that the trader does not own.
- To initiate a short position, the trader borrows shares from a broker, who lends them with an agreement for return at the settlement time.
- The borrowed stocks are then sold at the prevailing market rate, creating a short position.
- Subsequently, the trader waits for the prices to decrease before buying back the shares to close the position.
- The ultimate goal of short selling is to 'sell high and buy low.'
Profits are made when share prices fall, and the trader benefits from the difference between the selling and repurchasing prices.
- Conversely, if the trader's analysis is incorrect and share prices rise, they incur a loss.

How Does Short Selling Work?

Short selling is an activity that allows market participants to profit from the fall in the price of a financial instrument. It involves borrowing an asset from a broker, selling it in the market, and then repurchasing it later at a hopefully lower price to return it to the lender.

Borrowing the Asset: The trader borrows the asset (usually stocks) from a broker or another trader.
- This borrowed asset is typically done through a margin account, where the investor agrees to certain terms and pays a fee or interest for the borrowed amount.
Selling the Asset: After obtaining the borrowed asset, the trader immediately sells it on the market.
- This is where they take advantage of their belief that the asset's price will decrease.
Waiting for Price Drop: The trader waits for the price of the asset to fall. If the price drops as anticipated, the investor can buy back the asset at a lower price.
Repurchasing the Asset: Once the price has dropped, the trader uses the proceeds from the initial sale to repurchase the same asset at a lower price.
Returning the Borrowed Asset: Finally, the trader returns the borrowed asset to the lender, typically the broker, from whom they originally borrowed it.
Profit or Loss: The profit or loss in short selling is the difference between the price at which the asset was sold and the price at which it was repurchased, minus any borrowing fees, interest, or transaction costs.

Short selling is considered a more advanced and riskier trading strategy, and it requires careful monitoring of market conditions. It is often used by experienced investors or hedge funds seeking to profit from anticipated price declines in specific securities or markets.

A first in 100 years, the Indian Science Congress was postponed amid a tussle between organisers, Govt (Indian Express)

04 Jan 2024

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The Indian Science Congress, the largest gathering of scientists and students of science in the country and a permanent annual fixture in the calendar of the participant group for more than a century has been postponed.

Postponement of the Indian Science Congress:

Unprecedented Interruption: The postponement of the Indian Science Congress holds unprecedented significance.
- Since its inception in 1914, the Congress has been an annual event, except for the years immediately following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic (2021 and 2022).
Tradition and Prime Ministerial Engagement: A cornerstone of scientific tradition, the Indian Science Congress is inaugurated by the Prime Minister, making it a fixture on the PM's calendar.
- Typically, it stands as the Prime Minister's first public engagement of the new year.

Why has the Science Congress Been Postponed This Year?

This year's postponement stems from a protracted dispute between the Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA), the organizing body, and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) within the Union Ministry of Science and Technology.
The DST, a key funding entity, withdrew support in September 2023, citing financial irregularities.
The ISCA refuted the allegations and contested the DST's directive prohibiting government funds for Science Congress-related expenses, leading to an impasse that has resulted in the postponement.
A legal challenge to the DST's decision is currently pending.

What is the Indian Science Congress (ISC)?

The Indian Science Congress (ISC) is a unique event in the country that serves as a platform for scientific communities to interact with students and the general public on science-related matters.
Organized by the Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA), an independent body supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in the central government, the Science Congress is an annual five-day event from January 3 to 7, considered a permanent fixture on the Prime Minister’s calendar.
The inaugural session of the Indian Science Congress took place in 1914 at the premises of the Asiatic Society, Calcutta.
In recent years, the Indian Science Congress (ISC) has faced criticism due to issues such as a lack of substantial discussions, the promotion of pseudoscience, and outlandish claims by certain speakers.
- This has led to concerns among prominent scientists, with some advocating for the discontinuation of the event or, at the very least, the withdrawal of government support.
- While the government provides an annual grant for organizing the Science Congress, it does not play a direct role in its organization.

Namibian cheetah Aasha gives birth to 3 cubs in Kuno; ‘indicator that animals are acclimatising’ (Indian Express)

04 Jan 2024

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Recently, a Namibian cheetah named Aasha has given birth to three cubs at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh.

About Kuno National Park (KNP):

Location: Situated in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh, Kuno National Park is nestled near the Vindhyan Hills.
The park is aptly named after the Kuno River, a significant tributary of the Chambal River that traverses its expanse.
Originally designated as a wildlife sanctuary, Kuno National Park attained the status of a national park in 2018.
- This transformation aligns with its pivotal role in the 'Action Plan for Introduction of Cheetah in India.'
Vegetation and Flora: Kuno predominantly features a grassland landscape, punctuated by occasional rocky outcrops.
- The flora encompasses a diverse mix, including dominant species such as Kardhai, Salai, and Khair trees.
- The park boasts a rich composition with 123 tree species, 71 shrub species, 32 exotic and climbing species, and 34 bamboo and grass species.
Fauna: The protected region of Kuno National Park shelters an array of wildlife, including the jungle cat, Indian leopard, sloth bear, Indian wolf, striped hyena, golden jackal, Bengal fox, and dhole.
- The park also delights bird enthusiasts with a habitat supporting over 120 bird species.

What is Project Cheetah?

The Wildlife Trust of India started talks in 2009 to bring the cheetah back to India.
Over five years, 50 cheetahs will be imported from African nations and placed in various national parks as part of the "Action Plan for Reintroduction of Cheetahs in India."
Prime Site Selection - Kuno Palpur National Park (KNP): Among the surveyed sites in central Indian states, Kuno Palpur National Park (KNP) in Madhya Pradesh emerged as the most suitable location.
- This acclaim is attributed to its conducive habitat and ample prey base.
- KNP is deemed capable of supporting 21 Cheetahs, uniquely standing as a wildlife site where villages have been entirely relocated from within the park.
- Moreover, Kuno offers the prospect of harmoniously accommodating four of India's prominent big cats - tiger, lion, leopard, and Cheetah.
Additional Recommended Sites: The project identifies other potential sites, including Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh), Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary - Bhainsrorgarh Wildlife Sanctuary complex (Madhya Pradesh), Shahgarh bulge in Jaisalmer (Rajasthan), and Mukundara Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan).
Implementation Progress: As a significant stride in the project's realization, 20 Cheetahs, comprising 8 from Namibia and 12 from South Africa, were introduced to Kuno Palpur National Park last year.
- This marks a historic initiative to establish a free-ranging Cheetah population in India, reviving their presence after a 70-year absence.

PM inaugurates Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Optical Fibre Connection (PIB)

04 Jan 2024

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PM Modi recently, in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep, inaugurated the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands submarine optical fibre connection (KLI-SOFC) project including various developmental projects worth more than Rs 1,150 crore.

Background-Kochi-Lakshadweep Submarine OFC (KLI) Project:

The need for digitally connecting the Lakshadweep Islands through a high-capacity submarine cable link with the mainland has been felt for some time.
Earlier, the only means of communication with the Islands was through Satellite medium, which had limited bandwidth capacity and was not able to meet the growing bandwidth demand.
In the Kochi-Lakshadweep Islands Submarine Cable (KLI) project submarine cable connectivity from Mainland (Kochi) to eleven Lakshadweep Islands namely, Kavaratti, Agatti, Amini, Kadmat, Chetlet, Kalpeni, Minicoy, Androth, Kiltan, Bangaram and Bitra has been extended.
The project is funded by the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF), Department of Telecommunication.
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) was the Project Executing Agency and the work was awarded to NEC Corporation India Pvt Ltd.
Major activities related to the project include Marine Route Survey, Submarine Cable laying, Civil Construction of CLS stations, Installation, Testing and Commissioning of End Terminals (SLTE).
Highlights of the KLI Project:
- Total link distance: 1,868 kilometres.
- Total cost of project: Rs 1072 crore

???????Benefits of the KLI Project:

The project will play a significant role in achieving the objective of ‘Digital India’ and ‘National Broadband Mission’ and in rolling out various e-governance projects of the Government of India in Lakshadweep Islands.
E-Governance, Tourism, Education, Health, Commerce and Industries will get a boost
- It will also help in further improvement in the standards of living of the people on the Island and will accelerate overall social and economic development in these areas.
The population of Lakshadweep Islands will be provided high-speed wireline broadband connectivity.
High-speed broadband will be provided through FTTH and 5G/4G Mobile networks.
The bandwidth created under this project will be available to all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) to strengthen their telecom services in the Lakshadweep Islands.

Govt ready with rules for CAA, set to be notified before Lok Sabha polls announcement (Indian Express)

03 Jan 2024

Prime Minister pays tributes to Savitribai Phule and Rani Velu Nachiyar on their Jayanti (PIB)

03 Jan 2024

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi paid tributes to Savitribai Phule and Rani Velu Nachiyar on their Jayanti.

Who is Savitribai Phule?

Recognized as India's first woman teacher, Savitribai Phule was a pioneer who defied prevailing societal conventions to advance women's education, equality, and justice.
She was a Dalit lady from the Mali community and was born on January 3, 1831, in Satara District's Naigaon (Maharashtra).
Despite prevailing norms that limited education to affluent men, the Phules established India's first girls' school in Bhidewada, Pune, in 1848.
Savitribai's commitment to social reform led to the establishment of Mahila Seva Mandal in 1852, advocating for women's rights.
In 1860, she initiated a strike against shaving the hair of widowed women.
Savitribai actively promoted inter-caste marriages, and widow remarriage, and fought against social issues like child marriage, sati, and dowry.
- In collaboration with Jyotirao, she founded the Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha, offering support to pregnant widows.
- The couple further established the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873, aimed at dismantling caste, religion, and class hierarchies.
Her literary contributions include "Kavya Phule" (1854), her first collection of poems, and "Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar" (1892).
Savitribai Phule's enduring legacy lies in her unwavering commitment to education and social reform, making her a pioneering figure in Indian history.

About Rani Velu Nachiyar:

Rani Velu Nachiyar, born on January 3, 1730, in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, India, holds the distinction of being the first queen to actively resist British rule, predating the Sepoy Mutiny.
Revered as Veeramangai among Tamils, she was extensively trained in martial arts, including Valari, Silambam, horse riding, archery, and various languages such as French, English, and Urdu.
Married to King Muthuvaduganathaperiya Udaiyathevar of Sivagangai, Rani Velu Nachiyar entered the battlefield when her husband fell victim to British soldiers.
Collaborating with Hyder Ali and Gopala Nayaker, she waged a successful war against the British, displaying exceptional military prowess.
In 1780, she delegated authority to the Marudu brothers for the administration of the country.
Rani Velu Nachiyar's courageous stand against colonial rule and her strategic alliances in the face of adversity mark her as an iconic figure in India's history of resistance and resilience.

Protesting new hit-and-run law, truckers dial down after talks with Home Secretary (Indian Express)

03 Jan 2024

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The All India Motor Transport Association (AIMTC) decided to end the nationwide truck drivers protests against the new hit-and-run law, after a meeting with Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla.

What is the New Hit-and-run Law?

The recently enacted Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita introduces stringent penalties for hit-and-run incidents in India.

The law specifies that an accused individual causing a fatal crash and fleeing the scene without reporting to authorities could face imprisonment for up to 10 years along with a fine of Rs 7 lakh.
- Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita has established two distinct categories under the umbrella of "causing death by negligence."
The first category addresses causing death through any rash or negligent act that does not amount to culpable homicide.
- Offenders in this category may face imprisonment for up to five years and a fine.
The second category deals with causing death through rash and negligent driving, not amounting to culpable homicide.
- If the individual escapes without promptly reporting the incident to a police officer or magistrate, they could be subjected to up to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine.

What was the Hit-and-run Law Before?

The old, British-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) did not have a specific provision for hit-and-run cases.
Actions in such cases were taken under Section 304 A of the IPC.
- According to that section, a person causing the death of another due to a rash or negligent act could invite a jail term of a maximum of 2 years or be fined.
"Whoever causes the death of any person by doing any rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 2 years, or with fine, or with both," the section stated.
All cases of hit-and-run along with other forms of activities that came under the ambit of causing death by a "rash and negligent act" were lodged under Section 304 A of the IPC.

South Africa files genocide case against Israel at ICJ: Why the African nation supports Gaza so strongly (Indian Express)

03 Jan 2024

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Amid international criticism of Israel for its continued bombing of Gaza, South Africa recently moved the International Court of Justice (ICJ), for an urgent order declaring that Israel was in breach of its obligations under the 1948 Genocide Convention.

About the International Court of Justice (ICJ):

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN).
It was established in June 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations and began work in April 1946.
The seat of the Court is at the Peace Palace in The Hague (Netherlands).
Of the six principal organs of the United Nations, it is the only one not located in New York (United States of America).
The Court’s role is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized United Nations organs and specialized agencies.
Its official languages are English and French.
Powers and Functions: The ICJ handles two types of cases—contentious cases, involving legal disputes between States, and advisory proceedings, responding to legal questions referred by UN organs and specialized agencies.
- Contentious cases involve only UN member States or other States that have accepted the Court's jurisdiction.
- While the Court's judgments in contentious cases are final and binding, advisory opinions are not binding.
Deciding disputes in line with international law, the ICJ relies on conventions, international custom, general principles, judicial decisions, and expert writings.
Composition: The Court is composed of 15 judges, who are elected for terms of office of nine years by the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council.
It is assisted by a Registry, its administrative organ.
- To be elected, a candidate must secure an absolute majority in both UNGA and UNSC.
- The Court sees one-third of its composition renewed every three years, and judges are eligible for re-election.
- Once elected, judges declare their commitment to the impartial and conscientious exercise of their powers.
- They act independently, detached from any governmental influence.
This comprehensive structure ensures the ICJ's role as a pivotal entity in the international legal landscape, providing judgments on contentious matters and advisory opinions on significant legal questions.

About the Genocide Convention 1948:

The term 'genocide,' often casually employed in reference to attacks on various communities globally, finds its precise definition in the UN's Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, presented to the General Assembly in 1948.
According to this Convention, genocide entails any of the following acts carried out with the intent to wholly or partially destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group:
- Killing members of the group.
- Causing serious bodily or mental harm to group members.
- Deliberately inflicting conditions of life to bring about the group's physical destruction.
- Imposing measures to prevent births within the group.
- Forcibly transferring children of one group to another.
This Convention categorizes genocide as a crime, applicable irrespective of whether it occurs during wartime or peacetime. India ratified the convention in 1959, although no specific legislation addressing genocide has been enacted to date.

NREGS payments: Aadhaar-based system mandatory now, Govt says may consider exemptions on case basis (Indian Express)

02 Jan 2024

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With the Aadhaar-based payment system (ABPS) now mandatory for payment of wages to NREGS workers, the Government on Monday said it may consider exemptions on a “case-by-case basis” should any gram panchayat face “technical issues”.

What is the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS)?

The Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) is a payment service that allows a bank customer to use Aadhaar as his/her identity to access his/her Aadhaar-enabled bank account and perform basic banking transactions like balance enquiry, cash withdrawal, remittances through a Business Correspondent.
It is a service developed by the National Payments Corporation of India.

Key features of AePS:

Aadhaar-linked transactions: AePS enables Aadhaar card holders to make transactions through their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, similar to debit/credit card transactions.
Biometric authentication: Transactions are completed by submitting the Aadhaar number and biometric details (iris or fingerprint scan) at Points of Sale (PoS) or micro ATMs, using Aadhaar authentication.
Bank account privacy: Users are not required to share their bank account details during the transaction, enhancing privacy and security.
Fund transfers: AePS allows users to transfer funds between bank accounts, providing a convenient way to send and receive money.
Secure transactions: AePS transactions are considered safe and secure as they require biometric authentication, ensuring the identity of the user.
By leveraging the Aadhaar infrastructure, AePS simplifies and secures financial transactions, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals, particularly those who may not have access to traditional banking services.

ABPS Implementation for NREGS:

Since 2017, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) has adopted the Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (ABPS).
- This system involves linking workers' 12-digit Aadhaar numbers with their job cards and NREGS workers' bank accounts.
With nearly universal coverage of Aadhaar numbers among the adult population, the Government of India opted to expand ABPS for beneficiaries within the scheme.
- Payments are exclusively directed through ABPS to the associated accounts, ensuring a secure and swift method of fund transfer.
Out of the total 14.33 crore active beneficiaries, Aadhaar has been successfully linked for 13.97 crore individuals.
- Among these Aadhaar-linked beneficiaries, 13.34 crore Aadhaar authentications have been completed, making 81.89% of active workers eligible for ABPS.
In July 2023, approximately 88.51% of wage payments were executed through the Aadhaar-enabled Payment System.

Mandatory Adoption of ABPS for NREGS Workers:

Initially mandated by the Rural Development Ministry starting from February 1, 2023, the implementation of the Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (ABPS) witnessed several extensions, ultimately being permitted until December 31, 2023.
As of January 1, 2024, ABPS has become obligatory for NREGS workers, with no further extensions granted to states beyond December 31.
- The integrated approach of ABPS and the National Automated Clearing House (NACH), an interbank system, will be employed for bulk payments, including subsidies and salaries.
The use of ABPS for wage payments to unskilled workers ensures the seamless transfer of benefits to their bank accounts, even in instances of frequent changes in the beneficiary's bank account.

Exemption Decision in the Event of Technical Issues:

If a gram panchayat encounters technical or Aadhaar-related challenges, the Government of India may evaluate exemptions from Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (ABPS) requirements on a case-by-case basis until the resolution of the issue.
This announcement followed criticism from opposition parties, labeling ABPS as a harsh New Year measure that could potentially exclude millions of the most vulnerable and marginalized Indians from accessing basic income.
The government was accused of "weaponizing technology, especially Aadhaar.

India, Pakistan exchange list of nuclear installations and facilities (ET)

02 Jan 2024

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India and Pakistan exchanged the list of nuclear installations and facilities, covered under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between the two countries.

About the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities:

The Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, also known as the India-Pakistan Non-Attack Agreement, was signed on 31 December 1988 and became effective on 27 January 1991.
- It was signed by the then Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto and Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi.
According to this agreement, both India and Pakistan are required to annually communicate the list of nuclear installations and facilities covered by the agreement on the first of January of each calendar year.
The agreement stipulates that neither party shall engage, directly or indirectly, in any actions aimed at causing destruction or damage to any nuclear installation or facility in the other country.
The term 'nuclear installation or facility' encompasses nuclear power and research reactors, fuel fabrication, uranium enrichment, isotopes separation, reprocessing facilities, as well as any other installations involving fresh or irradiated nuclear fuel and materials in any form, along with establishments storing significant quantities of radioactive materials.

Need for the Agreement:

In 1986, heightened concerns arose when the Indian army conducted a large-scale exercise named 'Brasstacks,' prompting fears of a potential assault on nuclear facilities.
Subsequently, negotiations ensued between the two nations aimed at fostering an understanding regarding the management of nuclear weapons, ultimately leading to the formulation of the treaty.

Importance of the Agreement:

Both nations reiterate their dedication to enduring peace and the cultivation of amicable and harmonious bilateral relations.
They recognize the significance of confidence-building measures in fostering such relations built on mutual trust and goodwill.
The potential consequences of even a limited nuclear exchange between India and Pakistan are grave, with the potential to cause the loss of 20 million lives within a week.

Radiocarbon dating brought the first verifiable way to keep time to many fields of science, significantly transforming them (The Hindu)

02 Jan 2024

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From thermodynamics to GPS, from social systems theory to studies of consciousness, time plays an essential role in how we study, interpret, and understand the natural universe and the peoples and technologies that occupy it.

What is radiocarbon dating?

Radiocarbon dating is a technique employed to determine the age of an object by utilizing radiocarbon, a specific isotope known as carbon-14.
Formation of Carbon-14: Carbon-14 is generated in the Earth's atmosphere through a process initiated by cosmic rays—energetic streams of charged particles originating from outer space.
- These cosmic rays collide with atmospheric gas atoms, releasing neutrons in the process.
- When these neutrons interact with nitrogen-14 isotopes, carbon-14 is produced.
Given the continuous influx of cosmic rays penetrating the Earth's atmosphere, a constant production of carbon-14 takes place.
- Subsequently, this newly formed carbon-14 readily combines with atmospheric oxygen, resulting in the creation of radioactive carbon dioxide.
The carbon-14 compound enters various ecosystems through the carbon cycle, including plants (via photosynthesis), animals (through the consumption of plants), and other forms of biomass.
- It assumes the form of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds, facilitating its diffusion into the Earth's diverse ecosystems.
- This ensures that the concentration of carbon-14 in the atmosphere remains comparable to its concentration in the planet's other biospheres.

How does radiocarbon dating work?

The process of radiocarbon dating hinges on the principles of carbon exchange within living organisms, such as the human body.
- While alive, these organisms continuously interact with their environment by engaging in activities like breathing, consuming food, excreting, and shedding skin.
During these dynamic processes, carbon-14 is both released from the body and replenished, maintaining a relatively constant concentration within the organism that is in equilibrium with its surroundings.
- However, upon death, the cessation of these activities results in a diminishing concentration of carbon-14 in the body due to radioactive decay.
As time elapses, the quantity of carbon-14 steadily decreases, and its decay rate can be theoretically predicted.
- Radiocarbon dating assesses the age of an object by measuring the remaining amount of carbon-14, a value used by scientists or computers to estimate the time since the organism's demise.
In contemporary radiocarbon dating methodologies, advanced techniques are employed, with one of the most sensitive approaches being accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS).
- This sophisticated method allows for the analysis of organic samples as minute as 50 mg, enhancing the precision and accuracy of radiocarbon dating.

What are the limitations of carbon-14 dating?

Age Restriction: Carbon-14 dating is effective for dating organic materials up to approximately 60,000 years old.
Sample Size Requirements: Conventional radiocarbon dating necessitates relatively large samples, typically ranging from 10 to 100 grams (0.35 to 3.5 ounces), depending on the material being analyzed.
Advancements in Sample Size: While newer dating methods have emerged that can work with smaller sample sizes, allowing for analyses with quantities as low as 20 to 50 milligrams (0.0007 to 0.0018 ounces).
Contamination Sensitivity: Radiocarbon samples are highly susceptible to contamination, making it crucial for accurate dating that they remain clean and well-preserved throughout the analysis process.

Two-Month-Old Infant Breaks Records as Youngest to Undergo Successful Bone Marrow Transplant in Mumbai (Times Now)

02 Jan 2024

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A two-month-old girl, diagnosed with the rare disease ‘bubble baby syndrome,' becomes the youngest to receive a bone marrow transplant from an unrelated donor at Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children in Parel.

What is Bubble Baby Syndrome?

'Bubble baby syndrome,' medically known as Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is a group of rare, life-threatening diseases that cause a child to be born with very little or no immune system.
As a result, the child’s body is unable to fight off infections and can become very sick from infections like chickenpox, pneumonia and meningitis and can die within the first year of life.
This condition falls under the category of primary immune deficiencies.
The term "Bubble Baby Syndrome" is derived from the necessity for affected individuals to live in a highly controlled environment, as exposure to ordinary surroundings can pose fatal risks to children with SCID.
What happens in Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)?
In the developing fetus, the immune system originates in the bone marrow, where versatile stem cells can differentiate into three crucial types of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets.
- Among these, white blood cells, particularly lymphocytes, play a vital role in safeguarding the body against infections.
Lymphocytes consist of two main types: B-cells and T-cells.
- T-cells identify, attack, and eliminate invaders, while B-cells produce antibodies that "remember" infections for future defence.
- SCID is classified as a "combined" immunodeficiency as it impacts both of these infection-fighting white blood cell types.
In SCID, the child's immune system exhibits either an insufficient quantity of lymphocytes or dysfunctional lymphocytes.
- Consequently, the compromised immune system struggles to combat various germs such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi, leading to recurrent and severe infections.
Causes: SCID results from inherited mutations in multiple genes, with one or both birth parents passing down the condition to their child.
Symptoms: Although infants with SCID may initially appear healthy, signs of the disorder may manifest shortly after birth. These symptoms include
- Failure to thrive
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Frequent, often severe respiratory infections
- Oral thrush (a type of yeast infection in the mouth)
- Other challenging-to-treat bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
Treatment: SCID is considered a pediatric emergency, and without prompt intervention, affected babies are unlikely to survive beyond their first birthday.
The primary treatment method involves a stem cell transplant, also known as a bone marrow transplant.
In this procedure, the child receives stem cells from a donor with the hope that these new cells will reconstruct the compromised immune system, offering a chance for a healthier and more sustainable life.

Bone marrow transplant

The most common treatment for SCID is an allogeneic bone marrow transplant, which will introduce normal infection-fighting cells into your child’s body.
- Allogeneic transplants use stem cells from a relative or an unrelated donor from the National Marrow Donor Program.
An allogeneic bone marrow transplant involves taking cells from the bone marrow (the soft, spongy tissue found in bones) of a healthy donor and giving them to a child after the child’s diseased bone marrow has been eliminated.
Doctors at Children’s Hospital will screen your child’s family for potential bone marrow matches.
- While a tissue-matched sibling offers the greatest chance of curing SCID, they are not often available.
- Instead, most patients receive bone marrow donations from their parents or unrelated matched donors.

Govt extends PLI scheme for the auto sector by a year with 'partial amendments' (Business Standard)

02 Jan 2024

10th phase of Sagar Parikrama covering AP and Puducherry coastal districts to start from Mon (PIB)

01 Jan 2024

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Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Parshottam Rupala along with Minister of State Dr L Murugan will participate in the Sagar Parikrama (Phase X) event being organized from 1st January 2024 to 6th January 2024 at various locations of Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry

About Sagar Parikrama Phase-10:

Sagar Parikrama Phase-X is poised to be a pivotal event in the ongoing efforts to promote sustainable fisheries, empower stakeholders, and contribute to the economic growth of coastal communities.
It will continue and cover the remaining coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh namely Nellore, Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, West Godavari, Konaseema, Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam and Yanam (Union Territory of Puducherry).

What is “Sagar Parikrama”?

Sagar Parikrama is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership for the welfare of the fishing community and coastal development.
It is an initiative taken by the Government, with an aim to resolve the issues of the fishers, and other stakeholders and facilitate their economic upliftment through various fisheries’ schemes and programs being implemented by the Government such as Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Kisan Credit Card for Fisheries (KCC).
It represents a transformative voyage along the coastal belt, symbolizing unity with fisherfolk, fish farmers, and all stakeholders in the spirit of the 75th Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
The Sagar Parikrama Yatra features the interactions of ministers with fishermen, fish farmers and other relevant stakeholders.
State fisheries officials, fishermen representatives, fish farmers, entrepreneurs, fishermen cooperative society leaders, professionals, scientists, and other stakeholders from across the nation will accompany the events.
- The journey of the first phase of “Sagar Parikrama” started from Mandvi, Gujarat on 5th March 2022.
So far, the total 9 phases of Sagar Parikrama have been covered in the coastal States/UTs of Gujarat, Daman & Diu, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Andaman & Nicobar, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and part of Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh during initiation of its tenth phase.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
Sagar Parikrama is making a notable impact on improving the quality of life and economic well-being of the fishing community.
By providing a platform for direct interaction with Ministers and senior government officials, the initiative ensures that the concerns and issues of fishermen and fish farmers are addressed promptly.

How two choke points could turn into a perfect storm for global trade (Indian Express)

01 Jan 2024

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Shipping giant Maersk on Sunday suspended passage of its vessels through the Red Sea route for 48 hours after fresh attacks by Yemen-based Houthi rebels. This comes barely a week after the company announced plans to resume operation citing the deployment of a US-led military operation to guard the crucial sea route.

What do the ongoing Red Sea and Panama Canal crises mean for world trade?

A disruption in maritime transport is a crucial concern for the world economy, as over 80 per cent of the global goods trade is carried by sea.
- The share of trade via sea is much higher for developing countries such as India.
Currently, two important shipping routes are facing blockages.
- Bab-el-Mandeb Strait which leads to the Suez Canal in the Red Sea region connects Asia and parts of North East and East Africa to Europe.
- The 100-year-old Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Both these routes are among the busiest in the world and a blockage results in forcing global shipping lines to take longer alternate routes, pushing up freight rates.
The disruption at the Red Sea route, for instance, is estimated to push the prices of Indian agricultural products by 10 to 20 per cent, as shipments would be routed around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope.
This comes at a time when much of the West is witnessing higher interest rates to curb inflation.
Higher prices could further fuel demand concerns for global and Indian exporters.

Why is trade via the Panama Canal slowing?

Shipping via the Panama Canal has dropped by over 50 per cent due to drought conditions at the 51-mile stretch.
Due to the shortage of water, ships moving from Asia to the US are being forced to use the Suez Canal, which takes six more days compared to the Panama Canal.
Moreover, Panama is facing its driest rainy season in decades, raising fears of prolonged canal bottlenecks.

How have the attacks impacted freight rates?

Ever since the attacks along the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait began, global shipping firms have begun imposing war risk surcharges over and above the normal freight rates.
Indian exporters said that freight rates for Indian shipments headed to Europe and Africa could surge as much as 25-30 per cent if the ongoing security concern along the Red Sea trade route continues.
This is troubling, as the European Union is one of India’s second-largest export destinations.
Slowing demand from the region has impacted India’s labour-intensive sectors, such as textiles, gems and jewellery exports.

Panama Canal

It is an artificial canal that spans the Isthmus of Panama and links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
Together with the Suez Canal, it is one of the two most strategically important man-made waterways in the world.
It has a length of around 80 kilometres.
The United States constructed the canal between 1904 and 1914, and on August 15, 1914, it was formally inaugurated.
Since 1999, when control of the Canal was moved from the United States to Panama, it has been owned and operated by the Republic of Panama.
To make it easier for ships to cross the continental divide, the Panama Canal is made up of a network of locks that raise and decrease the water level.

Over 1 lakh people availed free treatment under Delhi Arogya Kosh scheme till October (Indian Express)

01 Jan 2024

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As many as 1.13 lakh people have availed of free health treatment being provided under the city Government’s ‘Delhi Arogya Kosh’ scheme, till October last year, according to government data.

What is the 'Delhi Arogya Kosh' Scheme?

Constituted in 2011, the Delhi Arogya Kosh (DAK) has five components/schemes:
- Financial assistance to EWS patients
- Free High-End Radiological Diagnostic Test Scheme
- Cashless Specified Surgeries scheme
- RTA (Road Traffic Accident) Scheme (‘i.e. Farishtey Scheme’) and
- Cashless Dialysis Scheme.
There are 4 schemes under the name of Delhi Arogya Kosh which include financial support from the government for medical implants, various types of surgeries, 136 types of medical tests and the Farishtey scheme for treatment of accident victims.
Under this scheme, if any citizen of Delhi goes to Delhi government hospitals for treatment and has to face a waiting period for examination or treatment and the patient needs immediate care, then the patient can avail the above-mentioned services in a private hospital with a doctor’s reference.
Cashless check-ups and treatment will be provided for them in all the empanelled hospitals and the cost of this will be borne by the government.
Under this scheme, every citizen of Delhi who has Delhi's voter card can get treatment.
- Children below 19 years of age can avail this facility based on their parents' voter cards.

Schemes Under 'Delhi Arogya Kosh':

Financial assistance up to 5 lakh for different types of medical implants: Under this scheme, the government provides financial assistance up to Rs 5 lakh to the patients.
- To avail of the benefit of this scheme, patients need to submit their application and relevant documents.
- After their screening, the government bears the cost of implants and the treatment of the patient up to Rs 5 lakh.
- It is a cashless scheme.
136 free medical test facilities at private labs for patients: In the case of a long waiting list at government hospitals, patients can get the tests done at private hospitals or labs.
- Under this scheme, patients can get about 136 types of medical tests done for free.
- Under this, while waiting in a government hospital, patients can get all medical tests from private hospitals and labs free of cost, including X-ray, MRI, PET scan, CT scan and ultrasound.
Free Surgery Scheme for patients to get the surgery done in private hospitals: If a patient goes to Delhi government hospital for treatment and has to undergo surgery but the waiting time is more than 30 days, then patients can avail free surgery in private hospitals under the 'Free Surgery Scheme' under this scheme.
- The government bears all the expenses incurred in the surgery.
Accident victims’ free treatment : The Farishtey Scheme is also covered under Delhi Arogya Kosh.
- Under this scheme, if a person meets with an accident, he or she is provided immediate treatment in a government hospital for free and if the patient gets admitted within 72 hours of an accident, he or she can also avail treatment at a private hospital for free.

- All the expenses of patients will be borne by the Delhi government.

SC’s translation projects raced ahead in 2023 as retd. HC judges and law clerks help AI (The Hindu)

01 Jan 2024

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The Supreme Court’s monumental project of translating all of its 36,000 judgments into Scheduled Languages achieved unprecedented speed in 2023, with the E-SCR portal starting with just 2,238 translated judgments in January and ending the year with over 31,000.

Background:

In 2023, the Supreme Court of India embarked on a groundbreaking venture to translate its extensive archive of 36,000 judgments into Scheduled Languages.
This innovative initiative, powered by collaboration between retired High Court judges, law clerks, and artificial intelligence, has made significant strides.
However, concerns linger regarding the practical application of these translated judgments and the absence of a standardized legal vocabulary across diverse regional languages.
The launch of the E-SCR portal in 2023 marked a modest beginning with 2,238 translated judgments in January, reaching a commendable milestone of over 31,000 rulings translated by the year's end.
Recent statistics reveal that Hindi leads with the highest number of translated judgments at 22,396, followed by Punjabi (3,572), Kannada (1,899), Tamil (1,172), and Gujarati (1,112).
While the translation speed witnessed a significant improvement in 2023, legal experts express concerns about the practical utility of translated judgments, particularly when High Courts, except in the Hindi-speaking States, cannot conduct proceedings in regional languages.

What is the Supreme Court Vidhik Anuvaad Software (SUVAS)?

SUVAS was introduced in November 2019 by the then-Chief Justice of India (CJI) S.A. Bobde.
It was created to encourage and ensure the use of regional languages in judicial proceedings.
It is an artificial intelligence (AI)--trained machine translation tool.
Constitutional Standing: While Article 348(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution mandates that proceedings in the Supreme Court and every High Court be conducted in English, Article 348(2) provides a provision.
- It allows a State Governor, with the President's consent, to authorize the use of Hindi or another state language in the High Court of that particular State.
In this context, SUVAS is vested with authority under Article 348, serving as a pivotal tool to promote linguistic diversity within the constitutional framework.

Planning to invest in green deposits? RBI releases latest guidelines to explain key provisions (Live Mint)

01 Jan 2024

Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) increases by 7.8% (provisional) in Nov 2023 as compared to the Index of Nov 2022 (PIB)

30 Dec 2023

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The combined Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) increased by 7.8 per cent (provisional) in November 2023 as compared to the Index of November 2022.

About the Index of Industrial Production (IIP):

The IIP is a comprehensive index that assesses the growth rate of industry groups, categorized into:
- Broad sectors: Mining, Manufacturing, and Electricity.
- Use-based sectors: Basic Goods, Capital Goods, and Intermediate Goods.
In India, the initiation of computing the IIP predates international recommendations. The Central Statistical Organization, now known as the National Statistics Office (NSO), assumed the responsibility for compilation and publication in 1951.
The Ministry responsible for this process is the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Key Information:

Base Year: The base year was changed to 2011-12 from 2004-05 in the year 2017.
Sources of Data: The NSO compiles the IIP using secondary data from 14 source agencies across various Ministries/Departments and their attached/subordinate offices.
The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) contributes a significant portion of the data for the calculation.
Utilization of IIP Data: The Industrial Production Index (IIP) is a valuable resource employed by several entities, including government bodies like the Ministry of Finance and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as well as private firms and analysts.
- It serves as a critical tool for analytical purposes.
- Additionally, the data is instrumental in computing the quarterly Gross Value Added (GVA) of the manufacturing sector within the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

About the Index of Eight Core Sectors:

The Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) assesses the combined and individual production performance of eight vital industries.
Together, these sectors account for 40.27% of the items measured in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
Listed in descending order of their weightage, the eight core industries are:
- Refinery Products, Electricity, Steel, Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Cement, and Fertilizers.

162 cases of Covid sub-variant JN.1 detected in India; highest from Kerala, Gujarat: INSACOG (Live Mint)

30 Dec 2023

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India reported a total of 109 JN.1 COVID variant cases in the country as of December 26, Health Ministry sources recently said.

What is Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG)?

Established in December 2020, INSACOG is a collaborative initiative involving the Union Ministry of Health, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Council for Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
The consortium's primary mission is to expand whole-genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus responsible for Covid-19, across India.
This initiative aims to comprehend the virus's spread and evolution.
INSACOG initially engaged 10 national research laboratories of the central government and has grown into a network of 38 labs, including private labs, following a hub-and-spoke model.
The consortium's Genome Sequencing Laboratories guide new laboratories, working in tandem to monitor genomic variations through sentinel sequencing facilitated by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) of the central government.
Beyond sequencing efforts, INSACOG endeavors to establish a systematic correlation between genome sequencing and clinical outcomes.
It is actively building a nationwide hospital network to investigate clinical correlations in mild versus severe cases of Covid-19.
Additionally, the consortium is conducting a longitudinal study to comprehend long-term post-Covid complications and changes in immunity.
Looking ahead, INSACOG is exploring sewage surveillance as an early detection tool and assessing the spread of variants in hotspot localities.

Minister Bhupendra Yadav launches NTPS, a unified system for forest goods’ transport across India (Indian Express)

30 Dec 2023

Horticulture boost: Litchi cultivation has expanded to 19 Indian states, according to officials (DownToEarth)

30 Dec 2023

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Litchi which is synonymous with India's hot summers, is now under cultivation in 19 Indian states, extending beyond its traditional confinement to Muzaffarpur in Bihar.

About Litchi Cultivation:

Litchi, a delicious and succulent fruit of superior quality, belongs to the Sapindaceae family from a botanical perspective.
Its translucent and flavorful aril, or edible flesh, is widely enjoyed as a table fruit in India.
Agro-climatic Requirements: Litchi is a sub-tropical fruit that thrives optimally in moist sub-tropical climates.
- Ideally cultivated at low elevations, it can be grown up to an altitude of 800 meters.
- The crop flourishes in deep, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter, with an ideal pH range of 5.0 to 7.0.
Temperature: The crop's temperature tolerance ranges from avoiding extremes, not exceeding 40.5 degrees Celsius in summer and staying above freezing point in winter.
Rainfall: Prolonged rainfall, especially during flowering, can be detrimental as it interferes with pollination.
- Young trees necessitate protection from frost and hot winds until firmly established, although some temperature variation is necessary for proper fruiting.
- Frost during winter and intense summer heat are limiting factors for successful cultivation.
Traditionally, commercial cultivation in India was confined to the northern foothills of the Himalayas from Tripura to Jammu & Kashmir, and the plains of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
However, due to increasing demand and the crop's viability, commercial cultivation has expanded to various states such as Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, etc.
India ranks second in the world in production of Litchi production after China.
- Other significant producers include Thailand, Australia, South Africa, Madagascar, and the US.
Statewise, Bihar tops in Litchi production followed by West Bengal (12 % of the total) and Jharkhand (10 %).

About National Research Centre on Litchi (NRCL):

The National Research Centre on Litchi (NRCL) serves as the leading national institute dedicated to research and development in the field of litchi.
It plays a pivotal role in providing national leadership, serving as a repository for comprehensive information on litchi production, processing, value addition, and extending consultancy services to end-users.

MEA’s Flagship ‘Know India Programme’ for youth diaspora completes 20 years (MEA GOI)

30 Dec 2023

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The flagship programme of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for the youth diaspora, the ‘Know India Programme’, has completed 20 years.

About the Know India Programme (KIP):

The Know India Programme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs designed to enhance awareness about India, its cultural heritage, and art, and to familiarize participants with various aspects of contemporary India and their ancestral homeland.
This program is open to Persons of Indian Origin (21-35 years) (excluding non-resident Indians) from all over the world, with a preference for youth from Girmitiya countries, such as those from Mauritius, Fiji, Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, South Africa, and Jamaica.
- The program has been in existence since its inception in 2003.

Features of Know India Programme (KIP):

It is a 21 days’ programme (excluding international travel) during which the participant will visit Delhi, Agra and a select state in India alongwith visits to places of historical, cultural, and religious significance.
- KIP participants will also have a 2-day orientation programme in New Delhi.
- Participants will meet opinion makers, leaders, and officials to get an overview of India’s economy, society and ongoing growth and development story.
Participants are provided local hospitality e.g. boarding and Internal transportation in India, return air tickets from their country of residence to India provided participants bear 10% of the cost of total air fare.
- Gratis visa shall be granted to participants by the Indian Missions/Posts abroad.
Some of the key elements of the Programme include:
- Visits to places of historical and cultural importance;
- Familiarisation with Yoga, Ayurveda, and classical forms of Music and Dance;
- Visit to institutions of democracy and governance like Parliament of India, Election Commission of India, Rashtrapati Bhawan;
- Interaction with leading educational institutions;
- Exposure to flagship economic and development schemes like Digital India, StartUp India, and Make in India; and
- visits to industrial sites, public and private firms to highlight India’s strength in Manufacturing & Service sector.

Eligibility Criteria:

Minimum qualification required for participating in KIP is graduation from a recognized University /Institute or enrolled for graduation and the ability to speak in English.
- The applicant should not have visited India through any previous Programme of Government of India.
- Those who have not visited India before will be given preference.
Applicant must provide documentary evidence to prove Indian origin or an undertaking about Indian origin which must be countersigned by the Indian Embassy/High Commission/Consul General.

States Returning to OPS Pose Significant Financial Burden: RBI (Indian Express)

12 Dec 2023

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Recently, the RBI released a report saying, the return to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) by a few states would put a huge burden on their finances, restricting them from undertaking capital expenditure to drive the growth.

What is the Old Pension Scheme (OPS)?

The Old Pension Scheme (OPS), popularly OPS, is for state and central government employees who have completed 10 or more years of service.
The appeal of the Old Pension Scheme lies in its commitment to provide a guaranteed or 'defined' benefit to retirees, classifying it as a 'Defined Benefit Scheme.'
It provides government employees with pensions based on their final salary, amounting to 50% of the last drawn salary.
For instance, if a government employee's final monthly salary upon retirement was Rs 10,000, they would receive a guaranteed pension of Rs 5,000.
Similar to government employees' salaries, pension payouts increased with government-declared dearness allowance (DA) hikes.
The Central government discontinued OPS in 2003.

What were the issues with the OPS?

The primary concern was the unfunded nature of the pension liability, lacking a dedicated corpus that could grow over time to meet payment needs.
The annual Government of India budget allocated funds for pensions without a clear strategy for sustaining future payments.
The 'pay-as-you-go' approach raised inter-generational equity concerns, burdening the present generation with the escalating load of pension responsibilities.
Recently, the RBI expressed alarm over some states, including Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, reverting to the OPS, citing it as a significant fiscal challenge.
The RBI warned that by deferring current expenses to the future, states risk accumulating unfunded pension liabilities in the years to come.

What is the New Pension Scheme (NPS)?

Introduced by the Central government in 2004 as an alternative to OPS, NPS is accessible to employees across public, private, and unorganized sectors, excluding those in the armed forces.
This pension initiative encourages individuals to invest in a pension account regularly during their employment.
Upon retirement, subscribers can withdraw a specific percentage of the accumulated corpus.
The remaining amount is disbursed as a monthly pension post-retirement.
Regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

How does NPS differ from OPS?

Old Pension Scheme (OPS) ensures a fixed and guaranteed pension amount.
In contrast, the National Pension Scheme (NPS) is an investment-cum-pension scheme, exposing returns to market volatility.
NPS contributions are defined, but benefits are contingent on market performance.

Why Rural India Needs Women Drone Pilots? (Indian Express)

12 Dec 2023

Article 356 of the Indian Constitution (The Hindu)

12 Dec 2023

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The Supreme Court recently held that the declaration of State emergency under Article 356 and the subsequent actions of the President should have a “reasonable nexus”.

What is Article 356 of the Indian Constitution?

Article 356 of the Constitution of India is based on Section 93 of the Government of India Act, 1935. According to Article 356, the President's Rule can be imposed on any state of India on the grounds of the failure of the constitutional machinery.

There are two types:

If the President receives a report from the state's Governor or otherwise is convinced or satisfied that the state's situation is such that the state government cannot carry on the governance according to the provisions of the Constitution.
Article 365: As per this Article, President's Rule can be imposed if any state fails to comply with all directions given by the Union on matters it is empowered to.

In simple words, President's Rule is when the state government is suspended and the central government directly administers the state through the office of the governor (centrally appointed. It is also called State Emergency or Constitutional Emergency.

President's Rule:

Parliamentary approval is necessary for the imposition of the President's Rule on any state.
The proclamation of President's Rule should be approved in both Houses of Parliament within two months of its issue.
The approval is through a simple majority.
The President's Rule is initially for a period of six months.
Later, it can be extended for a period of three years with parliamentary approval, every six months.
The 44th Amendment to the Constitution (1978) brought in some constraints on the imposition of the President's Rule beyond a period of one year. It says that the President's Rule cannot be extended beyond one year unless:
There is a national emergency in India.
The Election Commission of India certifies that it is necessary to continue the President's Rule in the state because of difficulties in conducting assembly elections in the state.

What happens after the President's Rule is imposed?

The governor carries on with the administration of the state on behalf of the President. He or she takes the help of the state's Chief Secretary and other advisors/administrators whom he or she can appoint.
The President has the power to declare that the state legislature's powers will be exercised by the Parliament.
The state legislative assembly would be either suspended or dissolved by the President.
When the Parliament is not in session, the President can promulgate ordinances with respect to the state's administration.

When is the President's Rule imposed?

President's Rule is typically imposed when any of the following circumstances occur:
The state legislature is unable to elect a leader as the Chief Minister within the time prescribed by the state's governor.
Breakdown of a coalition in the state government, resulting in the Chief Minister having minority support in the legislature, and the CM is unable to prove a majority within the time prescribed by the governor.
A vote of no confidence in the legislative assembly leads to a loss of majority.
Postponement of elections due to unavoidable reasons such as a natural disaster, epidemic, or war.

Revocation of President's Rule:

President's Rule can be revoked anytime after such a proclamation has been made by a subsequent proclamation by the President.
A proclamation of revocation does not require approval by the Parliament.
This occurs when the leader of a political party produces letters indicating majority support for him in the assembly and stakes his claim to form the state government.

How do web browsers work? (The Hindu)

12 Dec 2023

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Web browsers are our digital passports to the vast universe of the internet. Their simplicity is deceptive: beneath their user-friendly interfaces lies a world of intricate processes that transform clicks into the web pages we interact with every day.

What are web browsers?

Fundamentally, the browser is an application that people use to send and receive messages via the internet.
In other words, the browser is a program that runs on our device, with its purpose being to fetch information in different formats from the internet and show it on the device.
It also does the reverse, receiving your input (say, a click), translating it to code, and transmitting it to some other machine across the internet.
In the year 1990, the English computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee introduced the concept of the World Wide Web also named ‘WorldWideWeb’.

What Constitutes a Web Browser?

Web browsers today comprise numerous essential components, each representing a sophisticated technology. Additionally, they depend on various supporting technologies and adhere to established standards governing the functioning of the Internet.

Request and Response: When we enter a website's URL, the browser sends a request to a server, asking for the specific web page.
The server processes the request and sends back a response containing the information needed to construct the page.
This response, akin to a digital blueprint, travels back to our browser.
Deconstructing the Response: The server's response comprises various files encoded in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
HTML outlines the webpage structure, CSS adds style and aesthetics, while JavaScript brings interactivity, making the page dynamic and engaging.
Rendering: The browser deciphers HTML, applies CSS for styling, and executes JavaScript for interactivity, rapidly assembling the final webpage.
Rendering engines are crucial technology enabling quick and cohesive visual presentation.
Managing Data: Browsers use cookies for retaining site preferences and cache for storing frequently accessed files.
Cookies act like post-it notes, preserving login status and preferences, while the cache accelerates page loading by retrieving stored files instead of downloading them again.
Security: Browsers prioritize security by employing encryption protocols like HTTPS for data exchange.
They create secure 'tunnels' to shield information during transmission. Warning systems alert users about potential threats, enhancing overall online safety.

As technology advances, web browsers are on a trajectory of continuous evolution. They are integrating state-of-the-art technologies such as WebAssembly, facilitating near-native performance within the browser. The future holds promises of support for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences, offering immersive online interactions. Privacy features are also being fortified, empowering users with enhanced control over their digital presence.

Oil Producers Water Down Provision on Fossil Fuel Phase-out (Indian Express)

12 Dec 2023

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After four days of deadlock, a new draft agreement text emerged at the COP28 climate meeting that severely watered down earlier provisions on fossil fuel elimination but singled out coal for a rapid phase-down, which could be problematic for India.

Context:

The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is underway in the United Arab Emirates from November 30 to December 12, 2023.
During the climate meeting on December 10, negotiators took an initial step toward enhancing action on adapting to climate change.
A draft text outlining potential "global goals" on adaptation was introduced for the first time, serving as a starting point for further negotiations.
Negotiators are actively discussing various topics, including the contentious issue of fossil fuel phase-out, in informal sessions to find common ground.
The draft document is titled 'Global Goal on Adaptation' (GGA) and aims to establish a shared global objective for adaptation, similar to the global goal of limiting temperature rise below the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold for mitigation.
This initiative addresses a longstanding demand from developing countries, emphasizing the need for increased focus and resource mobilisation for adaptation efforts.
Notably, the draft removes the term 'phasing out' of fossil fuels but includes stronger language against coal, urging a "rapid phase-down of unabated coal," a point that may face objections from major consumers like India, Indonesia, and China, all developing countries heavily reliant on coal power.

Responses to the Draft Text 'Global Goal on Adaptation':

The European Union (EU) and certain small island states promptly dismissed the draft agreement text.
The EU climate commissioner criticized the overall insufficiency of the text, deeming it inadequate in addressing the climate change challenge.
Primary dissatisfaction arose from the weakening of a provision related to the use of fossil fuels.
The draft initially urged countries to "reduce both consumption and production of fossil fuels, in a just, orderly, and equitable manner."
Notably, fossil fuels, responsible for nearly 80 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, have never been explicitly mentioned in prior COP decisions.
While previous decisions emphasized the need to cut emissions, they avoided specifying actions for emission reduction.
COP28 marked the first formal discussion of a fossil fuel phase-out but attempts to incorporate a robust provision faced resistance from oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia and Russia.
India, while not offering an immediate reaction to the draft agreement, has consistently asserted that singling out coal for accelerated reduction is discriminatory.

Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI (YUVAi) (NewsOnAir)

11 Dec 2023

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YUVAi Student Finalists to showcase their AI-enabled social impact projects at the GPAI summit.

About Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI (YUVAi) Initiative:

YUVAi is aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of AI, to equip school students from classes 8th to 12th across the nation with AI skills, and to empower them to become human-centric designers and users of AI.
In addition, the program offers an applied learning experience for students to understand and identify how AI technology can tackle critical problems and lead to the inclusive development of the nation.
It is a collaborative initiative of the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India and Intel India.
The objectives of YUVAi are to :
Foster a deeper understanding of AI-tech and social skills
Enable youth to develop AI-enabled solutions as a sign of achievement
Empower youth to become human-centric designers and users of AI
The program will be conducted in three phases.
In the initial phase, teachers will be selected to identify students from their respective schools and share their details with the organizing team.
Next, online orientation sessions will be conducted for registered students around core AI concepts by experts to facilitate understanding of the ideation process.
Finally, students will be encouraged to submit ideas (individually or in teams of 2) through a 120-second video explaining a proposed AI-enabled solution for any one of the eight core themes- agriculture, healthcare, education, environment and clean energy, transportation, rural development, smart cities and law and justice.
Shortlisted students will attend online deep dive AI training in the second phase.
A 3-day face-to-face boot camp will be organized to provide adequate mentorship and guidance by YUVAi coaches.
After the mentorship camps, students will use this newly gained knowledge to develop AI-enabled innovations/projects on any of the eight core themes and submit final entries.
Finally, the most innovative AI-based solutions will be announced and invited to a national showcase and felicitation ceremony.
Rewards: Upon a successful idea submission, students will be awarded a Certificate of Appreciation.

Protein from Budgett’s frog can block enzymes of disease-causing pathogens (The Hindu)

11 Dec 2023

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Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science’s (IISc.) molecular biophysics unit in a study have identified that peptides (short protein) produced from Budgett’s frog can combat enzymes of disease-causing pathogens.

Key Research Findings:

The research focused on peptides, or short proteins, derived from amphibian skin, a subject of prolonged study due to their capacity to counter adverse environmental conditions, including harmful pathogens.
A peptide secreted by frogs demonstrated inhibitory effects on two crucial enzymes, namely subtilisin Carlsberg and proteinase K, which are produced by pathogens.
These enzymes play a crucial role in fostering infections by breaking down specific protective proteins within the infected individual.
The studied peptide exhibited its inhibitory action through a slow-tight binding pathway, proving to be as effective as SSI, a well-established subtilisin inhibitor.
The researchers illustrated the formation of a Michaelis complex—an intact, noncovalent complex with the inhibitor—during the process.

About Budgett’s frog:

Budgett’s frogs exhibit high intelligence and a notably assertive nature.
When alarmed, they employ a defensive strategy by inflating themselves, standing on short legs, and, if necessary, lunging at potential threats with an open, imposing mouth accompanied by a distinctive shriek.
During the dry season, these frogs take refuge in burrows they construct at the bottoms of water pools.
Within these burrows, they shed multiple layers of skin to create a waterproof cocoon, ensuring their moisture retention.
Equipped with exceptional night vision and a keen sensitivity to movement, Budgett’s frogs showcase effective hunting skills.
Habitat/Range: Found in proximity to permanent or seasonal bodies of water, Budgett’s frogs inhabit regions across Paraguay, Argentina, and Bolivia.
Conservation Status:
IUCN Red List: Classified as Least Concern.

Royal Bengal Tiger spotted in Pangalokha Wildlife Sanctuary (PTI)

11 Dec 2023

EU’s Landmark Deal on Artificial Intelligence Regulation (Indian Express)

11 Dec 2023

India's Ambitious Initiative to Expand Renewable Energy Capacity (Indian Express)

11 Dec 2023

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The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has proposed an exemption for green hydrogen developers from adhering to its list of authorised manufacturers to enable them to import solar PV modules and wind turbine models from China.

What Does The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) Propose?

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is exploring the option of granting an exemption to green hydrogen developers from its list of authorized manufacturers.
This proposed exemption would enable these developers to import solar PV modules and wind turbine models from China, aiming to enhance the competitiveness of green hydrogen exports.
It's noteworthy that Chinese manufacturers are presently absent from MNRE's Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) and Revised List of Models and Manufacturers (RLLM).

The MNRE’s Proposal Background:

After the 2020 Galwan Valley skirmishes, the Indian government issued directives to restrict the involvement of Chinese vendors in public procurement.
Recently, the Indian procurement portal GeM announced the removal of hundreds of Chinese vendors over the past three years.
At a time when energy companies are intensifying efforts to mass-produce green hydrogen, essential for which are renewable energy equipment and electrolysers, the government has sidelined Chinese manufacturers.
This aligns with the MNRE's policy to enhance domestic manufacturing of renewable energy equipment.
While central PSUs may face restrictions on importing electrolysis machinery from China, others continue to do so.
In FY23, India witnessed a 40% increase, in importing machines and apparatus for electroplating, electrolysis, and electrophoresis, worth $45.61 million, compared to the preceding fiscal year.

What is the Significance of the MNRE’s Proposal?

??The proposal to import solar PV modules from China carries significance in bolstering the supply chain and enhancing the global competitiveness of Indian green hydrogen exports.
Central PSUs such as Indian Oil Corporation Ltd and NTPC Ltd, both actively involved in green hydrogen projects, would benefit by sourcing equipment from Chinese manufacturers.
This move is poised to strengthen India's position in the global green hydrogen market, aligning with the objectives outlined in the National Green Hydrogen Mission and facilitating the achievement of set targets.

Painkiller Meftal could cause DRESS syndrome (Financial Express)

07 Dec 2023

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Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has recently issued a drug safety alert for doctors and patients about the use of the commonly used painkiller mefenamic acid, popularly sold under the brand name Meftal.

Context:

The Pharma standard body, Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) in its preliminary analysis of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) from the PvPI database revealed that Meftal can lead to Drug Reactions with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) Syndrome.
According to doctors, this syndrome causes a diverse array of clinical symptoms, anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks after initiating the offending drug.

What is DRESS syndrome?

DRESS syndrome (Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms) is an adverse reaction term that is currently used to describe a hypersensitivity reaction.
Experts classify DRESS syndrome as a type 4 hypersensitivity reaction.
It is a serious drug reaction affecting the skin and other organs, with a mortality rate of up to 10%.
It manifests when the immune system excessively responds to specific medications, leading to a type 4 hypersensitivity reaction.
This reaction can manifest with various symptoms across the body, including fever, abnormalities in blood, and inflammation of organs.

What are the symptoms of DRESS syndrome?

Patients diagnosed with DRESS syndrome typically present with a rash, fever, and eosinophilia but can have a variety of symptoms including liver, lung, or kidney involvement.
“DRESS syndrome should be suspected if a diffuse rash erupts and is accompanied by fever, facial edema, and enlarged lymph two to six weeks after starting a new high-risk medication.

How to treat DRESS Syndrome?

The most important step to treat DRESS Syndrome is to stop the medication involved in the reaction, and sometimes, no further treatment is needed.
Topical steroids can be given to treat the rash and in certain cases, further treatment is needed to protect the organs from damage, such as with steroids, which can be given either intravenously or orally.
“Treatment with steroids can be needed for weeks or even months, and lab work is monitored carefully during this time.
The average time to recovery is six to nine weeks.

Odisha Invokes ESMA to Ban Strikes by Health Department Staffs (The Hindu)

07 Dec 2023

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The Odisha Government invoked the Orissa Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (ESMA) prohibiting strikes by paramedical staff, including nurses, pharmacists, technicians, Class III and IV employees, to ensure that medical services are not disrupted.

About Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA):

The Indian Parliament enacted ESMA in 1968 to ensure the continuous provision of critical services crucial to people's daily lives. This legislation prohibits employees in essential services from striking, regardless of bandhs or curfews.

Designated Essential Services: Public conservation, sanitation, water supply, hospitals, national defense, petroleum, coal, electricity, steel, fertilizer production, and banking-related services fall under the ambit of essential services.
Communication, transportation, and government initiatives for food grain acquisition and distribution are also covered.
State-Specific Application: State governments, individually or collaboratively, can enforce ESMA within their territories, each having its own version with slightly varied provisions.
This allows states to address disruptions that impact specific regions.
Central Government Activation: In the case of a nationwide disruption, especially in sectors like railways, the central government may invoke ESMA.
Consequences for Striking Employees: Employees engaging in illegal strikes under ESMA can face disciplinary action, including dismissal. Legal consequences may involve arrests without a warrant, with imprisonment for up to one year, fines, or both for those participating or instigating the strike.

UN Secretary-General Invokes Article 99 on Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza (The Hindu)

07 Dec 2023

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Amid Israel’s ongoing military attacks on the Gaza Strip, particularly in its southern region, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter in a bid to establish a ceasefire.

Context:

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has decided to invoke Article 99 of the UN Charter as the death toll in Israeli bombardments on Gaza crosses 16,000.
He also urged the UN Security Council to act on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The development comes as Israel increased the intensity of its operations, especially in the areas of southern Gaza with Israel's defence leadership claiming that “half of Hamas’ battalion commanders" are killed.

What is Article 99 of the UN Charter?

The Secretary-General may bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security.”
It is seen as a discretionary power.
The responsibility it confers upon the Secretary-General will require the exercise of the highest qualities of political judgment, tact and integrity” according to a 1945 report of the Preparatory Commission of the United Nations.
According to the UN, the President of the Security Council is under the obligation to call a meeting of the Council if the Secretary-General brings to the attention of the Council any matter under Article 99.

When has Article 99 Been Activated in the Past?

1960: Following the Congo Crisis, Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld invoked Article 99 to address the aftermath of Belgium's withdrawal and the ensuing internal conflict.
1971: Amid the Bangladesh Liberation War, Secretary-General U Thant activated Article 99 to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis, urging international intervention.
1979: In response to the Iranian Revolution and hostage crisis, Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim triggered Article 99 to underscore the seriousness of the situation and the necessity for a peaceful resolution.
1989: Confronted with the ongoing Lebanese Civil War and hostage abductions, Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar invoked Article 99 to emphasize the requirement for international support and engagement.

‘Garba Of Gujarat’ Declared as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO (Indian Express)

07 Dec 2023

Chandrayaan-3 Propulsion Module Retraces Steps to Earth Orbit (Indian Express)

07 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

Scientists have brought the Propulsion Module (PM) of the Chandrayaan-3 mission , which initially brought the Vikram lander to within 100 km of the Moon's surface before detaching and executing a historic controlled descent on August 23, back into Earth orbit.

What is a Propulsion Module in Chandrayaan-3?

The Propulsion Module is a rectangular component of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft, equipped with solar panels for power.
Its primary purpose was to transport the Lander module to the lunar polar circular orbit and facilitate its separation.
Following separation, the SHAPE payload within the Propulsion Module was activated.
Initially intended for a three-month operation during the mission, the ISRO announced on December 4th that the Chandrayaan-3's Propulsion Module had been manoeuvred out of lunar orbit.
Placed high above Earth for an additional mission, the module is currently sustained by residual fuel.
This bonus mission will showcase technologies crucial for future lunar sample retrieval, according to ISRO.
As of now, the ISRO has not disclosed its plans for the spacecraft once it depletes its fuel.

Importance of Propulsion Module's Return to Earth's Orbit:

ISRO highlighted the key achievements resulting from the return manoeuvres conducted on the Propulsion Module (PM) in connection to upcoming missions:
Planning and executing the trajectory and manoeuvres for the return journey from the Moon to Earth.
Developing a software module for planning such manoeuvres, along with its initial validation.
Planning and executing a gravity-assisted flyby around a planet or celestial body.
Preventing uncontrolled crashing of the PM onto the Moon's surface at the end of its life, aligning with the requirement of avoiding debris creation.

What is Chandrayaan-3 Mission?

Mystery of megamouth shark solved after one washes up in Philippines (Business Insider)

06 Dec 2023

Closest-ever Sun photo captured by Solar Orbiter (India Today)

06 Dec 2023

Panchayat Development Index (PIB)

06 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj recently informed Lok Sabha about the Panchayat Development Index.

About the Panchayat Development Index:

The Panchayat Development Index serves as a comprehensive and versatile metric designed to actively evaluate the holistic advancement, efficacy, and ongoing progress of panchayats.
This index actively considers a spectrum of socio-economic indicators and parameters, offering an actively nuanced understanding of the well-being and developmental status of local communities within the panchayat's jurisdiction.
Objectives: The primary objective is to actively play a pivotal role in assessing performance and progress towards actively achieving Sustainable Development Goals at the grassroots level.
An active component of this initiative is the Local Indicators Framework, which encompasses nine key themes for actively localising Sustainable Development Goals.
These themes actively encompass creating poverty-free and thriving livelihoods, ensuring health and actively child-friendly environments, actively promoting water sufficiency, actively fostering clean and green spaces, actively developing self-sufficient infrastructure, actively establishing socially just and secure communities, actively promoting good governance, and actively creating women-friendly villages.

How Ranking Works?

Ranks within the index are actively assigned based on scores, actively categorising panchayats into four grades.
Those actively scoring below 40 percent are actively classified as Grade D,
40-60 percent as Grade C,
60-75 percent as Grade B
75-90 percent as Category A
and those actively surpassing 90 percent are actively designated as A+.
Significance of this Index: The significance of this index lies in its ability to actively offer valuable insights into areas requiring attention and improvement within rural areas under panchayat jurisdiction.
It actively aids in identifying disparities, gauging the achievement of development goals, and actively crafting targeted policies and interventions to elevate the overall well-being and quality of life in rural communities.

Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) (DST Gov)

06 Dec 2023

Scientists uncover seismic clues in Kopili Fault zone, advancing earthquake preparedness (PIB)

06 Dec 2023

Iyothee Thass Pandithar (The Hindu)

02 Dec 2023

INS Trinkat (Indian Express)

02 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Navy has appointed the first woman commanding officer in a naval ship in line with the Navy’s philosophy of “all roles-all ranks” to deploying women in the service, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar said on Friday.

About INS Trinkat:

INS Trinkat is a patrol vessel crafted by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers in Kolkata, West Bengal, and serves the Indian Navy.
The role of the INS Trinkat is for anti-poaching operations, counter-insurgency operations, and Search and Rescue Operations in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep Islands, and India's Exclusive Economic Zone.
It is capable of detecting and destroying fast-moving surface craft.
It can also carry out policing anti-smuggling and fisheries protection operations.
These patrol vessels are aptly named after Trinkat Island, one of the 24 islands constituting the Nicobar Islands chain situated in the northeast Indian Ocean, between the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea.

About Group Captain Shaliza Dhami:

Group Captain Shaliza Dhami, is an esteemed officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF).
She holds the distinction of being the first woman officer in the IAF to secure a permanent commission and the pioneer woman to attain the role of a Flight Commander.
Adding to her achievements, she became the first woman IAF officer selected for a front-line combat unit.
Shaliza Dhami is an officer who is a qualified navigation instructor and has been involved in training observers inducted into the Navy.
She is also learned to be the first woman officer who served as an observer in the Navy’s Tupolev Tu-142 maritime patrol aircraft.
It's noteworthy that she is poised to make history once again by assuming command of a ship, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Sub-Neptune Planets (The Hindu)

02 Dec 2023

Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL) (The Hindu)

02 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Bank of England (BoE) on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) concerning cooperation and exchange of information in relation to the Clearing Corporation of India Ltd (CCIL).

About Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL):

The Clearing Corporation of India Ltd. (CCIL) was set up in April 2001 to provide guaranteed clearing and settlement functions for transactions in Money, G-Secs, Foreign Exchange, and Derivative markets.
Objective: The prime objective has been to improve efficiency in the transaction settlement process, insulate the financial system from shocks emanating from operations-related issues, and undertake other related activities that would help to broaden and deepen the money, debt, and forex markets in the country.
Promoters of CCIL: State Bank of India, IDBI Bank Ltd, ICICI Bank Ltd, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Bank of Baroda, and HDFC Bank Ltd.
The company was incorporated with an authorised equity share capital of Rs. 50 crores.
CCIL’s adherence to the stringent principles governing its operations as a Financial Market Infrastructure (FMI) has resulted in its recognition as a Qualified Central Counterparty (QCCP) by the Reserve Bank of India in 2014.
CCIL is also the trade repository for all OTC transactions in the Forex, Interest Rate, and Credit derivative transactions.
Through its fully owned subsidiary, Clearcorp Dealing Systems Limited (CDSL), CCIL has introduced various platforms for the electronic execution of deals in various market segments.
Further, CDSL has developed, implemented, and manages the NDS-OM, the RBI-owned anonymous electronic trading system for dealing in G-Secs and also for reporting OTC deals, as well as the NDS-CALL platform, which facilitates electronic dealing in the Call, Notice & Term Money market.

Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) (PIB)

02 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Codex Alimentarious Commission (CAC) has recently praised India’s Standards on Millets and accepted its proposal for the development of global standards for millets during its 46th session held in Rome, Italy.

About Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC):

The Codex Alimentarious Commission (CAC) is an international food safety and quality standard-setting body created by WHO and FAO of the United Nations with 188 member countries.
It is the body responsible for all matters regarding the implementation of the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme.
Membership of the Commission is open to all Member Nations and Associate Members of FAO and WHO which are interested in international food standards.
The Commission meets in regular session once a year alternating between Geneva and Rome.
The programme of work of the Commission is funded through the regular budgets of WHO and FAO with all work subject to approval of the two governing bodies of the parent organizations.
The Commission works in the six UN official languages.
India has been a member of this commission since 1964.
The 46th session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) was held from 27 November to 2 December (2023) in Rome, Italy.
In the current session, India has framed a comprehensive group standard for 15 types of millets specifying 8 quality parameters, which received resounding applause at the international meet.
India put forward a proposal for the development of global standards for millet, particularly for Finger millet, Barnyard millet, Kodo millet, Proso millet, and Little millet as group standards as in the case of pulses.

Exercise Milan (The Hindu)

01 Dec 2023

Sindhudurg Fort (Financial Express)

01 Dec 2023

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary (Indian Express)

01 Dec 2023

World AIDS Day 2023 (Indian Express)

01 Dec 2023

Gajraj Suraksha (Elephant Safety) System (New Indian Express)

01 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

"In a first", through cutting-edge indigenous technology, the Indian Railways has successfully developed a system, preliminarily called as ‘Gajraj Suraksha (Elephant safety) system’ to prevent elephant–train collisions in the forest areas.

About Gajraj Suraksha:

Gajraj Suraksha uses an AI-based algorithm and a network of sensitive optical fiber cables to detect elephants approaching railway tracks, aiming to address elephant fatalities resulting from train accidents.
How this will work?
The system functions by sensing pressure waves generated by elephant movements along the tracks.
As elephants move, the optical fibers detect vibrations from their footsteps, triggering signals within the fiber network.
This enables the system to identify elephants up to 200 meters ahead of their arrival on the track.
The Optical Fibre Cable (OFC)-based Intrusion Detection System sends alarms to station masters upon detecting movement along the tracks.
The network is designed to accurately track elephant movement, allowing prompt communication to nearby station masters.
This ensures timely information to locomotive drivers, facilitating the slowing down or stopping of trains to prevent potential collisions with elephants.
The Indian Railway plans to introduce this system in West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Assam, Kerala, certain parts of Chhattisgarh, and Tamil Nadu.

Digital Crop Survey System (Indian Express)

19 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

Emphasizing the current manual nature of crop area and production estimation, the Central Government has urged states and Union Territories (UTs) to transition to a digital approach by implementing the Digital Crop Survey System starting in July next year.

About the Digital Crop Survey:

As a part of the Digital Crop Survey initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) has instructed states to capture data on essential parameters, encompassing:
Village name, year, season, farmer ID, farm ID,
Crop name (at the farm plot level),
Crop variety,
Crop sown area (at the farm plot level),
Geotags of crop photos,
Geotags of the farm boundary where the crop is cultivated,
Sowing/planting date (at the farm plot level),
Irrigation type (at the farm plot level), and
Irrigation source (at the farm plot level).
This directive follows the introduction of a pilot Digital Crop Survey across multiple states earlier this year.
In a parallel initiative, the MoA&FW has also revised the release timelines for crop estimates.
Previously conducted in five phases, the ministry has streamlined the process by eliminating the fourth phase traditionally released in August.
The ministry now plans to unveil comprehensive final estimates encompassing all states and seasons (kharif, rabi, summer) in September-October, departing from the earlier practice of releasing final estimates in February of the subsequent year.

Guidelines for the Digital Crop Survey:

According to sources, the Economics, Statistics and Evaluation Division (ESED) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW), has finalised the guidelines.
According to the guidelines, all states/ UTs shall automate/digitise the process of area enumeration/girdawari of crops at field level, i.e., Digital Crop Survey, from 2024-25 Agricultural Year.
In India, the agriculture year begins in July and ends in June, the following year.
Under the guidelines, states and UTs shall use GPS-enabled mobile applications for collecting crop-sown data of each plot for each season and share the village-level aggregated data with DA&FW through API only.

Need for the Digital Crop Survey:

The current methodology for gathering and consolidating crop statistics relies entirely on manual processes across most states, leading to delays and human errors in the data compilation.
Only a handful of states, such as Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, have embraced a digital approach to data collection through GPS-enabled mobile applications, particularly for the recording of crop area and Collection of Cost of Cultivation and Equipment Survey (CCEs) data directly from the fields.
While Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have implemented digital systems, they are primarily focused on recording crop areas.
India faces a challenge due to the lack of dependable agricultural production estimates, accentuating the necessity for a "real-time assessment estimate" of crops.
Recognizing this gap, there is a compelling need to modernize the current production estimation system by incorporating technological interventions.

Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) (The Hindu)

19 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently requested the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) to provide access to "essential documents" related to the accusations of stock manipulation and accounting fraud against the Adani Group.

About the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP):

The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) is a nonprofit investigative reporting platform that collaborates with over 50 independent media outlets worldwide, producing over 100 investigations annually.
Established in 2006, its mission is to conduct transnational investigative reporting and advocate for technology-based approaches to expose organized crime and corruption on a global scale.
The organization strives to cultivate and empower a global network of investigative journalists, publishing their stories to shed light on crime and corruption, enabling the public to hold those in power accountable.

Vision:

OCCRP envisions a world where lives, livelihoods, and democracy are not jeopardized by crime and corruption.
The organization is committed to exposing malfeasance so that the public can actively hold institutions accountable.

Core Initiatives:

Global Investigative Network: OCCRP facilitates a global network of investigative journalists, providing them with essential resources and tools.
This includes digital and physical security measures, enabling journalists covering sensitive topics to collaborate effectively with trusted editors.
An investigative data platform, OCCRP Aleph empowers journalists to search and cross-reference over three billion records, unveiling criminal connections and patterns.
This platform facilitates efficient cross-border collaboration among journalists.
Training and Skill Development: OCCRP offers training programs to reporters and partners, equipping them with advanced journalism techniques, and enhancing their investigative capabilities.
Partnerships for Change: OCCRP collaborates with advocacy groups, arming civil society with information to advocate for justice and transformative change.
The organization also uncovers evidence that empowers law enforcement to take meaningful action.

Kati Bihu (PIB)

19 Oct 2023

Bhimashankar Temple (HT)

19 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

Tensions escalated at the Bhimashankar temple recently as a dispute unfolded between two groups of religious leaders, referred to as pujaris, regarding the leadership of the puja ceremony, leading to a brawl.

Bhimashankar Temple Overview:

The Bhimashankar Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located amidst the Sahyadri hills in the Pune District of Maharashtra.
Recognized as one of the 12 holy Jyotirlinga shrines in India, it holds immense spiritual significance.
In recent times, it has gained additional importance as it was designated a "Wildlife Sanctuary," forming part of the Western Ghats and serving as the source of the Bhima River.

Historical Significance:

Constructed around the 13th century, the temple is a testament to the craftsmanship of Vishwakarma sculptors.
Subsequent enhancements, including the addition of spires (shikhara) by Maratha Empire statesman Nana Phadnavis in the 18th century, contribute to its historical evolution.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Maratha ruler, is believed to have played a role in fostering worship at the temple through his endowments.

Architectural Marvel:

A blend of old and new structures in the Nagara style of architecture, the Bhimashankar Temple boasts spacious courtyards, intricate wall carvings, and imposing pillars.
The sanctum, or Garbhgriha, houses the sacred Jyotirlinga, positioned at a lower level. The Swayambhoo, a self-emanated Shiv Linga, holds a central place in the Sanctum Sanctorum.
Exquisite mythological carvings adorn the massive pillars and doorframes, depicting divine figures and sacred symbols.
Additionally, the temple encompasses an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shani, considered auspicious by devotees, and features the revered Nandi statue at its entrance.

What are Jyotirlingas?

Jyotirlingas are shrines where Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of a Jyotirlingam, representing different manifestations of the deity.
Among the 12 main Jyotirlingas in India, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga is one.
Each of these sacred shrines is named after its presiding deity and holds unique spiritual significance for devotees across the country:
Somnath Jyotirlinga in Gir, Gujarat
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh
Baidyanath Jyotirlinga in Deoghar, Jharkhand
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga in Maharashtra
Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga in Dwarka, Gujarat
Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga in Nasik, Maharashtra
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga in Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand
Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga in Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Siena Galaxy Atlas (SGA) (Space)

19 Oct 2023

AERA Warns Indian Airport Operators Against Charging Unapproved Tariffs (TOI)

13 Oct 2023

Bihar’s Only Ramsar Site 'Kanwar Lake' Drying Up (DownToEarth)

13 Oct 2023

Data Analytics Dashboard” and “Poorvottar Sampark Setu” Portal Launched (PIB)

13 Oct 2023

Modi’s Visit to Gunji Irks Nepal Opposition (Indian Express)

13 Oct 2023

CSIR-CCMB Study to Understand the Genetics Behind Diseases (The Hindu)

13 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

The project — “Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)” — aims to uncover the effects of genomic and environmental diversity on disease risk observed in people across the world, including those in Asia, Africa and North and South America.

About the Project, The Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP):

The Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP) is a pioneering genomics and epigenomics initiative aimed at unravelling the genetic underpinnings of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in diverse populations, including South Asians.
This five-year international project seeks to illuminate the impact of genomic and environmental diversity on disease risk across global populations, spanning Asia, Africa, and North and South America.
Researchers will examine individuals from varied genetic and environmental backgrounds, analyzing DNA methylation patterns to discern their contributions to disease risk within each context.
The study involves the development of software, infrastructure, and advanced statistical analyses to create new resources, integrated with existing international health and genetics databases for assessing trends in DNA methylation variation.
This initiative holds significance as it aims to identify common and region-specific disease-causing mechanisms, addressing questions about the universal effectiveness of medicines and paving the way for targeted interventions to reduce global health disparities.

What is DNA methylation?

DNA methylation is a molecular process involving the attachment of chemical groups to DNA, influencing the activation and deactivation of genes.
This epigenetic modification plays a crucial role in enabling the body to respond to environmental signals, thereby contributing to overall systemic health and disease status.
The intricate interplay between DNA methylation, genetics, and the environment is essential for unravelling the pathways that underlie health and disease, providing insights into their interconnected consequences.

DGCA Implements New Rules for Hang Gliders (Business Standard)

18 Oct 2023

Is Halley’s Comet returning? (India Today)

18 Oct 2023

Microalgae are Adapting to Warming Climate (DownToEarth)

18 Oct 2023

Diphtheria Outbreak in Guinea (WHO)

18 Oct 2023

RISC-V Technology (The Hindu)

18 Oct 2023

Life through geometry in Warli (The Hindu)

29 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

Warli Whisperers, an exhibition by the Inherited Arts Forum, traces the artistic journey of the celebrated Mashe family from Maharashtra.

About the Warli Art:

Origin: Warli art is a tribal form originating from the North Sahyadri region of Maharashtra, with roots dating back to the 10th century AD.
- However, it gained recognition for its unique style in the early 1970s.
Practitioners: Traditionally, Warli art was practiced by Suvasinis, the women of the Warli tribe, who adorned the Lagn Chowk or wedding square with their artistic expressions.
Characteristics: Warli artists draw inspiration from nature, depicting scenes of farming, food gathering, village life, and elements from the natural world.
- These paintings are mainly dominated by basic geometric shapes like circles, triangles and squares.
- These geometric shapes stand as a symbol of natural elements in our environment.
  - For example, the circles represent the sun and moon, the triangles represent the mountains and the squares are considered as the central motifs of the painting.
Techniques and Materials: The paintings showcase triangles, circles, and lines in stark white against a mud brown background, narrating stories of village life, customs, and traditions.
- Modified bamboo sticks serve as paintbrushes, and the colours are derived from nature, such as brown and orange from henna, indigo from dye, red from bricks, and white from thick rice paste.
Warli art serves as a vibrant portrayal of the everyday and social occurrences within the Warli tribe of Maharashtra, serving as a means to adorn the walls of village houses.
Concerns: It was not recognised as an art form even though it was in practice for centuries.

Warli Tribe

The Warli tribe, categorized as indigenous Adivasis, inhabit both the mountainous and coastal regions near the Maharashtra-Gujarat border.
Their communication is conducted through an unwritten Varli language, classified within the southern zone of Indo-Aryan languages.

SC Collegium recommends names for Chief Justices of five High Courts (The Hindu)

29 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Supreme Court Collegium headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud has recommended the appointment of Chief Justices to five High Courts.

What is the Collegium System?

It is a system under which appointments and transfers of judges are done in the Supreme Court and High Courts.
- It is not rooted in the Constitution, iInstead, it has evolved through judgments of the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court Collegium, headed by the Chief Justice of India, consists of the court's four other most senior judges.
Similarly, the High Court Collegium is chaired by its Chief Justice, along with the four other most senior judges of that specific high court.

Appointment of Judges: Constitutional Framework

Constitutional Provision: Under Article 217, the President holds the authority to appoint judges of a high court.
- The appointment of the Chief Justice involves consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the respective state's governor.
- Similarly, consultation with the Chief Justice of the concerned high court is essential for appointing other judges.
- In cases where a high court serves multiple states, the President consults with the governors of all relevant states.
No Minimum Age Requirement: The Constitution does not specify a minimum age for the appointment of high court judges.
Qualifications of Judges: To qualify for a high court judge, an individual must:
- Be a citizen of India.
- Have held a judicial office within India's territory for ten years; or
- Have been an advocate of a high court (or successive high courts) for ten years.

Supreme Court Judgements:

Second Judges Case (1993): The Supreme Court decreed that the appointment of a high court judge must align with the Chief Justice of India's opinion.
Third Judges Case (1998): The Supreme Court emphasized that for the appointment of high court judges, the Chief Justice of India should consult a collegium comprising the two most senior judges of the Supreme Court.
- The consultation process involves more than the Chief Justice of India's individual opinion.

Is Pegasus spyware targeting journalists in India? (The Hindu)

29 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

Amnesty International and Washington Post recently announced that it has found the presence of Pegasus spyware, sold only to governments, on two Indian journalists’ phones.

What is Pegasus Spyware, and How Does it Infiltrate Devices?

Pegasus is a sophisticated form of malware, covertly designed to gather information without the user's knowledge.
Developer: Developed by the Israeli security firm NSO Group.
Objectives: Pegasus serves three primary purposes:
- Collecting historical data on a device discreetly.
- Continuously monitoring user activities and gathering personal information.
- Transmitting the collected data to third parties.

Infiltration Mechanisms:

Pegasus utilizes "zero-click exploits," exploiting vulnerabilities in popular apps like iMessage and WhatsApp.
- Notably, zero-click exploits require no user interaction, differentiating them from typical cyberattacks.
Network injection attacks are another method employed by Pegasus, where unsecured websites are used to infiltrate devices within milliseconds of the user's visit.

What is a Zero-click exploit?

A zero-click exploit involves the installation of malicious software on a device without the device owner's consent.
- Notably, it does not require any action from the device owner to initiate or complete the installation.

Specific Exploit in the Recent Case with Indian Journalists:

The particular exploit reportedly used in the incidents is known as BLASTPAST (previously identified as BLASTPASS), unfolding in two phases.
Initial Phase: The attack aims to establish a connection with Apple HomeKit, a platform enabling users to control various smart devices on their network.
- The primary objective of this phase might be to assess how the device could be vulnerable to exploitation or to maintain visibility for potential future attacks.
Second Phase: Malicious content is sent through the iMessage app to the target device.
- This stage is pivotal as it delivers the complete spyware payload, enabling extensive surveillance and data collection.

Govt issues PMLA notice to Binance, 8 other offshore crypto firms, asks IT Min to block URLs (Indian Express)

29 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

India's Financial Intelligence Unit has issued show cause notices to nine offshore crypto-currency operators, including Binance, for not complying with the anti-money laundering PML Act.

About the Financial Intelligence Unit India:

Financial Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-IND) was set by the Government of India in November 2004 as the central national agency responsible for receiving, processing, analyzing and disseminating information relating to suspect financial transactions.
FIU-IND is also responsible for coordinating and strengthening efforts of national and international intelligence, investigation and enforcement agencies in pursuing the global efforts against money laundering and financing of terrorism.
It is an independent body reporting directly to the Economic Intelligence Council (EIC) headed by the Finance Minister.

Key Functions of FIU-IND:

Information Collection: Act as the central hub for receiving various reports, including Cash Transaction Reports (CTRs), Non-Profit Organisation Transaction Reports (NTRs), Cross Border Wire Transfer Reports (CBWTRs), Reports on the Purchase or Sale of Immovable Property (IPRs), and Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) from diverse reporting entities.
Information Analysis: Analyze the received information to unveil transaction patterns indicative of potential money laundering and associated criminal activities.
Information Sharing: Collaborate by sharing intelligence with national intelligence/law enforcement agencies, national regulatory authorities, and foreign Financial Intelligence Units, fostering a collective effort against financial crimes.
Central Repository: Establish and maintain a national database by consolidating reports received from reporting entities.
Coordination: Strengthen the collection and sharing of financial intelligence through efficient national, regional, and global networks to combat money laundering and related crimes.
Research and Analysis: Conduct ongoing monitoring and identification of strategic areas related to money laundering trends, typologies, and developments.

What are Virtual Digital Assets?

As per the Income Tax Act, a 'virtual digital asset' is described as any information, code, number, or token (excluding Indian currency or foreign currency) generated through cryptographic means and blockchain technologies.
These assets can be electronically transferred, stored, or traded.
The definition explicitly covers non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or tokens of a similar nature, regardless of nomenclature.

Forest Department Relies on Muthuvan Tribe's Indigenous Knowledge for Nilgiri Tahr Conservation (The Hindu)

17 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

Members of the Muthuvan tribe of the Anamalai hills, who are known for coexisting with the wildlife with their traditional knowledge, have joined hands with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department for a unique task.

About the Muthuvan Tribe:

Inhabiting the border hill forests of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the Muthuvan tribe is distributed across this region.
The tribe communicates in distinct dialects, identifying themselves as Malayalam Muthuvan and Pandi Muthuvan.
Cultural Beliefs: Embracing animism and spirit worship, the Muthuvan tribe venerates forest gods and attributes the spirits of their ancestors as the initial settlers in the hill forests.
Renowned for their harmonious coexistence with wildlife, the Muthuvan people leverage traditional knowledge to navigate their relationship with the natural environment.
Unique Governance System - 'Kani System': Operating under the 'Kani System,' each village is overseen by a 'Kani' responsible for village administration, reflecting their distinctive form of governance.
Traditional Medicine Expertise: Proficient in traditional medicines, the Muthuvan tribe safeguards their effective remedies, preserving and passing down this knowledge across generations.
Occupation: Agriculture serves as the primary occupation for Muthuvan tribes, yielding various products such as ragi, cardamom, and lemongrass.

About Project Tahr:

Project Tahr aims to enhance comprehension of the Nilgiri Tahr population through surveys and radio telemetry studies.
The initiative focuses on reintroducing Tahrs to their historical habitat, fostering their return to natural landscapes.
Addressing immediate threats, the project employs strategic measures to mitigate challenges facing the Nilgiri Tahr.
A key component involves intensifying public awareness efforts to garner support and understanding for the conservation of this species.
Project Tahr is slated for a comprehensive 5-year implementation, spanning from 2022 to 2027.

INS Sumedha Visits Nigeria as part of its deployment to the Gulf of Guinea (PIB)

17 Oct 2023

BCCC Cautions Entertainment Channels on Depicting SCs, STs. (Business Standard)

17 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

The Broadcasting Content Complaint Council (BCCC) on Tuesday asked entertainment channels to exercise "extreme caution" while portraying the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in television programmes to avoid hurting the sentiments of the members of the two communities.

About the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC):

The Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF) established the BCCC in June 2011 as an independent self-regulatory body.
Regulatory Role: The primary function of the BCCC is to enforce self-regulatory guidelines for non-news channels, covering general entertainment, kids, and special interest channels.
Formulation of Guidelines: Guidelines address crucial areas, including national interest, racial and religious harmony, treatment of children, social values, explicit content (sex and nudity), violence, crime, gambling, drugs, smoking, tobacco, alcohol, defamation, harm, and offence.
Complaint Lodging Process: Any viewer can file a complaint regarding television programs, non-news channels, and digital content of IBDF India members.
Composition of BCCC:
The council comprises 13 members, including a chairperson, four non-broadcast members, four representatives from national-level statutory commissions, and four members from the broadcast industry.
Functioning Mechanism: Upon receiving a valid complaint, the concerned channel is required to present its viewpoint on the contested content within one working week.
If the BCCC committee finds the channel's response unsatisfactory, it holds the authority to issue directives, mandating modifications or withdrawal of the content.
Reporting to Authorities: In case of non-compliance with directives, the BCCC promptly submits a detailed report to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting within 24 hours.

Key Details about the Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF):

Founded in 1999, the Indian Broadcasting Foundation initially served as the apex body for broadcasters.
Recently rebranded as the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF) to encompass digital platforms, consolidating oversight over all digital over-the-top streaming firms.
Representative Role: Recognized as the official spokesperson for the Indian broadcasting industry, IBDF plays a crucial role in articulating industry perspectives.
IBDF's membership includes a diverse range of channels, covering both news and non-news categories such as General Entertainment Channels (GEC), sports, music, movies, and infotainment.
Actively involved in providing research-based legislative inputs to the government, IBDF engages in advocacy efforts on various fronts, including fiscal, regulatory, and business issues.
The organization plays a pivotal role in facilitating the formulation of favourable policies, addressing industry challenges, and advocating for essential changes in the overall system.

New Plant Species Curcuma kakchingense Discovered in Manipur (HT)

17 Oct 2023

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In a remarkable botanical discovery, a team of researchers from the Department of Life Sciences at Manipur University and Kwaklei and Khonggunmelei Orchids Pvt. Ltd. has unveiled a hitherto unknown plant species named "Curcuma kakchingense."

About Curcuma Kakchingense:

Recently identified flowering plant species in Manipur, belong to the Zingiberaceae family.
Member of the angiospermic family Zingiberaceae, which includes well-known plants like turmeric, gingers, and cardamom.
Plant Characteristics: Robust plant reaching a height of eight feet, characterized by large terminal inflorescence.
Natural Habitat: Thrives along the banks of the Sekmai River in the Kakching District of Manipur.
Resemblance to Other Species: Bears a striking resemblance to local "Yaingung" (Curcuma longa) and Curcuma phrayawan from Thailand.
Distinguished by lemon-yellow rhizomes with a notably bitter taste.
IUCN Red List Classification: Classified as "Data Deficient" (DD) under the IUCN Red List category.

Importance of Curcuma Plants:

Culinary and Traditional Uses: Various Curcuma species, including turmeric (Curcuma longa), play a vital role in cuisines, traditional medicines, spices, and dyes.
Biological Activities: Curcumin and curcuminoids found in Curcuma species are nontoxic polyphenolic compounds with diverse biological activities.
Pharmacological Properties: Essential oil of Curcuma species possesses pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-diabetic, and anti-microbial effects.
Versatile Applications: Widely utilized in cosmetics, perfumes, and as ornamental plants, contributing to various industries and daily life.

New Artificial Intelligence System BTSbot Discovers Supernova (India Today)

17 Oct 2023

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An international team led by Northwestern University has successfully created an artificial intelligence (AI) tool Bright Transient Survey Bot (BTSbot) that can detect, identify, and classify supernovae.

What is the Bright Transient Survey Bot (BTSbot)?

The Bright Transient Survey Bot operates as a machine-learning algorithm, undergoing training with a vast dataset comprising over 1.4 million images from nearly 16,000 sources.
Utilizing data from the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF), it successfully identified the recently discovered supernova named SN2023tyk.
Functionality: The algorithm seamlessly automates the process of seeking potential supernovae across the night sky.
In the case of SN2023tyk, it autonomously requested the supernova's spectrum from the Palomar Observatory.
Subsequently, the Spectral Energy Distribution Machine (SEDM), another robotic telescope, performed comprehensive observations to obtain the source's spectrum.
Advantages: This innovative system not only streamlines the entire workflow of searching, detecting, confirming, classifying, and announcing new supernovae but also eradicates human error, significantly enhancing the speed of the process.
The Bright Transient Survey Bot showcases the potential of automated technology in advancing astronomical discoveries.

What is artificial intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the interdisciplinary field of computer science dedicated to developing algorithms and computational models that emulate human cognitive processes.
Rooted in machine learning and advanced data analytics, AI aims to create systems capable of reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
AI involves the study and design of intelligent agents, encompassing areas like natural language processing, computer vision, and expert systems.
It seeks to enhance machines' ability to learn from experience, adapt to new information, and perform tasks that traditionally necessitate human intelligence, fostering innovation across diverse domains, including healthcare, finance, and robotics.

Chennai's Pallikaranai Wetlands Welcoming Migratory Bird Flocks (The Hindu)

16 Oct 2023

INS Beas to Be Upgraded (PIB)

16 Oct 2023

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The Ministry of Defence signed a contract on October 16, 2023, in New Delhi for the life Upgrade and Re-Powering of "INS Beas" with Kochi-based M/S Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) at an overall cost of Rs. 313.42 Cr.

Context:

The INS Beas is gaining attention as the first Brahmaputra Class Frigate to undergo a transition from steam to diesel propulsion.
The completion of its Mid-Life Upgrade and Re-Powering in 2026 is expected to result in the INS Beas joining the active fleet of the Indian Navy, equipped with a modernized weapon suite and upgraded combat capabilities.

About INS Beas:

INS Beas (F37) stands as a Brahmaputra-class frigate within the Indian Navy, constructed at the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata.
Commissioned on July 11, 2005, it is the second ship in the Indian Navy to carry this name, with the first being a Leopard-class frigate commissioned in 1960 and decommissioned in 1992.
Role: Functioning as a versatile warship, INS Beas is proficient in various missions, encompassing anti-aircraft, anti-submarine, and anti-ship warfare.
Additionally, it plays a crucial role in patrolling, surveillance, and safeguarding India's maritime interests.
Features: The ship's design and construction are wholly Indian, derived from the modification of the Godavari-class frigate.
With a displacement of about 3,850 tonnes, INS Beas boasts a length of 126 meters (413 feet) and a beam width of 14.5 meters (48 feet).
Propulsion: Powered by 2 steam turbines, INS Beas demonstrates remarkable agility, capable of reaching speeds exceeding 30 knots during naval operations.
Technology: Equipped with modern sensor suites and matching weapon systems, the ship embodies cutting-edge technology to enhance its operational capabilities.

Amazon River Hits Lowest Levels in a Century Amid Drought in Brazil (Business Standard)

16 Oct 2023

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The Amazon River fell to its lowest level in over a century on Monday at the heart of the Brazilian rainforest as a record drought upended the lives of hundreds of thousands of people and damaged the jungle ecosystem.

About the Amazon River:

The Amazon River holds the distinction of being the world's largest river in terms of both water volume and width.
Length and Course: Spanning an impressive 6,400 kilometres, it is the second-longest river globally, surpassed only by the Nile.
Originating high in the Andes Mountains, the river courses its way eastward through vast rainforests and lowlands before reaching its culmination at the northeastern coast of Brazil, where it empties into the Atlantic Ocean.
Dynamic Width: During the dry season, the Amazon River exhibits a width ranging from 4 to 5 kilometres, expanding significantly to 50 kilometres in certain areas during the wet season.
Unparalleled Drainage Area: The Amazon boasts the largest drainage area globally, with its watershed spanning across Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, and Bolivia.
Approximately two-thirds of the Amazon's mainstream and the majority of its basin lie within the borders of Brazil.
Water Discharge and Global Impact: With a staggering water discharge of 300,000 cubic meters per second into the Atlantic Ocean, the Amazon contributes one-fifth of the total freshwater volume entering the world's oceans.
This immense water flow plays a pivotal role in regulating global oxygen and carbon cycles.
Extensive Tributaries: Featuring over 1,100 tributaries, including seventeen exceeding 1,500 kilometres in length, notable contributors include the Rio Negro, the Madeira River, and the Xingu River.
Environmental Significance: The Amazon Rainforest, constituting approximately half of the Earth's remaining rainforest, stands as the largest repository of biological resources.
Often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," the Amazon plays a crucial role in maintaining the planet's oxygen and carbon balance.

US Says Egypt Border Crossing to Gaza to Reopen (Business Today)

16 Oct 2023

Hailstorms Damage Apple Orchards in Kulgam, Shopian (HT)

16 Oct 2023

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A hailstorm in the evening caused massive damage to the crops and fruits in south Kashmir’s Kulgam and Shopian districts. Residents said the hailstorm damaged the apple fruit which was ready for harvesting.

What are Hailstorms?

Hail, a solid form of rain composed of ice balls or lumps, leads to the formation of hailstorms when they descend to the ground.
Typically lasting around 15 minutes, these storms can inflict injuries and damage to structures, vehicles, and more, particularly prevalent in midlatitude regions.
Hailstorms occasionally coincide with other severe weather phenomena such as cyclones and tornadoes.
The size of hailstones varies widely, ranging from small pellets under 1/4 inch to larger stones measuring several inches in diameter.
Conditions: Conditions conducive to hailstorm occurrence involve the presence of highly developed Cumulonimbus clouds, massive anvil-shaped formations observed during thunderstorms that can reach heights of up to 65,000 feet.
Strong updrafts, or ascending air currents within these clouds, and high concentrations of supercooled liquid water are essential elements.
Formation of Hail: Hail formation begins with a water droplet lifted by an updraft inside a thundercloud.
As it ascends, supercooled water droplets adhere to its surface, creating layers of ice.
With continued ascent, the hail embryo grows by accumulating more supercooled particles until gravity pulls it down.
Large hailstones often display alternating layers of clear and opaque ice due to irregular rates of freezing during their development.

Vice President Interacted With Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) President During P20 Summit (PTI)

14 Oct 2023

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Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar recently hosted a lunch for heads of parliamentary delegations attending the G20 Parliamentary Speakers' Summit (P20) and also interacted with Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) President Duarte Pacheco.

About the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU):

Established in 1889 in Paris, the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is the international organization of Parliaments, dedicated to promoting representative democracy and world peace.
It serves as the first multilateral political organization globally, fostering cooperation and dialogue among all nations.
Mission and Slogan: The IPU's mission revolves around parliamentary diplomacy, empowering parliaments, and parliamentarians to advance peace, democracy, and sustainable development worldwide.
Its slogan, "For democracy. For everyone," encapsulates its commitment to democratic values.
Membership and Promotion of Democracy: Currently comprising 179 member parliaments and 13 associate members, the IPU actively promotes democracy by strengthening parliaments, and fostering youth inclusion, gender balance, and diversity.
A dedicated committee defends the human rights of parliamentarians globally.
Headquarters and Funding: The IPU relocated its headquarters to Geneva in 1921.
Financed primarily by its members using public funds, the organization sustains its operations and initiatives.

Organizational Structure:

IPU Assembly: Principal statutory body expressing IPU views on political issues.
Gathers parliamentarians to study international problems and make actionable recommendations.
Governing Council: Plenary policymaking body composed of three representatives from each member parliament.
Establishes the IPU's annual program, and budget, and considers substantive issues.
Executive Committees: A 17-member body overseeing IPU administration and advising the Governing Council.
Fifteen members elected by the Council for a four-year term.
Standing Committees: Three committees set up by the Governing Council to assist the Assembly in its work.
Meeting of Women Parliamentarians: A separate organ meeting during the first round of Statutory Meetings, reporting to the Governing Council.
Attended by parliamentarians of both sexes, focusing on specific substantive items for debate within the Assembly's competence.

India, Sri Lanka Launch Ferry Service Across Palk Strait (The Hindu)

14 Oct 2023

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An international, high-speed passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam on the eastern coast of Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in the northern province of Sri Lanka, has resumed as of Saturday, October 14, 2023, after a gap of nearly four decades.

About the Palk Strait:

Palk Strait, situated between the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and the island nation of Sri Lanka, derives its name from Robert Palk, the governor of Madras Presidency (1755-1763) during the British Raj.
Bounded by Pamban Island (India), Adam's (Rama's) Bridge, the Gulf of Mannar, and Mannar Island (Sri Lanka) to the south, the strait serves as a crucial link connecting the Bay of Bengal in the northeast with the Gulf of Mannar in the southwest.
The southwestern segment of the strait is referred to as Palk Bay.
Spanning 40 to 85 miles (64 to 137 km) in width, 85 miles in length, and with a depth of less than 330 feet (100 meters), it features the inflow of several rivers, including Tamil Nadu's Vaigai River.
The port of Jaffna, serving as the commercial hub for northern Sri Lanka, is situated along this significant waterway.

Facts About Adam's Bridge:

Adam's Bridge, also recognized as Rama's Bridge or Rama Setu, constitutes a series of limestone shoals situated between Pamban Island (Rameswaram Island) off the south-eastern coast of Tamil Nadu, India, and Mannar Island off the north-western coast of Sri Lanka.
Geological evidence supports the idea that this bridge once formed a land connection between India and Sri Lanka.
Extending over 50 km, it delineates the separation between the Gulf of Mannar to the southwest and the Palk Strait to the northeast.
Featuring dry sandbanks and shallow waters ranging from 1 to 10 meters in depth, hindering navigation, scientists posit that Ram Setu is a natural formation resulting from tectonic movements and the entrapment of sand in corals.
Significantly, this structure holds cultural significance in Hindu and Muslim mythology.
Hindus believe it to be the bridge constructed by Lord Ram and his army for their journey to Lanka to confront Ravan.
According to Islamic legend, Adam traversed this bridge to reach Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka, where he purportedly stood on one foot in repentance for 1,000 years.

Manipur to Conduct Census of Amur Ffalcon (The New Indian Express)

14 Oct 2023

Egypt is Racing to Eliminate Hepatitis C (The Hindu)

14 Oct 2023

Centre Notifies Green Credit Programme and Ecomark Scheme (DownToEarth)

14 Oct 2023

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The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change on October 13, 2023, notified the ‘green credit’ programme, a first-of-a-kind market-based instrument designed to incentivise individuals, industries and local bodies for their voluntary environmental actions across diverse sectors.

About Green Credit Programme (GCP):

Green Credit Program (GCP ) is an innovative market-based mechanism designed to incentivize voluntary environmental actions across diverse sectors, by various stakeholders like individuals, communities, private sector industries, and companies.
The GCP's governance framework is supported by an inter-ministerial Steering Committee and The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) serves as the GCP Administrator, responsible for program implementation, management, monitoring, and operation.
In its initial phase, the GCP focuses on two key activities: water conservation and afforestation.
A user-friendly digital platform will streamline the processes for registration of projects, verification, and issuance of Green Credits.
The Green Credit Registry and trading platform, being developed by ICFRE along with experts, would facilitate the registration and thereafter, the buying and selling of Green Credits.
To obtain Green Credits, individuals and entities must register their activities through the central government's dedicated app/website www.moefcc-gcp.in.
The Administrator will verify the activity through a designated agency, with self-verification for small projects.
Once verification is complete, the Administrator will grant a Green Credit certificate which will be tradable on the Green Credit platform.

What is the Ecomark Scheme?

The Ecomark Scheme provides accreditation and labelling for household and consumer products that meet specific environmental criteria while maintaining quality standards as per Indian norms.
Products accredited under the Ecomark Scheme will adhere to specific environmental criteria, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
It will build consumer awareness of environmental issues and encourage eco-conscious choices.
It will also motivate manufacturers to shift towards environmentally friendly production. The scheme seeks to ensure accurate labelling and prevent misleading information about products.
The Central Pollution Control Board administers the Ecomark Scheme in partnership with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which is the national body for standards and certification.

Both initiatives mark significant steps in promoting sustainable living, and environmental conservation, and, through individual and collective choice, embody eco-friendly practices in India. They align with global sustainability goals and reflect the government's commitment to conservation and protection of the environment.

A New Discovery: Unveiling an Underwater Mountain Range in the Southern Ocean (India Today)

28 Dec 2023

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Scientists have discovered an ancient underwater mountain range hidden within the world's strongest ocean current, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.

Context:

During a recent research expedition, scientists discovered a previously unknown mountain range deep beneath the Southern Ocean’s surface.
Using state-of-the-art sonar technology, researchers were able to map out the underwater landscape with astonishing accuracy, revealing a vast range of peaks, ridges, and valleys.
- This newfound mountain range spans hundreds of miles and is estimated to be millions of years old.
Geological Significance: This discovery holds immense importance for our understanding of the Earth’s geological history.
- The underwater mountain range provides key evidence of plate tectonics and the movement of Earth’s crust, as well as the formation of new landmasses.
- By studying the composition and structure of these underwater formations, scientists will be able to gain insights into the geological processes that have shaped our planet over millions of years.
Moreover, the discovery raises intriguing questions about the relationship between underwater mountains and the surface landscapes they may be connected to.
- Researchers are eager to investigate whether similar mountain ranges exist on land and whether they share a common origin.
Implications for Climate and Ecosystems: The newfound underwater mountain range also has significant implications for climate and marine ecosystems.
- These underwater peaks can act as barriers, influencing ocean currents and affecting nutrient distribution.
- Understanding the impact of these formations on ocean dynamics is crucial for predicting climate patterns and better managing marine resources.
Additionally, these underwater mountains create a unique habitat for a diverse range of marine species.
The ridges and valleys provide sheltered zones where marine life can thrive, with the potential for new species discoveries.
Protecting these habitats will be critical in preserving the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

About the Southern Ocean:

The Southern Ocean, also referred to as the Antarctic Ocean is one of the Earth's five major ocean basins.
Its formation traces back approximately 34 million years when Antarctica and South America underwent a gradual separation, resulting in the creation of the Drake Passage.
- This passage, situated between the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula and South America, delineates the Southern Ocean from the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, encompassing their tributary seas surrounding Antarctica below the 60° S latitude.
Physiography: The ocean floor structure features a continental shelf, typically less than 160 miles (about 260 km) wide, expanding to a maximum width exceeding 1,600 miles (2,600 km) near the Weddell and Ross seas.
- Renowned for its robust winds, intense storms, marked seasonal variations, and frigid temperatures, the Southern Ocean is predominantly influenced by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC).
- This current, the longest, strongest, and deepest-reaching on Earth, follows a clockwise circulation around the continent, surpassing all others in the volume of water it transports globally.
Biodiversity: The Southern Ocean sustains diverse flora and fauna, with a majority of marine life relying on the nutrient-rich phytoplankton found in the Antarctic Convergence.
- Notable species include whales, penguins, orcas, and seals, contributing to the region's rich biodiversity.

A new non-invasive formaldehyde sensor can detect adulterated fish at room temperature (DST GOI)

28 Dec 2023

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A new low-cost sensor made of metal oxide nanoparticles-reduced graphene oxide composite can detect formalin adulteration in fishes at room temperature in a non-invasive way. The sensor shows long-term stability with a low detection limit.

Context:

A sensor designed for the detection of formalin in fish has been developed by the Nanomaterials and Nanoelectronics Laboratory at Guwahati University, Assam.
The formalin sensor utilizes a composite of tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide, synthesized through a process involving the wet chemical approach for Graphene Oxide (GO) and the hydrothermal route followed by calcination for the tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide composite (rGO-SnO2).
Testing of the sensor has been conducted both at the laboratory scale and on fish procured from the fish markets in the Guwahati region, specifically targeting potential adulteration.
This groundbreaking research has received support from DST-PURSE (Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence) and has been documented in the journal ACS Appl. Nano Mater.
Research Support: The research behind this innovative sensor is backed by DST-PURSE (Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence).

About Non-Invasive Formaldehyde Sensor:

This non-invasive formaldehyde sensor incorporates a composite of tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide (rGO-SnO2) as its key materials.
- While reduced graphene oxide (rGO) has been widely utilized for detecting various toxic gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), tin oxide (SnO2) has demonstrated notable efficacy in formaldehyde detection, both in its pristine form and when combined with different compounds, including graphene.
- This combination is favoured for its heightened stability and sensitivity to low concentrations of formaldehyde.
Synthesis Process: The fabrication process involves a wet chemical approach for the production of graphene oxide (GO), followed by the hydrothermal route and subsequent calcination to synthesize the tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide composite (rGO-SnO2).
Comparison with Existing Sensors: Unlike commercial formalin sensors for fish, which are primarily electrochemical-based or colorimetric-based and often invasive, this novel sensor, made from metal oxide nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide, offers a cost-effective and non-invasive method for detecting formalin adulteration in fishes at room temperature.
Challenges with Existing Sensors: Traditional electrochemical sensors, though widely used, tend to be expensive, and colourimetric sensors, while more cost-effective, share the invasive nature of their electrochemical counterparts. Both face challenges related to low-level and selective detection.
Significance of the New Sensor: The development of gas sensors based on 2D materials, such as graphene, opens up new possibilities for the effective detection of toxic vapours at room temperature.
- These sensors hold promise for accurately detecting formalin emanating from adulterated food products.

What is Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde (CH?O) is an odorless, colorless gas with high toxicity and flammability under standard room temperature conditions.
Primary Applications:
- Production of fertilizers, paper, plywood, and certain resins.
- Utilized as a food preservative.
- Found in glues, resins, dyes, textiles, disinfectants, building materials, automotive components, embalming processes, and laboratory settings.
- Incorporated into household items like antiseptics, medications, and cosmetics.
Potential Health Effects:
- Exposure to formaldehyde may result in irritation of the skin, throat, lungs, and eyes. Additionally, formaldehyde is recognized as a carcinogenic substance.

For Huntington’s disease clues, scientists are looking in fruit flies (The Hindu)

28 Dec 2023

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Scientists at the University of Szeged in Hungary have made significant progress in advancing our understanding of Huntington's disease through the study of fruit flies.

What is Huntington’s Disease?

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a brain disorder that is passed down in families from generation to generation.
It is caused by an error in the DNA instructions that build our body and keep it running.
- DNA is made up of thousands of genes, and people with HD have a small defect in a gene called huntingtin.
- Over time, this error causes damage to the brain and causes symptoms of Huntington’s disease.
Huntington’s disease causes a person’s physical, mental and emotional abilities to deteriorate, usually during their prime at work, and there is currently no cure.
Most people start developing symptoms in adulthood, between the ages of 30 and 50, but HD can also occur in children and young adults.
Huntington’s disease is known as a family disease because each child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the defective gene.

Huntington’s Disease Symptoms:

Symptoms of Huntington’s disease can vary greatly from person to person but typically include:
- Personality changes, mood swings and depression
- Forgetfulness and impaired judgment
- Unsteady gait and involuntary movements (chorea)
- Slurred speech, difficulty swallowing and significant weight loss.
Symptoms typically worsen over the course of 10 to 25 years, affecting the ability to reason, walk, and speak.
The person with HD or their friends and family may notice difficulty planning, remembering, and concentrating on the task.
They can develop mood swings such as depression, anxiety, irritability, and anger.
Most people with Huntington’s disease become “fidgety” and develop facial and limb movements known as chorea, which they cannot control.

The symptoms of Huntington’s disease are sometimes described as ALS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s all at the same time.

Huntington’s Disease Treatment:

No treatment can stop or reverse the progression of Huntington’s disease.
Antipsychotic medications can relieve chorea and help control hallucinations, delusions, and violent outbursts.
Huntington’s disease causes disability that gets worse over time.

How the PM JANMAN scheme can help Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (Indian Express)

28 Dec 2023

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Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN), aimed at providing PVTG households and habitations with basic facilities such as safe housing, clean drinking water and sanitation, improved access to education, health and nutrition, road and telecom connectivity, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

What is the PM-JANMAN Scheme?

PM-JANMAN is a government initiative aimed at integrating tribal communities into the mainstream of development.
The scheme, comprising both Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes, will be executed collaboratively by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, State governments, and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) communities.

Key Features:

Implementation Scope: The scheme focuses on 11 critical interventions managed by 9 line Ministries, ensuring the effective execution of existing schemes within villages inhabited by PVTGs.
Sectoral Coverage: PM-JANMAN spans various sectors, encompassing initiatives such as ensuring safe housing through the PM-AWAS Scheme, access to clean drinking water, improved healthcare, education, nutrition, road and telecommunications connectivity, and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods.
Special Initiatives: The plan includes specific initiatives such as the establishment of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras to facilitate the trade of forest produce, deployment of off-grid solar power systems for 1 lakh households, and installation of solar street lights.
Objectives: PM-JANMAN aims to enhance the quality of life and overall well-being of PVTGs by addressing the various forms of discrimination and exclusion they face.
- Additionally, it recognizes and values the unique and significant contributions of PVTGs to both national and global development.

How Does PM-JANMAN Differ?

Distinctive Identification and Recognition: Criticism has arisen over outdated criteria for identifying Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
- The presence of repetitive names and discrepancies in recognition across states has led to confusion and exclusion.
- Addressing these concerns, PM-JANMAN introduces a Human Development Index for PVTGs, aiming to enhance proper identification and tailored development planning based on updated and comprehensive data.
Participatory Bottom-Up Approach: In a departure from the 'one-size-fits-all' approach, PM-JANMAN adopts customised strategies that respect the unique needs and priorities of PVTGs.
- Emphasizing a participatory bottom-up approach, the scheme actively involves PVTGs in decision-making processes, particularly regarding land rights, social inclusion, and cultural preservation.
Livelihood Promotion: PM-JANMAN focuses on sustainable livelihoods for PVTGs by providing skills training, essential resources such as land and credit, and implementing the Forest Rights Act (FRA) to secure land titles, particularly under Section 3(1)(e) for primitive tribal groups and pre-agricultural communities.
- The scheme encourages the preservation of cultural heritage through the promotion of traditional technologies and skill enhancement via industry partnerships.
Health, Nutrition, and Education: To address the unique challenges faced by PVTGs, PM-JANMAN incorporates Mobile Medical Health Units for healthcare outreach in remote areas.
- The scheme also emphasizes cultural sensitivity in education by integrating PVTG culture and language into the curriculum, providing transportation, and training teachers about PVTG cultural contexts.
Infrastructure Development: Recognizing that PVTG habitations may not meet standard criteria for existing schemes, PM-JANMAN relaxes guidelines for infrastructure schemes like Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and Jal Jeevan Mission.
- This ensures improved access to housing, water, sanitation, electricity, and connectivity for PVTGs.

What are Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)?

PVTGs represent the most vulnerable segments within tribal communities, facing heightened challenges in various aspects of development.
- Due to their distinct vulnerabilities, more developed and assertive tribal groups often receive a significant portion of tribal development funds, necessitating a focused allocation of resources for the advancement of PVTGs.
The designation of PVTGs dates back to 1975 when, based on the recommendations of the Dhebar Commission, the Government of India identified 52 tribal groups with unique vulnerabilities.
Presently, there are 75 PVTGs among the 705 Scheduled Tribes in India.
Geographically, PVTGs are distributed across 18 states and one Union Territory, as per the 2011 census, with Odisha having the highest number, exceeding 2.5 lakh individuals.
Distinctive Characteristics of PVTGs:
- Stagnant or declining trends.
- Primarily pre-agricultural practices.
- Exceptionally low educational attainment.
- Predominantly subsistence level, indicating a reliance on basic, self-sustaining economic activities.

How Japan’s moon-landing attempt in January will affect Chandrayaan 4 (The Hindu)

28 Dec 2023

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Recently, the “Moon Sniper” lander developed by Japan’s space agency successfully entered lunar orbit.

About the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) Mission:

The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) is a spacecraft crafted and launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on September 7, 2023, from the Tanegashima spaceport.
Remarkably lightweight at 590 kg, SLIM embarked on its mission alongside XRISM, a cutting-edge X-ray space telescope, on an H-2A rocket.
Upon launch, SLIM assumed an elliptical orbit around the moon within a span of approximately three minutes.
Notably, the apogee (farthest point) of this orbit extends to 4,000 km, while the perigee (closest point) hovers at 600 km above the lunar surface.

Objectives of SLIM on the Lunar Surface:

Before its lunar descent, SLIM is programmed to release two compact rovers known as Lunar Excursion Vehicle (LEV) 1 and 2.
Working in tandem with SLIM, LEV-1, and LEV-2 are tasked with conducting a comprehensive study of the lunar surface near the designated landing area.
Their mission encompasses the collection of temperature and radiation readings, as well as endeavours to investigate the moon's mantle.
This collaborative effort by SLIM and its rovers aims to enhance our understanding of lunar conditions and contribute valuable insights to lunar exploration.

What is the XRISM Mission:

The X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) is a collaborative effort between the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), with valuable contributions from the European Space Agency (ESA).
Mission Objective: XRISM is designed to observe X-rays emanating from deep space, aiming to precisely identify their wavelengths with an unprecedented level of accuracy.
- The mission employs cutting-edge spectroscopy techniques to measure changes in the brightness of celestial objects across various wavelengths.
Technological Advancements: Leveraging state-of-the-art spectroscopy, XRISM can detect X-rays within a broad energy spectrum ranging from 400 to 12,000 electron volts.
To provide a perspective, the energy of visible light typically falls within the 2 to 3 electron volts range.
This expanded energy range enables astrophysicists to gain novel insights into some of the universe's most dynamic regions, vast structures, and entities characterized by formidable gravitational forces.

India, Russia ink pacts on the construction of future power units of the Kudankulam nuclear plant (The Hindu)

27 Dec 2023

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In a major boost to their time-tested partnership, India and Russia recently signed some "very important" agreements related to the construction of the future power-generating units of the Kudankulam nuclear power plant.

About the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project:

The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project is India's largest nuclear power plant situated in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
It is being developed by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) in collaboration with Russia's Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation.
- The construction began in March 2002.
Since February 2016, the first power unit of the Kudankulam NPP has been steadily operating at its design capacity of 1,000 MW.
- The plant is expected to start operating at full capacity in 2027.
Water-Water Energy Reactor: The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project employs VVER (Water-Water Energy Reactor) technology, a pressurized water reactor design developed in the former Soviet Union, known for its safety and reliability.
Power Generation Capacity: The current power generation capacity is 2×1,000 MWe VVER, expected to significantly increase with the construction of four additional reactors, estimated at ?89,470 crore.
All units are subject to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safety analysis, except the Kalpakkam nuclear plant, reserved for strategic use under the India-US Nuclear Agreement.

What is the 3-Stage Nuclear Programme of India?

India's nuclear program is structured into three stages, strategically designed to harness the extensive Thorium deposits within the country, constituting approximately 25% of the world's total reserves.
This focus on Thorium is crucial as India possesses limited Uranium reserves, accounting for about 2% of the global uranium reserves.
1st Stage: The initial stage employs Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors that operate on natural uranium, consisting of 99.3% U-238 and 0.7% U-235.
- The fissile U-235 triggers a chain reaction, while the non-fissile U-238 transforms into Pu-239 as a byproduct (spent fuel).
- This Pu-239 is subsequently utilized in the Fast Breeder Reactors in the 2nd stage.
2nd Stage: Fast Breeder Reactors primarily rely on Plutonium, utilizing a combination of Plutonium-239 from the 1st stage and the abundant U-238 found on Earth to generate additional Plutonium inside the reactor.
- As U-238 does not initiate a chain reaction, the reactors are termed Breeder reactors.
- To maximize the chances of neutron interaction with U-238, these reactors, known as Fast Breeder Reactors, omit a moderator to slow down neutrons.
- Once Plutonium-239 is fully consumed, Thorium is introduced to convert it into U-233, to be used in the 3rd stage.
3rd Stage: Thermal Breeder Reactors utilize U-233 produced in the 2nd stage, incorporating thorium-232.
- Notably, Thorium is non-radioactive and non-fissile. Since these reactors also generate U-233 from Thorium-232, they are classified as breeder reactors.
- India's significant reserves of thorium, particularly in the form of monazite sand, emphasize the critical role of the 3rd stage in India's nuclear energy portfolio.

PM Narendra Modi calls upon religious leaders and social organizations to launch a mass movement against drugs (NewsOnAir)

27 Dec 2023

Atomic watchdog report says Iran is increasing production of highly enriched uranium (Indian Express)

27 Dec 2023

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Iran has increased the rate at which it is producing near weapons-grade uranium in recent weeks, reversing a previous slowdown that started in the middle of this year, the International Atomic Energy Agency said in a report.

What is Uranium Enrichment?

Natural uranium is comprised of two isotopes, with approximately 99% being U-238 and only about 0.7% being U-235.
U-235 is a fissile material capable of sustaining a chain reaction within a nuclear reactor.
The enrichment process involves increasing the proportion of U-235 through isotope separation, effectively isolating U-238 from U-235.
- For the production of nuclear weapons, enrichment is necessary up to 90% or more, referred to as weapons-grade uranium.
Low-enriched uranium, typically containing a 3-5% concentration of U-235, is suitable for generating fuel for commercial nuclear power plants.
In contrast, highly enriched uranium, boasting a purity of 20% or more, finds application in research reactors.

Key Facts About Uranium:

Discovered in 1789 by the German chemist Martin Klaproth, Uranium is a silvery-white metallic chemical element found in the periodic table, characterized by its atomic number 92.
This element holds the distinction of having the highest atomic weight among all naturally occurring elements.
Naturally present in low concentrations in soil, rock, and water, uranium is commercially extracted from minerals like uraninite.
The mining of uranium ore can be undertaken through open pits or underground excavations, followed by crushing and processing at a mill to isolate the valuable uranium.
An alternative method involves the direct dissolution of uranium from ore deposits in the ground, known as in-situ leaching, with the extracted uranium then pumped to the surface.

About the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):

The International Atomic Energy Agency is an intergovernmental organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons.
Established as an autonomous entity through its international treaty, the IAEA Statute, the organization, nonetheless, reports to both the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council.
Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, the IAEA collaborates with its Member States and various global partners to advance the safe and peaceful utilization of nuclear technologies.
- It employs nuclear safeguards, encompassing monitoring, inspection, information analysis, and other measures, to ensure the peaceful nature of nuclear activities and to detect and deter any potential diversion towards weapons-related purposes.
The IAEA plays a crucial role in implementing comprehensive safeguards agreements mandated by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), acting as a frontline defense against nuclear weapons proliferation.
- Additionally, the agency facilitates the exchange of scientific and technical information among its Member States.
A key function of the IAEA is to bolster national, regional, and international capabilities to respond effectively to nuclear and radiological incidents, thereby minimizing their impact.

Zombie deer disease: Why are scientists concerned over its transmission to humans? (TOI)

27 Dec 2023

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Researchers in the US have warned that Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) spreading among wildlife across North America, could also spread to humans.

What is Zombie Deer Disease??

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Zombie deer disease or chronic wasting disease is a prion disease that affects deer, elk, reindeer, sika deer and moose.
- Prion diseases affect both humans and animals and are distinguished by long incubation periods.
In the case of chronic wasting disease or the zombie deer disease, "it may take over a year before an infected animal develops symptoms.
History of the Disease?: The zombie deer disease was first discovered in Colorado (USA) in 1967.
- Until now, reports of humans getting affected have not come to the fore.
- However, the findings of several studies suggest that it can easily jump to human beings.

Why are health experts and scientists worried about a possible transmission??

Experts are giving examples of the mad cow disease or the Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE).
- “The BSE outbreak in Britain provided an example of how, overnight, things can get crazy when a spillover event happens from livestock to people.

Symptoms of the Disease:

The common signs of the disease are drastic weight loss (wasting), stumbling, and other neurologic symptoms.
Other symptoms seen in animals infected with this disease are listlessness, drooling, excessive thirst or urination, drooping ears, and lack of fear of people.

It is difficult to eradicate this disease??

The chronic wasting disease is extremely difficult to eradicate from the environment once the infection has started.
- It can persist for years in dirt or on surfaces, and it is resistant to disinfectants, formaldehyde, radiation, and incineration at 600C (1,100F).
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is fatal to animals, and there are no treatments or vaccines.

Prevention?:

To avoid the spread of the disease, humans should avoid shoot, handling, or eating meat from deer and elk that look sick or are acting strangely or are found dead.
Individuals should wear latex or rubber gloves when dressing the animal or handling the meat.

Speed up measures for a new dam at Mullaperiyar, Kerala tells Central Water Commission (The Hindu)

27 Dec 2023

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Recently the State government of kerala has urged the Centre to speed up measures for building a new dam at Mullaperiyar in the Idukki district at a meeting with the Central Water Commission.

About the Central Water Commission (CWC):

The Central Water Commission (CWC) is a leading technical organization in India dedicated to water resources management.
Currently operating as an attached office of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India, it plays a pivotal role in overseeing various aspects of water resource management nationwide.

Key Functions:

Initiation and Coordination: The Commission is responsible for initiating, coordinating, and advancing schemes in collaboration with concerned State Governments.
- These schemes focus on controlling, conserving, and utilizing water resources for Flood Control, Irrigation, Navigation, Drinking Water Supply, and Water Power Development.
Investigation and Execution: The CWC undertakes the investigation, construction, and execution of water resource schemes as deemed necessary.
Leadership and Structure: The Commission is led by a Chairman, holding the status of Ex-Officio Secretary to the Government of India.
The organizational structure includes three wings:
- Designs and Research (D&R) Wing
- River Management (RM) Wing
- Water Planning and Projects (WP&P) Wing
Each wing is overseen by a full-time member with the status of Ex-Officio Additional Secretary to the Government of India.
Headquarters: The headquarters of the Central Water Commission is located in New Delhi.

Key Facts About Mullaperiyar Dam:

The Mullaperiyar Dam is a masonry gravity dam, situated on the Periyar River in Thekkady, Idukki district of Kerala.
Situated at an elevation of 881 meters above sea level, it graces the Cardamom Hills within the Western Ghats.
The dam is strategically located at the convergence of the Mullayar and Periyar rivers.
Its construction, led by the British Corps of Royal Engineers under Pennycuick, commenced in 1887 and concluded in 1895.
Utilizing limestone and "Surkhi" (a blend of burnt brick powder, sugar, and calcium oxide), the dam serves the purpose of redirecting west-flowing River Periyar waters to the rain shadow regions of Theni, Madurai, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts in Tamil Nadu.
The Periyar National Park is located around the dam's reservoir.
Despite its location in Kerala, the dam is operated and maintained by Tamil Nadu under a 999-year lease agreement established during British rule.

New Toad Species Discovered in Dampa Tiger Reserve of Mizoram (HT)

12 Oct 2023

Project Nilgiri Tahr’ Launched in Tamil Nadu (The Hindu)

12 Oct 2023

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Consolidating efforts towards the conservation of Tamil Nadu’s State Animal, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday, October 12, 2023, launched the ‘Project Nilgiri Tahr’ from the Secretariat in Chennai.

About Nilgiri Tahr:

The Nilgiri Tahr, scientifically known as Nilgiritragus hylocrius, is an endangered mountain ungulate that is native to the southern part of the Western Ghats.
Locally referred to as 'Varayaadu,' these creatures are renowned for their remarkable climbing abilities on steep cliffs, earning them the moniker "Mountain Monarch."
Notably, the Nilgiri Tahr holds the distinction of being the state animal of Tamil Nadu.

Distribution:

The current range of Nilgiri Tahrs is confined to approximately 5% of the Western Ghats in southern India, specifically in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The Eravikulam National Park in Kerala is home to the highest density and the largest surviving population of Nilgiri Tahrs.

Habitat:

Nilgiri Tahrs inhabit open montane grassland habitats, thriving at elevations ranging from 1200 to 2600 meters in the South Western Ghats.

Distinctive Features:

Characterized by a stocky body, short coarse fur, and a bristly mane, Nilgiri Tahrs exhibit sexual dimorphism, with mature males being larger and darker in colour.
Both males and females possess curved horns, with males having larger ones measuring up to 40 cm, while females' horns reach approximately 30 cm.
Adult males develop a light grey area or 'saddle' on their backs, leading to the term 'saddlebacks.' The species is recognized by its short grey-brown or dark coat.

Conservation Status:

The Nilgiri Tahr is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, signifying the critical need for conservation efforts.
Additionally, it is accorded the highest protection under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972, listed in Schedule I.

ICRISAT Joins One CGIAR Global Initiative (The Hindu BusinessLine)

12 Oct 2023

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The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), a Hyderabad-based international research institute with a focus on tropical dryland agrifood system innovation, has joined the One CGIAR integrated partnership.

What is One CGIAR Global Initiative?

The One CGIAR global initiative is designed to establish a cohesive approach to transform food, land, and water systems in response to the challenges posed by the climate crisis.
This collaborative effort involves the CGIAR System Organisation and 12 research centres operating under the umbrella of One CGIAR.
CGIAR is a publicly-funded network of research centres focused on agrifood systems, operating in over 80 countries.

Key Facts about ICRISAT:

ICRISAT, a non-profit, non-political international research organization, is dedicated to agricultural research for development in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
Its mission is to support farmers by providing improved crop varieties and hybrids, particularly aiding smallholder farmers in arid regions to combat climate change.
The organization specializes in research on five highly nutritious, drought-tolerant crops: chickpea, pigeonpea, pearl millet, sorghum, and groundnut.
Recognized for its impactful work, ICRISAT was awarded the 2021 Africa Food Prize for the Tropical Legumes Project, contributing to improved food security across 13 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
ICRISAT is headquartered in Hyderabad, Telangana State, India, with two regional hubs in Nairobi, Kenya, and Bamako, Mali.
Through its research and initiatives, ICRISAT plays a crucial role in addressing agricultural challenges and promoting sustainable development in diverse regions.

India Ranks 111 in Global Hunger Index (The Hindu)

12 Oct 2023

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India ranks 111 out of a total of 125 countries in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023, with its progress against hunger nearly halted since 2015, reflecting a global trend.

Key Findings of Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2023:

India holds a Global Hunger Index score of 28.7 on a 100-point scale, categorizing its severity of hunger as "serious."
The global GHI score for 2023 is 18.3, considered moderate.
Latin America and the Caribbean stand out as the only region in the world where GHI scores have deteriorated between 2015 and 2023.
South Asia and Africa South of the Sahara emerge as the global regions with the highest hunger levels, each having GHI scores of 27.0.

About the Global Hunger Index:

The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is a tool designed to comprehensively measure and track hunger at global, regional, and national levels, reflecting multiple dimensions of hunger over time.
The GHI is intended to raise awareness and understanding of the struggle against hunger, provide a way to compare levels of hunger between countries and regions and call attention to those areas of the world where hunger levels are highest and where the need for additional efforts to eliminate hunger is greatest.
It is prepared jointly by Irish aid agency Concern Worldwide and the German organisation Welt Hunger Hilfe.
How the GHI Is Calculated?
Each country’s GHI score is calculated based on a formula that combines four indicators that together capture the multidimensional nature of hunger:
Undernourishment: the share of the population whose caloric intake is insufficient;
Child stunting: the share of children under the age of 5 who have low height for their age, reflecting chronic undernutrition;
Child wasting: the share of children under the age of five who have low weight for their height, reflecting acute undernutrition; and
Child mortality: the share of children who die before their 5th birthday, reflecting in part the fatal mix of inadequate nutrition and unhealthy environments.
The indicators included in the GHI formula reflect caloric deficiencies as well as poor nutrition.
The undernourishment indicator captures the food access situation of the population as a whole, while the indicators specific to children reflect the nutrition status within a particularly vulnerable subset of the population for whom a lack of dietary energy, protein, and/or micronutrients (essential vitamins and minerals) leads to a high risk of illness, poor physical and cognitive development, and death.
The inclusion of both child wasting and child stunting allows the GHI to document both acute and chronic undernutrition.
By combining multiple indicators, the index minimizes the effects of random measurement errors.
These four indicators are all part of the indicator set used to measure progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Good Governance Day: Govt launches 3 new features on iGOT Mission Karmayogi platform (TOI)

26 Dec 2023

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On the occasion of Good Governance Day, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launched the Extended Version of Mission Karmayogi by introducing three new features on the iGOT Karmayogi platform that include My iGOT, Blended Programs and Curated Programs..

About Mission Karmayogi:

Mission Karmayogi, the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB), is geared towards equipping Civil Servants with enhanced creativity, constructiveness, and innovation, utilising transparency and technology to prepare them for future challenges.
This innovative program serves as a cornerstone for the country's civil servants, emphasizing a balanced approach between 'on-site learning' and traditional 'off-site learning.'
Approved by the Government on September 2, 2020, Mission Karmayogi encompasses six key pillars:
- Policy Framework
- Institutional Framework
- Competency Framework
- Digital Learning Framework (iGOT-Karmayogi)
- The electronic Human Resource Management System (e-HRMS), and
- The Monitoring and Evaluation Framework.
Encompassing all civil servants, including contractual employees, across various ministries, departments, organizations, and agencies of the Union Government, the program introduces three new features on the iGOT Karmayogi platform:
My iGOT: Delivers targeted training courses on the home page of individual officers, directly addressing their unique capacity-building needs identified in the Capacity-Building Plan for their Ministries/Departments.
Blended Programs: Facilitates equitable access to training methodologies across all levels by integrating traditional offline (in-person) classroom courses with online learning components.
- This approach enables officers and faculty to benefit from both the flexibility of online courses and the invaluable interactions of face-to-face classroom sessions.
Curated Programs: Designed to cater to diverse learning needs of Ministries/Departments and Training Institutions, offering a custom approach to address the specific requirements of different segments within the civil services.

Six armed poachers, timber mafia held by forest officials at Similipal National Park (New Indian Express)

26 Dec 2023

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In a significant breakthrough, forest officials at Similipal National Park apprehended four armed poachers and two members of the timber mafia in separate locations on Saturday night.

About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR):

Similipal Tiger Reserve is located within the Mayurbhanj District, in the Northernmost part of Odisha.
Declared a 'Tiger Reserve' in 1956, STR became a part of the national conservation initiative 'Project Tiger' in 1973.
Recognized by UNESCO in 2009, STR, along with a transitional area covering 2250 sq. km, was included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Terrain: Surrounded by high plateaus and hills, STR boasts the twin peaks of Khairiburu and Meghashini, reaching 1515m above mean sea level.
The undulating and hilly terrain features open grasslands and wooded areas, with the inclined plateau rising abruptly from the low coastal plains.
Hydrography: The region is crisscrossed with perennial water sources, contributing to rivers like Budhabalanga, Salandi, and various tributaries of the Baitarani River.
Vegetation: STR encompasses a diverse mix of forest types and habitats, with Northern tropical moist deciduous dominating alongside semi-evergreen patches.
- Notably, it hosts the world's only landscape with melanistic tigers.
Tribes: The vicinity of STR is inhabited by various tribes, including Kolha, Santhala, Bhumija, Bhatudi, Gondas, Khadia, Mankadia, and Sahara.
Flora: Home to an impressive 1078 plant species, including 94 orchid species, STR is characterized by the dominance of Sal trees.
Fauna: The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopard, gaur, elephant, langur, barking and spotted deer, sloth bear, mongoose, flying squirrel, porcupine, turtle, monitor lizard, python, sambar, pangolin, and more.

What is the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)?

Realizing the importance of ‘tiger protection’ in biodiversity conservation, the Finance Minister announced policy initiatives in February 2008, for constituting the ‘Special Tiger Protection Force’ (STPF).
Based on the one-time grant of Rs. 50 crore was provided to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for raising, arming and deploying a Special Tiger Protection Force, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves.
The STPF has been made operational in the States of Karnataka (Bandipur), Maharashtra (Pench, Tadoba-Andhari, Nawegaon-Nagzira, Melghat), Rajasthan (Ranthambhore), Odisha (Similipal) and Assam (Kaziranga), out of 13 initially selected tiger reserves, with 60% central assistance under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger (CSS-PT).

Goan Cashew (kernel) Got the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag (Indian Express)

12 Oct 2023

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Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant hailed the recognition as a great opportunity for the cashew industry in the state and “a milestone towards the Swayampurna Goa mission”.

About Goan cashew:

Cashew is one of the most important plantation crops in India, with significant cultivation in the state of Goa.
Its introduction to India traces back to the 16th century (1570) when the Portuguese brought it from its native region in northeast Brazil, Latin America.
Originally recognized for afforestation and soil conservation, cashews quickly gained prominence in Goa, occupying the largest area among horticultural crops.
The climatic conditions conducive to its growth are well-suited to the Indian coastal areas, thriving under hot and humid circumstances.

Climatic Conditions:

Soil and Climate: Well-drained deep sandy loam soils, ranging from sandy to laterite, prove to be ideal for cashew cultivation.
Goa, known for its sandy loam, is a particularly favourable region for this crop.
Adaptability: Cashew exhibits excellent adaptability to the coastal regions of India, thriving under temperatures ranging from 20 to 38 degrees Celsius.
The relative humidity in the range of 60 to 95% is also conducive to its growth.
Rainfall: Annual precipitation between 2000 to 3500mm supports the cultivation of cashews, ensuring optimal growth and development.
Geographical Expansion: While traditionally associated with Goa, the cultivation of cashews is expanding to non-traditional areas in the plains of Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and some parts of the Northeast hill region.
Cashew's journey from its introduction by the Portuguese to becoming a vital crop in Goan agriculture highlights its adaptability and significance in the diverse agro-climatic regions of India.

What is a Geographical Indication Tag?

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a distinctive emblem affixed to products originating from a specific geographical area, signifying unique qualities or a reputation inherently tied to that origin.
Primarily employed for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial items, the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in India aims to facilitate the registration and enhanced safeguarding of geographical indications associated with various goods.
Under this act, the granted GI tag holds validity for a period of 10 years, with the provision for renewal upon expiration.

Union Health Minister Launches MedTech Mitra Platform to Empower Medical Technology Innovators (NewsOnAir)

26 Dec 2023

AstroSat detects millisecond X-ray bursts from high magnetic field neutron stars (DD News)

26 Dec 2023

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India’s first multi-wavelength space-based observatory, AstroSat, has detected intense sub-second X-ray bursts emanating from a neutron star with an ultrahigh magnetic field, known as a magnetar.

What is X-ray Bursts?

X-ray bursts manifest in low-mass X-ray binary systems featuring a neutron star and a low-mass main sequence star orbiting each other.
The occurrence of these bursts is intricately linked to the gravitational dynamics of the neutron star and its companion.
In this system, the proximity and intense gravitational forces of the neutron star cause the companion star to exceed its Roche-lobe, leading to the formation of an accretion disk around the neutron star.
This disk becomes a repository for hydrogen drawn from the overflowing companion star.
As hydrogen accumulates on the neutron star's surface, the extreme temperatures and pressures prevailing there catalyze its transformation into helium.
This ongoing process results in the formation of a thin surface layer of helium.
When this helium layer reaches a critical mass, a sudden explosive ignition occurs, elevating the entire neutron star's surface temperature to several tens of millions of degrees and releasing a burst of X-rays.
Following the outburst, the binary system returns temporarily to a quiescent state, allowing the neutron star to reaccumulate the helium surface layer gradually.
This cyclic process leads to the recurrence of X-ray bursts, typically unfolding at regular intervals separated by several hours or days.

About Indias’ AstroSat:

AstroSat stands as India’s first dedicated multi-wavelength space observatory, pioneering a mission focused on the simultaneous study of celestial sources across X-ray, optical, and UV spectral bands.
Launched with a lift-off mass of 1515 kg, AstroSat took flight aboard the Indian launch vehicle PSLV from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on September 28, 2015.
It entered a 650 km orbit, inclined at an angle of 6 degrees to the equator.
The Mission Operations Complex (MOX) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru oversees the satellite throughout its mission life.
With a minimum useful life of around 5 years, AstroSat is dedicated to achieving the following scientific objectives:
- Understanding high-energy processes in binary star systems housing neutron stars and black holes.
- Estimating magnetic fields associated with neutron stars.
- Investigating star birth regions and high-energy processes in star systems beyond our galaxy.
- Detecting new, briefly bright X-ray sources in the celestial sphere.
- Conducting a limited deep-field survey of the Universe in the Ultraviolet region.

India shedding mentality of slavery, says PM Modi (The Hindu)

26 Dec 2023

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Speaking at a "Veer Bal Diwas" event to commemorate the martyrdom of two sons of Guru Gobind Singh, PM Modi said their sacrifices are not only being remembered in India but also globally through programmes in other countries as well

About Veer Bal Diwas:

Veer Bal Diwas is observed annually on December 26th to commemorate the valour and sacrifice of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru.
The four sons, named Zorawar Singh, Fateh Singh, Jai Singh, and Kulwant Singh, played a significant role in resisting the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and his army.
Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh were captured by the Mughals at the ages of six and nine, respectively, after defending the fort of Anandpur Sahib from a siege.
Subsequently, they were taken to Sirhind, where, steadfast in their faith, they refused to convert to Islam and were sentenced to a tragic death by being bricked alive in 1705.
Jai Singh and Kulwant Singh, also captured at Anandpur Sahib, managed to escape from Sirhind with the assistance of loyal followers.
They later joined their father in his final battle at Sirhind, where Guru Gobind Singh was wounded by a musket shot.
The unwavering courage and sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh's sons became a symbol of inspiration for generations of Sikhs, reflecting their dedication to the cause of Sikhism.

About Guru Gobind Singh:

Guru Gobind Singh, the last of the ten Sikh Gurus, was born on December 22, 1666, in Patna, Bihar.
His birth anniversary is observed according to the Nanakshahi calendar.
Assuming the role of Sikh Guru at the tender age of nine after the passing of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur, he served until his assassination in 1708.

Contributions:

Religious: Guru Gobind Singh made profound contributions to the Sikh religion, introducing practices such as wearing a turban to cover hair.
He laid the foundation for the Khalsa (1699), embodying the Five 'K's: kesh (uncut hair), kanga (wooden comb), kara (iron or steel bracelet), kirpan (dagger), and kachera (short breeches).
- These articles of faith became integral to the identity of a Khalsa.
Establishing various rules for Khalsa warriors, including abstaining from tobacco, alcohol, and halal meat, Guru Gobind Singh emphasized their duty to protect innocent people from persecution.
Guru Gobind Singh designated Guru Granth Sahib as the spiritual guide for both the Khalsas and Sikhs.
Martial: Engaging in the battle of Muktsar in 1705, Guru Gobind Singh fiercely opposed the Mughals.
The Battle of Anandpur in 1704 resulted in the tragic loss of the Guru's mother and two minor sons, who were executed. His eldest son also fell in battle.
Literary: Guru Gobind Singh's legacy includes compositions like Jaap Sahib, Benti Chaupai, and Amrit Savaiye.
Notably, he wrote the Zafarnama, a letter addressed to the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, showcasing his literary prowess and resilience.

‘Dunki’ and immigration: How the first modern passports came to be (Indian Express)

23 Dec 2023

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The recently released Shah Rukh Khan’s movie ‘Dunki’ is said to be based on the ‘donkey route’ or ‘donkey flight’ that lakhs of Indians take to reach countries like the US, the UK or some other European countries.

What is a Donkey Journey?

Dunki is the Punjabi idiom that means to "hop from place to place", according to the Migration Policy Institute (MPI).
It is a colloquial term for "donkey flights" or the "donkey flights method", which is a dangerous illegal immigration technique involving crossing a country's borders through a backdoor route via multiple stops in other countries.

How does the donkey flight method or dunki work?

The desire for a higher quality of life has given rise to an industry driven by "agents" who charge exorbitant fees to help smuggle people to the country of their choice.
Some agents may even run legitimate businesses while offering this dangerous option.
The agents can offer various services, from fake papers to help through otherwise legal migration processes to smuggling people through ship containers.

Which countries are most targeted using the Dunki method?

While donkey flight can be used to enter any country, the US, Canada, and the UK are some of the most popular destinations undertaken by Indian immigrants.
- According to a report, between February 2019 and March 2023, as many as 149,000 Indians were detained for attempting to enter the US illegally.
- Of this, most of those detained were from Gujarat and Punjab.

Risks involved in the dunki method:

Dunki comes with tremendous risks, including the risk of capture, imprisonment, and deportation.
When facilitated by an agent, the system is highly exploitative.
Many sell off their assets, including ancestral land, to pay these agents.
Agents may also withhold people's passports or other important documents to extort more money and assets.
Moreover, smuggled migrants are also more vulnerable to becoming victims of other crimes during the smuggling process.
The terrains of the places through which immigrants may have to travel pose a range of risks, including harsh weather conditions, rugged terrains, and access to basic resources like food and water.
It must be noted that migrant smuggling is not the same as human trafficking.
- However, these crimes may sometimes interlink, adding another layer of risk for those engaging in illegal immigration.

About Passports:

Rooted in history, passports trace back to mentions in the Hebrew Bible and structured systems in nations like France and the UK.
The evolution into modern passports was catalyzed by the British Nationality and Status of Aliens Act in 1914, introducing features such as photographs and distinctive characteristics.
The League of Nations' 1920 conference sought to standardize passport regulations, contributing to the establishment of a common British system.
During the 1920s, the United States linked immigration laws to passports, imposing limitations on inflows.
Despite initial reservations, passports have persisted as an integral element of contemporary citizenship.
Indian Passports: The initiation of issuing Indian passports dates back to the First World War (1914-1918) through the Defence of India Act, as mandated by the British government for travel.

Assam-Meghalaya panels for boundary dispute to submit reports by December 31 (The Hindu)

23 Dec 2023

IIT Guwahati researchers devise mathematical model to help prevent riverbank erosion (Indian Express)

23 Dec 2023

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A team of researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has developed a new award-winning mathematical model to help prevent erosion of rivers like Brahmaputra.

What is BRAHMA-2D?

BRAHMA-2D (Braided River Aid: Hydro-Morphological Analyzer) is a sophisticated mathematical model designed for assessing the flow dynamics of expansive braided rivers such as the Brahmaputra.
Functioning as a quasi-3D river flow model, BRAHMA-2D offers insights into water velocity at various depths within the river and the circulation patterns around structures like spurs, crucial for preventing river bank erosion.
Developed through collaboration between researchers at IIT Guwahati and the Brahmaputra Board under the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, this innovative model plays a pivotal role in the design of sustainable hydraulic structures.
- Engineers can leverage BRAHMA-2D to create effective structures like spurs, river bends, and other protective measures to combat river bank erosion.
The model's successful validation on the Brahmaputra River near Majuli Island in Assam, a region prone to river bank erosion, underscores its practical applicability.
BRAHMA-2D integrates a two-dimensional water movement model with entropy theory, focusing on disorder or randomness.
- Notably, it identifies a unique dip phenomenon near spurs, where water flows underneath intensifies—a phenomenon absent at points away from these structures.
Beyond erosion prevention, BRAHMA-2D extends its utility to environmental studies by assessing the habitat suitability of aquatic species, particularly endangered ones.
This assessment is based on factors such as required depth and flow velocity, showcasing the model's versatility in addressing multifaceted challenges in river ecosystems.

About Brahmaputra River:

Originating as Siang or Dihang from the Chemayungdung glacier in the Kailash range near Mansarovar Lake, the Brahmaputra enters India to the west of Sadiya town in Arunachal Pradesh.
Tributaries: Dibang, Lohit, Siang, Burhi Dihing, Tista, and Dhansari contribute to its flow.
This perennial river exhibits distinctive features influenced by its geography and prevailing climatic conditions.
- Experiencing biannual flooding, the first occurs from the melting Himalayan snow in summer, and the second is a consequence of monsoon flows.
Climate change has amplified the frequency and intensity of these floods, posing a threat to populations and food security in the lower riparian states of India and Bangladesh.
Known for its dynamism, the Brahmaputra undergoes frequent changes in course, driven by landslides and geological activities.

Three heritage projects in Punjab and Haryana bag UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards 2023 (Business Standard)

23 Dec 2023

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The resilient urban revitalisation of Rambagh Gate and Ramparts in Punjab, and heritage conservation projects related to Haryana's Church of Epiphany and Delhi's Bikaner House won Unescoawards on Thursday.

About Rambagh Gate & Ramparts:

A three-story architectural marvel, the Rambagh Gate underwent meticulous restoration employing traditional building techniques.
Locally sourced materials, including Nanak Shahi bricks set in lime mortar, were integral to the restoration process.

About Pipal Haveli, Gurdaspur:

Pipal Haveli in Gurdaspur stands as a testament to ecological and traditional building methods, incorporating locally sourced materials and embracing vernacular architectural language.
Notably, it actively promotes women's empowerment through initiatives like the BaRi Collective, offering programs that enhance women's livelihoods through environmentally conscious craft practices.

What is the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation?

UNESCO aims to promote private sector engagement and foster collaborations between the public and private sectors to preserve the cultural heritage of the Asia-Pacific region for the benefit of present and future generations.
Since the year 2000, the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation have been acknowledging the accomplishments of private sector entities and public-private initiatives in effectively conserving or restoring structures, places, and properties of significant heritage value in the region.
Noteworthy, among the recognized sites, five are located in China, six in India, and one in Nepal.
Highlights of Award-Winning Sites in India:
- Rambagh Gate in Amritsar: Received the prestigious "Award of Excellence," the highest recognition across all categories.
- Pipal Haveli in Punjab: Honored for its sustainable development as a heritage rural homestay.
- Karnikara Mandapam at Kunnamangalam Bhagawati Temple in Kerala: Earned the esteemed "Award of Distinction."
- Epiphany in Haryana, David Sassoon Library and Reading Room in Mumbai, and Bikaner House in New Delhi: Recognized with the "Award of Merit" for their outstanding contributions to cultural heritage conservation.

CISF to take over security of Parliament complex after Lok Sabha breach | What's the plan (Indian Express)

23 Dec 2023

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The Union Home Ministry has approved the deployment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in the Parliament complex, according to a government order.

News Summary:

Following the security breach on December 13, the Union Home Ministry has given the green light for CISF deployment in the Parliament complex.
Collaborating with Parliament Security Services, CISF will oversee access control for both the new and old Parliament buildings.

What are the Current Security Arrangements in Parliament?

The Delhi Police currently handles access control, including frisking and baggage scanning.
- In response to the recent incident, eight Delhi Police security personnel responsible for these duties were suspended.
In the event of armed intervention, the Parliament Duty Group (PDG), an armed unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), is deployed.
The overall responsibility for security lies with the Parliament Security Service under the Lok Sabha Speaker.

About Central Industrial Security Force (CISF):

Established under the Central Industrial Security Force Act, 1968, CISF is a key Central Armed Police Force (CAPF).
Initially formed in 1969 with three battalions, it has evolved into a versatile organization boasting a current strength of 1,63,590 personnel.
Operating under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs, CISF's headquarters is situated in New Delhi.

Key Operations:

Critical Infrastructure Protection: Safeguarding 353 establishments nationwide, including Atomic Power Plants, Space Installations, Defence Production Units, Mines, Oil Fields, and Refineries.
Fire Protection: Maintaining a dedicated Fire Wing catering to 104 establishments for fire safety services.
VIP Security: Mandated to provide security to VIP protectees categorized as Z+, Z, Y, and X across the country.
Airport Security: Entrusted with the specialized task of airport security since 2000, following the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 to Kandahar.
Private Sector Security: Authorized by an amendment to the CISF Act, the force offers security services, on a payment basis, to vital private and joint venture industrial entities contributing to the nation's security and economy.
- Examples include Infosys campuses, Patanjali Food and Herbal Park, and the Reliance refinery.
Overseas Deployment: Contributing contingents to the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH).
CISF stands out as the only Central Armed Police Force with a daily public interface, playing a crucial role in securing airports, the Delhi Metro, and iconic monuments.

NSG Takes on Invasive Vilayati Kikar/Prosopis Juliflora (Indian Express)

11 Oct 2023

Govt Notifies Changes in PLI Scheme for White Goods (Business Standard)

11 Oct 2023

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The central government has introduced changes to the rules governing the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for white goods, specifically air conditioners and light-emitting diode lights, with the goal of ‘simplifying the scheme’s operations’ and promoting the ease of doing business, according to an official statement on Wednesday.

What are White Goods?

Major home appliances, commonly known as white goods, encompass substantial household devices like stoves, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers, and air conditioners.
While these durable consumer durables were initially available only in white, contemporary options offer a variety of colours, yet they persistently retain the term "white goods."
Renowned for their robustness and extended lifespan, white goods are engineered to endure the rigours of daily use.
Additionally, the term "white goods" may extend to white fabrics, particularly linen or cotton, including items like curtains, towels, or sheets, which historically were crafted from white cloth.
In the beverage industry, the term "white goods" refers to colourless spirits such as vodka or gin.

What is Brown Goods?

Brown goods refer to relatively lightweight electronic consumer durables, including computers, digital media players, TVs, and radios.
In contrast to large household appliances (white goods), brown goods are primarily geared towards entertainment, communication, and convenience.
Typically featuring electronic components, these devices are designed to deliver audio, video, or data-related services as their primary functions.

What is Grey Goods?

When a commodity is traded through distribution channels, which are unofficial but legal are known as the grey goods.
They are goods that are traded in a specific area, where the manufacturer does not intend to sell the product, but with different specifications.
Grey goods are sold without the knowledge of the original manufacturer.
They are typically less costly than the ones that are available by the authorised distributor.
Also, they might be made to pertain to some jurisdiction.
Example: A factory-unlocked version of the iPhone. It is made to suit US standards but is sold in India for a lesser price than the iPhone made for Indian standards.
When it comes to such Grey goods, the manufacturer does not provide any warranty for the product.

Migratory Birds Arrive in Odisha’s Chilika Before Winter (DownToEarth)

11 Oct 2023

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Migratory birds have started their annual journey to Chilika Lake—India’s largest waterbird habitat in Odisha — ahead of winter this year.

About Chilika Lake:

Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lake and a shallow lagoon with estuarine character spread across the districts of Puri, Khurda and Ganjam in the state of Odisha in eastern India.
It is considered to be the largest lagoon in India and is counted amongst the largest lagoons in the world.
It is the largest wintering ground for migratory waterfowl found anywhere on the Indian sub-continent.
It is one of the hotspots of biodiversity in the country, and some rare, vulnerable and endangered species listed in the IUCN Red List of threatened Animals inhabit the Lake area for at least part of their life cycle.
On account of its rich bio-diversity, Chilika Lake was designated as a "Ramsar Site", i.e. a wetland of International Importance.
The Nalaban Island within the lake is notified as a Bird Sanctuary under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The National Wetlands, Mangroves and Coral Reefs Committee of the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, have also identified the lake as a priority site for conservation and management.
The Lake is a highly productive ecosystem, with rich fishery resources.
The rich fishing grounds sustain the livelihood of more than 0.2 million fisherfolk who live in and around the lake.
It has a great heritage value and maritime trade to the far east countries used to take place from here.
It is the largest winter ground of migratory birds in the Indian sub-continent and home to more than 150 highly threatened Irrawaddy dolphins, which is the largest lagoonal population globally.
It supports some of the largest congregation of migratory birds from large parts of Asia, particularly during the winters that arrive from as far as the Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal, Aral Sea, remote parts of Russia, Kirghiz steppes of Mongolia, Central and South East Asia, Ladakh and the Himalayas to feed and breed in its fertile waters.

NASA Recently Shared a Satellite Image of Deception Island (Tribune India)

11 Oct 2023

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National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) recently shared a satellite image of Deception Island, one of the only places in the world where a ship can sail directly into the centre of an active volcano.

About Deception Island:

Deception Island is situated within the South Shetland Islands, forming part of an archipelago northwest of the Antarctic Peninsula.
This volcanic island is notable for its dynamic features and distinct geography.
Originating from a colossal volcanic eruption, Deception Island's formation resulted in the collapse of its central structure, allowing seawater to inundate the resulting caldera.
The landscape is characterized by desolate volcanic slopes, steaming beaches, and glaciers adorned with ash layers, creating a unique horseshoe-shaped entrance to the sea via Neptune’s Bellows.
The island encircles Port Foster, recognized as one of the safest harbours in the Antarctic, offering vessels a rare opportunity to navigate into the heart of an active volcano.
Among the few places globally where this is possible, Deception Island has experienced over twenty eruptions since the 19th century.
Notably, the island witnessed three volcanic eruptions from 1967 to 1970, leading to the destruction of Chilean and British stations.
Presently, Argentina and Spain maintain summer scientific stations on the island.
Deception Island is safeguarded under the Antarctic Treaty, designating it as a protected area with restricted human visits and minimized environmental impact.

Cabinet Approves Establishment of an Autonomous Body Mera Yuva Bharat (PIB)

11 Oct 2023

Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan Now Opens for Safari Tours (TOI)

10 Oct 2023

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The forest department started the inaugural jungle safari at the Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve on Monday, which marks the beginning of organised tiger reserve tours for tourists in four locations across the state.

About Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve:

Location: Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, also known as Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, spans across four districts – Bundi, Kota, Jhalawar, and Chittorgarh in Rajasthan.
The reserve is nestled in a valley formed by two parallel mountains, Mukundra and Gargola.
Establishment: In 2013, the tiger reserve was formed, encompassing Mukandra National Park, Dara Sanctuary, Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary, and a section of Chambal Sanctuary.
Initially, it served as a hunting preserve for the Maharaja of Kota.
River: Positioned on the eastern bank of the Chambal River, the reserve is crisscrossed by its tributaries.
Vegetation: The reserve features a Dry Deciduous Forest.
Flora: The dominant species is Kala Dhok or Kaladhi (Anogeissus pendula), accompanied by Khair, Ber, Kakan, Raunj, and more.
On elevated slopes, Anogeissus pendula gives way to Anogeissus latifolia, coexisting with Bel, Salar, Uum, and Shisham.
Fauna: Noteworthy fauna include Leopard, Sloth bear, Nilgai, Chinkara, Spotted Deer, Small Indian Civet, Toddy Cat, Jackal, Hyena, Jungle Cat, and Common Langur, among others.
The region is also home to various reptiles and amphibians, such as Pythons, Rat Snake, Buff-striped keelbacks, Green keelbacks, crocodiles, turtles, Gharial and Otters.

Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Says Unemployment Rate Declined (The Hindu)

10 Oct 2023

India to Hold Satellite Spectrum Auctioning (The Hindu BusinessLine)

10 Oct 2023

New Species of Bagworm Moth discovered From Idukki (The Hindu)

10 Oct 2023

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Researchers from the Zoology Department at St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur, have discovered a new species of bagworm moth, Wizard Bagworm, from near the Nariyampara Falls in the Idukki district.

What is a Bagworm Moth?

Belonging to the family of moths in the order Lepidoptera, bagworm moths are recognized for their protective larval cases.
These moths are distributed globally, with notable populations in North America and Africa.
In their larval stage, these perennial moths inhabit various evergreen trees and junipers.
They derive their name from the bag-like cases constructed by the larvae around themselves.
The larvae can pose a threat to trees, particularly evergreens.

About Eumasia Venefica:

This recently identified species earned its name due to the unique shape of its bag, resembling a wizard's hat.
It is the fourth species within this genus to be documented in India.
Distinctive Features:
The species exhibits effective camouflage techniques to evade predators.
Larval cases of Eumasia venefica are discovered attached to rocks adorned with lichens.
These cases join together, forming a colony covered with lichens.
The larval bags bear a resemblance to a 'witch's hat,' featuring a disc-like anterior and a tubular posterior part.
Unlike polyphagous pests, the larvae of this species exclusively feed on algae and mosses present on rocks.

Pontus Tectonic Plate: Geologist Unexpectedly Finds Remnants of a Lost Mega-Plate (Science Daily)

10 Oct 2023

Reliance General gets ?923cr GST notices from the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) (TOI)

09 Oct 2023

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Reliance General Insurance Company (RGIC), a subsidiary of the Anil Ambani-led Reliance Capital, has received multiple show-cause notices worth Rs 922.58 crore from the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI).

About Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI):

Formerly known as the Directorate General of Central Excise Intelligence (DGCEI), the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) stands as a premier intelligence organization operating under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs, within the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance.
Its primary focus is on collecting, collating, and disseminating intelligence pertaining to Goods and Services Tax (GST) evasion and duties related to Central Excise and Service Tax on a pan-India basis.
Evolution: Originally designated as the Directorate General of Anti-Evasion (DGAE), it was established in 1979 as an independent wing under the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, New Delhi.
Became a full-fledged Directorate in 1983, headed by a Director.
In 1988, attained the status of Directorate General under a Director General.
Currently comprises 04 offices of the Director General (East, West, North, and South), 26 Zonal Units, and 40 Regional Units.

Key Responsibilities:

Intelligence Gathering: Collects information from various sources, including GST returns, financial statements, and other documents, to identify potential GST law violations.
Investigation: Empowered to conduct investigations into suspected cases of GST evasion or non-compliance, involving summoning individuals, examining records, and executing searches and seizures.
Enforcement: Enforces provisions of the GST law, taking legal action against offenders, imposing penalties, and recovering taxes or duties owed.
Additional Functions: Collaborates with agencies like the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and State GST authorities for effective GST law implementation.
Plays a crucial role in raising awareness about GST compliance and educating taxpayers on their legal obligations.
Provides technical and legal assistance to field officers and other government entities involved in GST administration.

Mandarin-Trained Territorial Army Inducted At LAC (ET)

09 Oct 2023

New Ensign for the Indian Air Force (HT)

09 Oct 2023

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Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Vivek Ram Chaudhari on Sunday unveiled a new Ensign for the force, as it marked its 91st anniversary, by the inclusion of the Air Force Crest in the top right corner of the Ensign, towards the fly side.

About the Indian Air Force (IAF) Ensign:

The new IAF Ensign exclusively incorporates the IAF Crest, featuring distinctive elements that symbolize the spirit and ethos of the Indian Air Force.

Key Elements:

IAF Crest: The crest prominently showcases the national symbol, the Ashoka Lion, atop, with "Satyamev Jayate" in the Devanagari script beneath.
Himalayan Eagle: Positioned below the Ashoka Lion, a Himalayan eagle with outstretched wings symbolizes the formidable fighting spirit of the IAF.
Light Blue Ring: Encircling the Himalayan eagle, a light blue ring bears the words "Indian Air Force."
IAF Motto: Derived from the Bhagavad Gita, the motto "Nabha Sparsham Deeptam" (touching the sky with glory) is inscribed in golden Devanagari below the eagle.
The IAF crest serves as a powerful symbol of inspiration and encouragement.

Variations:

IAF has adopted various crests for commands, squadrons, and other establishments, all adhering to a standard frame featuring the formation sign and a motto at the foot.

Historical Evolution:

British Era: During the British era, the IAF was known as the Royal Indian Air Force, and its ensign featured the Union Jack and the RIAF roundel.
Post-Independence: The current IAF Ensign, created post-independence, replaces the Union Jack with the Indian tricolour and the RAF roundels with the IAF tri-colour roundel in the lower right canton.

Govt Mulling Incentives for ASHA Workers (ET)

09 Oct 2023

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The government is planning to give incentives to ASHA health activists for mobilising eligible individuals for sickle cell disease screening and distribution of sickle cell cards for prevention and early detection of the disease.

About Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA):

ASHA serves as a trained female community health activist integral to the National Rural Health Mission initiated by the Government of India.
Selected from the community and accountable to it, ASHA is trained to bridge the gap between the community and the public health system.

Key Functions:

Acts as a care provider at the community level.
Facilitates access to healthcare, medicine, and sanitation services.
Health Awareness: Raises awareness of health issues among marginalized sections within the community.
Advocate for Women's Health: Champions female health and hygiene standards.
Advocates for a health-conscious approach to livelihood.

Implementation:

The ASHA scheme is operational in all States/UTs, except Goa.
States are mandated to employ at least one ASHA worker per every 1000 people.
Inclusive Selection Process: The selection process involves various community groups, self-help groups, Anganwadi Institutions, and local committees.

Selection Criteria:

Rural ASHA: Preferably a literate woman resident, married/widowed/divorced, aged 25 to 45 years, and preferably educated up to the 10th standard.
Urban ASHA: Identified from vulnerable clusters, belonging to specific vulnerable groups, with good communication and leadership skills.

Compensation:

Primarily an honorary volunteer compensated for specific situations.
Ranges from Rs 2,000 to Rs 7,000, depending on the state.
Incentives: Eligible for incentives under various national health programs.

Adani Ports' Flagship Mundra Port Completes 25 Years (ET)

09 Oct 2023

SUGAM REC Mobile App for 54EC Bonds Investors (PIB)

07 Oct 2023

NGT Investigates Removal of Invasive Mussels in Ennore-Pulicat Wetland (The Hindu)

07 Oct 2023

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The Southern Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the Fisheries Department and the Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority to file a detailed report on the removal of invasive mussel species from the Ennore-Pulicat wetland.

What is Mytella strigata?

Mytella strigata is a moderately large mussel known for its symmetrical shell, commonly found in the middle intertidal and subtidal waters of estuaries and coastal areas.
These mussels attach to surfaces using byssus threads.
Appearance: Individual mussels display diverse external colours such as black, dark bluish, brown, grey, orange, and occasionally green.
The species exhibits various shell patterns, including zigzags, spots, or concentric bands.
Habitat and Distribution: Found in dense clusters on hard substrates and in epibenthic habitats, Mytella strigata is prevalent along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of tropical South and Central America.
It has also expanded its presence to regions like Taiwan, the Philippines, Singapore, the Gulf of Thailand, the west coast of India, and the southeastern United States.
Threats: These mussels pose a threat as they spread across river bottoms, forming carpets that hinder prawns from grazing or burying themselves in the sediment.

About Pulicat Lake:

Pulicat is an extensive brackish-to-saline lagoon with marshes and a brackish swamp on the north.
This is the second-largest saltwater lagoon in India and a Ramsar site (internationally recognized wetland under the Ramsar Convention).
Only 16% of the lagoon is in Tamil Nadu; the rest is in Andhra Pradesh.
It is fed by the Araani River at the southern tip and the Kalangi River from the northwest.
Buckingham Canal, a navigation channel, passes through the lagoon.
On the eastern boundary of this lagoon is Shriharikota Island, which separates the lagoon from the Bay of Bengal.
The lagoon is shallow with large areas of mudflats and sandflats.

Watermeal May Become an Essential Food for Astronauts (India Today)

07 Oct 2023

Atmospheric Perturbations around the Eclipse Path (APEP) mission (HT)

07 Oct 2023

Gangetic River Dolphin (The Hindu)

07 Oct 2023

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A recent publication by scientists and researchers has revealed that 19 Gangetic river dolphins had been rescued from the irrigation canals of the Ganga-Ghagra basin in Uttar Pradesh between 2013 and 2020.

About Gangetic River Dolphin:

The Gangetic River dolphin is a freshwater species, representing one of the rare river dolphins worldwide.
Distribution: It thrives in the river systems of Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu, spanning across Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
Common Names: Known by various names such as Blind dolphin, Ganges dolphin, Ganges susu, hihu, side-swimming dolphin, and South Asian River Dolphin.
Designated as India's National Aquatic Animal.
Physical Features: Characterized by a long, thin snout, rounded belly, stocky body, and large flippers.
Primarily feeds on fish, often found in counter-current systems of the main river channel.
Eyes lack a lens, earning it the moniker 'blind dolphin.'
Possesses an advanced bio-sonar system for effective hunting, even in murky waters.
Requires surfacing every 30-120 seconds for breathing; its audible breathing sounds have led to the affectionate term 'Susu.'
Conservation Status: IUCN categorizes it as Endangered.
Protected under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.
Listed in CITES Appendix I.

Ayushman Arogya Mandir (The Hindu)

30 Nov 2023

Fast Track Special Court (FTSC) (The Hindu)

30 Nov 2023

Angkor Wat Temple (TOI)

30 Nov 2023

Syrian Golan/Golan Heights (The Hindu)

30 Nov 2023

The Booker Prize 2023 (Indian Express)

30 Nov 2023

Parthenon Sculptures (Indian Express)

29 Nov 2023

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A diplomatic row sparked between Greece and the UK recently after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak canceled a meeting with his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis over the status of the Parthenon Sculptures housed at the British Museum.

What are the Parthenon Sculptures?

The Parthenon Sculptures at the British Museum are more than 30 ancient stone sculptures from Greece that are more than 2,000 years old.
Most of them originally adorned the walls and grounds of the Parthenon temple on the rocky Acropolis hill in Athens.
Completed in 432 BC, the temple is dedicated to the goddess Athena and is seen as the crowning glory of Athens’ Golden Age.
While one notable sculpture, which is 75 meters long, depicts a procession for the birthday of Athena, others show gods, heroes, or mythical creatures.

How did the sculptures reach Britain?

They were removed from the Parthenon in the early 19th century by Thomas Bruce, the 7th Earl of Elgin and then-British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire.
The marbles were taken to Britain and purchased by the British Museum in 1816.

Swine Flu (TOI)

29 Nov 2023

Comet P12/Pons-Brooks (The Hindu)

29 Nov 2023

Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) (PIB)

29 Nov 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, GoI is organizing the 19th Working Party on Data Collection and Statistics (WPDCS19) of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) from 28th November to 2nd December 2023.

About the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission:

The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) is an intergovernmental organisation responsible for the management of tuna and tuna-like species in the Indian Ocean.
It works to achieve this by promoting cooperation among its Contracting Parties (Members) and Cooperating Non-Contracting Parties in order to ensure the conservation and appropriate utilisation of fish stocks and encouraging the sustainable development of fisheries.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations adopted the Agreement for the Establishment of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission during its 105th Session in Rome on 25 November 1993.
The Indian Ocean holds the position as the second-largest tuna fishery globally, making it a crucial focus for the IOTC.
Currently, the IOTC boasts 31 contracting parties, including countries and two cooperating non-contracting parties, Liberia and Senegal.
Membership is open to Indian Ocean coastal countries, countries or regional economic integration organizations that are UN members, countries that are members of UN special organizations, and countries involved in tuna fishing in the Indian Ocean.
India is an active member of the IOTC, with its headquarters located in Victoria, Seychelles.

INS Imphal (Business Standard)

29 Nov 2023

Himalayan Black Bear (The Hindu)

28 Nov 2023

ISRO's AstroSat (PTI)

28 Nov 2023

Rythu Bandhu Scheme (The Hindu)

28 Nov 2023

Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (TOI)

28 Nov 2023

Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Gibraltar linking the Mediterranean and the Atlantic for shipping (The Hindu)

25 Dec 2023

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Recently, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean Sea unless Israel stops bombing Gaza.

About the Strait of Gibraltar:

The Strait of Gibraltar is a narrow water passage that serves as a crucial link connecting Europe and Africa, facilitating the connection between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
Historical Significance: Prior to the inauguration of the Suez Canal in 1869, the Strait of Gibraltar held exclusive prominence as the sole gateway to the Mediterranean Sea.
Geographical Borders: Positioned between Spain and the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar in the north, and Morocco and the Spanish exclave of Ceuta in the south, the strait spans approximately 58 km and reaches a width of about 13 km at its narrowest point.
Depth and Geological Formation: With depths ranging from 300 to 900 meters, the strait constitutes a significant divide between the elevated plateau of Spain and the Atlas Mountains of Northern Africa.
- Geological studies indicate that the strait originated from the northward movement of the African Plate towards the European Plate.
High Maritime Activity: Recognized as one of the world's busiest waterways, the Strait of Gibraltar witnesses the daily transit of around 300 ships, equivalent to approximately one ship every 5 minutes.
- The Moroccan port of Tanger-Med, situated near Tangier, is a prominent port along the strait.
Pillars of Heracles: Marking the eastern extremity of the strait, the area between the Rock of Gibraltar in the north and Mount Hacho or Jebel Moussa in the south spans approximately 23 km.
- These two land features referred to as the Pillars of Heracles, hold historical and geographical significance.

About the Mediterranean Sea:

The Mediterranean Sea, an intercontinental body of water, is flanked by Europe to the north, Asia to the east, and Africa to the south.
In the western expanse, it connects to the Atlantic Ocean through the narrow Strait of Gibraltar.
- To the extreme northeast, it links to the Black Sea via the Dardanelles Strait, the Sea of Marmara, and the Bosporus Strait.
- In the southeast, the Mediterranean Sea is connected to the Red Sea through the Suez Canal.
Historical Significance: Recognized as the cradle of Western civilization, the Mediterranean Sea has played a pivotal role in the development of ancient cultures.
- Notable civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Ancient Greece, and the Roman Empire, flourished along its shores.
Countries and Territories Along the Coast: A total of 22 countries, along with one territory (Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory), have coastlines along the Mediterranean Sea.
- European nations with Mediterranean coastlines include Spain, France, Italy, Malta, Monaco, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, and Greece.
- Countries from the West Asian (Middle Eastern) region bordering the Mediterranean Sea include Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine (Gaza Strip), and the divided island of Cyprus.
- Additionally, five North African nations, namely Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt, have coastlines along the Mediterranean.

Mycoplasma Pneumonia (Indian Express)

28 Nov 2023

PM to release ‘Collected Works of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya’ on 25th December (PIB)

25 Dec 2023

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On the occasion of the 162nd birth anniversary of Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will release the first series of 11 volumes of ‘Collected Works of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya’, on 25th December, 2023.

About Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya:

Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, born on December 25, 1861, in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, made significant contributions to India's education system and actively participated in the Indian Independence movement.
Acknowledged as a venerable soul, Mahatma Gandhi bestowed upon him the title of 'Mahamana,' considering him an elder brother.
In 2014, posthumously, Pandit Malviya was honoured with the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in the country.
In tribute to his legacy, the Indian Railways launched the Varanasi-New Delhi Mahamana Express in 2016.

Significant Contributions:

Banaras Hindu University: In 1916, Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya played a pivotal role in the Indian independence struggle against British rule and established the Banaras Hindu University (BHU).
- Serving as the Vice-Chancellor at BHU from 1919 to 1938 showcased his dedication to education and leadership.
Hindu Mahasabha: A founding member of the Hindu Mahasabha in 1906, Malaviya demonstrated his early leadership in this organization.
- As a social reformer and accomplished legislator, he contributed significantly during his 11-year tenure (1909–20) as a member of the Imperial Legislative Council.
Scout and Guide Movement: Pandit Malviya was instrumental in establishing the Scout and Guide movement in India, showcasing his commitment to youth development and character building.
'Satyamev Jayate': Renowned for coining the famous slogan 'Satyamev Jayate,' Pandit Malviya proclaimed it during the 1918 Indian National Congress session when he served as the President.
President of INC: Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya's leadership extended to the Indian National Congress, where he held the position of President for four sessions (1909, 1913, 1919, and 1932).
- His active role in the Civil Disobedience and Non-cooperation movements, led by Mahatma Gandhi, underscored his commitment to India's struggle for independence.
Media Role: From 1924 to 1946, Pandit Malviya served as the Chairman of Hindustan Times and also founded several Hindi and English newspapers, including The Leader, Hindustan Dainik, and Maryada.
Advocacy for Education and Social Causes: Malaviya championed free and compulsory primary education, opposed the system of indentured labour in the British Empire, and advocated for the nationalization of railways, reflecting his dedication to societal progress and reform.

“FLip” mutations of SARS-COV-2 may be evading immunity and leading to a surge in COVID cases, suggest researchers (DownToEarth)

25 Dec 2023

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The omicron subvariant JN.1. is likely to soon become the dominant lineage of the SARS-CoV-2 virus worldwide, according to researchers at the University of Tokyo. The subvariant has a mutation in its spike protein, L455S, also called a “FLip” mutation.

Context:

The mutations denoted as L455S and L455F are termed "FLip" mutations due to their role in interchanging the positions of amino acids F and L within the spike protein.
These mutations enhance the virus's transmissibility.
The substitution associated with these mutations reduces the receptor binding capacity of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a protein present in epithelial cells across various body parts, including the lungs, heart, and kidneys.
ACE2 serves as a crucial entry point for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, binding through its spike-like protein on the virus's surface.
The FLip mutations, specifically L455F and F456L, are characterized by the swapping of positions between two amino acids, F and L, within the spike protein.

What is Flip Mutation?

A flip mutation, also known as bit flip mutation, is a genetic operator used in evolutionary algorithms, particularly genetic algorithms (GAs).
It works by randomly flipping the values of individual genes (bits) within a chromosome, introducing small changes to the genetic makeup of an individual.
- Imagine a chromosome as a string of 0s and 1s, representing the genetic code for a specific trait or characteristic.
A flip mutation randomly selects one or more of these bits and changes their values.
- For example, a 0 might be flipped to a 1, or vice versa.
The following image depicts flip mutation:

How does it work:?

Individual selection: An individual is selected from the population.
Gene selection: One or more genes (bits) within the individual's chromosome are randomly chosen.
Bit flipping: The value of each selected gene is flipped. This means that a 0 is changed to a 1, and vice versa.

World Climate Action Summit 2023 (NewsOnAir)

27 Nov 2023

Odisha Government has declared Leprosy as a 'Reportable Disease' in the State (New Indian Express)

25 Dec 2023

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The Odisha government on Friday declared leprosy a reportable disease in the state and asked hospitals and persons dealing with diagnosis and treatment, institutions imparting medical education and providing diagnostic services to report all cases to the respective district health authorities.

What is Leprosy?

Leprosy, often referred to as Hansen's disease, is a persistent infectious illness brought on by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae.
The skin, eyes, mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract, and peripheral nerves are the main areas affected by this condition.
If left untreated, the condition has the potential to produce gradual and irreversible impairments.
Prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, leprosy qualifies as a neglected tropical disease (NTD) found in over 120 countries.
Its occurrence spans all age groups, encompassing early childhood to advanced age.
Transmission of Disease: Transmission of leprosy transpires through droplets from the nose and mouth, necessitating prolonged, close contact with an untreated individual.
- Contrary to misconceptions, casual interactions such as handshakes, hugs, shared meals, or proximity do not facilitate transmission.
Symptoms: Symptoms usually manifest 3 to 5 years post-exposure to the leprosy-causing bacteria.
- Red patches on the skin.
- Skin Lesion
- Numbness in arms, hands, and legs.
- Ulcers on the soles of feet.
- Muscle Weakness and excessive weight loss.
- Nerve damage can result in loss of sensation in limbs and potential mucous membrane complications like a stuffy nose or nosebleeds.
Treatment: Leprosy is curable through Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT), with early intervention crucial in preventing disability.
Importantly, the commencement of treatment not only aids in recovery but also halts the transmission of the disease.

About the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP):

The National Leprosy Eradication Programme is a centrally sponsored Health Scheme under the National Health Mission of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India.
The Programme is headed by the Deputy Director of Health Services (Leprosy ) under the administrative control of the Directorate General Health Services, Govt. of India.
While the NLEP strategies and plans are formulated centrally, the programme is implemented by the States/UTs.
The major concern of the Programme is to detect cases of leprosy at an early stage and provide complete treatment, free of cost, in order to prevent the occurrence of Grade II Disability (G2D) in affected persons.
India has achieved the elimination of leprosy as a public health problem as per WHO criteria of less than 1 case per 10,000 population at the National level in 2005.
- However, there are few districts within States where leprosy is still endemic.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) (Indian Express)

27 Nov 2023

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SEBI on Saturday decided to bring entities facilitating fractional investment in real estate under a regulatory framework, whereby they will be required to operate as Small and Medium Real Estate Investment Trusts.

About Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs):

A Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) is a company that owns and typically operates income-generating real estate or related assets.
It pools funds from investors, directing them into various commercial real estate ventures, including office buildings, shopping malls, apartments, hotels, resorts, self-storage facilities, warehouses, and mortgages or loans.
In contrast to conventional real estate firms, REITs don't develop properties for resale; rather, they acquire and develop properties primarily for inclusion in their investment portfolio.
REITs offer individual investors an opportunity to share in the income generated by commercial real estate without the need to directly purchase such properties.
Typically specializing in specific real estate sectors, REITs may focus on diversified or specialty portfolios, encompassing various property types like office and retail spaces.
Most REITs are publicly traded on stock exchanges, similar to stocks, providing high liquidity compared to physical real estate investments.
This stock-like nature allows investors to buy or sell REIT shares on the exchange at any time.

Sports Ministry requests IOA to constitute an ad-hoc committee to manage WFI affairs (Indian Express)

25 Dec 2023

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After suspending the newly elected Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) body on Sunday, the Sports Ministry have requested the Indian Olympic Association to constitute an ad-hoc committee to manage and control the affairs of the federation.

News Summary:

Three days after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elected a new governing council to run the sport in India, the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports directed the body to suspend all activities.
It issued a letter to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to create an ad-hoc committee to manage and control the affairs of the WFI.

About the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI):

Established in 1958 and headquartered in New Delhi, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) serves as the governing body for wrestling.
Mission: WFI plays a pivotal role in nurturing and promoting wrestling talent for prestigious events such as the Olympics, Asian Games, National Wrestling Championships, and World Wrestling Championships.
Affiliation: As an integral part of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), WFI operates in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by both the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and United World Wrestling (UWW).
- The UWW, recognized as the international governing body for wrestling, holds responsibilities ranging from overseeing wrestling competitions at the World Championships to ensuring adherence to standards at the Olympic level.
WFI's Contract System for Wrestlers: In a groundbreaking move in 2018, WFI introduced an innovative contract system designed to support wrestlers.
This system categorizes wrestlers into four grades:
- Grade A, providing financial assistance of 30 lakh rupees.
- Grade B offers a financial support package of 20 lakh rupees.
- Grade C, extending support amounting to 10 lakh rupees.
- Grade D provides a support package of 5 lakh rupees.
To ensure relevance and fairness, the contracts undergo a thorough review on an annual basis, reflecting WFI's commitment to the ongoing development and support of wrestling talent.

About Indian Olympic Association (IOA):

The Indian Olympic Association acts as the governing body overseeing the Olympic Movement and the Commonwealth Games within India.
It holds affiliation with prominent international bodies, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), and Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC).
In fulfilling its role, the IOA manages key aspects of sports governance and prioritizes the welfare of athletes across the nation.
Responsibilities: As a recognized entity by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the IOA undertakes the crucial responsibility of coordinating the representation of athletes and teams in major international multi-sport events such as the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and others sanctioned by the IOC, CGF, OCA, and ANOC.
Historical Perspective: Established in 1927 with Sir Dorabji Tata serving as the Founding President and Dr. A.G. Noehren as the Secretary-General, the IOA operates as a Non-Profit Organization under the Societies Registration Act of 1860.
This history underscores its enduring commitment to the promotion of sports.
Governance Structure: Currently governed by a 32-member Executive Council, the IOA is led by a President.
Elections for the Executive Council occur once every four years, emphasizing democratic and periodic leadership changes within the organization.

Supplementary Grants (The Hindu BusinessLine)

27 Nov 2023

High-energy Particle "Amaterasu" (Indian Express)

27 Nov 2023

Ministry of Textiles launches “Paat-Mitro” application to facilitate jute farmers (PIB)

22 Dec 2023

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To provide important information about MSP and agronomy to jute farmers, the Ministry of Textiles launched “Paat-Mitro” - a mobile application, developed by The Jute Corporation of India Limited (JCI) during the ‘Jute Symposium’.

What is Paat Mitro?

Paat Mitro is a mobile application crafted by the Jute Corporation of India Limited (JCI) with the primary aim of furnishing vital information on Minimum Support Prices (MSP) and agronomy to jute farmers.

Key Features:

The application is accessible in six languages, ensuring inclusivity.
All functionalities within the app are provided to users free of charge.
Paat Mitro offers a comprehensive range of information, encompassing the latest agronomic practices, MSP details, Jute Gradation Parameters, farmer-centric schemes like ‘Jute-ICARE,’ weather forecasts, locations of JCI’s Purchase Centres, and Procurement Policies.
Farmers can conveniently track the payment status for the raw jute they sell to JCI under the MSP Operation.
The app integrates advanced technology features such as a Chatbot, facilitating farmers in resolving queries effectively.

Key Information about the Jute Corporation of India Limited (JCI):

Established in 1971 under the aegis of the Government of India, the Jute Corporation of India Limited (JCI) serves as the official agency dedicated to ensuring minimum support prices (MSP) for jute cultivators.
JCI functions as the executing body for several Government of India initiatives aimed at enhancing the jute crop and the welfare of jute growers.
It operates under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Textiles.
The geographical reach of JCI spans seven states renowned for jute cultivation in India, including West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Orissa, and Andhra Pradesh.
With an authorized and paid-up capital of Rs. 5 crore, JCI plays a pivotal role in implementing the government's policy decisions, obligatorily purchasing any quantity of jute offered by growers at support rates without quantitative limitations.
Incurred losses during policy implementation by JCI are subject to reimbursement by the Government of India.

Rating agencies too subjective, loaded against India, need reform: CEA (Indian Express)

22 Dec 2023

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Credit rating agencies need to reform their sovereign rating process to correctly reflect the default risk of developing economies, saving billions in funding costs, the government’s chief economic adviser, V Anantha Nageswaran, said recently.

What is a Sovereign Credit Rating?

A Sovereign Credit Rating serves as an assessment of a government's ability to meet its debt obligations, with a lower rating reflecting higher credit risk.
Rating agencies typically consider multiple factors such as growth rate, inflation, government debt, short-term external debt as a percentage of GDP, and political stability.
A positive credit rating not only boosts credibility but also indicates a history of timely loan repayments, aiding banks and investors in evaluating loan applications and determining appropriate interest rates.
The global credit rating industry is dominated by three major agencies: Moody's, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch.
Despite India's ascent from the 12th to the 5th largest economy globally in 2023, with the second-highest growth rate among comparable economies, its credit ratings from S&P and Fitch stand at BBB, while Moody's rates it at Baa3—indicating the lowest investment-grade level.

Concerns Regarding Credit Rating Methodology:

A quantitative examination revealed that more than 50% of credit ratings rely on qualitative components.
Institutional Quality, predominantly gauged through the World Bank’s Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGIs), emerges as the primary factor influencing the credit rating of a developing economy.
This poses a challenge as these metrics are often non-transparent, perception-driven, and derived from a limited group of experts, making them inadequate in representing the sovereign's willingness to meet its financial obligations.
The non-trivial impact of these indicators on ratings implies that developing economies must exhibit progress along subjective indicators to secure a credit rating upgrade.

CEA's Suggestions for Credit Rating Reform:

The Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) proposed a shift towards primarily considering a country's historical debt repayment record as a key determinant of its 'willingness to pay,' in contrast to relying on potentially suboptimal qualitative information.
Embracing such a model would significantly enhance the credibility of Credit Rating Agencies (CRAs).
The use of qualitative information and judgment should only be a last resort when genuine, verifiable data options are unavailable.
If governance indicators are to be employed, they should be grounded in clear, well-defined, and measurable principles, steering away from subjective assessments by CRAs.
CRAs possess a comprehensive database of global best practices, influencing their judgments.
Sharing this knowledge with the countries they assess would empower sovereigns to take targeted actions to enhance their creditworthiness.

Kambala (Indian Express)

27 Nov 2023

Coming soon, a ‘Cafeteria’ for oil spill-hit birds at Ennore Creek (The Hindu)

22 Dec 2023

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Experts from the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and the Besant Memorial Animal Dispensary (BMAD) are planning to establish feeding stations for birds at the creek, where contamination due to an oil spill from industries in Manali has brought down the bird population drastically.

About Ennore Creek:

Ennore Creek, situated in Thiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu, is a backwater channel branching off from the Kosathalaiyar River.
It merges with the Bay of Bengal at Mugathwara Kuppam, while its northern channel links to Pulicat Lake, the country's second-largest brackish water lake.
For generations, this creek has been a lifeline for communities in the neighbouring villages, designated as CRZ IV (Water Body) in the coastal zone management plan by the Tamil Nadu State Coastal Zone Management Authority.
Its significance is heightened for local fisherfolk, alongside the Buckingham Canal and the broader Pulicat water system.
The Ennore Creek has historically fostered a robust aquatic ecosystem renowned for its biodiversity.
This ecologically sensitive area once boasted extensive mangrove swamps, contributing not only to sustainable fish resources but also playing a crucial role in flood mitigation during periods of heavy rainfall, high tides, and cyclones.

About the Wildlife Trust of India:

Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) is an Indian Non-profit Organisation (NGO) committed to nature conservation.
Motto: In Service of Nature
It was formed in November 1998, in response to the rapidly deteriorating condition of the country's wildlife.
Its mission is to:
- Conserve wildlife and its habitat and
- Work for the welfare of individual wild animals, in partnership with communities and governments.
WTI has earned recognition for accomplishing significant conservation milestones, including the recovery of populations for critically endangered species, successful species translocation, and the mitigation of human-animal conflicts.

How an AI tool can make weather forecasts more accurate and help tackle climate change (Indian Express)

22 Dec 2023

Why rain and flood woes have hit Tamil Nadu hard in December (Indian Express)

22 Dec 2023

Sangai Deer (Indian Express)

25 Nov 2023

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The Manipur Government has expressed its reservations to the Centre over a hydro-electric modernisation plan in the state’s famous Loktak Lake saying it could be detrimental to the endangered species of Sangai deer apart from disturbing the biodiversity of the lake.

About Sangai Deer:

The sangai is an endemic and endangered subspecies of Eld's deer found only in Manipur, India.
It is also the state animal of Manipur.
Its common English name is Manipur brow-antlered deer or Eld's deer and the scientific name is Rucervus eldii eldii.
It is believed to have originated from a common ancestor of the brow-antlered deer family, which is thought to have existed in the region during the Pleistocene epoch, around 12,000 years ago.
Its original natural habitat is the floating marshy grasslands of the Keibul Lamjao National Park, located in the southern parts of the Loktak Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in eastern India.
Appearance: is a medium-sized deer that is unique in appearance and behavior.
The Sangai deer is a slender and graceful deer, with long legs and a thin neck. They have a height of around 90-100 cm at the shoulder and can weigh between 70 to 120 kg.
Food Habits: The Sangai deer is primarily found in the marshy wetlands of the Loktak Lake in Manipur, where they feed on the vegetation growing on the floating biomass called “Phumdis.”
They are known to feed on a wide variety of plants, including grasses, sedges, and herbs.
Vulnerable Species: The Sangai is an endangered species and is listed in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
The population of Sangai deer has been severely threatened due to habitat loss, hunting, and poaching.
In the 1950s, the population of the Sangai deer was estimated to be around 600-700 individuals.
However, by the 1970s, the population had declined to less than 100 individuals due to extensive hunting and habitat loss.
The Government of India and the State Government of Manipur took several conservation measures, including the establishment of the Keibul Lamjao National Park in 1977, to protect and conserve the Sangai deer.
The Sangai deer is a social animal and is usually found in small herds of 2-20 individuals.
Protecting and conserving their natural habitats is one of the most effective ways to ensure the survival of these species.
This can be achieved through the creation and management of protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife reserves, and the restoration of degraded habitats.

Digital Twins (TOI)

25 Nov 2023

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Recently, the Survey of India (SoI) and Genesys International, a prominent Indian mapping company, revealed a strategic collaboration for the implementation of a three-dimensional (3D) digital twin-mapping initiative in India.

About Digital Twin:

Digital twins are digital representations of physical objects, people or processes.
They aid decision-making through high-fidelity simulations of the twinned physical system in real-time and are often equipped with autonomous control capabilities.
These replicas serve as dynamic and detailed counterparts, providing a real-time, data-driven simulation of their physical counterparts.
The concept of digital twins has gained prominence with the advent of technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), data analytics, and machine learning.
In essence, a digital twin continuously collects and processes data from its physical counterpart, offering a comprehensive view of its behavior, status, and interactions.
This real-time synchronization enables organizations to monitor, analyze, and understand the performance of physical assets or processes more effectively.

Applications:

Manufacturing Sector: One primary application of digital twins is in the manufacturing sector.
Manufacturers use digital twins to create virtual models of products and production processes.
This allows for simulation, analysis, and optimization before physical prototypes are built, leading to reduced development costs and improved product quality.
Healthcare: In healthcare, digital twins are employed to create personalized models of patients.
These models, based on individual health data, help in predicting health outcomes, optimizing treatment plans, and advancing medical research.
Transportation: Transportation industries utilize digital twins for optimizing logistics and predictive maintenance.
For example, digital twins of aircraft engines can simulate performance under various conditions, aiding in proactive maintenance and minimizing downtime.
Urban Planning: Urban planning benefits from digital twins by creating virtual models of entire cities.
This assists in designing and optimizing infrastructure, managing resources efficiently, and planning for future growth and development.
Industries: In industrial settings, digital twins of production processes enable real-time monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimization, leading to increased efficiency and reduced downtime.

Farlowichnus rapidus (The Hindu)

25 Nov 2023

Deepfakes (TOI)

25 Nov 2023

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The government has warned top social media and internet companies that their platforms may be temporarily suspended and even be ordered blocked in case they are unable to tackle the menace of deepfakes.

What are Deepfakes?

The term "deepfake" combines the concepts of deep learning with the fabrication of content.
Deepfakes involve the creation of synthetic images and audio using machine-learning algorithms, intending to disseminate misleading content by replacing a real person's appearance, voice, or both with artificially generated likenesses or voices.
These manipulated creations can either depict nonexistent individuals or simulate real people engaging in actions or utterances they never did.
Originating in 2017, the word "deepfake" emerged when a Reddit user named "deepfakes" shared explicit videos featuring celebrities.
The process of crafting deepfakes utilizes machine learning models employing neural networks to manipulate visual and auditory elements.
To generate a convincing deepfake video, creators train the neural network on extensive real footage of the targeted person, facilitating a realistic understanding of their appearance from various angles and lighting conditions.
This trained network is then combined with computer graphics to overlay the person onto a different actor.
Regrettably, this technology is increasingly exploited for malicious purposes, including scams, celebrity impersonation, election interference, social engineering, disinformation attacks, identity theft, and financial fraud.
The distinguishing factor of deepfakes lies in their challenging detection due to their sophisticated nature.

Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR) (Indian Express)

25 Nov 2023

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The annual tiger census in West Bengal’s Sundarbans is scheduled to commence on November 27.

About Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR):

Sundarbans Tiger Reserve (STR) is situated in the coastal districts of West Bengal, i.e. South 24- -Parganas and part in North 24-Parganas.
It lies at the southernmost extremity of the lower Gangetic delta bordering the Bay of Bengal.
It is one of the first nine Tiger Reserves declared under the Project Tiger scheme in the year 1973.
It is the only mangrove forest throughout the world (besides Bangladesh) to harbour a significant tiger population.
Borders: The Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is bound on the east by the international boundary with Bangladesh formed by the rivers Harinbhanga, Raimangal, and Kalindi.
On the south lies the Bay of Bengal.
The western border is formed by the river Matla, which acts as a common boundary with the territorial Forest Division of South 24- Parganas.
Towards the northwest, the area is bound by rivers Bidya and Gomdi.
The Sundarban Tiger Reserve is a part of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve.
It harbours significant populations of the river terrapin (Batagur baska), which was once believed to be extinct.
It is the nesting ground for marine turtles like Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), and Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata).
Flora: These comprise true mangroves or major elements, minor elements of mangroves or/and mangrove associates, shrubs, non-halophytic non-mangrove associates, halophytic herbs, shrubs, weeds, epiphytes, and parasitic plants.
Fauna: It is to a large number of endangered and globally threatened species like the tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrina), and estuarine crocodile (Crocodilus porosus), Gangetic (Platanista gangetica) and Irrawaddy Dolphin (Oracella brevirostris), king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah), water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator), etc.

Black-spotted Croaker, or the Ghol Fish (Indian Express)

24 Nov 2023

Psyche Mission (Indian Express)

24 Nov 2023

Mythimna Separata (DownToEarth)

24 Nov 2023

Investor Risk Reduction Access platform (Indian Express)

24 Nov 2023

Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (Financial Express)

24 Nov 2023

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Prime Minister announced the launch of two India-led initiatives: the Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository and a Social Impact Fund aimed at promoting the development of Social Impact Fund to advance Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in the Global South during the Virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit on 22nd November 2023.

About the Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository:

It was developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
It is an extensive resource center that combines knowledge and insights from G20 members and visiting countries.
Its primary objective is to fill the knowledge gap in the decision-making processes and methodologies necessary for designing, constructing, deploying, and governing Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs).
The GDPIR presents information in a standardized format from countries and organizations that have successfully implemented DPIs on a large scale.
This includes elements such as maturity scales, source codes (where available), and governance frameworks.
Currently, the GDPIR showcases 54 DPIs from 16 countries.
The DPIs from India featured in the GDPIR include
Aadhaar, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), eSanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), DigiLocker, Umang, Co-WIN, Government e-marketplace, API Setu, Diksha, E-Hospital and Poshan Tracker etc.

What about the Social Impact Fund?

The fund will financially support countries developing DPIs, providing “upstream technical and non-technical assistance”.
The platform allows other governments, international organisations, and philanthropies to contribute to the fund too.
India has pledged an initial commitment of $25 million (USD) to the fund.

Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary (The Hindu)

23 Nov 2023

Tantalum (NewsOnAir)

23 Nov 2023

Inter Command Ocean Sailing Race 2023 (NewsOnAir)

23 Nov 2023

Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) (Financial Express)

23 Nov 2023

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The AIM and NITI Aayog have recently introduced a new accelerator known as Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) aimed at providing support to startups in the circular economy sector in both Australia and India.

About Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE):

RISE, a collaborative initiative between Australia’s national science agency (CSIRO), and Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), the Government of India’s flagship initiative for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, is a dedicated accelerator.
This program is designed to support startups and small to mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India and Australia focusing on circular economy technologies and solutions.

Key Highlights:

Focus Themes: The RISE Accelerator targets startups in India and Australia engaged in circular economy technologies, specifically in:
Climate Smart Agriculture
Clean Energy
Circular Economy and Waste Management, and
Climate Smart Mobility.
Nine-Month Program: Over the course of nine months, the RISE Accelerator aims to assist startups in navigating early steps in a new region, establishing connections with the right partners, customers, and talent, and building credibility to succeed in international markets.
First Round Focus: In its initial round, the accelerator concentrates on supporting startups and SMEs involved in technologies and solutions related to waste and the circular economy.
Financial Support: Participating startups have the opportunity to receive up to INR 40,00,000 in non-equity grants.
Future Rounds: Subsequent rounds of the accelerator will shift focus to climate-smart agriculture, clean energy, and climate-smart mobility.

New Frog Species- Music Frog (The Hindu)

23 Nov 2023

Naval Anti-Ship Missile Short Range (NASM-SR) (TOI)

22 Nov 2023

Exercise Vajra Prahar 2023 (The Hindu)

22 Nov 2023

Risk weight (LiveMint)

22 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why is it in the News?

Spooked by the strong growth in unsecured loans to consumers, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased the cost of funds for banks and non-bank financial companies (NBFCs), by increasing the risk weight of such loans.

What are Risk Weights?

Every rupee lent by the bank is a cost or has an implication on its capital position.
Depending on the nature of the loan and the inherent risk associated with it, risk weights are attributed.
Banks have to ensure that their capital is enough to cover these risk-weighted assets.
Total assets as disclosed in the financials and total risk-weighted assets are different things.
Each asset class has varying risk weights.
For instance, risk weights for home loans could range from 50 percent to 75 percent, for gold loans it is 75 percent.
Corporate loans are charged 100 percent given the risk they carry.

How do they affect borrowers?

Lower the risk weight, and lower the rate of interest. This is the thumb rule.
Therefore, risk weights impact borrowers indirectly and are felt through the pricing of loans.
For instance, home loans have the lowest interest rate among retail products because lower risk weights allow banks to pass on the advantage of capital consumption.
Personal loans and credit cards have the highest interest rate because of their tenure and charge on capital.

Gambusia Fish (The Hindu)

22 Nov 2023

Tantalum (Indian Express)

22 Nov 2023

Government bans anti-cold drug combination for kids aged under four (Indian Express)

21 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has prohibited the use of anti-cold fixed drug combinations in children below four years of age.

What are Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) Drugs?

Fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs, also referred to as combination products, embody a formulation containing two or more active drugs within a single dosage form.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines a combination product as a composition involving a drug and a device, a biological product and a device, or a combination of a drug, device, and biological product.
While the conventional approach favours formulating drugs as single compounds, the acceptance of fixed-ratio combination products hinges on two key criteria:
Dosage Requirements: Each ingredient in the combination must meet the dosage criteria tailored to a specific population group.
Proven Advantages: The combination should demonstrate a clear advantage over administering individual compounds separately in terms of therapeutic effect, safety, or compliance.
FDCs have witnessed significant popularity in the Indian pharmaceutical market, experiencing notable growth in recent years.

About the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO):

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) serves as the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) in India, overseeing the medical devices industry per the Drugs & Cosmetics Rules.
Positioned under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, it is led by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) with its headquarters situated in New Delhi.
Operationalizing under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, CDSCO is entrusted with several crucial responsibilities, including the approval of new drugs, the facilitation of clinical trials, the establishment of standards for drugs, ensuring control over the quality of imported drugs, and coordination of activities among State Drug Control Organizations.
One of its significant roles lies in collaboration with state regulators for granting licenses related to specialized categories of critical drugs.
These encompass vital medical components such as blood and blood products, I.V. fluids, vaccines, and sera.
The CDSCO plays a pivotal role in upholding standards, ensuring quality, and fostering coordination across the regulatory landscape for the benefit of public health in India.

Why the UK banned Air France, Lufthansa, and Etihad ads over ‘greenwashing’ claims (Indian Express)

21 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

Earlier in December, the United Kingdom’s ad regulator banned advertisements from Air France, Lufthansa, and Etihad for allegedly misleading consumers regarding the environmental impact of air travel.

What is Greenwashing?

Greenwashing is the deceptive practice of creating a false impression or providing misleading information about the environmental sustainability of a company's products.
It involves making unverified claims to lead consumers to believe that a company's products are more environmentally friendly or have a more positive impact on the environment than is accurate.
Furthermore, greenwashing can occur when a company highlights the sustainable aspects of a product to divert attention from its involvement in environmentally harmful practices.
Companies may employ greenwashing tactics by using vague claims that lack substantiated data or scientific validation.
- For instance, a car vendor might assert that a vehicle is eco-friendly due to increased fuel efficiency, conveniently overlooking or downplaying the broader environmental impact of vehicle manufacturing processes.

What are the Concerns With Greenwashing?

The practice of greenwashing raises apprehensions on several fronts:

Authenticity of Climate Goals: There is a risk of undermining the authenticity of climate goals when misleading or exaggerated information about environmental initiatives is presented.
Unwarranted Recognition and Benefits: Entities involved in greenwashing may receive undeserved recognition or benefits, potentially rewarding irresponsible behaviour and discouraging genuine sustainability efforts.
Market Distortion: Greenwashing can distort markets by creating an uneven playing field.
- Entities engaging in deceptive practices might gain an unfair advantage over those genuinely adhering to stringent environmental standards.
Lack of Comprehensive Regulations: The absence of comprehensive regulations and standards for environmental claims allows greenwashing to persist without adequate scrutiny, contributing to a lack of transparency.
Challenges to Carbon Credit Systems: The practice of greenwashing introduces challenges to the integrity of carbon credit systems.
- This is particularly evident in informal markets, where the expansion of credit sources and certification by unofficial entities raise concerns about transparency and reliability.
It's crucial to note that in the context of carbon credits, one credit represents the removal of one metric ton of carbon dioxide or equivalent greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
The concept of carbon credits was introduced by the Kyoto Protocol, providing rewards to countries or firms surpassing emission reduction mandates.

Global Initiatives Addressing Greenwashing:

During the 27th Conference of Parties (COP27), the United Nations Secretary-General declared a zero-tolerance stance against greenwashing.
- Private corporations were urged to rectify their practices to align with genuine environmental efforts.
In a landmark move in October 2023, the European Union approved the world's first green bond standards.
These standards, under the "European Green Bond" label, mandate transparency and direct 85% of funds towards sustainable activities within the EU.
The legislation aims to support the EU's transition to climate neutrality.

Laws in India:

In India, greenwashing is classified as an unfair trade practice under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
- This legislation prohibits deceptive claims and outlines penalties and remedies for consumers adversely affected by such misleading practices.
In February 2023, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) issued guidelines for issuers of green debt securities.
- These guidelines are designed to ensure transparency, prevent greenwashing, protect investors, and regulate the development of the securities market.
The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), a voluntary self-regulatory organization, plays a crucial role in monitoring advertising practices.
- It holds jurisdiction over allegations of greenwashing, ensuring that ads are not only legal but also honest and fair.
- The ASCI's regulatory efforts aim to safeguard consumer interests and promote fair competition within the Indian advertising landscape.

Bhoomi Rashi Portal is revolutionizing land acquisition for Highway projects – Here’s how (Financial Express)

21 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari revealed in a recent statement to the Rajya Sabha that the Bhoomi Rashi portal is instrumental in expediting the development of highway infrastructure in India.

About the Bhoomi Rashi Portal:

The acquisition of land was done manually before the year 2018. The data files were moved physically, leading to some limitations. This included delays in issuing notices, errors in land details, etc.
To overcome the issues, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways came up with a system.
- It is known as “Bhoomi Rashi”.
The portal came into force on 1st April 2018
The system is digital and automates the whole land acquisition (LA) process.
It made and still makes the LA process more transparent and error-free.
The portal processes the notices at every stage on a real-time basis.

Key Objectives:

Acceleration of Land Acquisition: The primary goal is to facilitate a quicker and more efficient land acquisition process for National Highways.
Centralized Processing: Acting as a singular online platform, it consolidates the processing of land acquisition notifications, contributing to the swift development of highway infrastructure projects.
Transparency and Accountability: Ensures transparency and accountability throughout the land acquisition process.
Direct Benefit Transfer: Facilitates the electronic transfer of benefits directly to the accounts of the beneficiaries involved in the land acquisition.

Salient Features:

Bilingual application with Hindi and English for easy usability
Preparation of interface for adding basic details of the project, including land acquisition sanction details
Preparation of interface for Land Acquisition locations. villages
Preparation of Interface for Competent Authority for Land Acquisition (CALA) details. CALA is a revenue functionary of the State Government appointed for each NH Project.
Interface for generating land acquisition notification
Interface for land Details
Interface for generation of notification: organisational email IDS for all those involved in the process flow to ensure smooth e-office management
Interface for Objections and processing
Interface for compensation determination and finalisation
Interface for land owners and affected parties
Interface for reports generation

The portal is seamlessly integrated with the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) of the Ministry of Finance, ensuring real-time deposit of compensation into the accounts of affected/interested individuals.

What is Land Acquisition?

Land acquisition is the governmental process, whether at the state or union level, through which private land is procured for infrastructure development, urbanization, or industrialization.
In exchange, the government provides appropriate compensation to the landowner based on market value and assumes responsibility for the rehabilitation and resettlement of those affected by the land acquisition.

SAT quashes Sebi's order against Kishore Biyani, and others (Live Mint)

21 Dec 2023

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Why is it in the News?

The Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) on Wednesday quashed regulator Sebi's order banning Future Retail chairperson Kishore Biyani and some other promoters from the securities market for one year in an insider trading case.

About the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT):

Established as a statutory and autonomous entity under the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) Act, 1992, the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) serves as a crucial forum for adjudicating appeals against decisions made by SEBI or its adjudicating officers.

Key Functions:

Appeals Jurisdiction: Primarily tasked with hearing appeals against orders issued by SEBI or its adjudicating officers under the SEBI Act.
Extended Jurisdiction: Additionally, SAT entertains appeals concerning orders from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) and the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) related to cases filed before them.

Composition:

Presiding Officer: A retired or sitting Supreme Court judge, Chief Justice of a High Court, or a High Court judge with at least seven years of service.
Judicial Member: High Court judge with a minimum of five years of service.
Technical Member: Individual with expertise and a minimum of 15 years of experience in the financial sector, including securities market, pension funds, commodity derivatives, or insurance.
- This member can be a senior official in the Central or State Government or a person of proven ability and integrity.

Appointment and Tenure:

Appointments made by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India or its nominee.
- Presiding Officer and members serve a term of five years, eligible for reappointment for an additional term of up to five years.
- No member shall hold office after reaching the age of 70.

Powers and Authority:

They are empowered with the same powers as a civil court under the code of civil procedure when adjudicating suits.
- Appeals to SAT can be made by any person aggrieved by SEBI or adjudicating officer orders, excluding those made with the consent of all parties.

Appeals Process:

Appeals against SAT decisions can be filed in the Supreme Court, limited to questions of law.
- No appeal is permissible against orders made with the consent of all parties.
- The SAT, with its specific mandate and composition, plays a pivotal role in ensuring fairness and justice in the regulatory framework of the securities market in India.

What is Insider Trading?

Insider trading is the act of buying or selling securities of a publicly traded company based on material information not yet disclosed to the public.
Material information encompasses any data that could significantly influence an investor's decision to buy or sell the security.
- For instance, Consider a scenario where a government employee, possessing knowledge about an upcoming regulation that would favour a sugar-exporting company, takes advantage of this information by purchasing the company's shares before the regulation becomes public knowledge.

MSME Ministry launches 3 sub-schemes under RAMP programme; makes ZED scheme free for women (Financial Express)

21 Dec 2023

Chimaeras (The Hindu)

21 Nov 2023

Hard Currency (Financial Express)

21 Nov 2023

The E Prime Layer (HT)

21 Nov 2023

What is ROV ‘Daksh’? (HT)

21 Nov 2023

Atmospheric Waves Experiment (Indian Express)

21 Nov 2023

Rhododendron (The Hindu)

20 Nov 2023

Nitrogen-9 Nucleus (Indian Express)

20 Nov 2023

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Why is it in the News?

Researchers have found "compelling evidence" supporting the existence of the uncommon nitrogen-9 isotope. This discovery challenges previous interpretations and provides a fresh perspective on subatomic structures.

About Nitrogen-9 Nucleus:

Nitrogen-9 is a radioactive isotope of nitrogen.
This means that it is unstable and will eventually decay into a different isotope of nitrogen or a different element.
It is considered unusual because it has an uncommon combination of seven protons and two neutrons (7:2) in its atomic nucleus.
This creates an unusually high ratio of protons to neutrons.
Generally, elements have a balanced ratio for stability, but Nitrogen-9’s high proton content makes it less stable, challenging the conventional stability thresholds.
This oddity raises questions about its existence in this state and how it maintains stability, introducing complexity to our understanding of atomic nuclei.
The reason for nitrogen-9's short half-life is that the strong force, which is responsible for holding nuclei together, is not strong enough to overcome the Coulomb repulsion between the positively charged protons in the nitrogen-9 nucleus.
The discovery of nitrogen-9 is a major breakthrough in our understanding of nuclear physics.
It showed that nuclei with very high proton-to-neutron ratios can exist, even if they are only for a very short time.
This discovery has led to new research into the limits of nuclear stability and the role of nucleons (protons and neutrons) in holding nuclei together.

What is an Isotope?

An isotope is a variant of a chemical element that has the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons in its atomic nucleus.
This variance in neutron count results in different atomic masses for isotopes of the same element.
Isotopes of an element share similar chemical properties but may exhibit differences in physical properties, such as stability and radioactivity.

Onattukara Sesame (The Hindu)

20 Nov 2023

Freemartins (The Hindu)

20 Nov 2023

Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institutes (SATHI) Initiative (The Hindu)

20 Nov 2023

State of the Cryosphere Report 2023 (DownToEarth)

18 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

As per the 2023 State of the Cryosphere report, the anticipated disappearance of almost all tropical glaciers, a significant majority of mid-latitude glaciers, and polar regions is expected, even if global efforts successfully limit the rise in temperatures to 2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels.

About the State of the Cryosphere Report 2023:

The State of the Cryosphere Report annually assesses the condition of Earth's snow and ice regions, and has been reviewed and endorsed by over 60 leading cryosphere scientists.
This report is published by The International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI.)
The cryosphere is a term for the regions of our globe that are covered in ice and snow – either seasonally or year-round.
The Report describes how a combination of melting polar ice sheets, vanishing glaciers, and thawing permafrost will have rapid, irreversible, and disastrous impacts worldwide.

Key findings in the report on the impact of 2°C of warming include:

Ice sheets: nearly all of Greenland, much of West Antarctica, and even vulnerable portions of East Antarctica will be triggered to very long-term, inexorable sea-level rise.
Glaciers: extensive, irreversible ice loss from the world’s glaciers in many major river basins, with some disappearing entirely.
As glaciers melt, risks of catastrophic events such as landslides, sudden ice shears, and glacial lake outburst floods increase.
Sea ice: extensive sea ice loss at both poles, with severe feedback to global weather and climate.
By 2°C, the Arctic Ocean will be sea ice-free in summer every year, potentially for several months.
Permafrost: extensive permafrost thaw and resulting greenhouse gas emissions will cause temperatures to continue to rise, even once human emissions reach zero.
At 2°C, annual total permafrost emissions (both CO2 and methane) would total the size of the entire European Union’s emissions from 2019.
Polar ocean acidification: year-round, permanent corrosive ocean acidification conditions in many regions of Earth’s polar and near-polar seas.
Shell-building animals and commercial fisheries that rely on them in the food chain may not survive.

About International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI):

It was formed in 2009 following COP-15 in Copenhagen
ICCI is a network of senior policy experts and researchers working with governments and organizations to create, shape, and implement initiatives designed to preserve as much of the Earth’s cryosphere as possible.
ICCI programs target the unique climate dynamics at work in the cryosphere, while at the same time lending increased urgency to global climate efforts aimed at CO2 and other greenhouse gases by communicating the unexpected rapidity and global implications of cryosphere warming.

Dwarf Planet Eris (The Hindu)

18 Nov 2023

Card-on-File Tokenisation (CoFT) (Business Standard)

18 Nov 2023

Measles (Indian Express)

18 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

An estimated 11 lakh children in India missed their crucial first dose of measles vaccine in 2022, according to a report by the World Health Organization and US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus.
It is caused by the Morbillivirus of the Paramyxoviridae family.
It spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
It can cause severe disease, complications, and even death.
Measles can affect anyone but is most common in children.
Measles infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body.
Symptoms: Symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash all over the body.
Measles typically starts with a strong fever about 10 to 14 days after getting infected.
In the beginning, it starts with a runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks.
After a few days, a rash appears, usually on the face and upper neck.
This rash spreads over about three days, reaching the hands and feet, and lasts for five to six days before fading away.
Any non-immune person (not vaccinated or vaccinated but not developed immunity) can become infected.
If a woman catches measles during pregnancy, this can be dangerous for the mother and can result in her baby being born prematurely with a low birth weight.
Treatment: There is no specific treatment for measles.

Amazon Yellow Spotted River Turtle (The Hindu)

18 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

In the Peruvian Amazon, an extended heat wave and drought have shortened the incubation period for thousands of turtle hatchlings released into the river by biologists as part of a local environmental program.

About Amazon Yellow Spotted River Turtle:

This species is one of the largest South American river turtles.
It is characterized by its dark upper shell and yellow spots on the head, which fade with age.
They are considered side-necked turtles because they cannot pull their heads into their shells.

Native Habitat:

Yellow-spotted River turtles are native to the Amazon River basin and can be found in the Amazon and Orinoco river systems in Venezuela, eastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, northeastern Peru, the Guianas, Brazil and northern Bolivia.
These turtles spend time basking along the riverbanks and in the calm waters of big rivers and streams.
They avoid fast-moving waters.

Food/Eating Habits:

They are omnivorous, feeding on both vegetation and small animals.

Reproduction and Development:

Females lay their eggs in the peak of the dry season and the nests are sometimes destroyed by rising flood waters.

Sleep Habits:

The turtles are diurnal, meaning they are most active in mid-morning and afternoon.

Lifespan:

The oldest known yellow-spotted Amazon River turtle living in human care reached 23 years of age.
They can live up to 70 years.

Exercise MITRA SHAKTI (PIB)

17 Nov 2023

Sickle Cell Disease (TOI)

17 Nov 2023

Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) (Business Standard)

17 Nov 2023

Worldwide Governance Indicators (Indian Express)

17 Nov 2023

Wasp-107b (TOI)

17 Nov 2023

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme (TOI)

16 Nov 2023

Voice of Global South Summit (NewsOnAir)

16 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the second Voice of Global South Summit on November 17. This will be the second Voice of Global South Summit in less than a year hosted by India.

About ‘Voice of Global South Summit’ 2023:

India is hosting the ‘Voice of Global South Summit’ 2023 in virtual format.
The theme of the inaugural Leaders’ Session is "Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust” and that of the Concluding Leaders’ Session is "Global South: Together for One Future”.
The Summit will focus on sharing with the countries of the Global South, the key outcomes achieved in various G20 meetings over the course of India’s Presidency.
The Summit will serve as a platform to discuss ways to sustain the momentum generated toward the common aspiration of a more inclusive, representative, and progressive world order.

What is the Voice of Global South Summit?

Voice of Global South Summit has been India's endeavor to provide a common platform to deliberate on the concerns, interests, and priorities that affect the developing countries and also to exchange ideas and solutions, and most importantly, to unite in voice and purpose in addressing the concerns and priorities.
The initiative is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayaas, and is underpinned by India’s philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.
India will work to ensure that the valuable inputs generated from partner countries in the Voice of Global South Summit deliberations receive due cognizance globally.

What is Global South?

he term ‘Global South’ began by loosely referring to those countries that were left out of the industrialization era.
These countries had a conflict of ideology with the capitalist and communist countries, accentuated by the Cold War.
It includes countries that are in Asia, Africa, and South America.
‘Global South’ is just the opposite of ‘Global North’, defined essentially by an economic division between the rich and poorer countries.

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (The Hindu)

16 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the programme "Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra" across the country on November 15 to promote the Centre’s welfare schemes.

On the occasion of the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (15th Nov), marking the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra from Khunti, Jharkhand.

About Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra:

The central idea of Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra is to publicise schemes, to get data on those who have benefitted from these schemes, and to mark those who are eligible but haven't got the schemes yet.
It aims to cover over 2.55 lakh Gram Panchayats and over 3,600 urban local bodies by January 25, 2024, touching every district of the country.
Its focus will be on reaching out to people and creating awareness about the benefits of welfare schemes like sanitation facilities, essential financial services, electricity connections, access to LPG cylinders, housing for the poor, food security, proper nutrition, reliable healthcare, clean drinking water, etc.
Five specially designed IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) Vans has been flagged off marking the launch of the massive outreach programme of the government.
The IEC Vans have been branded and customised to enable dissemination of information through audio visuals, brochures, pamphlets, booklets, and flagship standees in Hindi and state languages showcasing the major schemes, highlights and their achievements at the national, state and district level.
The schemes being publicised include Ayushman Bharat, PMJAY, PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission, PM Awas Yojana (Rural), PM Ujjwala Yojana, PM Vishwakarma, PM Kisan Saman, Kisan Credit Card (KCC), PM Poshan Abhiyan, Har Ghar Jal - Jal Jeevan Mission, Survey of villages and mapping with improvised technology in village areas (SVAMITVA), Jan Dhan Yojana, Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Suraksha Bima Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana, PM PRANAM, Nano Fertiliser.
Since schemes are aimed at tribals, specific concerns of tribal areas such as the Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, Enrolment in Eklavya Model Residential Schools, Scholarship Schemes, Forest Right Titles, Individual and Community Land, Van Dhan Vikas Kendra, Organising Self Help Groups are also being addressed.
The officers in charge will make sure that they reach out to the tribals and give out information about schemes meant for them.

India International Science Festival (PIB)

16 Nov 2023

Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) (Indian Express)

16 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

India, the US, and 12 other members of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) on Wednesday entered into a supply chain resilience agreement that aims to cut dependence on China and help shift manufacturing of crucial goods to member nations.

About Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF):

The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) is an economic initiative launched by U.S. President Joe Biden in Tokyo on May 23, 2022.
The framework aims to strengthen economic cooperation among countries in the Indo-Pacific region, which is home to over 40% of the world's population and generates nearly 60% of global GDP.
Except Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, other Southeast Asian nations are a part of the IPEF.
It has currently 14 members including Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam.
The IPEF has four pillars:
Trade;
supply chains;
clean energy, decarbonisation and infrastructure;
tax and anti-corruption.
IPEF Significance: The IPEF is a significant development in the Indo-Pacific region.
It is the first major economic initiative launched by the United States in the region since the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations collapsed in 2017.
The IPEF is also unique in that it is open to all countries in the Indo-Pacific region, regardless of their economic development level.
India and IPEF: India has been actively involved in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) since its launch in May 2022.
The country has joined three of the four pillars of the framework: supply chains, clean energy, and fair economy.
However, India has not yet joined the trade pillar, which is the most sensitive and contentious pillar of the framework.
There are a number of reasons why India has been hesitant to join the trade pillar.
One concern is that the pillar could lead to tariff cuts on agricultural products, which would harm Indian farmers.
India is also concerned about the potential for the trade pillar to lead to increased data flows, which could raise privacy concerns.

Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TOI)

15 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

A dominant tiger named Bajrang said to have sired at least 50 cubs during his lifetime, recently died in a territorial fight with another powerful tiger, Chhota Matka, in the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR).

About Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve:

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is the oldest and largest National Park in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra.
It is one of India's 47 project tiger reserves existing in India.
The total area of the tiger reserve is 1,727 Sq.km, which includes the Tadoba National Park, created in the year 1955.
The Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary was formed in the year 1986 and was amalgamated with the park in 1995 to establish the present Tadoba Andheri Tiger Reserve.
The word 'Tadoba' is derived from the name of God "Tadoba" or "Taru," which is praised by local tribal people of this region, and "Andhari" is derived from the name of the Andhari river that flows in this area.
Tadoba is presently home to more than 115 tigers, which is one of the highest in India.
The vegetation of Tadoba forest is of Southern tropical dry deciduous type and is spread on around 626 sq. km.
Teak is the prominent tree species in the forest.
The Tadoba Tiger Reserve is rich in flora and fauna
Flora: Some of the famous and widely seen flora of this park include Teak, Ain, Bija, Bamboo, Black Plum, and many others.
Fauna: Tigers, Indian leopards, Sloth bears, Gaur, Nilgai, Striped Hyena, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Marsh Crocodile, etc.

Igla-S Missiles (TOI)

15 Nov 2023

INS Sumedha (Financial Express)

15 Nov 2023

Asian Development Bank (The Hindu BusinessLine)

15 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

The central government recently signed a USD 400 million policy-based loan with the Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support its urban reform agenda to create high-quality urban infrastructure, improve service delivery, and promote efficient governance systems.

About Asian Development Bank (ADB):

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank headquartered in Manila, Philippines.
It was established in 1966 to promote economic development and cooperation in Asia and the Pacific.
The ADB's primary goal is to reduce poverty in its member countries.
The bank provides loans, grants, technical assistance, and policy advice to its member countries.
It also mobilizes private sector investment through its private sector arm, the Asian Development Bank Private Sector Operations.
It has 68 member countries, including 49 countries in Asia and the Pacific, and 19 non-regional developed countries.
The ADB's annual lending volume is around $32 billion.
As of 2022, ADB's five largest shareholders are Japan and the United States (each with 15.6% of total shares), the People's Republic of China (6.4%), India (6.3%), and Australia (5.8%).
Source of Funding: It relies on member contributions, retained earnings from lending, and the repayment of loans for the funding of the organization.

The bank's strategy is focused on four key areas:

Promoting sustainable growth: The ADB is committed to supporting its member countries in achieving their sustainable development goals by financing infrastructure, clean energy, and climate change mitigation and adaptation projects.
Tackling poverty and inequality: The ADB is providing financing for education, health, social protection, and other programs that benefit the poor and vulnerable to reduce poverty and inequality in its member countries.
Strengthening regional cooperation: The ADB is promoting regional cooperation and integration in Asia and the Pacific.
The bank is supporting its member countries in developing regional infrastructure, trade, and investment projects.
Responding to crises and disasters: The ADB is helping its member countries prepare for and respond to crises and disasters by providing finances for disaster risk reduction and resilience projects.

One Station One Product’ scheme (New Indian Express)

15 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

The Indian Railway has established more than a thousand outlets in railway stations across the nation under its ‘One Station One Product’ (OSOP) initiative which aimed at providing a platform for skilled artisans to sell their indigenous products.

About One Station One Product’ (OSOP):

The OSOP scheme is a unique initiative by the Indian Railways and aims to provide livelihood opportunities through skill development to local artisans, potters, weavers, and craftsmen.
It was announced in the Union Budget 2022-23.
The scheme, designed by the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, provides distinctive outlets that give high visibility to indigenous products, benefiting local craftsmen.
Railways allot the outlets at its stations through a tendering process.
The scheme’s outreach measures include advertising, social media, public announcements, press notifications, and personal visits to artisans.
The products at these outlets range from artifacts and handicrafts to textiles and traditional appliances, indigenous to the region, and are crafted by local artisans or tribals.
They also include locally made or grown food products in processed or semi-processed forms.
It provides uniquely designed sale outlets for locals to sell indigenous products, and is now operational at 1,037 stations nationwide.

PM PVTG Development Mission (NewsOnAir)

14 Nov 2023

Cloud Seeding (LiveMint)

14 Nov 2023

GPS Anklets (Indian Express)

14 Nov 2023

Vadhavan Port (HT)

14 Nov 2023

Birsa Munda (New Indian Express)

14 Nov 2023

Saturn’s Rings (Earth.com)

13 Nov 2023

Exercise ‘CORPAT’ And ‘Bongosagar’ (NewsOnAir)

13 Nov 2023

India-OPEC Energy Dialogue (PIB)

13 Nov 2023

World Energy Outlook 2023 (IEA)

13 Nov 2023

AAINA Dashboard for Cities’ Portal (PIB)

13 Nov 2023

Attenborough's Long-beaked Echidna (The Hindu)

11 Nov 2023

5th Annual India- US ‘2+2’ Dialogue (The Hindu)

11 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

India and the U.S. on November 10 held extensive deliberations to further expand their global strategic partnership through greater defence industrial ties, enhancing engagement in the Indo-Pacific and boosting cooperation in key areas such as critical minerals and high technology.

Context:

The fifth annual ‘2+2’ dialogue between India and the United States is underway in New Delhi.
The U.S. delegation at the 2+2 ministerial talks was led by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh headed the Indian side.

What is the 2+2 Dialogue?

The 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, an annual diplomatic summit being held since 2018, brings together India's foreign and defence ministers with their US counterparts.
Its purpose is to address and collaborate on common concerns to enhance and strengthen India–United States relations.
A 2+2 ministerial dialogue enables the partners to better understand and appreciate each other’s strategic concerns and sensitivities taking into account political factors on both sides, in order to build a stronger, more integrated strategic relationship in a rapidly changing global environment.
India has 2+2 dialogues with four key strategic partners: the US, Australia, Japan, and Russia.
Besides Russia, the other three countries are also India’s partners in the Quad.
The US is India’s oldest and most important 2+2 talks partner.

Cell Broadcast Alert System (CBAS) (The Hindu)

11 Nov 2023

Phreatomagmatic Eruptions (TOI)

11 Nov 2023

Vampire Viruses (TOI)

11 Nov 2023

Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) (Indian Express)

10 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

Paris-based International Energy Agency highlighted India’s Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), 2017 as something that sets it apart from other developing economies where “energy efficiency in buildings stands out as a laggard”.

About Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC):

Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) Released by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).
It was first released in 2007 and again updated in 2017.
The purpose of ECBE is to set minimum energy standards for commercial buildings, with the objective of enabling energy savings of between 25 and 50% in compliant buildings.
Commercial buildings include hospitals, hotels, schools, shopping complexes and multiplexes which have a connected load of 100 kW or more, or contract demand of 120 kVA or more.
Also the code is for both new buildings and retrofitting existing buildings.
Assessment Parameters: The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) primarily looks at parameters like building design including envelope (walls, roofs, windows), lighting systems, and renewable energy integration among others.
Tagging of buildings: Compliant buildings are assigned one of three tags in ascending order of efficiency, namely ECBC, ECBC Plus, and Super ECBC.
23 out of 28 states have notified ECBC rules. But only 15 states have notified rules based on the latest ECBC,2017.
Five states — Gujarat, Maharashtra, J&K, Ladakh, and Manipur — are yet to notify ECBC rules.

Aurora (Indian Express)

10 Nov 2023

Bioluminescent Fungi 'Mycena Chlorophos' (The New Indian Express)

10 Nov 2023

Radiative Cooling Paint (The Hindu)

10 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

Researchers from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) have developed a radiative cooling paint, which is specifically engineered to cool structures like buildings, pavers, and tiles in hot weather conditions.

What is Radiative Cooling Paint?

Material Composition: Radiative Cooling Paint is composed of a mix of magnesium oxide (MgO) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), derived from easily accessible, cost-effective, and safe materials.
The optimized MgO-PVDF with dielectric nanoparticles resulted in a large solar reflectance of 96.3% and a record high thermal emission of 98.5% due to Mg?O bond vibrations, and other stretching/bonding vibrations from the polymer.
Cooling Mechanism: This paint stands out not only for its appearance but for its function.
It reflects nearly all of the sun's heat and emits a significant amount of its heat, effectively maintaining cooler surfaces.
Heat Management: Tailored for hot climates, it efficiently reduces the need for excessive electricity use to cool buildings during sweltering days.
Temperature Reduction: Once applied, it notably lowers surface temperatures by approximately 10 degrees under intense sunlight, surpassing the performance of regular white paint.
Application Ease: Additionally, it showcases water-resistant properties and excellent adhesion to various surfaces, simplifying the application process on structures like walls and roofs.

Green Firecrackers (The Hindu)

10 Nov 2023

Electoral Trusts (ET) Scheme (Indian Express)

09 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

After a three-day hearing, the Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on the challenge to the Central government’s Electoral Bonds Scheme.

About Electoral Trusts (ET):

As per Section 17CA of Income Tax Rules (1962), an Electoral Trust (ET) is a non-profit organization established for the orderly receipt of voluntary contributions from any person for distributing the same to political parties, registered under Section 29A of the Representation of People Act, 1951.
This Scheme was notified in January 2013 by the then UPA government.
Objective of Electoral Trust:
Electoral Trusts are designed to bring more transparency in the funds provided by corporate entities to the political parties.
The objective of an Electoral trust is not to receive any profit or pass on any direct or indirect benefit to its members or contributors.
An Electoral trust will distribute funds only to eligible Political parties.
These trusts are approved by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) in accordance with the Electoral Trust Scheme of 2013.
The ET may receive voluntary contributions from:
an Individual (citizen of India)
a Company registered in India
a Firm or HUF or Associations of Persons or Body of Individuals resident in India
The electoral trusts have to apply for renewal every three financial years.

INDUS-X Initiative (Financial Express)

09 Nov 2023

Palamu Tiger Reserve (TOI)

09 Nov 2023

Hermes 900 Star Liner (The Hindu)

09 Nov 2023

Stable Auroral Arc (SAR) (New Indian Express)

09 Nov 2023

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Why in the News?

In a rare phenomenon, researchers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have recorded the auroral activity that is normally witnessed over the North Pole- at Hanle and Merak in Ladakh through the all-sky cameras recently.

What is Stable Auroral Arc (SAR)?

An aurora is a glorious curtain of light that is usually seen at high latitudes like in the Scandinavian countries, and they are not expected to occur at lower latitudes.
They occur due to the interaction between the Earth’s magnetosphere and the incoming solar wind that carries charged particles and magnetic fields.
They are typically several hundred kilometers wide and can extend for thousands of kilometers.
A Stable Auroral Arc (SAR) is red in colour as opposed to the usual green-blue curtains of light seen from high latitudes.
It is a rare phenomenon and it was not exactly an aurora-like one witnessed from close to the North Pole.
SAR arcs are typically subvisual, meaning that they cannot be seen with the naked eye.
However, they can be detected using specialized instruments, such as photometers and spectrographs.
It was observed in Ladakh during a strong G3-class geomagnetic storm and this event was registered in many parts of the world.

'Pralay' Missile (The Hindu)

08 Nov 2023

Treaty of Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) (Indian Express)

08 Nov 2023

Krishi 24/7 7 (The Hindu Business Line)

08 Nov 2023

Vaigai Dam (The Hindu)

08 Nov 2023

Project Dolphin (The Hindu)

08 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

In an effort to conserve dolphins and their habitat, the Tamil Nadu government has issued orders to implement Project Dolphin under the Union government’s Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats scheme.

About Project Dolphin:

Project Dolphin is a national conservation initiative approved in 2019 during the first meeting of the Prime Minister-led National Ganga Council (NGC) and launched in 2021 to safeguard both riverine and oceanic dolphin species.
It's part of the larger Arth Ganga program, which is a government initiative.
It is modeled after Project Tiger, the successful conservation program that has played a significant role in the resurgence of tigers in India.
The Project Dolphin will strengthen the marine ecology and overall health of the marine Environment and will be implemented at a cost of Rs.8.13 crore.
The major habitats of the dolphins are found in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (Tamil Nadu).
The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change is responsible for implementing Project Dolphin.
The main goal is to ensure the long-term survival of these dolphins and, by extension, the overall health of the river's aquatic life.
The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) started a dolphin conservation program in 2016 to work towards this important mission.
Dolphins play an important role in keeping the marine environment in balance.
Dolphins worldwide face various natural and human-induced threats which include hunting, entanglement in fishing nets, overfishing, climate change, ship strikes, tourism activities, toxic contamination, noise pollution, oil and gas development, and habitat degradation.
The conservation of dolphins and their aquatic habitat through the use of modern technology by engaging with fishermen and other ocean-dependent populations is proposed under the project.
The project will focus on key activities including strengthening of protection activities through better patrolling anti-poaching activities and strengthening of the surveillance and patrolling teams with modern equipment and technology;
Rescue and rehabilitation activities through the strengthening of veterinary services, patrolling and training, etc;
Dolphin habitat improvement through the restoration of coastal eco-system like mangroves, corals, sea grass, etc;
Removal of ghost nets and reduction of pollution in coastal areas;
enhancing awareness through the celebration of “National Dolphin Day”

Euclid Mission (NASA)

07 Nov 2023

World Local Production Forum (WLPF) (PIB)

07 Nov 2023

Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) initiative (The Hindu)

07 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

The Indian Navy Chief Admiral recently stated that the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) effort demonstrates the commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

About the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) initiative:

Announcement: It was announced at the 2022 Quad Leaders’ Summit in Tokyo.
The primary objective is to track "dark shipping" and develop a more comprehensive, timely, and precise understanding of maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific region.
Geographic Coverage: IPMDA integrates three critical regions in the Indo-Pacific:
the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and the Indian Ocean region.
Purpose: IPMDA is a technology and training initiative aimed at enhancing maritime domain awareness in the Indo-Pacific.
It seeks to increase transparency in critical waterways in the region.
Technology Utilized: Innovative technology, including the collection of commercial satellite radio frequency data, is employed.
The goal is to provide partners across Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean region, and the Pacific with near real-time information on activities occurring in their maritime zones.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) (Indian Express)

07 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

As the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the National Capital Region reaches 'severe' levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage 4 measures from the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) recently.

What is the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)?

GRAP is a set of emergency measures that kick in to prevent further deterioration of air quality once it reaches a certain threshold in the Delhi-NCR region.
Approved in 2016 after the Supreme Court’s order in M. C. Mehta vs. Union of India (2016) and notified in 2017.
The Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority (EPCA) to implement GRAP measures till 2020.
However, the EPCA was dissolved and replaced by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in 2020.
From 2021, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), a statutory body responsible for implementing GRAP.
CAQM relies on air quality and meteorological forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
GRAP is incremental in nature and thus, when the air quality dips from ‘poor’ to ‘very poor,’ measures listed under both sections have to be followed.
Stage 1 of GRAP is activated when the AQI is in the ‘poor’ category (201 to 300),
Stage 2 is when it’s in the ‘Very poor’ category (301-400),
Stage 3 is when the AQI is the ‘Severe’ category (401-450) and finally
Stage 4 is when it rises to the ‘Severe +’ category (more than 450).

Global Landscape of Climate Finance 2023 (DownToEarth)

07 Nov 2023

Guindy National Park (The Hindu)

06 Nov 2023

Cnemaspis Rashidi (The Hindu)

06 Nov 2023

National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) (PIB)

06 Nov 2023

Zanzibar (Indian Express)

06 Nov 2023

GST Amnesty Scheme (TOI)

06 Nov 2023

Pavana River (TOI)

04 Nov 2023

Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) (HT)

04 Nov 2023

Adaptation Gap Report 2023 (DownToEarth)

04 Nov 2023

Lucy Mission (NASA) (Indian Express)

04 Nov 2023

World Food India 2023 (HT)

04 Nov 2023

ENCORE (NewsOnAIR)

03 Nov 2023

Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary (New Indian Express)

03 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

In a first-of-its-kind, over 50 grass species were identified during a two-day workshop and survey on ‘Grasses Identification and Grassland Management’ at the Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary in the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR).

About Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary:

Location: It is located in the Kurnool & Prakasam of Andhra Pradesh with an area of 1194 sq km.
Located between two important hill passes known as "Mantralamma kanuma" and "Nandi kanuma".
The Northern part of this Sanctuary forms a major part of the Southern boundary for Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve.
River: The Gundlakamma River stretches across the sanctuary.
It also has many, mesic sites and ancient rock formations.
Indicator Species: Tiger, Panther, Wild dog, Bats, Fig trees.
It was declared a wildlife sanctuary on September 18, 1990.
Forest Type: Dry mixed deciduous forest, moist dry deciduous, semi-evergreen, dry deciduous scrub forest and dry savannahs.
Flora: The forest is an adobe to medicinal plants of which 10 are critically endangered, 21 are Endangered and 27 species are vulnerable.
The plants like Madhuca longifolia, Dellenia pentagyna, Aristolochia indica, Terminalia arjuna, Pithecolobium ducle, Adina cordifolia, Vanda spp; etc; thrive here.
Fauna: Wildlife like Tiger, Leopard, Flying squirre. angur, jungle cat, panther, tiger, mouse deer, hyena, bonnet monkey etc; are found here.

Hydroclimate Extremes (PIB)

03 Nov 2023

UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) (TOI)

03 Nov 2023

Bletchley Declaration 2023 (Indian Express)

03 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

The United Kingdom hosted a major Artificial Intelligence (AI) meeting, bringing together political leaders and technological professionals to explore the potential benefits and risks of this fast-evolving technology.

About the Bletchley Declaration:

The Bletchley Declaration provides a comprehensive overview of the worldwide perspective on the potential benefits and risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI).
It underlines the necessity of aligning AI systems with human intentions and encourages a deeper exploration of AI's full capabilities.
Furthermore, the document acknowledges the potential for significant harm caused by AI, whether intentional or unintentional, including the possibility of catastrophic consequences.
The Bletchley Declaration places great emphasis on safeguarding human rights, promoting transparency, ensuring explainability, upholding fairness, ensuring accountability, establishing regulation, prioritizing safety, incorporating human oversight, adhering to ethical standards, addressing bias issues, safeguarding privacy, and protecting data.
This document is a reflection of the intricate negotiations between nations with differing interests and legal systems, encompassing countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and China.
The Bletchley Declaration highlights the crucial role of civil society in addressing AI safety concerns, despite some criticism from civil society groups that felt excluded from the summit.
It also places a significant responsibility on companies engaged in the development of cutting-edge AI systems, emphasizing the need to ensure their safety through rigorous testing, evaluation, and the implementation of appropriate measures.

Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) (The Hindu)

02 Nov 2023

India’s First ‘City Of Literature’ (NewsOnAir)

02 Nov 2023

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary (The Hindu)

02 Nov 2023

State Food Safety Index (SFSI) (Indian Express)

02 Nov 2023

Future Leaders Scholarship Programme (Indian Express)

02 Nov 2023

One Nation, One Registration Platform (The Hindu)

01 Nov 2023

Tamil Lambadi Embroidery (The Hindu)

01 Nov 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

For almost 60 years, the Porgai Artisan Association Society has been producing and distributing embroidered clothing in an effort to raise awareness of the art form and ensure that it is passed down to future generations.

About Tamil Lambadi Embroidery:

The Lambadi community has a long-standing tradition of practising Lambadi embroidery.
This craft is used to embellish their clothing and household items and it holds significant cultural and identity value for the Lambadis.
Traditionally, Lambadi women use colourful cotton threads to create intricate embroidery on cotton and silk fabrics.
Embroidery Designs: The traditional Lambadi embroidery designs are characterized by geometrical patterns, including squares, rectangles, and circles.
These designs have also been influenced by elements from the local environment, such as forests, birds, fruits, and flowers.

Facts About the Lambadi Community:

They are also known as Lambadis or Banjaras.
Historically they are nomadic tribes, originating from Afghanistan and settling in regions including Rajasthan, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
They also assisted Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in transporting goods in the 17th century.
Speak 'Gor Boli' or 'Lambadi,' which is often written in Devanagari or local languages.
Many members of the Lambani community are bilingual or multilingual to communicate in the predominant language of their region in India.
The elderly women within the Lambadi community continue to wear the Petia, a traditional five-piece dress.
The Petia is made using Mushru silk from Kutch, showcasing the enduring connection to their heritage and craftsmanship.

Black Stork (TOI)

01 Nov 2023

Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) 'Prachand' (The Hindu)

01 Nov 2023

India’s First ‘City Of Literature’ (Money Control)

01 Nov 2023

Digital Health Incentives Scheme (DHIS) (NewsOnAir)

05 Aug 2023

Spike Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) Anti-tank Guided Missiles (TOI)

05 Aug 2023

Perucetus colossus (Indian Express)

05 Aug 2023

Study in India (SII) portal (Indian Express)

05 Aug 2023

Great Nicobar Island Project (DownToEarth)

05 Aug 2023

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Why in the News?

According to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change's statement in the Rajya Sabha, approximately 964,000 trees are expected to be cut down for the implementation of the Great Nicobar Island Project.

About Great Nicobar Island Project:

Ministry:
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Implementing Agency:
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO).
The project is a massive undertaking with a budget of ?72,000 crore and is spearheaded by NITI Aayog, known as NITI Aayog's Project for Great Nicobar Island.
Objective:
The primary goal of the project is to achieve holistic development for the Great Nicobar Island (GNI).
The project's vision is to transform the Great Nicobar Island, situated in the Bay of Bengal, into a modern, sustainable, and self-sufficient territory, thus facilitating the comprehensive development of Great Nicobar.

The plan comprises four key components:

A transshipment port at Galathea Bay with an investment of ?35,000 crore.
Development of a dual-use military-civil international airport.
Establishment of a power plant.
Creation of a township to support the overall project.

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) (TOI)

04 Aug 2023

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Why in the News?

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has reported that three private sector satellite manufacturers plan to launch their earth observation satellites during this fiscal year.

About Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe):

IN-SPACe serves as a single-window, independent, and autonomous agency within the Department of Space (DOS).
It was established as part of the Space sector reforms to encourage and facilitate the active involvement of private players in the space industry.
IN-SPACe's responsibilities include promoting, enabling, authorizing, and supervising various space activities of non-governmental entities, such as manufacturing launch vehicles and satellites, providing space-based services, and utilizing space infrastructure and facilities.
Acting as an intermediary between ISRO and Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs), the agency assesses opportunities for leveraging India's space resources effectively and enhancing space-based initiatives.
Also, IN-SPACe addresses the specific needs and demands of private players, including educational and research institutions, while working in collaboration with ISRO.
The headquarters of IN-SPACe is located in Bopal, (Ahmedabad).

Samudrayaan (IndiaToday)

04 Aug 2023

Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN (Jaiv Indhan- Vatavaran Anukool fasal awashesh Nivaran) Yojana (PIB)

04 Aug 2023

Himalayan vulture bred (The Hindu)

04 Aug 2023

CHD1L gene (DownToEarth)

04 Aug 2023

Lunar Codex (The Guardian)

03 Aug 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

The Lunar Codex program has the potential to bestow immortality upon an assorted collection of human-created art.

About Lunar Codex:

The Lunar Codex is a remarkable collection of art curated by artists worldwide, intended to endure on the lunar surface as a timeless testament to human creativity, even amid tumultuous times like wars, pandemics, and economic crises.
At the helm of this endeavor is Samuel Peralta, a semi-retired physicist and art enthusiast from Canada.
Comprising diverse forms of digitized art, the Lunar Codex will be dispatched to the moon to serve as a permanent record of human ingenuity. Memory cards and NanoFiche, an updated 21st-century version of film-based microfiche, guarantee the safe arrival of these artistic expressions to the lunar surface.
Carefully assembled from contributions by 30,000 artists, writers, filmmakers, and musicians representing 157 countries, the collection spans an array of art forms, including images, magazines, books, podcasts, movies, and music.
The art is divided into four capsules:
The first capsule, the Orion collection, has already encircled the moon after being launched aboard NASA's Artemis 1 mission via the Orion spacecraft last year.
In the months ahead, multiple lunar landers will transport the Lunar Codex capsules to distinct locations, including craters at the moon's South Pole and the lunar plain known as Sinus Viscositatis, ensuring the enduring legacy of human creativity on Earth's celestial neighbor.

JALDOST airboat (The Hindu)

03 Aug 2023

Iberian wolf (DownToEarth)

03 Aug 2023

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Why in the News?

As per the regional government, the Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus) has been declared extinct in the historical region of Andalusia, located in the southernmost part of Iberia, since the year 2020.

About the Iberian Wolf:

The Iberian wolf is a subspecies of the Grey wolf, distinguished by its prolonged isolation from other wolf populations for over a century.
With the largest wolf population in Western Europe, this magnificent species is native to the Iberian Peninsula, encompassing Spain and Portugal.
Thriving in diverse habitats, Iberian wolves inhabit forests, inland wetlands, shrublands, grasslands, pastures, and mountainous areas.
These wolves lead a social lifestyle, living, hunting, and traveling in small packs.
Each pack includes the alpha male and female, along with their young and older offspring.
The alphas serve as the pack leaders, responsible for establishing territory, selecting den sites, tracking down, and hunting prey.
Primarily carnivorous, the Iberian wolf's diet comprises various animal species.
With regard to conservation, the Iberian wolf holds the status of "Vulnerable" according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Schemer (Indian Express)

03 Aug 2023

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) (Indian Express)

03 Aug 2023

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Why in the News?

The Telangana High Court's division bench recently conveyed its discontentment over the absence of specific information regarding measures taken to manage the outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in cattle.

What is Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD):

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is a highly infectious viral disease that affects cattle, ranging from acute to chronic in nature.
It is caused by the lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV), belonging to the genus Capripoxvirus within the poxviridae family (related to smallpox and monkeypox viruses), but it is not zoonotic, meaning it does not spread to humans.
Symptoms of LSD include the enlargement of lymph nodes, resulting in lumps on the cattle's skin, primarily appearing on the head, neck, limbs, udder, genitalia, and perineum.
The cutaneous nodules, usually 2–5 cm in diameter, may develop into ulcers and scabs over time.
Other signs of infection include high fever, reduced milk yield, nasal and ocular discharge, salivation, loss of appetite, depression, damaged hides, emaciation, infertility, and abortions.
Transmission occurs through blood-feeding insects such as certain flies, mosquitoes, and ticks, as well as the movement of affected animals and contaminated equipment.
Direct animal-to-animal transmission can also occur in some cases.
While no direct antiviral treatment is available for LSD, supportive care is provided to infected animals, including the use of antibiotics, painkillers, and wound care sprays to alleviate symptoms.
Vaccines are used to control disease transmission, as there is no specific cure.
LSD is economically significant as it can lead to temporary reductions in milk production, temporary or permanent sterility in bulls, hide damage, and, in some instances, fatalities among the affected cattle population.

ZARTH App (The Hindu)

02 Aug 2023

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Why in the News?

The Center for Data-Driven Discovery at the California Institute of Technology has recently unveiled the ZARTH app, enabling smartphone users to actively search for transients.

What is ZARTH App?

ZARTH (ZTF Augmented Reality Transient Hunter) combines the excitement of an augmented reality mobile game with serious scientific pursuits. This innovative app empowers users to engage in real science while enjoying a gaming experience.

Key Features:

Leveraging the open-source Sky Map, the ZARTH app integrates daily data from the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) at California's Palomar Observatory.
The Palomar Observatory houses the prestigious 200-inch Hale reflector, one of the world's oldest and most powerful telescopes.
The ZTF conducts bi-daily scans of the entire northern sky, generating crucial large-area sky maps with applications in tracking near-earth asteroids and studying supernovae.
Each day, the ZARTH app receives real-time data on transients detected by the ZTF, including flaring stars, white dwarf binaries, active galactic nuclei, and other intriguing types.
Transients are ranked based on rarity and significance, fostering a competitive environment among players who strive to earn points and daily credits displayed on leaderboards.

Offshore Areas Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023 (Indian Express)

02 Aug 2023

eSanjeevani (India's Integrated Telemedicine Solution ) (Indian Express)

02 Aug 2023

Infrastructure investment trust (InvIT) (Business Standard)

02 Aug 2023

Tags:

Why in the News?

The government is actively developing a proposal to introduce a new Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) dedicated to national highways. This initiative aims to enable domestic retail investors to own units of the trust, expanding opportunities for individual investors to participate in highway infrastructure projects.

What is Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT)?

An Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) functions as a Collective Investment Scheme, offering a pathway for both individual and institutional investors to directly invest in diverse infrastructure projects.
Operating akin to mutual funds, InvITs are established as trusts and undergo registration with Sebi (Securities and Exchange Board of India).
InvITs involve four key parties:
the Trustee, Sponsor(s), Investment Manager, and Project Manager. The Sebi-certified Trustee assumes the crucial role of overseeing the InvIT's performance. Meanwhile, the Sponsor(s) act as the company's promoters responsible for creating and setting up the InvIT.
Overall, InvITs present an attractive investment option, as they allow investors to participate in the development of vital infrastructure projects while enjoying the benefits of a collective investment structure similar to mutual funds.

What is NHAI InvIT?

NHAI InvIT is an infrastructure investment trust proudly sponsored by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to bolster the government's National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP) initiative.
This Trust has been established by NHAI in accordance with the Indian Trusts Act, of 1882, and adheres to the regulations set forth by SEBI (Security and Exchange Board of India).
The NHAI InvIT plays a vital role in supporting the nation's infrastructure development by providing a platform for investors to participate in highway projects' growth and monetization.
Through this innovative investment vehicle, NHAI aims to tap into private and institutional investments to enhance the funding and execution of critical infrastructure projects across the country, ultimately contributing to India's overall economic progress.

TransLunar Injection (TLI) (The Hindu)

02 Aug 2023

National Digital Nagrik Forum (Indian Express)

01 Aug 2023

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Why in the News?

The forum by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) aims to raise awareness about digital regulations and help build the capacities of citizens to engage with innovation via expert sessions and instructional materials.

About the National Digital Nagrik Forum:

The National Digital Nagrik Forum is an online platform with the primary goal of advancing the rights of traders, consumers, and various sections of society, while also influencing policy to foster the growth of the digital trade economy.
Through expert sessions and instructional materials, the forum aims to raise awareness about digital regulations and empower citizens to engage with innovation effectively.
The main objective is to shape policy discourse around the digital economy trade in India, aligning with the Government of India's vision of establishing a trillion-dollar digital economy.
Simultaneously, it seeks to maintain an open, safe, trusted, and accountable Internet ecosystem.
The forum will conduct awareness camps, digital and physical dialogues, and training sessions.
It will also engage in targeted outreach to stakeholders from the government, private sector, and civil society.
The National Digital Nagrik Forum will concentrate on five core themes:
The first pillar focuses on consumer protection and online safety, with a central emphasis on efficient grievance redressal mechanisms.
The second pillar addresses the challenges of digital cartelization, advocating for a level-playing field to discourage discriminatory and anti-competitive practices in the online world.
The third pillar explores the potential of Indian digital technologies to transform retail and industrial trade, while also contributing to employment growth and expanding investment opportunities.
The fourth pillar advocates for a first principles-based taxation policy that fosters certainty and productivity, especially for sectors with high growth potential. It simultaneously works to prevent illegal activities like tax evasion and money laundering.
The fifth pillar conducts research on emerging technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence to assess their impact on retail trade and ensure the protection of consumers' interests.
The National Digital Nagrik Forum aims to make significant contributions towards shaping a vibrant digital economy in India, fostering fair trade practices, and safeguarding the interests of both consumers and traders.

Room-temperature Superconductor (The Hindu)

01 Aug 2023

Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) (The Hindu)

01 Aug 2023

Cell-free DNA (The Hindu)

01 Aug 2023

Cocos (Keeling) Islands (The Hindu)

01 Aug 2023

Worldcoin Project (The Hindu)

31 Jul 2023

Voyager 2 Spacecraft (HT)

31 Jul 2023

GOBARdhan Initiative (PIB)

31 Jul 2023

ULLAS Initiative (PIB)

31 Jul 2023

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In New Delhi, the logo, slogan "Jan Jan Sakshar," and mobile application of ULLAS were recently unveiled by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister of Education and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

About the ULLAS Initiative:

The ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative, holds the potential to revolutionize education and literacy nationwide.
Its primary objective is to create a learning ecosystem that reaches every individual, bridging the gaps in basic literacy and essential life skills.
Targeting citizens aged 15 and above who missed the opportunity to attend formal schooling, the initiative imparts basic education, digital and financial literacy, and critical life skills.
Implementation is driven by volunteerism, emphasizing community participation.
The slogan of the initiative is "ULLAS: Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram."
To support its goals, the ULLAS app was launched, designed with user-friendliness and interactivity in mind.
Available on both Android and iOS platforms, the app serves as a digital gateway for learners to access a diverse range of learning resources through the DIKSHA portal of NCERT.
The ULLAS app facilitates the registration of learners and volunteers, either through self-registration or with the assistance of surveyors.
Significance:
This app plays a crucial role in promoting functional literacy, vocational skills, and vital life skills such as financial literacy, legal literacy, digital literacy, and empowering citizens to actively participate in nation-building efforts.
Furthermore, the ULLAS Initiative nurtures a culture of continuous learning and knowledge-sharing within communities across India, fostering a brighter future for the nation.

Parkachik Glacier (Indian Express)

31 Jul 2023

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According to a recent study by scientists from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, the rapid ice melt of the Parkachik Glacier in Ladakh is anticipated to lead to the formation of three glacial lakes.

Regarding the Parkachik Glacier:

The Parkachik Glacier, stretching 14 km in length and covering approximately 53 square km, stands as one of the largest glaciers in the Suru River valley.
This valley is situated within the southern Zanskar Ranges of the western Himalayas.
The glacier's accelerated melting can be attributed to two primary factors.
Firstly, the effects of global warming and rising temperatures in the area contribute to this phenomenon.
Secondly, its lower altitude compared to other glaciers in the Zanskar region also plays a significant role in the rapid melting process.
Also, its relatively lower altitude compared to other glaciers in the Zanskar region contributes to its vulnerability to melting.

Important details about the Zanskar Ranges:

Location:
Zanskar is a high-altitude semi-desert situated on the Northern flank of the Great Himalayan Range.
Climatic Influence:
The Zanskar Ranges serve as a climatic barrier, shielding Ladakh and Zanskar from much of the monsoon weather. Consequently, the region experiences a pleasantly warm and dry climate during the summer months.
Flora:
The lower reaches of Zanskar's valleys harbor most of its vegetation, primarily consisting of alpine and tundra species.
Fauna:
Zanskar is home to diverse wildlife, including marmots, bears, wolves, snow leopards, kiangs (Tibetan wild asses), bharals (Himalayan blue sheep), alpine Ibex, wild sheep and goats, and the impressive lammergeier, also known as the bearded vulture.

National Coal Index (AIR)

27 Jul 2023

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The National Coal Index (NCI) has shown a significant decline of 33.8 per cent in May this year at 157.7 points compared to May last when it was at 238.3 points. It indicates a strong supply of coal in the market, with sufficient availability to meet the growing demands.

About National Coal Index:

Launch Date:
The National Coal Index was introduced in the year 2020.
Ministry:
Developed under the purview of the Ministry of Coal, India.
The esteemed Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, played a key role in creating the index as part of India's transition away from coal.
Price Index:
It serves as a price index, reflecting changes in the price level of coal during a specific month relative to the fixed base year.
Objective:
The primary objective of the National Coal Index is to offer an accurate reflection of the market price of coal.
Base Year:
The base year for the index is 2017-18.
Inclusive Prices:
The price index amalgamates coal prices from various sales channels, including Notified Prices, Auction Prices, and Import Prices.
The National Coal Index combines coal prices from all sales channels, including notified prices, auction prices and import prices.
It serves as a reliable indicator of market dynamics, providing valuable insights into coal price fluctuations.
The National Coal Index (NCI) has shown a significant decline of 33.8% in May 2023 compared to May 2022, which suggests significant reduction in coal prices.
This indicates a strong supply of coal in the market, with sufficient availability to meet the growing demands.

Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition (RECEIC) (Indian Express)

27 Jul 2023

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Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav on Thursday launched a Resource Efficiency Circular Economy Industry Coalition (RECEIC), conceptualised under India’s G20 Presidency, to promote the practices of resource efficiency and circular economy globally.

About Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition (RECEIC):

RECEIC was launched in 2023 at Chennai, Tamil Nadu, with the honorable presence of Shri Bhupender Yadav, Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
The launch event witnessed the participation of distinguished guests, including the Commissioner on Environment from the European Union and esteemed Ministers from Canada, France, Italy, Denmark, Mauritius, and the United Arab Emirates.
Industry-Driven Initiative:
RECEIC is an industry-led initiative with a primary goal of fostering global resource efficiency and circular economy practices.
Embracing the circular economy model, RECEIC promotes production and consumption practices involving sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling materials and products to maximize their utility.
Sustainable Impact:
The coalition is envisioned to be a self-sustaining entity, committed to lasting environmental sustainability, beyond India's G20 Presidency.
Founding Members:
With 39 companies headquartered in 11 different countries, the coalition boasts a diverse group of founding members.
As a collaborative platform, RECEIC fosters knowledge-sharing, best practice exchange, and the adoption of sustainable approaches among participating industries.

Millipede species (India Today)

27 Jul 2023

Rare ‘Ureilite’ Meteorite (Weather Channel)

27 Jul 2023

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Recently, a team of scientists from Allahabad University and the University of Bern, Switzerland, made an intriguing discovery. They unveiled that the Dhala crater was formed by the impact of an exceedingly uncommon and ancient meteorite called Ureilite.

Key Facts About Ureilite:

Ureilite is an extraordinary type of meteorite, characterized by its rarity, making up only a minuscule portion of the meteorites found on Earth.
The name "Ureilite" originates from the location of its first discovery, the Novo Urei village in Russia.
Composition:
Ureilites are primarily composed of silicate rock, with olivine and pyroxene being the dominant minerals.
They also contain a smaller fraction of carbon, which can be in the form of either diamond or graphite, along with metal sulphides and a few fine-grained silicates.
Elongated cavities are commonly found, typically oriented in the same direction.
Lack of Chondrules:
Unlike many other stony meteorites, ureilites do not contain chondrules, which are small, spherical grains that formed in the early solar system.
Primitive Nature:
Ureilites are regarded as primitive meteorites because their composition closely resembles the material from which the solar system originated.
Their unique characteristics offer valuable insights into the early stages of our cosmic environment.

About Dhala Crater:

Dhala Crater holds significance as India's oldest and largest impact crater, with an estimated formation age of approximately 2500 million years.
Named after the village Dhala, it remains an eroded remnant of the original impact structure.
Situated in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, the crater boasts an impressive size, spanning a massive 11 km in diameter, making it the largest impact crater in Asia.

Urea Gold (ET)

27 Jul 2023

INDIAai (ET)

26 Jul 2023

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In a recent development, INDIAai and Meta India entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to create a collaborative framework for cooperation and partnership in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies.

About INDIAai:

INDIAai, the National artificial intelligence Portal of India, was launched on 28th May 2020 as a comprehensive platform.
It serves as a knowledge portal, research organization, and ecosystem-building initiative.
Its primary aim is to foster unity and encourage collaborations within India's AI ecosystem by bringing together various entities.
This joint initiative is supported by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), and NASSCOM.
NeGD, established in 2009 under the Digital India Corporation (a not-for-profit company set up by MeitY), plays a crucial role in this venture.
NASSCOM, a prominent not-for-profit industry association, serves as the apex body for India's IT and IT-enabled products and services sector.
INDIAai functions as the central knowledge hub for artificial intelligence and related fields, catering to aspiring entrepreneurs, students, professionals, academics, and all other stakeholders in the domain.

What is Artificial intelligence (AI)?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science: It involves the development of intelligent machines that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence.
Machine Learning and Algorithms: AI systems utilize machine learning algorithms to process vast amounts of data, learn from it, and improve their performance over time without explicit programming.
Applications in various fields: AI finds applications in diverse domains, including natural language processing, image recognition, robotics, healthcare, finance, and autonomous vehicles, among others. Its goal is to mimic human cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, reasoning, and decision-making.

Hike in US Federal Reserve Interest and Impact on Indian Economy (Live Mint)

26 Jul 2023

Conjunctivitis (India Today)

26 Jul 2023

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India has been witnessing a sharp increase in eye infections, specifically conjunctivitis. Amid heavy rainfall, Delhi and nearby areas have reported multiple cases of conjunctivitis.

About Conjunctivitis:

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye," is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids. It can affect one or both eyes and is a highly contagious condition.

Causes of Conjunctivitis:

Bacterial Infection: Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae, can cause bacterial conjunctivitis.
Viral Infection: Viruses, including adenoviruses, can lead to viral conjunctivitis. This form of conjunctivitis is highly contagious and is often associated with colds or respiratory infections.
Allergies: Allergic conjunctivitis occurs due to an allergic reaction to substances like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or certain medications.
Irritants: Exposure to irritants like smoke, chemicals, or foreign objects in the eye can cause irritant conjunctivitis.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis:

Redness of the eyes
Watery or thick, yellowish discharge from the eyes
Itchiness or burning sensation in the eyes
Sensitivity to light
Crusty eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning (more common in bacterial conjunctivitis)
Swelling of the conjunctiva
Blurred vision

Treatment:

The treatment of conjunctivitis depends on its underlying cause:
Bacterial conjunctivitis: Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections.
Viral conjunctivitis: Since it is caused by a virus, antibiotics won't work. The symptoms are often relieved with supportive measures like artificial tears, cold compresses, and good hygiene practices to prevent spreading.
Allergic conjunctivitis: Avoiding allergens is essential. Antihistamine eye drops or oral medications can help alleviate symptoms.
Irritant conjunctivitis: Removing the irritant and using artificial tears can help soothe the eyes.

Prevention:

To prevent the spread of conjunctivitis, one should follow these measures:
Frequent handwashing.
Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes.
Avoid sharing towels, pillowcases, or eye makeup with an infected person.
Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of conjunctivitis.

Hematene (PIB)

26 Jul 2023

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A new and remarkably efficient optical limiter has been developed by researchers, utilizing a novel 2D material known as 'hematene.'

About Hematene:
Nanoflakes of a material called hematene extracted from iron ore have been found capable of withstanding and acting as a shield from high laser intensities.
Hence it could be used to make devices called optical limiters that can protect sensitive optical equipment from light-induced damage.
Radiation from laser sources is highly concentrated and powerful and can be detrimental to sensitive equipment such as sensors, detectors, and other optical devices.
When the input intensity increases optical limiters control the amount of light that passes through, thereby preventing damage to the optical component.
These devices are often useful in laser technologies, military, telecommunications, aircraft, and scientific research in several ways.
The MESO (Materials for Energy Storage and Optoelectronic Devices) Group of the Department of Physics, Sanatana Dharma College, Alappuzha, in collaboration with the Ultrafast and Nonlinear Optics Lab of the Raman Research Institute, Bangalore, has come up with a new and highly efficient optical limiter using a novel 2D material, ‘hematene’.
They found that 2D nanoflakes of hematene, a material extracted from iron ore or hematite are capable of withstanding very high laser intensities, and they exhibited excellent optical limiting of green laser light (532 nm) while maintaining a high linear transmission (about 87%) for low-intensity light.
The nanoflakes of lateral dimensions less than 10 nm, prepared by applying ultrasonic waves to hematite in a liquid medium ( facile exfoliation process) for a definite period to exfoliate the 2D nanoflakes of hematene were also found to be highly stable after year-long storage under ambient conditions, indicating tremendous potential as an optical limiter for futuristic applications.
This research work carried out at SD College using the instrumentation facility procured through the Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure (FIST) programme of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) programme, was recently published in ACS Applied Optical Materials.

Maitree Super Thermal Power Project (STPP) (ET)

26 Jul 2023

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The synchronization of the 660-MW unit-2 of the 1,320-MW Maitree Super Thermal Power Project (STPP) with the electricity grid in Bangladesh was recently announced by the state-owned engineering firm Bharat Heavy Electricals.

Location:
It is situated in Rampal, in the Bagerhat district of Bangladesh's Khulna division.
It will be one of the biggest coal-fired power plants in Bangladesh, along with the Payra Power Plant in Pataukhali, which commenced test production in January 2020.
Capacity and Cost:
The power station has a capacity of 1320 MW (2x660 MW) and is estimated to cost around $2 billion.
Financing Plan:
The project is being developed under India's tax concessions finance plan, aiming to enhance Bangladesh's national grid by an additional 1320 MW.
Financed through a £1.3bn ($1.6bn) loan from the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of India.
Implementing Entity:
India’s Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is responsible for constructing the power plant on behalf of Bangladesh-India Friendship Electricity Company Private Limited (BIFPCL).
Commercial Operation:
The first unit of the super thermal power plant is expected to commence commercial operation in early October, representing a significant milestone in the growing cooperation between India and Bangladesh in the power industry.
Future Expansion:
In the subsequent year, the power plant's Unit-II, also known as the Rampal coal-fired power project, is scheduled for implementation.

Ichamati River (PIB)

06 Oct 2023

NanoPtA (The Hindu)

06 Oct 2023

BlueWalker 3 Satellite (The Hindu)

06 Oct 2023

Yak Churpi (TOI)

06 Oct 2023

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Arunachal Pradesh, a northeastern state, achieved a noteworthy milestone as the distinctive and culturally important yak milk product known as 'Yak Churpi' has received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

About 'Yak Churpi':

Yak Churpi is a special dairy product crafted from the milk of the indigenous Arunachali yak breed.
It's produced by Brokpas, tribal yak herders who migrate with their yaks to higher altitudes (above 10,000 ft) during summers and return to mid-altitude mountainous areas in winters.
These exceptional yaks are primarily found in the West Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
Churpi is a naturally fermented dairy item with a high protein content.
It plays a vital role in the diets of tribal communities living in the cold, mountainous regions of the state.
It's often used as a vegetable substitute and is a common ingredient in vegetable and meat dishes, frequently enjoyed with rice.
The GI tag for Yak Churpi has significant benefits, including the conservation of yaks and the improvement of the socio-economic status of yak herders.
Arunachali yaks are unique in terms of their body characteristics, size, strain, and weight, making them the only registered yak breed in India.

National Turmeric Board (NTB) (PIB)

06 Oct 2023

PM Modi flags off RRTS: What is this mass transport system, and how it can benefit NCR (Indian Express)

20 Oct 2023

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The inauguration of the first segment of India's Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), the country's inaugural mass rapid transit system designed for regional connectivity, will be officiated by the Prime Minister of India.

About the Regional Rapid Transit System:

The RRTS is an integrated mass transit network with semi-high-speed rail connectivity at its core.
It aims to promote "balanced and sustainable urban development" throughout the National Capital Region (NCR) by improving connectivity and access.
The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), a joint venture of the Central government and the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, is building it.
It is modeled after systems such as Paris' RER, Regional-Express trains in Germany and Austria, and SEPTA Regional Rail in the United States, among others.
The project will develop eight corridors, three of which are currently under construction:
- the 82-kilometer Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut,
- the 164-kilometer Delhi-Gurugram-SNB-Alwar, and
- the 103-kilometer Delhi-Panipat corridors
The importance of this system:
The RRTS network is faster when compared to metros
- It will serve commuters who need to cover relatively longer distances across the NCR in a short amount of time.
When compared to Indian Railways, the RRTS train will cover shorter distances but at a higher frequency and with greater comfort than the average railway coach.

List Niemann-Pick as a rare disease, parents of young patients (TOI)

20 Oct 2023

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Recently, parents of children with Niemann-Pick disease urged the Union government to notify the disease under the National Policy for Rare Diseases.

About Niemann-Pick Disease:

Niemann-Pick Disease is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the buildup of harmful substances in the body's cells and organs.

Genetic Basis: It is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that both parents must carry a mutated gene for their child to develop the disease.
Types: There are several types of Niemann-Pick Disease, with types A and B being more common and types C and D being rarer.
Lipid Accumulation: The disease is primarily characterized by the abnormal accumulation of lipids, specifically sphingomyelin, in various tissues and organs.
Symptoms: Symptoms vary depending on the specific type of Niemann-Pick Disease but can include hepatosplenomegaly (enlarged liver and spleen), neurological problems, and lung issues.
- Type A: Niemann-Pick Disease Type A typically presents in infancy and can lead to severe neurological problems, making it a life-limiting condition.
- Type B: Niemann-Pick Disease Type B generally has a later onset and primarily affects the liver and spleen, with milder or absent neurological symptoms.
- Type C and D: Type C and D are characterized by cholesterol metabolism issues and can lead to neurological symptoms.
- Type C, in particular, can present with cognitive decline and movement problems.
Treatment: There is currently no cure for Niemann-Pick Disease, but treatments aim to manage symptoms and may include enzyme replacement therapy, medications, and supportive care.

Niemann-Pick Disease is a complex condition with various subtypes, and the severity and specific symptoms can differ significantly among affected individuals.

Mangaluru | Archaeologist discovers inscription announcing the death of King KulashekaraAlupendra I at Someshwara (The Hindu)

20 Oct 2023

ISRO’s Gaganyaan TV-D1 test flight tomorrow: Everything you need to know (Indian Express)

20 Oct 2023

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The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is preparing to launch its first-ever test flight, TV-D1, for the Gaganyaan mission, marking a watershed moment in the country's pursuit of human spaceflight.

About the TV-D1 Mission:

Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1 (TV-D1) will assess the crew module's readiness for the Gaganyaan mission.
It is a single-stage liquid rocket designed specifically for this abort mission.
The payloads include the Crew Module (CM) and Crew Escape Systems (CES) with their fast-acting solid motors, as well as the CM fairing (CMF) and Interface Adapters.
This flight will simulate the abort condition encountered during the Gaganyaan mission's ascent trajectory, which corresponds to a Mach number of 1.2.
The Crew Escape System is designed to operate automatically at various altitudes if the onboard computer detects any problems.

One nation, one student: Educationists apprehensive of APAAR student ID card scheme (Indian Express)

20 Oct 2023

Lok Sabha passes Advocates (Amendment) Bill to weed out touts from court complexes(The Hindu)

05 Dec 2023

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The Lok Sabha recently passed a Bill that seeks to regulate the legal profession by targeting “touts”, with Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal asserting there should be no role of such persons in courts.

About the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023:

The Rajya Sabha introduced the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023, in August 2023.
This bill amends the Advocates Act of 1961, specifically repealing certain sections related to touts under the Legal Practitioners Act of 1879.
The 1961 Act consolidates laws regarding legal practitioners and establishes Bar Councils and the All-India Bar.
Having already passed in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session, the bill aims to regulate the legal profession through a single act with a focus on addressing the issue of touts.

Key Features of the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2023:

Touts: High Courts, district judges, sessions judges, district magistrates, and revenue officers are empowered to create and publish lists of touts.
- A tout is defined as a person who either seeks or secures the employment of a legal practitioner in legal matters for payment or frequents specific locations to obtain such employment.
- The Court or judge has the authority to bar any person listed as a tout from the premises of the Court.
Preparation of Lists: Authorities with the power to create tout lists may instruct subordinate courts to conduct inquiries into individuals suspected or alleged to be touts.
- If proven, the person's name can be included in the list, ensuring due process is followed before inclusion.
Penalty: Individuals acting as touts while being listed can face imprisonment up to three months, a fine up to Rs 500, or both.

Will India reassess its position on China-backed Asian trade bloc RCEP? (Business Standard)

05 Dec 2023

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India is keeping a watchful eye on its neighbour countries’ recent deliberations to join the China-backed Asian trade bloc, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), although the government is yet to “re-evaluate” the position it took four years ago.

What is Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)?

RCEP, or the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, is a proposed agreement involving ASEAN member states and their free trade agreement partners.
Introduced in 2011, negotiations started in 2012, aiming to finalize the deal by November 2019.
After the withdrawal of India, there are 15 members of RCEP, which includes 10 ASEAN countries and 5 other countries, namely:
- Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
RCEP's objective is to establish an integrated market, facilitating the availability of products and services across the region.
- The negotiations cover trade, investment, intellectual property, dispute settlement, e-commerce, SMEs, and economic cooperation.
Initially proposed by Beijing in 2012 to counter the Trans-Pacific Partnership, RCEP became a key tool for China after the U.S. withdrew from the TPP in 2016.
India chose not to sign the RCEP in 2019 due to concerns about its industries competing with China and potential flooding of Indian markets.
Despite some sectors anticipating gains, India emphasized the need for a deal favorable to all countries and sectors.

SC pulls up Bhopal municipal corporation for flouting Solid Waste Management Rules (DownToEarth)

05 Dec 2023

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There is non-compliance with the provision of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 by the Bhopal Municipal Corporation, the Supreme Court observed December 1, 2023 after going through the affidavit filed by the corporation.

What is About Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA)?

The Supreme Court of India, in 2001, mandated the creation of the Compensatory Afforestation Fund and the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
- Initially, an ad-hoc CAMPA was established in 2006 to manage the Compensatory Afforestation Fund.
(CAMPA) are meant to promote afforestation and regeneration activities as a way of compensating for forest land diverted to non-forest uses.
National CAMPA Advisory Council has been established as per orders of The Hon’ble Supreme Court with the following mandate:
- Lay down broad guidelines for State CAMPA.
- Facilitate scientific, technological and other assistance that may be required by State CAMPA.
- Make recommendations to State CAMPA based on a review of their plans and programmes.
- Provide a mechanism to State CAMPA to resolve issues of an inter-state or Centre-State character.

CAMPA Act:

To address the loss of forest area and ensure sustainability, the Government of India introduced the CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) Act.
This legislation establishes the National Compensatory Afforestation Fund in the Public Account of India and a State Compensatory Afforestation Fund in the Public Account of each state.
These funds receive payments for compensatory afforestation, net present value of forests (NPV), and other project-specific payments.
The National Fund gets 10% of these funds, while the State Funds receive the remaining 90%.
As per the Act, companies diverting forest land must provide alternative land for compensatory afforestation.
For afforestation purposes, companies are required to pay for planting new trees in the alternative land provided to the state.

Houthi attacks on vessels in Red Sea sound alarm for global trade (Financial Times)

05 Dec 2023

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Shipowners have called for more military protection on maritime routes in the Middle East after attacks by Iran-backed rebels in the Red Sea sparked fears of new disruptions to global trade, including of energy supplies.

Key Facts the about Red Sea:

The Red Sea is a semi-enclosed inlet of the Indian Ocean situated between Africa and Asia.
It stands out as one of the warmest seas globally.
Connecting to the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean through the Gulf of Aden and Bab El-Mandeb strait to the south, it is divided by the Sinai Peninsula into the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez in the north.
- The Gulf of Suez is linked to the Mediterranean Sea via the famous Suez Canal.
The Red Sea is bordered by Yemen and Saudi Arabia to the east, while Egypt is to the north and west, and Sudan, Eritrea, and Djibouti are to the west.
Covering an area of about 438,000 km2, it stretches approximately 2,250 km.
The sea's maximum width is 355 km, and its deepest point, the central Suakin Trough, reaches 3,040 m, with an estimated average depth of 490 m.
Notable islands in the Red Sea include Tiran Island near the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba and Shadwan Island at the entrance of the Gulf of Suez.

Meghalaya’s Lakadong turmeric gets GI Tag (Northeast Live)

05 Dec 2023

Quantum Dots (QDs) (The Hindu)

05 Oct 2023

Swamp Deer (NewsOnAIR)

05 Oct 2023

Bojjannakonda (The Hindu)

05 Oct 2023

Haploclastus Nilgirinus (The Hindu)

05 Oct 2023

National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) (The Hindu)

05 Oct 2023

Basohli Pashmina is Recognized with GI Tag (HT)

04 Oct 2023

United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (PIB)

04 Oct 2023

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Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai attends the two-day conference to mark the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crimes (UNTOC) at Palermo in Italy.

About the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC):

NTOC, established by the United Nations in 2000, is a global treaty targeting transnational organized crime.
It's often referred to as the Palermo Convention.
It has 147 signatories and 190 parties to the convention.
The Convention is complemented by three Protocols:
Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women, and Children
Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea, and Air
Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, their Parts, and Components, and Ammunition.
India signed UNTOC and its three Protocols on December 12, 2002.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is the primary agency responsible for all interactions related to UNTOC.

Exercise SAMPRITI (PIB)

04 Oct 2023

International Coral Reef Initiative (NewsOnAIR)

04 Oct 2023

R21/Matrix-M vaccine (The Hindu)

04 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

The WHO has given its thumbs-up to the R21 vaccine, the second malaria vaccine they've recommended, following the RTS, S/AS01 vaccine, which got their approval in 2021. Right now, the WHO is closely examining this vaccine for prequalification, which is like their gold seal of approval. Once it's prequalified, organizations like GAVI (a global vaccine alliance) and UNICEF can purchase the vaccine from the manufacturers.

About the R21/Matrix-M Vaccine:

It's a new vaccine designed to protect children from malaria.
The University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India developed it, with support from the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), the Wellcome Trust, and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
This vaccine is a game-changer as it's the first one to meet the WHO's target of 75% effectiveness.
Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Nigeria have already given the green light for its use.
In early 2024, these African countries will start administering the vaccine, and by mid-2024, it will be available in other countries too.

Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0 (PIB)

03 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

Recently, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions introduced the upgraded version of the Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS 2.0).

About the Intelligent Grievance Monitoring System (IGMS) 2.0:

IGMS 2.0 is a digital platform and Automated Analysis in Tree Dashboard portal, under the purview of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
Implementation of this system has been entrusted to IIT Kanpur.

Key Objectives:

The Dashboard provides real-time tabulated analysis of both filed and resolved grievances, offering insights at state, district, and ministry levels.
It assists in identifying the underlying causes of grievances.
Additionally, this portal streamlines the creation of draft letters for specific schemes or ministries, expediting the grievance resolution process within the respective ministries and departments.
IGMS 2.0 is equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities, enhancing its functionality.

Sanwariya Seth Temple (PIB)

03 Oct 2023

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) (DownToEarth)

03 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

As per the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development's Review of Maritime Transport 2023, international shipping witnessed a notable increase of 20 percent in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2023 compared to the previous decade.

Key Highlights from the Review:

The shipping industry plays a pivotal role, accounting for over 80 percent of global trade volume, yet contributes nearly three percent of total global greenhouse gas emissions.
Containerized trade, after a 3.7 percent decline in 2022, is projected to grow by 1.2 percent in 2023 and is expected to further expand by three percent from 2024 to 2028.
Oil and gas trade exhibited robust growth in 2022, with tanker freight rates experiencing a significant resurgence driven by geopolitical developments.

About the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD):

UNCTAD serves as the United Nations' primary institution addressing trade and development matters.
Established in 1964 by the United Nations General Assembly, it functions as a permanent intergovernmental body.
UNCTAD's mission is to promote equitable and effective access to the benefits of a globalized economy for developing countries.
It offers economic and trade analysis, fosters consensus-building, and provides technical assistance to assist developing nations in leveraging trade, investment, finance, and technology for inclusive and sustainable development.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, UNCTAD publishes influential reports, including the Trade and Development Report, the World Investment Report, and The Least Developed Countries Report.

National Service Scheme Awards (PIB)

03 Oct 2023

Sastra Ramanujan Prize (The Hindu)

03 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

Ruixiang Zhang, an Assistant Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, USA, will receive the prestigious 2023 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize in recognition of his exceptional achievements in the field of mathematics.

About the SASTRA Ramanujan Prize:

Established in 2005, the SASTRA Ramanujan Prize is an esteemed mathematical award.
It is annually presented by SASTRA University, located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, on December 22, Ramanujan's birth anniversary.
This accolade is reserved for mathematicians worldwide who are under the age of 32 and are engaged in research influenced by the legendary Srinivasa Ramanujan.
The age limit of 32 is a tribute to Ramanujan's remarkable achievements within a short lifespan.
The prize includes a cash award of $10,000 along with a citation.
It has earned global recognition and prestige since its inception.
Notable past recipients of the prize include mathematicians Manjul Bhargava and Akshay Venkatesh.

Ruixiang Zhang's Contributions:

Ruixiang Zhang, a young mathematician, has made significant contributions across various mathematical domains, including analytic number theory, combinatorics, and Euclidean Harmonic Analysis, among others.
Based on his doctoral work at Princeton, Zhang, in collaboration with Shaoming Guo, successfully demonstrated a multivariable extension of Vinogradov's Mean Value Theorem.
This groundbreaking work, published in Inventiones Mathematicae in 2019, is celebrated as a major milestone in the field.

Sycamore tree (Indian Express)

02 Oct 2023

Greater sand-plover (The Hindu)

02 Oct 2023

Pygmy hog (The Hindu)

02 Oct 2023

Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (Indian Express)

02 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has recently issued a notice to the State regarding a public interest litigation petition. This petition aims to request a directive to limit the access of individuals and vehicles into the Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.

About Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve:

Location: Situated in the Southern Western Ghats within the Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu.
Established as a Tiger Reserve in 1988.
Comprises three primary sanctuaries:
Kalakad Sanctuary
Mundanthurai Sanctuary, and
A portion of Kanyakumari Sanctuary.
The core area of the sanctuary is the Agastya Malai Hill Range, nestled between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
This range is part of one of the world's 18 biodiversity hotspots.
Often referred to as the 'River Sanctuary,' it serves as the source for as many as 14 rivers.
Terrain: Characterized by undulating landscapes with numerous valleys and porous rock formations.
Vegetation:
Varies from thorny shrub jungles to lush evergreen forests.
Apart from forests, the reserve also includes savannah woodlands, grasslands, and even tea and coffee plantations.
Flora: Notable species encompass Sarcandra, Paphiopedulum druryi, Hopea parviflora, Hopea utilis, Calophylum elatum, Cullenia exarillata, and more.
Fauna: Home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, rusty spotted cats, wild dogs, sloth bears, elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, spotted deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri langurs, slender lorises, bonnet macaques, lion-tailed macaques, among others.

Sela Tunnel Project (Times of India)

02 Oct 2023

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Why in the News?

The officials from BRO (Border Roads Organization) recently announced that they have almost finished about 96 percent of the work on the strategically important Sela Tunnel. It's expected to be officially opened by the end of this year.

About Sela Tunnel Project:

Location: Situated in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
When it's finished, the Sela tunnel will be the world's longest two-lane tunnel, located at an altitude above 13,000 feet.
Its purpose is to provide year-round connectivity between Guwahati in Assam and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.
This tunnel is being constructed underneath the Sela Pass as part of NH-13, a segment of the Trans-Arunachal Highway system.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is responsible for its construction under Project Vartak, which began on April 1, 2019.
Project Details:
Tunnel 1: This tunnel is 980 meters long and has a single tube.
Tunnel 2: A two-lane tunnel that spans 1555 meters, equipped with an emergency escape tunnel.
Roads: The road leading to Tunnel 1 is 7100 meters long, the road connecting the two tunnels is 1340 meters long, and the road leading to Tunnel 2 is 340 meters in length.

FINANCIAL ACTION TASK FORCE (FATF) (Business Standard)

31 Oct 2023

ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY (The Hindu)

31 Oct 2023

CRAB PLOVER (The Hindu)

31 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, for the first time, breeding nests of crab plovers were spotted at Great Vedaranyam Swamp near Point Calimere, Tamil Nadu.

Facts About:

The Crab-Plover is a distinctive bird found along the coasts of the Indian Ocean.

It stands out with its long legs and striking black-and-white colouration.

This bird belongs to the plover family and is closely related to other shorebird species.

Unlike most shorebirds, the Crab-Plover lays white eggs.

Their chicks stay inside burrows until they are ready to fledge, which sets them apart from other shorebirds.

Distribution: They can spotted in various places around the Indian Ocean, as they are residents in these regions.

They breed in places like the Arabian Sea in Pakistan, the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, Somalia, the Andaman Islands, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Madagascar.

Habitat: Crab Plovers make their homes in a variety of coastal environments, including sandy coastlines, mudflats, estuaries, lagoons, exposed coral reefs, and rocky shorelines. During the breeding season, they can also be found in sand dunes.

Conservation Status: The Crab-Plover is categorized as 'Least Concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Additionally, it falls under the protection of the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).

CARBON NANOFLORETS (The Hindu)

31 Oct 2023

AGARTALA-AKHAURA RAIL LINK PROJECT (Indian Express)

31 Oct 2023

AMANGARH TIGER RESERVE (TOI)

30 Oct 2023

BRU REFUGEES (The Hindu)

30 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The Bru refugees have been granted permanent settlement in Tripura as part of a centrally sponsored rehabilitation arrangement, which means they won't be taking part in Mizoram elections for the first time.

Facts About:

The Bru refugees, also known as Reang, are an indigenous community primarily residing in the Northeast of India, particularly in Tripura, Mizoram, and Assam.

In Tripura, they hold the status of a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group, recognized by the government.

Ethnically, they can be classified into two main clans, Meska and Molsoi, and they belong to the Indo-Mongoloid racial stock.

Their languages are affiliated with the Austro-Asiatic groups within the Tibeto-Burman family.

They speak a language called "Kaubru," which shares some tonal features with the Kuki language, although it broadly falls under the Kok-Borok dialect.
Occupation-wise, they continue to maintain their nomadic traditions, with a significant number of them engaged in Hilltop Jhum Cultivation and various food-gathering activities.
Their beliefs encompass a belief in spirits and the existence of the soul.
Religiously, they follow Hinduism, with most of their deities being akin to gods and goddesses of the Hindu faith.

Traditionally, they practice endogamy, not marrying outside their community.

In their cultural tradition, the village council chief, known as "RAI," has the authority to approve divorce and widow marriages.

MAHABALI TUG (PIB)

30 Oct 2023

THE SUBSURFACE WATER ICE MAPPING (SWIM) PROJECT (TOI)

30 Oct 2023

EJECTA HALO (Indian Express)

30 Oct 2023

NATIONAL TIGER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY (NTCA) (PIB)

29 Oct 2023

LOWER SUBANSIRI HYDROELECTRIC POWER PROJECT (HT)

29 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The Lower Subansiri Hydro Electric Power project in Assam encountered a major problem when a significant landslide completely blocked its sole operational diversion tunnel, causing a substantial interruption in water flow through the river.

Facts About:

This is the country's biggest hydroelectric project to date.

It is a run-of-river project on the Subansiri River.

The Project is situated close to North Lakhimpur, which marks the boundary between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
Capacity: 2000 MW.
Up to 7.4 billion kWh of electricity will be produced there each year.
Along with building a concrete gravity dam rising 116 meters above the riverbed, the project also entails building a surface powerhouse.

The dam will be 284 meters in length.

The powerhouse is situated in the Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, whereas the dam is situated in the Dhemaji district of Assam.
It is being developed by the state-owned National Hydro Power Corporation (NHPC).
Finance: A term loan was used to finance 30% of the project's debt in addition to 70% equity.
The budgetary support provided by the central government is a component of the equity component.

NASA-ISRO SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR (NISAR) (TOI)

29 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The 'NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar' (NISAR) is set to enable the investigation of how changes in Earth's forest and wetland ecosystems affect the worldwide carbon cycle and exert an influence on climate change.

Facts About:

NASA and ISRO collaborated to develop the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) observatory known as NISAR.

It's about the size of an SUV and weighs 2,800 kilograms.

It is a dual-frequency imaging radar satellite, having both L-band and S-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) instruments.
The first satellite mission to measure variations in the surface of our planet will be NISAR, which will use two distinct radar frequencies (L-band and S-band).

No matter the weather, SAR can gather data day or night and penetrate clouds to gather information.

NASA has contributed GPS, an L-band radar, a payload data subsystem, and a high-capacity solid-state recorder for data storage.

ISRO on the other hand supplied the S-band radar, as well as the GSLV launch system and spacecraft.

Additionally, it has a sizable 39-foot stationary antenna reflector with an upward-facing feed on the instrument structure that will be used to focus "the radar signals emitted and received."

The reflector is constructed of gold-plated wire mesh.

The mission's objectives are to measure the dynamic surfaces, ice masses, and changing ecosystems of Earth in order to gather data on groundwater, biomass, natural hazards, and sea level rise.
NISAR is going to perform global 12-day regular observations of Earth's land and ice-covered surfaces during ascending and descending passes.

SEISMIC SWARM/EARTHQUAKE SWARM (The Hindu)

29 Oct 2023

TALAGIRISVARA TEMPLE (The Hindu)

29 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The ancient Pallava period paintings at Talagirishwara temple in Panamalai, Villupuram district, have suffered greatly due to neglect. The painting that showed Lord Shiva's dance has nearly disappeared, leaving only the face of goddess Parvathi and a few small sections remaining.

Facts About:

Talagirishwara Temple is situated in Panamalai village, Viluppuram district, Tamil Nadu, India.

It is built on a small hill overlooking Panamalai Lake.

The temple was constructed by Pallava king Narasimhavarman II, also known as Rajasimha, during the Seventh Century.

Notable features of the temple include a Vimana similar to the one at Kailasanatha temple in Kanchipuram.

The Vimana has three layers, with the highest tier being reconstructed.

Inside the temple's garbhagriha, there's a Dharalingam, and a Somaskanda section on the rear wall.

The temple has an Ardhamandapam (partial Mandapam) with walls featuring depictions of divinities like Brahma with Saraswati and Vishnu with Lakshmi.

It faces east and is surrounded on three sides by sub-shrines.
Additional sub-shrines and a large Mandapam called Mahamandapam were added at a later date.

The typical Pallava-style pillars with crouching lions can be found in the temple.

The temple houses paintings that resemble those in Ajantha and Chithannavasal.

These paintings are on the walls of a sub-temple on the northern side of Talagirishwara (Shiva) temple.
Notable among the paintings is one of Lord Shiva with eight hands dancing, known as Latathilagabhani, watched by Goddess Parvathi.

These paintings are older than the ones in Chithannavasal and were created by covering the stonewalls with a paste made of limestone and sand.

MELGHAT TIGER RESERVE (TOI)

28 Oct 2023

SARAS AAJEEVIKA MELA (PIB)

28 Oct 2023

WHAT IS THALLIUM? (The Hindu)

28 Oct 2023

SATELLITE INTERNET TECHNOLOGY (Indian Express)

28 Oct 2023

MANAGEMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND PROFESSIONAL SKILLS COUNCIL (Business Standard)

27 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was recently signed by the Management & Entrepreneurship and Professional Skills Council (MEPSC) and Magic Bus India Foundation, a prominent non-profit in the education and skilling sector.

Facts About:

MEPSC is a horizontal Sector Skill Council (SSC) that was established using a unique Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in 2013 and registered as a Section-8 (Not for Profit Company) under the Companies Act.

The Ministry of Skill Development has been providing guidance to the Council during its operations.

The only organization promoting it is the All India Management Association (AIMA), which is the highest authority for the management profession in India.

MEPSC receives support from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and is acknowledged as an awarding body by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), the skills regulator.

Over the next ten years, MEPSC aims to train and certify about 4.75 lakh trainees, create and develop 50 Qualifications Packs (QPs)/National Occupational Standards (NOS), and train over 550 trainers.

It will take the lead on skill development programs in five major areas, including:

Assessment and training
Professional skills (including Security)
Non-Teaching job roles in the education sector
Entrepreneurship

The MEPSC Board of Directors is made up of several well-known and experienced business leaders, academics, NSDC, AIMA, and Ministry officials.

HANLE DARK SKY RESERVE (the Hindu)

27 Oct 2023

GUDAVI BIRD SANCTUARY (The Hindu)

27 Oct 2023

PM-SHRI SCHOOL (NDTV)

27 Oct 2023

REFERENCE FUELS (PIB)

27 Oct 2023

UNITED NATIONS FORUM ON FORESTS (PIB)

26 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) will organise a Country-Led Initiative (CLI) event hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change from October 26–28, 2023, at the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

Facts About:

It encourages the sustainable development, preservation, and management of all kinds of forests.
The UNEconomic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC) was founded it in 2000.
Every year, the Forum gathers at the UN Headquarters in New York to discuss high-level policy issues in even years and technical issues in odd years, bringing together representatives of all member states and agencies with an interest in forests.
All United Nations members as well as specialized agencies make up the forum, which has universal membership.
India is one of UNFF's founding members.

JAMRANI DAM MULTIPURPOSE PROJECT (PTI)

26 Oct 2023

NANCY GRACE ROMAN SPACE TELESCOPE (NASA)

26 Oct 2023

ANCIENT LANDSCAPE UNEARTHED BENEATH ANTARCTIC ICE SHEET (Space.com)

26 Oct 2023

PRAGATI PLATFORM (News On Air)

26 Oct 2023

CYCLONE HAMOON (Indian Express)

25 Oct 2023

NANO DAP FERTILIZER (PIB)

25 Oct 2023

DUST SUPPRESSANT (Indian Express)

25 Oct 2023

The Central Consumer Protection AuthoRITY (CCPA) (The Hindu)

25 Oct 2023

INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION OUTLOOK 2023 (Down to Earth)

25 Oct 2023

PRADHAN MANTRI ANUSUCHIT JAATI ABHUYDAY YOJANA (PM-AJAY) (PIB)

24 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

Authorities have implemented the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhuyday Yojana (PM-AJAY) since 2021-22.

Facts About:

Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhuyday Yojana, or PM-AJAY, is a combination of three government schemes:

Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY),
Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP), and
Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY).

The main goals of PM-AJAY are:

To reduce poverty among Scheduled Caste (SC) communities by creating more jobs through skill development, income-generating programs, and other initiatives.
To improve the overall development of SC-dominated villages by providing necessary infrastructure and essential services.

The scheme has three parts:

Developing SC-dominated villages into model villages with proper infrastructure for socio-economic progress.
Providing grants for projects at the district or state level that aim to better the socio-economic conditions of SCs, including building infrastructure in SC-dominated villages.
Implementing comprehensive livelihood projects, including skill development, improving infrastructure, and offering financial assistance for assets needed to generate income.

Additionally, the scheme involves constructing hostels in higher educational institutions that are highly ranked according to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) of the Government of India, and these hostels are funded by the Central, State, or Union Territory governments.

PAINTBRUSH SWIFT BUTTERFLY (The Hindu)

24 Oct 2023

DOGRA ARCHITECTURE (The Hindu)

24 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

Srinagar Smart City Limited and the Kashmir chapter of INTACH have joined hands to conserve vernacular elements of Kashmiri architecture, including colonnaded walkways, decorative pilasters, and exposed moulded brickwork.

Facts About:

The buildings and structures that were built by the Dogra Hindu kings, who ruled over Jammu and Kashmir from 1846 to 1947, are known as "Dogra architecture."
Maharaja Gulab Singh, a vassal of the Sikh Empire who later joined the British, established the Dogra dynasty.
The Dogra kings were patrons of the arts and introduced a new architectural style that blended elements of Hindu, Islamic, and Sikh traditions.
The interiors are richly decorated with frescoes, stucco work, and intricate wooden carvings that evoke both Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.
European architectural features like arches, columns, and ornamental brackets were incorporated into Dogra architecture.

During the British colonial era, when interactions between European architects and local builders increased, this influence became more pronounced.

Dogra architecture frequently uses symbolic elements taken from Hindu mythology and religious texts to express the people's spiritual beliefs.

PROJECT UDBHAV (TOI)

24 Oct 2023

AADI MAHOTSAV (PIB)

24 Sep 2023

OPTOELECTRONICS (PIB)

23 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

For the investigation of opto-electronic properties in a variety of materials, a new Laboratory of Advance Synthesis and Characterization (LASC) in Gujarat is creating LASC probe stations for universities in India and abroad.

Facts About:

Optoelectronics is typically regarded as a sub-field of photonics and is the study and application of electronic devices and systems that source, detect, and control light.

The term "light" in this context frequently refers to both visible light and invisible radiation, such as gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet, and infrared.

For their opto-electronic properties, materials like tungsten diselenide (WSe2) and molybdenum diselenide are being closely examined.

The ability of these materials to absorb light and reemit it as a spectrum is known as photoluminescence.

Quantum LEDs, which can be used for computation and communication, are one example of a device that can make use of photoluminescence properties.

TRIBAL COOPERATIVE MARKETING DEVELOPMENT FEDERATION (TRIFED) (PTI)

23 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The Union Tribal Affairs Ministry on Saturday declared "null and void" the suspension of the managing director of TRIFED.

Facts About:

The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation (TRIFED) is a national-level organization operating under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Its primary focus is on the development and marketing of tribal handicrafts and natural products.

Established in 1987, it became registered under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 1984 (now the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002).

TRIFED's main objectives include enhancing the capabilities of tribal communities, promoting their products, and creating marketing opportunities to ensure better prices for tribal products, ultimately improving their income sustainably.

Some of its key goals are:

Enhancing the socio-economic welfare of tribal communities.
Facilitating and providing services to improve production within tribal communities.
Offering training to enhance artistic skills using modern technology, making tribal products more competitive in the global market.
Promoting tribal art and crafts to provide a stable livelihood.
Identifying target groups, monitoring activities, and providing input to the Ministry.

Under retail marketing, TRIFED is responsible for marketing of tribal products under the brand name "TRIBES INDIA."

It promotes and establishes a sustainable market through retail outlets, exhibitions like Aadishilp, Aadichitra, and OCTAVE, international fairs, and e-marketing.

The Government of India has also entrusted TRIFED with the implementation of the Minimum Support Price Scheme for Minor Forest Produce.

Headquarter: New Delhi

It continues to operate a system of Regional Offices throughout India and a collection of TRIBES INDIA Retail Outlets.

GLOBAL COOLING COALITION (The Hindu)

23 Oct 2023

LITTLE ICE AGE (The Hindu)

23 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

During the Little Ice Age (LIA), the Western Ghats in India bore the hallmark of moist conditions, according to a recent study.

Facts About:

It revealed significant variations in rainfall patterns during that time period, challenging the conventional view of the Little Ice Age (LIA) as a uniformly cold and dry climate with reduced monsoon rainfall.
It was proposed that the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone's (ITCZ) northward motion, positive temperature anomalies, an increase in the number of sunspots, and high solar activity may be responsible for climate change and an accelerated South West Monsoon.
In general, they believed that the southward shift of the ITCZ, which was brought on by increased northward energy flux across the equator during a cold northern hemisphere, was to blame for the weakest phase of the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) across the Indian subcontinent during the Little Ice Age.
The high-resolution palaeoclimatic records produced in the current study may be useful in developing paleoclimatic models for future climatic predictions as well as for scientifically sound policy planning.
In order to better understand the current Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM)-influenced climatic conditions as well as potential future climatic trends and projections, knowledge and understanding of climate change and Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) variability during the Holocene could be of immense interest.

About the Little Ice Age:

The Little Ice Age, which began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, came after the Mediaeval Warming Period (roughly 900–1300 CE) and came before the current warming period.
It was one of the coldest times in the last 10,000 years, with the North Atlantic region experiencing the greatest cooling.
Millions of people suffered and died as a result of this cold spell, whose precise timing scholars debate but which appears to have begun around 600 years ago.

It is thought to have been the cause of crop failures, famines, and pandemics throughout Europe.

EDAKKAL CAVES (The Hindu)

23 Oct 2023

EXERCISE 'MILAN' (TOI)

21 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The Indian Navy will host the Mid Planning Conference (MPC) of the MILAN 24 Exercise in Visakhapatnam from February 19 to February 27, 2024.

Facts About:

‘MILAN’ is a multilateral naval exercise held every two years.
It was established in 1995 by the Indian Navy.
MILAN was originally conceived in accordance with India's 'Look East Policy,' but has since grown to include participation from other Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) in conjunction with the Government of India's 'Act East Policy' and Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative.
The harbor phase of MILAN 24 will include a City Parade at RK Beach, an International Maritime Seminar, a Swavlamban Exhibition, a Subject Matter Expert Exchange, and a Milan of Young Officers.

Friendly foreign country ships, maritime patrol aircraft, and submarines would take part in the sea phase alongside Indian Navy units.

The operations will include large-force maneuvers, sophisticated air defense operations, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare.
MILAN 22 was held in/around Visakhapatnam from February 25th to March 4th, with 39 countries taking part.

UNITED NATIONS WORLD TOURISM ORGANISATION (UNWTO) (PIB)

21 Oct 2023

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What is the News ?

The Dhordo village in Gujarat's Kutch district was recently recognized as the Best Tourism Village by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which was praised by India's Prime Minister.

Facts About:

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting sustainable and responsible tourism on a global scale.
Its functions include acting as a global forum for tourism policy issues and encouraging the adoption of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.

It was founded in 1975.

Members: 159 countries are members of the UNWTO.
Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish are the UNWTO's official languages.
Structure of the organization:

The World Tourism Organization's General Assembly is the organization's main meeting.

It is made up of full members and associate members. It convenes every two years.

The Executive Council serves as the UNWTO's governing body.

It is made up of 35 members, one for every five full members, who are elected by the General Assembly. It holds at least two meetings per year.

Headquarters are in Madrid, (Spain).

GREEN ENERGY CORRIDOR (GEC) (PIB)

21 Oct 2023

WHITE PHOSPHOROUS BOMBS (Indian Express)

21 Oct 2023

Tags:

What is the News ?

According to recent reports, Israeli forces have been using white phosphorous against the civilian population of Gaza.

Facts About:

It is a waxy solid that is colorless, white, or yellow.

Occurrence:

It does not occur naturally. Phosphate rocks are used to make it.
It is a highly flammable substance that reacts with oxygen in the atmosphere.
As little as 10 to 15 degrees above room temperature can cause it to catch fire.

Every country has strict regulations regarding its manufacturing and handling due to its combustible nature.

Applications:

It is primarily used in the military, but it may also be used as a component in fertilizers, food additives, and cleaning compounds.
It was originally used in pesticides and fireworks, but many countries have banned its use in a variety of industries.

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), an intergovernmental organization and the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, has not included White Phosphorus in any of the three Chemical Weapons Schedules.

YARD 12706 (IMPHAL) (PIB)

21 Oct 2023

Toto language (The Hindu)

30 Sep 2023

Naganathaswamy Temple (The Hindu)

30 Sep 2023

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The Tamil Nadu Department of Archaeology is preparing to initiate the restoration of the ancient Naganathaswamy Temple, which has stood for a millennium in Manambadi, located within the Thanjavur district.

Facts About:

This temple was commissioned by Rajendra Chola I, reigning from 1012 to 1044 CE.
In historical inscriptions, it is also known as the Kailasamudaiyar Temple.
Key Features:
Renowned for its intricate stone carvings and significant inscriptions.
Comprises a single-tiered vimana (sanctum) and a mukha mandapa (front hall).
The walls of both structures are divided into three sections.
Within the central bays of the vimana, niches are dedicated to Dakshinamurthi in the south, Lingodhbava in the west, and Brahma in the north.
The mukha mandapa features three niches each on the south and north sides.
Notable sculptures in the southern niches include Bikshatana, Adavallan, and Ganapathi, while the northern niches feature Gangadarara, Durga, and Ammaiappar.
All these niches exhibit finely crafted and distinctive makara thoranas (decorative arches) with central relief sculptures.
Inscriptions: The temple boasts important inscriptions dating back to the reigns of Rajendra Chola I and Kulothunga I (1070-1120 CE).
A total of nine informative inscriptions have been documented within the temple premises.
The earliest of these inscriptions dates to the fourth year of Rajendra Chola I's rule and pertains to a tax-free land grant by the nagaratthar of Ilaichikkudi for establishing a flower garden in honor of the king for the temple's benefit.

CRIIIO 4 GOOD Initiative (PIB)

30 Sep 2023

Sankalp Saptaah (News On Air)

30 Sep 2023

CALIPSO Mission (Indian Express)

30 Sep 2023

Global Innovation Index 2023 (PIB)

29 Sep 2023

e-Cabinet System (Indian Express)

29 Sep 2023

Five Eyes’ Intelligence Alliance (The Hindu)

29 Sep 2023

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The recent claims made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, connecting the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian territory to the Indian government, have drawn attention to the intelligence-sharing coalition known as the 'Five Eyes' (FVEY).

Facts About:

This multilateral intelligence-sharing network involves more than 20 agencies from five predominantly English-speaking nations:

Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

It encompasses both surveillance-based activities and signals intelligence (SIGINT).
The intelligence documents shared among member countries are labeled as 'Secret—AUS/CAN/NZ/UK/US Eyes Only,' which gives rise to the group's name, 'Five Eyes.'

Background of the Alliance:

The origins of this alliance between the U.S. and the U.K. date back to the Second World War when they collaborated to counter the Cold War Soviet threat.
These two nations, renowned for their code-breaking achievements during World War II, established cooperation in sharing intelligence related to various forms of signals, including radio, satellite, and internet communications.
Following the war, in 1946, the alliance formalized through an agreement focused on signals intelligence.

This agreement, originally named the British-U.S. Communication Intelligence Agreement (BRUSA) and now known as the UKUSA Agreement, was signed between the U.S. State-Army-Navy Communication Intelligence Board (STANCIB) and the British London Signal Intelligence Board (SIGINT).

Initially, its scope was limited to 'communication intelligence matters only,' involving the unrestricted exchange of intelligence products across six areas: traffic collection, acquisition of communication documents and equipment, traffic analysis, cryptanalysis, decryption and translation, and the acquisition of information regarding communication organizations, practices, procedures, and equipment.
Over time, the alliance expanded to include 'second party' countries, with Canada joining in 1948, and Australia and New Zealand becoming part of the alliance in 1956.

Conocarpus Tree (Indian Express)

29 Sep 2023

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Recently, the government of Gujarat has instituted a prohibition on the planting of Conocarpus trees in both forested and non-forested areas, citing concerns regarding their detrimental effects on the environment and human well-being.

Facts About:

The Conocarpus tree is a flowering plant belonging to the Combretaceae family.
It is categorized as an invasive mangrove species.
These trees bloom during the winter season, releasing pollen into their surroundings.
In India, public authorities have commonly used Conocarpus for landscaping purposes, including road medians, roadsides, and public gardens.
In the Arabian Peninsula, it has been employed to combat desert storms and pollution.
This tree is renowned for its year-round dark green leaves and its ability to thrive in harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures.
It exhibits adaptability, even in areas with high salinity.
The Conocarpus tree absorbs a significant amount of water from the soil, posing a threat to groundwater levels.
Its extensive root system can damage communication cables, drainage lines, and drinking water pipelines.
This species is native to various regions in North and South America, as well as parts of Africa.

Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) (Indian Express)

29 Sep 2023

Balsams (Genus Impatiens) (The Hindu)

28 Sep 2023

Manis Mysteria (The Hindu)

28 Sep 2023

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In addition to the eight previously identified pangolin species, researchers have recently found a ninth variety, which is currently given the temporary name "Manis mysteria.

Facts About:

Scientists have recently made a significant discovery in the world of wildlife by identifying a previously unknown ninth species of pangolin.

This newly found pangolin variety has been tentatively named "Manis mysteria."

Origins from Confiscated Scales: The origins of this remarkable discovery trace back to the examination of pangolin scales that were seized in China's Yunnan province during the years 2015 and 2019.

These scales provided vital clues leading to the identification of the new species.

Ancient Divergence: Research indicates that "Manis mysteria" took a distinct evolutionary path around five million years ago, separating from its Philippine and Malayan pangolin relatives.

This long separation in the evolutionary timeline highlights its unique characteristics.

Distinctive Features of Pangolins: Pangolins are known for their distinctive characteristics, including protective keratin scales that cover their bodies and a diet primarily consisting of ants and termites.

They hold the distinction of being the only mammals with such specialized scales.

Defensive Behavior: One of the most intriguing aspects of pangolins is their ability to curl up into a tight, defensive ball when they feel threatened.

This remarkable behavior helps protect them from potential predators.
Grave Threats to Pangolins: Unfortunately, all species of pangolins face severe threats to their survival.
- Each species is currently listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, a concerning designation that highlights their vulnerable status.
- For instance, the Indian pangolin is specifically categorized as "Endangered," underlining the urgent need for conservation efforts to safeguard these unique creatures.

Social Bonds (The Hindu)

28 Sep 2023

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) (Indian Express)

28 Sep 2023

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The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has made changes to the regulations for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). They now require these NGOs to furnish information about assets, both movable and immovable, that have been established using foreign funds in their annual returns.

Facts About:

FCRA is a law governing foreign contributions, especially monetary donations, to NGOs and entities in India.
Originally passed in 1976 and significantly amended in 2010.
Aims to prevent foreign organizations from influencing India's politics, society, economy, or religion for harmful purposes.
Administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Defines 'foreign contribution' as donations, currency, or securities from foreign sources.
Allows individuals, associations, companies, and others to receive foreign contributions with FCRA registration.
Funds must be used for the intended purpose, with a maximum of 20% for administrative expenses.
Requires NGOs to open a designated bank account with the State Bank of India, Delhi.
Registration is mandatory for NGOs and can be renewed if they meet requirements.
Cancellation is possible for false statements or illegal activities.
Suspension and fund-freezing authority were also granted to the Ministry.
Challenges to government orders can be filed in the High Court.

Scheme for Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (LiveMint)

28 Sep 2023

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The RoDTEP scheme, which initially lasted until September 30, 2023, will now continue until June 30, 2024, with the same rates for products that are already being exported.

Facts About:

The RoDTEP Scheme, officially known as the Scheme for Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products, plays a crucial role in helping Indian exporters.
It became operational on January 1, 2021, replacing the earlier export incentive program called Merchandise Exports from India (MEIS).
This change was necessary because the World Trade Organization (WTO) found that the MEIS scheme violated WTO rules by providing export subsidies for a wide range of goods.
How it Works: Under the RoDTEP Scheme, exporters receive a rebate based on a percentage of the value of their exports (known as FOB or Freight On Board value).

This rebate is given in the form of a transferable duty credit/electronic scrip (e-scrip), and the details of these credits are maintained digitally by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

The RoDTEP Committee, which operates within the Department of Revenue, is responsible for reviewing and recommending the maximum rates for different export sectors under this scheme.

Main Objective: The primary goal of the RoDTEP Scheme is to offer comprehensive support to exporters by refunding the duties and taxes incurred during the production and distribution of exported products.

Importantly, it covers taxes, duties, and levies imposed at the central, state, and local levels, which are not reimbursed through other existing mechanisms.

Financial Support: In the fiscal year 2023-24, the Indian Government has allocated a substantial budget of Rs. 15,070 crores to support the RoDTEP Scheme.
Engaging with Stakeholders: The RoDTEP Committee has recently started its work by collaborating with Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and Chambers of Commerce.

Armed Forces Tribunal (Indian Express)

27 Sep 2023

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The Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) Chandigarh Bench Bar Association has taken the step of going on an unlimited strike. This strike is a response to the decision made by the AFT chairperson to move a judicial member from Chandigarh to Kolkata.

Facts About:

The Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) is like a special court in India for military matters, and it started in 2009 under the Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007.
What it does: It deals with arguments and complaints about things like appointments, jobs, and the rules for people who are part of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
It handles appeals when someone disagrees with the decisions made by military courts.
If the military court's decision seems right, the Tribunal can say so.

But if it's not right, the Tribunal can change it.

If someone doesn't agree with what the Tribunal says, they can only go to the Supreme Court to argue their case.
The AFT has its main office in New Delhi, and there are eight other offices in different cities.
Each office has two important people:

A Judicial Member who is a retired High Court Judge and

An Administrative Member who is a retired Armed Forces officer with a high rank.

Sometimes, a Judge Advocate General (JAG) who has been in the job for at least a year can also be an Administrative Member.
How it works:

The Tribunal follows certain rules for how they do things, and they use English for all their work.

They usually do things the way High Courts in India do them.

Dadasaheb Phalke Award (PIB)

27 Sep 2023

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The Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting has just revealed some exciting news. The renowned actress, Ms. Waheeda Rehman, is set to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 2021.

Facts About:

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India's top honor in the world of cinema.
Every year, it's given out at the National Film Awards ceremony, organized by the Directorate of Film Festivals, part of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
This award is for people who have made a really big and important contribution to Indian cinema.
When someone gets this award, they receive a special Golden Lotus medal, a shawl, and 10 lakh rupees in cash.
The award was created by the Government of India to remember Dadasaheb Phalke, who's often called "the father of Indian cinema."
It all began in 1969, and the first person to receive it was the famous actress Devika Rani, known as "the first lady of Indian cinema.

Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary (The Hindu)

27 Sep 2023

World Coffee Conference (The Hindu)

27 Sep 2023

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The 5th World Coffee Conference (WCC) is happening in Bengaluru, and it's a joint effort by the International Coffee Organization (ICO), the Coffee Board of India, and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, along with the Government of Karnataka.

Facts About:

This is the first time India is hosting this conference.
In the past, the conference has been held in London (2001), Brazil (2005), Guatemala (2010), and Ethiopia (2016).
The event is a collaboration between the Coffee Board, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the International Coffee Organization.
The conference's mascot is Coffee Swami.
The main theme of the conference is "Sustainability through Circular Economy and Regenerative Agriculture.

About the International Coffee Organization:

The organization was created in 1963 with support from the United Nations after the first International Coffee Agreement was approved in 1962.
The ICO is a special international group that brings together countries that export and import coffee.
Right now, it represents a big part of the world's coffee - 93% of coffee production and 63% of coffee consumption.
Their mission is to make the coffee business better all around the world in a way that's good for everyone involved.
There are 49 countries in this group, with 42 of them exporting coffee and 7 of them importing it. India is one of these member countries.

Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma (PRIP) scheme (PIB)

27 Sep 2023

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The Indian Government, led by the Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers and the Minister of Health & Family Welfare, has just introduced a new program called PRIP. This program aims to support and encourage research and innovation in the Pharma and MedTech sectors.

Facts About:

The PRIP scheme has a clear goal: to shift the Indian pharmaceutical sector from being focused on costs to being driven by innovation.

This means we want to encourage more research and new ideas in the country.

Aim: We want to create stronger connections between industries and educational institutions to do research in important areas.

This will help us build a culture of high-quality research and support our scientists.

By doing this, we hope India will be more competitive on the global stage, and it will also create better job opportunities.
How Long It Will Last: This program will run for five years, from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
The Scheme Has Two Parts:

Part A: We will invest Rs 700 Crores to set up 7 Centers of Excellence (CoEs) at the National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPERs). These will focus on specific areas of research.

Part B: We will support research in six important areas like new medicines, complex generics, medical devices, stem cell therapy, rare disease drugs, and fighting against drug resistance. This will also include helping industries, small businesses, startups, and academic research.

Total Budget: The program has a total budget of Rs. 4250 Crores.
This scheme is all about making pharmaceutical research in India stronger and more innovative.
It will support researchers and industries working on important health-related projects.

Brent Crude (LiveMint)

26 Sep 2023

Emerging Markets Bond Index (Down to Earth)

26 Sep 2023

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Recently, scientists at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal (IISER Bhopal) pinpointed a particular circular RNA (circRNA) named 'ciTRAN.' This circRNA plays a vital role in the replication of the HIV-1 virus, which causes AIDS, inside the human body.

Facts About:

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a molecule found in living cells that carries genetic instructions and aids in protein production.
Most RNAs have a linear, open-end structure, but circular RNA, known as 'circRNA,' forms a closed loop.
CircRNA plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and is essential for various biological processes.
Its involvement in the replication of HIV-1 was not well understood for a long time.
Identifying circular RNA can be challenging because it is typically present in lower amounts, making it harder to detect in its natural form.
During viral infections, the abundance of viral genetic material can make it difficult to isolate less common components like circular RNA.

Bolson tortoises (The Hindu)

26 Sep 2023

Mukurthi National Park (The Hindu)

26 Sep 2023

Galactic Tides (The Hindu)

26 Sep 2023

India-UN Capacity Building Initiative (News On Air)

25 Sep 2023

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India and the United Nations have introduced a collaborative capacity-building effort known as the 'India-UN Capacity Building Initiative.' Its goal is to promote progress and prosperity in the Global South.

Facts About:

What is the Global South?

The Global South encompasses countries in regions such as Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia (excluding Israel, Japan, and South Korea), and Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand).
These regions are generally characterized by lower levels of economic and industrial development.

About the India-UN Capacity Building Initiative:

This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of countries in the Global South.
Its objective is to facilitate the sharing of India's development experiences, best practices, and expertise through capacity-building programs and training.
The initiative extends the achievements of India's G20 Presidency, which emphasized the inclusion of perspectives from the Global South in the G20 agenda.
It builds upon India's existing bilateral cooperation in development and capacity-building with partner countries.
As part of this endeavor, the UN India team will collaborate with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to leverage India's Technical and Economic Cooperation platform. This partnership will enable the dissemination of India's development experiences and best practices worldwide.
Furthermore, it will translate the development objectives outlined during India's G20 Presidency into action.
This includes the implementation of the G20 Action Plan for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing technology and digital infrastructure.

Exercise Yudh Abhyas (PIB)

25 Sep 2023

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The 19th iteration of 'EXERCISE YUDH ABHYAS' is scheduled to take place from September 25th to October 8th, 2023, at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, USA

Facts About:

Exercise Yudh Abhyas is an annual collaborative military exercise carried out jointly by the Indian Army and the United States Army.
In this edition, the Indian Army contingent, consisting of 350 personnel, will participate. The lead battalion from the Indian side is associated with the MARATHA Light Infantry Regiment.
The primary focus of the exercise is to practice a series of tactical drills aimed at improving the ability to work together effectively during United Nations peacekeeping operations.
The exercise's theme centers on the 'Employment of an Integrated Battle Group in Mountain/ Extreme Climatic Conditions,' as outlined in Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate.
The Field Training Exercise will encompass various elements, including the validation of Integrated Battle Groups in confronting hostile forces at the Brigade level, the establishment of an Integrated Surveillance Grid at the Brigade/ Battalion level, and the utilization of Heliborne/ Airborne units and Force Multipliers, among others.
Additionally, the exercise will facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices in a wide range of combat skills, encompassing combat engineering, obstruction clearance, and tactics for dealing with mines and Improvised Explosive Devices.

Other Exercises involving India and the USA:

Army: Vajra Prahar
Navy: MALABAR (Multilateral)
Air Force: Cope India, Red Flag (Multilateral)

Free Movement Regime (Indian Express)

25 Sep 2023

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The Chief Minister of Manipur recently stated that his government has requested the Union Home Ministry to discontinue the free movement arrangement along the India-Myanmar border and finalize the border fencing.

Facts About:

The Free Movement Regime (FMR) allows all hill tribes, whether they hold citizenship in India or Myanmar, to travel within a 16 km radius on either side of the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB).
To cross the border, they need to present a border pass with a one-year validity issued by the relevant authority.

Each visit can last for up to two weeks.

The FMR was put into effect in 2018 as part of the Central government's Act East policy.
Both governments, India and Myanmar, implement the FMR for the benefit of the people residing along the IMB.
This arrangement facilitates greater cultural integration among residents of trans-border villages.

They engage in activities like weddings, joint celebrations of festivals, and cross-border trade.

The FMR underscores the physical, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, and fraternal connections among communities living across the border.
Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB):

The IMB stretches over 1,643 km, traversing four states: Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh.

It extends from the northern tripoint with China to the southern tripoint with Bangladesh.

The responsibility of guarding the IMB falls on the Assam Rifles.

I2U2 Group (TOI)

25 Sep 2023

Emerging Markets Bond Index (Indian Express)

25 Sep 2023

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (The Hindu)

23 Sep 2023

Tasmanian Tiger (The Hindu)

23 Sep 2023

World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) (Indian Express)

23 Sep 2023

General Crop Estimation Survey Portal (PIB)

23 Sep 2023

Adi Shankaracharya (IndianExpress)

23 Sep 2023

Asia Pacific Forum (PIB)

22 Sep 2023

Promotion of Tribal Products for North East Region’ (PTP-NER 2.0) scheme (PIB)

22 Sep 2023

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The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd. (TRIFED), under the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, is set to launch the second phase of the 'Promotion of Tribal Products for the North East Region' (PTP-NER 2.0) scheme, running from September 21 to November 10, 2023.

Facts About:

This scheme, launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, aims to enhance the livelihoods of tribal artisans by improving the procurement, logistics, and marketing of their products.

It covers the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim.

The scheme has two phases:

Phase 1 included 8 states and 38 districts, with 64 Tribal Artisans Empanelment Melas (TAeM) organized by TRIFED and NEHHDC.
Phase 2 will cover 29 districts, continuing the effort to support tribal artisans and showcase their cultural heritage.

Implementing partners include the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), India Post, and various North Eastern State Government Departments and Agencies.

India Post will provide logistical support to achieve the scheme's objectives.

SIMBEX 23 (PIB)

22 Sep 2023

Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (The Hindu)

22 Sep 2023

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The Central Government has announced that companies and entities may have approximately one year to comply with the regulations outlined in the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023. Smaller organizations or startups might be granted even more time for compliance.

Facts About:

The DPDP Act is a legal framework in India designed to protect individuals' personal data and ensure it's only shared with their consent. It governs the processing of digital personal data to safeguard privacy in the digital age.

Applicability:

It applies to digital personal data processed within India, regardless of its origin (online or offline).
It also applies to data processing outside India if it involves offering goods or services to Indian data subjects.

Evolution:

It originates from the recommendations of the Justice BN Srikrishna-led Expert Committee, leading to the introduction of the Personal Data Protection Act in 2019.
After consultations and revisions, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, was enacted by both houses of Parliament.

Key Stakeholders:

Data Principal (DP): The data owner who must give consent for data generation and processing.
Data Fiduciary: The entity collecting, storing, and sharing data, acting as a "Consent Manager."
Data Processor: The entity processing data on behalf of a data fiduciary.
Data Protection Officer (DPO): An individual appointed by a data fiduciary to oversee data protection compliance.

Individuals have rights such as the right to information, correction, erasure, grievance redressal, and the right to nominate someone to exercise these rights in case of incapacity or death.

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (PIB)

22 Sep 2023

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The Indian Government recently introduced a new set of National Awards for achievements in science, technology, and innovation called the "Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar."

Facts About:

The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar is an award that recognizes outstanding contributions in the fields of science, technology, and innovation in India.

It's one of the highest honors in these fields.

Who can receive the awards?

Scientists, technologists, and innovators, whether in government or private sectors, who have made significant breakthroughs in their respective fields.
People of Indian origin living abroad who have made exceptional contributions benefiting Indian communities.

The awards are given in four categories:

Vigyan Ratna (VR): Lifetime achievements in science and technology.
Vigyan Shri (VS): Distinguished contributions in science and technology.
Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB): Young scientists under 45 years old who've made exceptional contributions.
Vigyan Team (VT): Teams of three or more scientists, researchers, or innovators who've excelled in their field.

The awards cover 13 domains, including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics & Computer Science, Earth Science, Medicine, Engineering, Agriculture, Environment, Technology & Innovation, Atomic Energy, Space Science, and more.

Nuakhai Juhar Festival (PIB)

21 Sep 2023

Vanadium (TOI)

21 Sep 2023

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Vanadium, a critical raw material for many industrial applications, has been found in sediment samples collected from Gulf of Khambhat, which opens into the Arabian Sea off Alang in Gujarat.

Facts About:

Vanadium is a chemical element with the symbol "V" and atomic number 23.
Vanadium is a naturally occurring element found in minerals and ores.

It was first discovered in the early 19th century.

It is a transition metal known for its various applications in science and industry.

Applications:

Strengthens Steel: One of its primary uses is as an alloying agent in steel production.

Vanadium steel is renowned for its exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion.

It is commonly used in manufacturing tools, knives, and structural components in construction.

Aerospace Alloys: Vanadium alloys are utilized in aerospace applications, such as jet engines and rocket frames, due to their high-temperature resistance and lightweight properties.
Batteries: Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are emerging as a promising energy storage technology.

They offer scalability and long cycle life, making them suitable for grid-level energy storage.

Catalysts: Vanadium compounds act as catalysts in chemical reactions, particularly in the production of sulfuric acid and maleic anhydride.
Medical Applications: Vanadium has potential health benefits and is being studied for its role in managing diabetes and its antioxidant properties.
Dye and Pigment Production: Vanadium compounds are used in the manufacture of dyes, pigments, and ceramics.
Metallurgy: Vanadium is employed in the refining of certain metals like aluminum and titanium.
Nuclear Applications: In nuclear reactors, vanadium serves as a structural material due to its neutron-absorbing properties.
Research and Development: Vanadium's unique properties make it valuable for scientific research, including studies in material science and chemistry.

Vanadium's versatility and strength-enhancing properties find application in various industries, from steel manufacturing to energy storage and even potential health-related uses, making it a vital element in modern technology and innovation.

Bharatkosh Portal (PIB)

21 Sep 2023

Batillipes Kalami (The Hindu)

21 Sep 2023

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund For Sportspersons (PDUNWFS) (PIB)

21 Sep 2023

Red-necked Phalarope (The Hindu)

20 Sep 2023

Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala (The Hindu)

20 Sep 2023

Bima Sugam Platform (Indian Express)

20 Sep 2023

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Recently, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has established a steering committee, which will serve as the highest authority responsible for developing its ambitious Bima Sugam platform.

Facts About:

This platform will empower individuals to purchase life, health, motor, or property insurance policies online, providing a convenient digital solution.
It aims to offer a one-stop destination for insurance companies, agents, brokers, banks, and aggregators, streamlining accessibility.
Serving as a centralized database, it will assist consumers with all their insurance-related needs, ensuring efficiency.
The platform will facilitate the swift introduction of new or experimental insurance products.
Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas (CAM) has been appointed as the legal counsel for this project, responsible for establishing a Section 8 not-for-profit company that will own the Bima Sugam platform.
It will cater to both personal and commercial/business insurance needs, aiding users in identifying and comparing the best-suited products within specified timelines.
The platform will encompass a comprehensive range of insurance offerings, including life insurance and its various forms such as term plans, savings (Par and Non-Par), annuities, pension plans, and more.
Furthermore, it will showcase a fully digital onboarding process for all insurance products, eliminating manual interventions.

Operation Sajag (PIB)

20 Sep 2023

Kisan Rin Portal (News On Air)

20 Sep 2023

Anamudi Shola National Park (The Hindu)

19 Sep 2023

Gold Exchange-traded Funds (Indian Express)

19 Sep 2023

SHREYAS Scheme (PIB)

19 Sep 2023

Pralay Ballistic Missiles (Financial Express)

19 Sep 2023

Yashobhoomi (Indian Express)

19 Sep 2023

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (Financial Express)

18 Sep 2023

TrailGuard AI camera (The Hindu)

18 Sep 2023

Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary (TOI)

18 Sep 2023

Scrub Typhus and Leptospirosisa (Financial Express)

18 Sep 2023

Antlion species in Kerala (The Hindu)

18 Sep 2023

Monoclonal Antibodies (The Hindu)

16 Sep 2023

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India has made a request to Australia for a replenishment of monoclonal antibody doses to fight against the Nipah virus.

Facts About:

Monoclonal antibodies, often abbreviated as moAbs or mAbs, are artificially created proteins in laboratories that mimic the function of natural antibodies found in our immune system.

These antibodies play a crucial role in identifying foreign substances called antigens and attaching to them to neutralize or eliminate them.

The term "monoclonal" indicates that these laboratory-made antibodies are exact copies of a single antibody.

They are produced by replicating a specific type of immune cell known as a B cell, resulting in large quantities of identical antibodies.

This process leads to the development of highly specialized antibodies that can precisely target specific antigens, which might include viruses, bacteria, cancer cells, or other disease-related molecules.

Their remarkable specificity reduces the risk of unintended side effects.

Monoclonal antibodies find applications in various medical fields, including the treatment of cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.

Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics (UPAg) (PIB)

16 Sep 2023

World Spice Congress (WSC) (NewsOnAir)

16 Sep 2023

Digital birth certificates (The Hindu)

16 Sep 2023

International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML) (Indian Express)

16 Sep 2023

National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) portal (PIB)

15 Sep 2023

Data-driven Innovations in Agriculture (PTI)

15 Sep 2023

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The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) has teamed up with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in India to jointly develop data-driven innovations for the benefit of smallholder farmers in agriculture and food systems.

Facts About:

This partnership aims to improve the well-being of smallholder farmers by jointly using open-source data for product development, technology transfer, and policy formulation.
It focuses on enhancing climate resilience in agriculture and involves sharing collaborative digital resources like DiCRA (Data in Climate Resilient Agriculture).
DiCRA offers access to essential geospatial data related to climate-resilient agriculture and is curated by UNDP and partner organizations.
This collaboration represents a significant opportunity to harness data and present it as a digital public infrastructure for India's rural farming community.
Such open data innovations can promote best practices, optimize agricultural investments, and bolster the resilience of smallholder farmers, including women, against various challenges.

C-295 MW Aircraft (Indian Express)

15 Sep 2023

Skill India Digital (SID) Platform (Indian Express)

15 Sep 2023

eCourts Project (Indian Express)

15 Sep 2023

Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award (The Hindu)

14 Sep 2023

West Coast Refinery Project (Business Standard)

14 Sep 2023

Overnight Index Swap )Business Standard)

14 Sep 2023

Tags:

What is the News ?

Recently, Indian overnight index swap (OIS) rates have surged to their highest levels in a span of 10 months. This increase has been attributed to offshore payments and the triggering of stop-loss orders.

Facts About:

An Overnight Index Swap (OIS) is a financial tool that involves exchanging returns from a fixed-rate asset for a predetermined daily overnight reference rate index for an agreed-upon duration.
The primary goal of OIS is to mitigate interest rate risk, specifically the risk linked to changes in the overnight lending rate.
An OIS rate is computed daily, and it is based on the average interest rate that institutions with loans tied to the overnight rate have paid for that particular day.

How does an OIS Operate:

OIS instruments enable financial institutions to exchange the interest rates they are currently paying, all without the need to refinance or alter the terms of their existing loans.
In a typical overnight index swap arrangement, one financial institution swaps an overnight (floating) interest rate, while the other swaps a fixed short-term interest rate.
To initiate the swap, both institutions agree to maintain their loan obligations as usual.
However, at the end of an agreed-upon timeframe, the institution that ends up paying less interest will compensate the other institution for the difference.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (PIB)

14 Sep 2023

Eastern Maritime Corridor (EMC) (Business Standard)

14 Sep 2023

New Spider Species (HT)

13 Sep 2023

Megalithic Dolmen Site Near Moodbidri (The Hindu)

13 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

During recent archaeological excavations at the megalithic dolmen site near Moodbidri in Dakshina Kannada, researchers discovered terracotta figurines in various states of preservation that are quite distinct.

Facts About:

The Megalithic culture in India is renowned for its various burial practices and the use of iron.

One of these practices involves the construction of dolmens.

Characteristics:

Dolmens consisted of large stone slabs, known as orthostats, placed in a clockwise arrangement, forming a square chamber.
This square chamber was sealed by another massive stone slab acting as a capstone.
Typically, an entrance, often circular or U-shaped, known as a port hole, was created on the Eastern slab.

In South India, it was known by various names such as Kalmane, Pandavara Mane, Moriyara Mane, and Moriyara Betta, highlighting its popularity among the local population.

Significance:

The presence of cow bovines in these dolmens assists in establishing their historical timeline.

The discovery of terracotta artifacts within megalithic burials provides valuable insights into the Bhoota cult or Daiva Aradhane in coastal Karnataka.

Similarities with cow goddess figures are observed in the megalithic terracotta figurines of Malampuzha in Kerala and even in Egypt.

Kisan Credit Card (KCC) (PIB)

13 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala chaired a National KCC Conference in Mumbai on 4th September 2023 to boost Kisan Credit Card (KCC) saturation among animal husbandry and dairy farmers.

Facts About:

Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

Historical Background: Introduced in 1998 to simplify and streamline access to timely credit support for farmers. Expanded in 2004 to include allied and non-farm activities. Extended to fisheries and animal husbandry in the Budget-2018-19.

Objectives:

Meet short-term credit needs for cultivation.
Cover post-harvest expenses.
Fulfill household consumption needs.
Implementing Agencies: Commercial Banks, Regional Rural Banks (RRBs), Small Finance Banks, Cooperatives.

Salient Features:

Offers an ATM-enabled RuPay Card.
Requires one-time documentation.
Allows for cost escalation in the limit.
Permits multiple withdrawals within the limit.
Covers post-harvest expenses, produce marketing loans, and household consumption.
Repayment period aligned with crop harvesting and marketing.
Maximum short-term loan tenure: 1 year, long-term loan: 5 years.
Interest subvention scheme of 2% for short-term crop loans up to Rs. 3 lakh.
Additional 2% interest subvention and 3% prompt repayment incentive.
Simple interest for prompt payments; compound interest for delays.

Benefits:

Interest rates as low as 2.00%.
No security required for loans up to Rs. 1.60 lakh.
Crop insurance coverage against various calamities.
Insurance coverage for permanent disability, death, and other risks provided to farmers.

Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights (NewsOnAir)

13 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

President Droupadi Murmu recently launched the First Global Symposium on Farmers' Rights in New Delhi.

Facts About:

Location: ICAR Convention Centre, National Agricultural Science Centre, New Delhi. from September 12 to 15, 2023.
Historical Background: The concept of hosting the inaugural GFSR was proposed by the Government of India during the Ninth Session of the Governing Body (GB9) of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (International Treaty) in September 2022.

This proposal received approval from the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization).

Organized by: The Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (International Treaty) under the umbrella of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) based in Rome.
Hosted by: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, in collaboration with the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Authority, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), and ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR).
Objective: The primary aim is to address crucial issues concerning farmers' rights and their pivotal role in global food security and agriculture.
Distinguished scientists and experts from 59 countries around the world will participate.
They will engage in discussions on how to acknowledge and compensate the significant contributions made by local and indigenous communities, as well as farmers from all corners of the world, in preserving and advancing plant genetic resources (PGR).

Nipah Virus (The Hindu)

13 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The Kerala health department sent out a warning in Kozhikode because they suspected that two individuals who passed away from unusual causes in the district might have contracted the Nipah virus (NiV).

Facts About:

Nipah virus infection is an illness that can be passed from animals to humans.

The virus responsible for Nipah Virus encephalitis is an RNA virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family and Henipavirus genus.
It is closely related to the Hendra virus.

This virus first emerged in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998 and 1999.

Initially, it was detected in domestic pigs but has since been found in various domestic animals, including dogs, cats, goats, horses, and sheep.

Transmission:

The disease is transmitted through fruit bats, often referred to as 'flying foxes,' specifically those belonging to the Pteropus genus.

These bats are natural hosts for both Nipah and Hendra viruses.
The virus is present in bat urine and, potentially, in bat feces, saliva, and birthing fluids.

Symptoms:

Typically, when humans become infected, they experience symptoms resembling encephalitis, which include fever, headaches, drowsiness, confusion, disorientation, coma, and sometimes even death.

Treatment: Currently, there is no specific treatment available for this virus.

Vidya Samiksha Kendra (Indian Express)

12 Sep 2023

Phanigiri Artefacts (The Hindu)

12 Sep 2023

Gene-drive Technology (The Hindu)

12 Sep 2023

Self Regulatory Organisation for Fintech (Indian Express)

12 Sep 2023

Eastern Economic Forum (PIB)

12 Sep 2023

Tags:

What is the News ?

The Eastern Economic Forum, taking place in the Russian port city of Vladivostok, will be graced by the presence of the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways.

Facts About:

The EEF, established in 2015, serves as a catalyst for attracting foreign investments into the Russian Far East (RFE). It effectively showcases the economic potential of the region, favorable business conditions, and enticing investment opportunities.

The significance of the EEF is underlined by the remarkable increase in agreements signed during the forum, surging from 217 in 2017 to a staggering 380 agreements in 2021, valued at 3.6 trillion roubles.

These agreements span various sectors, including infrastructure, transportation, mineral exploration, construction, industry, and agriculture.

Key Players:

In the RFE, China, South Korea, Japan, and India emerge as pivotal players, with China leading the pack as the largest investor.
China recognizes the potential for advancing its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Polar Sea Route in the RFE, accounting for a substantial 90% of total investments in the region.

Objectives:

Russia's strategic vision for the RFE involves linking the nation to the bustling Asian trade routes.
Through rapid modernization efforts in cities such as Vladivostok, Khabarovsk, Ulan-Ude, Chita, and more, Russia aims to attract increased investments to fortify its economic resilience amidst challenges like economic crises and sanctions, with support from China and other Asian powers.

Interbank Call Money Market (ET)

11 Sep 2023

One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) (PIB)

11 Sep 2023

Global Biofuels Alliance (The Hindu)

11 Sep 2023

Konark Temple Wheel (Indian Express)

11 Sep 2023

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (Indian EXpress)

11 Sep 2023

Schizostachyum Andamanicum (The Hindu)

09 Sep 2023

NAVAL EXERCISE ‘VARUNA’ – 2023 (PIB)

09 Sep 2023

Central Empowered Committee (Indian Express)

09 Sep 2023

Dark Patterns (The Hindu)

09 Sep 2023

Varicella Zoster Virus (Indian Express)

09 Sep 2023

Tags:

What is the News ?

Scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology have made a historic discovery in India. They have identified the Clade 9 variant of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) here for the first time.

Facts About:

Varicella-zoster is a type of herpes virus that gives you chickenpox, which is a common illness when you're a kid.
This virus only infects humans and belongs to the α-herpesvirus family.
It's found all over the world and spreads easily.
When you first get infected with this virus, you get chickenpox, which is also called acute varicella.
In some cases, this virus can even affect your central nervous system and lead to serious problems.

Zero Draft Plastic Pollution Treaty (Down to Earth)

08 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) concluded with member states instructing the INC secretariat to create an initial draft aimed at putting an end to plastic pollution, including in marine ecosystems.

Facts About:

This is a globally binding agreement designed to put an end to plastic pollution, especially in marine ecosystems.
The zero draft consists of ten sections covering topics such as the preamble, definitions, principles, scope, institutional arrangements, and final provisions.
During INC-2, member states like Saudi Arabia, Iran, China, and India emphasized the significance of clearly defining the scope of this legally binding instrument.

Competition Commission of India (CCI) (TOI)

08 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The Competition Commission of India has recently unveiled preliminary rules for overseeing mergers and acquisitions involving significant India-based operations, particularly those in the technology sector, thereby extending the authority of the antitrust regulator.

Facts About:

CCI is a government-established statutory body founded in March 2009 under the Competition Act, 2002.
The primary objective of CCI is to foster fair competition in the economy, ensuring a level playing field for producers and promoting market dynamics that benefit consumers.
The Commission's key focus areas include eradicating practices detrimental to competition, fostering and maintaining competitive environments, safeguarding consumer interests, and upholding the freedom of trade in India's markets.

Mandate: CCI enforces the provisions of The Competition Act, 2002, which:

Prohibits anti-competitive agreements and the abuse of dominant positions by enterprises.
Regulates mergers and acquisitions (M&A) that could potentially harm competition within India. Hence, deals exceeding certain thresholds require clearance from CCI.
Monitors the activities of large enterprises to ensure they do not misuse their 'dominant position' by controlling supply, setting high purchase prices, or engaging in unethical practices that may harm emerging businesses.

Composition: CCI functions as a quasi-judicial body, consisting of one chairperson and six additional members, all appointed by the Central Government.

Headquarters: The Commission is headquartered in New Delhi.

Wide Field Survey Telescope (HT)

08 Sep 2023

Sambar Deer (The Hindu)

08 Sep 2023

Nation First Transit Card (The Hindu)

08 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The State Bank of India has introduced the 'Nation First Transit Card.' It's a prepaid RuPay card that falls under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) program, allowing you to use it anywhere in the country.

Facts About:

This card is designed to make your commuting experience smooth and convenient.
- You can use it to pay for tickets on metros, buses, water ferries, and even parking with just one card.
- Plus, it's not just for transportation; you can also use it for shopping online and in stores.
What makes it work is the technology behind it. It's powered by RuPay and National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) tech.

Important Facts About National Common Mobility Card (NCMC):

With NCMC, you can use your Bank's Debit Cards as travel cards for Metro Rail and Buses in places where it's available.
The idea for NCMC came from a committee led by Nandan Nilekani, set up by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
NCMC is an initiative by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in India. Its goal is to promote cashless transactions and provide a single payment platform for commuters. It was launched on March 4, 2019.
It offers a unified contactless transport solution through the RuPay platform, which is developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
NCMC is like a magic card that can turn your smartphone into a transport card. You can use it to pay for Metro, bus, and suburban railway services.

Malaviya Mission (PIB)

07 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The Malaviya Mission - Teachers Training Programme, initiated by the University Grants Commission, was recently unveiled at Kaushal Bhawan in New Delhi by the Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.

Facts About:

The primary objective is to offer customized training programs for educators.
This initiative is focused on enhancing the capabilities of faculty members in higher education institutions (HEI).
It is dedicated to achieving continuous professional development and strengthening the skills of 15 lakh HEI teachers across India through 111 Malaviya Mission centers within a specific timeframe.
The program is designed to elevate the quality of teacher training, foster leadership qualities among educators, and align with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP).
Capacity building activities under this Mission will be aligned with a credit framework to facilitate career advancement opportunities for teachers.
Notably, the Indian Knowledge System has been incorporated into the program's modules.
As part of this initiative, Human Resource Development Centers will undergo a transformation and be renamed as Madan Mohan Malaviya Teachers Training Centers.

Satkosia Tiger Reserve (New Indian Express)

07 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, the Satkosia Tiger Reserve made a distressing discovery of two elephants' severely decomposed remains.

Facts About:

Location: Situated in the heart of Odisha, this reserve spans across four districts: Angul, Cuttack, Boudh, and Nayagarh. The Mahanadi River flows through the valleys within the reserve.
Size: Covering an area of 1136.70 sq km, with 523.61 sq km designated as the core area, Satkosia Tiger Reserve is also part of the Mahanadi Elephant Reserve.
Unique Geography: Satkosia serves as the convergence point of two distinctive bio-geographic regions in India: the Deccan Peninsula and the Eastern Ghats.
Landscape: The terrain here is characterized by hills, featuring moderate to steep slopes and narrow valleys.
Vegetation: The forest primarily consists of North Indian tropical moist deciduous forests and moist peninsular low-level sal.
Flora: The dominant tree species is sal, forming dense stands. Other associated species include Asan (Terminalia alata), Dhaura (Anogeissus latifolia), Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus), and Simal (Bombax ceiba).
Fauna: The reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, spotted deer, sambar deer, chowsingha, barking deer, bison, wild dogs, sloth bears, jackals, giant squirrels, and porcupines. Additionally, it provides a natural habitat for two endangered species: the freshwater crocodile and the gharial.

One-hour Trade Settlement (Indian Express)

07 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), which previously stated its intention to introduce real-time settlement of trades in July, is now considering implementing one-hour settlement of trades as the initial step.

Facts About:

In a one-hour settlement, when an investor sells a share, the money will be deposited into their account within an hour, and the buyer will have the shares in their demat account within an hour.

Trade settlement is a process that involves the transfer of funds and securities on the settlement date.

It's considered complete when the purchased securities from a listed company are delivered to the buyer, and the seller receives the money.
Previously, trade settlements followed the T+1 cycle, meaning they occurred within one day or 24 hours of the actual transactions.

This changed in January 2023 when India shifted to the T+1 settlement cycle, making it the second country globally, after China, to adopt this cycle for top-listed securities.

Chitala Fish (TOI)

07 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The Union Minister for Fisheries, Livestock, and Dairying has just revealed plans to boost the population of the Uttar Pradesh state fish Chitala by introducing it into natural water sources like the Ganga through river ranching.

Facts About:

Chitala Fish is a type of predator fish that primarily hunts at night and preys on smaller fish.

Distribution:

Although it's often reported to inhabit various parts of southern Asia, this species is mainly found in the Indian subcontinent, including Pakistan, India (particularly in states like Manipur, Uttaranchal, West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar), Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Habitat:

Chitala Fish is commonly found in major river channels and freshwater lakes but has also been observed in swamps.
Its primary habitat includes the Indus, Ganges-Brahmaputra, and Mahanadi river basins in India.

Conservation Status:

According to the IUCN, Chitala Fish is classified as "Near Threatened."

Significance of Chitala’s River Ranching:

The river ranching initiative has multiple aims, including restoring the aquatic ecosystem's balance, boosting the income of fish farmers, and providing the public with a protein-rich diet.

Additionally, Uttar Pradesh has ongoing projects worth over 1000 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.

Indian Green Building Council (The Hindu)

07 Sep 2023

Project Naman (India Today)

06 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The Indian Army has initiated 'Project Naman,' which involves setting up centers to provide support and address concerns for veterans and the families of personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Facts About:

Project Naman aims to create centers for veterans and the families of fallen personnel to provide assistance and address their concerns.
The first center will be located in Delhi Cantonment.
Named 'Naman,' these centers will include a Common Service Centre, offering various government-to-customer services.
Additionally, they will assist in updating pensioners' accounts on the SPARSH portal for veterans, next of kin, and dependents.

Gramodyog Vikas Yojana (PIB)

06 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, the Chairman of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), a part of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, provided artisans with tool-kits and machinery as part of the 'Gramodyog Vikas Yojna' program.

Facts About:

Gramodyog Vikas Yojana is a vital part of the Khadi Gramodyog Vikas Yojana and has a mission to advance and enhance village industries through various means such as shared facilities, technological upgrades, training, and more.
- It encompasses a range of activities associated with different village industries.

Components of the Yojana:

Research & Development and Product Innovation: This component supports institutions engaged in product development, innovations, design improvements, and diversification processes.
Capacity Building: It focuses on enhancing the skills and knowledge of staff and artisans through the existing MDTCs (Management Development and Training Centers) and excellence institutions.
Marketing & Publicity: The Yojana assists village industry institutions in various ways, including preparing product catalogs, industry directories, conducting market research, introducing new marketing techniques, organizing buyer-seller meetings, and arranging exhibitions.
Target beneficiaries of this program are artisans, unemployed youth, and self-help groups (SHGs).
- To be eligible, individuals must be traditional artisans with skill and experience in art and craft.

Tilapia fish (Down to Earth)

06 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The report about invasive alien species highlighted that the proliferation of water hyacinth (scientifically known as Pontederia crassipes) in Lake Victoria has had a negative impact on the tilapia fish population.

Facts About:

It is a common name for some fish species in the family Cichlidae (order Perciformes), which includes a large number of predominantly freshwater species endemic to Africa.
These fish are primarily found in freshwater environments, such as shallow streams, ponds, rivers, and lakes. They are less commonly found in brackish water.
In some cases, Tilapia can become problematic invasive species in warm-water habitats like Australia, whether introduced intentionally or accidentally.
- However, they generally can't survive in cold temperate climates.
It has emerged as one of the world's most productive and internationally traded food fish.
Tilapia culture has become economically successful in many parts of the world, and fishery experts have termed tilapia "aquatic chicken" because to its rapid growth and minimal maintenance cultivation.

Nagarahole Tiger Reserve (The Hindu)

06 Sep 2023

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A 10-year-old boy was recently killed by a tiger in Nagarahole Tiger Reserve's Metikuppe wildlife region.

Facts About:

Nagarahole Tiger Reserve is located in the Mysore and Kodagu districts of Karnataka.

Its name, "Nagarahole," means "snake stream" in Kannada, and it's named after a small river that flows through the area, eventually joining the Kabini River.

The reserve is bordered by the Bandipur Tiger Reserve to the southeast and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala to the southwest.

It's also a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

Its history dates back to the time of the Wodeyar dynasty, the former rulers of the Kingdom of Mysore, who used it as an exclusive hunting ground.

It was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 by Coorg State, later becoming a national park in 1988.
In 1999, it was designated as a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger.

Nagarahole's forests consist mainly of deciduous trees.

The eastern part of the reserve has dry deciduous forests, while the western areas, with higher rainfall, feature tropical moist and semi-evergreen forests.

Throughout the reserve, you'll find swampy areas called 'hadlu,' rich in grasses and sedges, which are favored by herbivores.

The region is known for commercially valuable trees like rosewood, teak, sandalwood, and silver oak.

In terms of wildlife, Nagarahole is home to a diverse range of species, including tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, Asiatic elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, chital deer, muntjacs, and four-horned antelopes, among others.

Tharosaurus indicus (The Hindu)

06 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, scientists from IIT Roorkee studied dinosaur fossils from the Middle Jurassic period. These fossils were discovered in the Thar desert near the Jaisalmer Basin by the Geological Survey of India.

Facts About:

It is a member of the Dicraeosauridae family and the Diplodocoidea superfamily.
These are the earliest dicraeosaurid sauropod fossils discovered in India.
It is the world's oldest known diplodocoid fossil, dating back 167 million years.
The dinosaur was named Tharosaurus indicus, with Tharo originating from the Thar desert, Saurus from the Greek'sauros', meaning lizard, and indicus from its Indian provenance.
This family was distinct in that its members were smaller and had shorter necks and tails than other long-necked sauropods.
Sauropods originally arrived on Earth some 200 million years ago, during the Jurassic period.
They were one of the most dominating dinosaur clades, surviving until the late Cretaceous period 65 million years ago, when dinosaurs became extinct.
According to the experts, dicraeosaurid dinosaur fossils have previously been discovered in North and South America, Africa, and China, but such fossils were unknown from India.

Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (Indian Express)

05 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

Authorities from the Ministry of Union Housing and Urban Affairs have indicated that the initial installment of loans for supporting ongoing projects in tier-2 and tier-3 cities through the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) is expected to be released shortly.

Facts About:

The UIDF is created by utilizing the priority sector lending shortfall.

Objective:

This fund serves as a resource for public agencies to develop urban infrastructure in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

Emphasis is placed on essential services such as sewage and solid waste management, water supply, sanitation, construction, and improvement of drainage systems, with a priority on projects that have a significant impact.

The National Housing Bank manages this fund.

It initially has a corpus of ?10,000 crore and is modeled after the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF).

States are encouraged to harness resources from the 15th Finance Commission's grants and existing schemes, while also considering user charges when accessing the UIDF.

Currently, it covers 459 tier-2 cities and 580 tier-3 cities.

UIDF Loans:

nterest rate: Bank Rate minus 1.5%
The loan principal is repayable in five equal annual installments within seven years from the draw date, including a two-year moratorium period.
Interest payments are made on a quarterly basis.

Stump-tailed Macaque (Indian Express)

05 Sep 2023

Gilbert Hill (Indian Express)

05 Sep 2023

PM-DAKSH Yojana (PIB)

05 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

From 2020 to 2023, the PM-DAKSH Yojana has provided training to a total of 107,156 beneficiaries.

Facts About:

The Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalata Sampanna Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana is a Central Sector Scheme launched in the fiscal year 2020-21.

Its primary goal is to boost the skills and competency of specific target groups, making them capable of finding employment, either through self-employment or wage-employment, to improve their socio-economic status.

This Yojana serves as a National Action Plan for training marginalized individuals, including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Economically Backward Classes (EBCs), Denotified Tribes (DNTs), sanitation workers, and waste pickers.

Target Groups:

Artisans: Those looking to enhance their income within their current vocations.
Women: Empowering them to engage in self-employment while managing domestic responsibilities.
Youth: Providing them with long-term training and specialization in employable fields to improve their job prospects.

Eligibility:

Age range: 18-45 years.
No income limit for SCs, Safai Karamcharis (sanitation workers), and waste pickers.
Annual family income below Rs. 3 lakh for OBCs.
Annual family income below Rs. 1 lakh for EBCs (Economically Backward Classes).
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJ&E).

GRIHA-IV Norms (The Hindu)

05 Sep 2023

What is Preeclampsia? (The HIndu)

04 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

A recent research study has shown that utilizing a liquid-biopsy method to assess DNA-methylation levels in the blood could enhance the early detection of pregnancies at risk of developing preeclampsia.

Facts About:

Preeclampsia is a severe condition characterized by elevated blood pressure that typically emerges during pregnancy, usually after the 20th week.

This condition can have adverse effects on multiple organs in the body and poses risks to both the mother and the developing fetus.

Symptoms:

Individuals with preeclampsia commonly experience high blood pressure (hypertension) and elevated levels of protein in their urine (proteinuria).
Additional symptoms may include vision changes such as temporary loss of vision, blurred vision, or heightened sensitivity to light.

Prevention:

The primary clinical recommendation for preventing preeclampsia is the use of low-dose aspirin, supported by strong clinical evidence.

Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle and making prudent choices is advisable, especially for individuals who have previously experienced preeclampsia.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY) (PIB)

04 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY), an inventive employment incentive scheme introduced by the Central Government, has surpassed its initial objectives for generating employment. This achievement highlights its effectiveness in promoting job creation and supporting economic recovery amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Facts About:

Launched in 2020, the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY) was created to stimulate the creation of new job opportunities.
- It achieves this by providing financial support to employers who are part of the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO).
The primary objective of this scheme is to incentivize the employment of individuals, including those who lost their jobs due to the pandemic.
It does so by covering both the employee and employer contributions, which amounts to 24% of wages, for establishments with up to 1000 employees.
For larger establishments with over 1000 employees, the scheme covers only the employee's EPF contributions, which is 12% of wages, in relation to new employees.
As of July 31, 2023, the ABRY has successfully enrolled more than 7.58 million new employees, surpassing its initial target for employment generation.
This achievement underscores its significant contribution to revitalizing the job market and supporting economic recovery during these challenging times.

Umiam Lake (ET)

04 Sep 2023

C-TAP initiative (WHO)

04 Sep 2023

DIKSHA Platform (The Hindu)

04 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

The National eGovernance Division (NeGD) within the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is gearing up to incorporate Personalised Adaptive Learning (PAL) into its established Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing (DIKSHA) platform.

Facts About:

DIKSHA is a national education platform initiated by the National Council for Education Research and Training (NCERT) under the Ministry of Education.

Its primary purpose is to deliver educational content to schools through both an online portal and a mobile application.

The platform was developed with a strong emphasis on key principles such as open architecture, open access, open licensing, choice, and autonomy.

It relies on open-source technology tailored to India, featuring internet-scale capabilities that accommodate various teaching and learning needs.

Key Features:

DIKSHA incorporates many essential components of the National Digital Education Architecture (NDEAR), enabling successful use-cases like interactive textbooks, online courses, content creation, content sourcing, interactive quizzes, question banks, chatbots, analytics, and dashboards.

To support the learning needs of Children With Special Needs (CWSN), DIKSHA offers a substantial collection of resources, including audiobooks, Indian Sign Language (ISL) videos, and a comprehensive dictionary.

DIKSHA Platform (The Hindu)

04 Sep 2023

The Global Fund (The Hindu)

02 Sep 2023

Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Scheme (Indian Express)

02 Sep 2023

Meningococcal Disease (HT)

02 Sep 2023

Strategic Disinvestment (The Hindu Business Line)

02 Sep 2023

Tags:

What is the News ?

The government has recently issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to hire an asset appraiser for the Strategic Disinvestment of IDBI Bank.

Facts About:

Strategic disinvestment involves the sale of a significant portion of the government's ownership in a central public sector enterprise (CPSE), which can be up to 50% or a higher percentage as decided by the competent authority.

This process also includes the transfer of management control.

It essentially means transferring both ownership and control of a public sector entity to another entity, which can be either private or public.

Distinguishing Strategic Disinvestment/Sale from Disinvestment:

Disinvestment refers to the sale of minority shares of public enterprises to another entity, whether it's public or private.
In this case, the government still maintains ownership of the enterprise.

In contrast, strategic disinvestment/sale occurs when the government sells a majority share in an enterprise, relinquishing not only ownership but also control of the entity.

What are the objectives of Strategic Disinvestment:

Reduce Government Ownership
Raise Capital
Enhance Efficiency
Foster Competition
Attract Private Investment
Focus on Core Functions
Alleviate Fiscal Burden

Financial Action Task Force (Deccan Herald)

02 Sep 2023

Invasive Alien Species (Down to Earth)

01 Sep 2023

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What is the News ?

Report on invasive species & their control to be approved at the plenary was developed over four years by 86 leading experts from 49 countries

Facts About:

An alien species is one that has been introduced outside its native habitat.

According to experts, these are whether intentionally or accidentally, find their way outside their natural environments.

Once there, they often outcompete local species, disrupting the delicate ecological balance.

These invasive species typically possess specific traits that aid their success, including the ability to adapt to new conditions (known as phenotypic plasticity).

Other characteristics include rapid reproduction, high dispersal capabilities, versatility in diet and environmental adaptation, and a propensity for quick reproduction.

It's crucial to note that invasive alien species are not a natural part of their new ecosystems, and their presence can lead to severe harm to the economy, the environment, and even human health.

In developing countries, where agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and natural systems play a pivotal role in people's livelihoods, invasive alien species exacerbate poverty and pose a significant threat to development.

This situation is further compounded by factors like climate change, pollution, habitat loss, and human-induced disturbances.

Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) (The Hindu)

01 Sep 2023

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS) (TOI)

01 Sep 2023

Third Rail Current Collector (PIB)

01 Sep 2023

JAIS Language Model (NewsOnAir)

01 Sep 2023

US – India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (Indian Express)

31 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform under the US – India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership.

Facts About:

In August 2023, the U.S.-India Renewable Energy Technology Action Platform (RETAP) was launched under the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership.

RETAP was established to take bilateral collaboration further with a result-oriented, time-bound technology focus.

It is intended to advance new and emerging renewable technologies with a view toward deployment and scaling.

RETAP’s initial focus is to be on green/clean hydrogen, wind energy, long long-duration energy storage, and to explore geothermal energy, ocean/tidal energy and other emerging technologies as mutually determined in the future.

The initial work plan is guided by the following five themes:

Research & Development
Piloting & Testing of Innovative Technologies
Advanced Training & Skill Development
Policy and Planning for Advancing RET and Enabling Technologies
Investment, Incubation and Outreach programmes

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1940523

Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) report (Economic Times)

31 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Annual update of the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) 2023 has been released.

Facts About:

India ranked second among the countries worst hit by air pollution with Bangladesh topping the list.

Nepal ranked third followed by Pakistan and Mongolia.

PMI in South Asia: Particulate pollution has increased9.7 percent from 2013 to 2021 in South Asia.

In India, PM2.5 levels rose 9.5 percent; in Pakistan 8.8 percent; and in Bangladesh, levels rose by 12.4 percent over this same time interval.

Life Expectancy: An average Indian citizen loses around 5.3 years of life expectancy due to air pollution.

While an average citizen in Bangladesh loses 6.8 years of their life to air pollution
An average Chinese citizen has seen an improvement — from 4.7 years of life expectancy being lost in 2013 to 2.5 now, an improvement of 2.2 years,

Pollution in India: Pollution in India has increased from 56.2 µg/m3 in 2020 to 58.7 µg/m3 in 2021.

This is more than 10 times the WHO guideline of 5 µg/m3.

Health Risk: Pollution is biggest threat to human health in India in terms of lowering life expectancy, beating cardiovascular diseases and child and maternal malnutrition.

While particulate pollution takes 5.3 years off the life of the average Indian, cardiovascular diseases reduce life expectancy by about 4.5 years, and child and maternal malnutrition reduces life expectancy by 1.8 years.

Poor AIr in Delhi: It is the most polluted city in the world.

Delhi’s annual average PM2.5 level in 2021 was found to be 126.5 µg/m3, which is more than 25 times the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 5 µg/m3.
Delhi residents are on track to lose 11.9 years of life expectancy on average relative to the WHO limit and 8.5 years relative to the national guideline if the current pollution levels persist.

About Air Quality Life Index (AQLI)

AQLI measures the impact of particulate pollution on life expectancy.
It is released by Energy Policy Institute at University of Chicago (EPIC).

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/your-life-is-getting-short-by-5-years-due-to-air-pollution-chicago-university-report-reavels-scary-numbers/articleshow/103198930.cms?from=mdr

State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World-2023 (FAO)

31 Aug 2023

Tags:

What is the News ?

A recently published report, ‘State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World’ (SOFI) 2023, shows that the cost of a healthy diet has increased in India in recent years, but it is still lowest among the BRICS countries (including the newly added six countries) and India’s neighbours.

Facts About:

The ‘State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World’ (SOFI) 2023 report prepared by FAO and United States agencies has been released with the theme of “Urbanisation, agrifood systems transformation, and healthy diets across the rural-urban continuum”.
According to a UN agency report 74% of people in India can’t afford a healthy diet because of increasing costs.

‘State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World’ (SOFI) 2023 :-

The report is published by the partnership of Food and Agriculture Organisation(FAO) of the United Nations with the United States agencies i.e International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Food Programme (WFP) and World Health Organisation (WHO).

The aim of the report is

ending hunger
achieving food security
improving nutrition
to provide an in-depth analysis for achieving this goal in the context of the SDG.

FAO:-Each year, FAO’s most deeply scrutinised report presents the leading numbers of undernourished people worldwide, while advocating for strategies against hunger and malnutrition.

SOFI 2023 related to India:-

PPP report:-

The concept of PPP is 1ppp dollar in the United States should be able to buy the same amount of goods in either India or Brazil or in other countries.
xPPP dollar per day means how much would it cost to buy a very simple healthy diet in every country.
According to this data India compared to its other countries or other regional countries of the world itself has the lowest PPP dollar for a healthy diet.

According to another data which shows the share of the population that is unable to afford a healthy diet in 2021, for instance 74% of the Indian population cannot afford a healthy diet and the fourth highest share in the country itself .

So when it comes to afford a healthy diet, India comes fourth.

Because of stagnation, poor income levels, General stagnation, people of India are not able to afford the cheapest healthy diet in the world.

According to Above two report

India doesn’t have to spend too much to get a healthy diet.
74% of our population cannot afford a healthy diet.

Conclusion:-

The share of people able to afford such a healthy diet is still low: India is at the bottom of that list because income levels are stagnant or going down.

For example, while in mumbai the cost of meals have risen by 65% in last 5 years wages and salaries have only risen by 28% to 37% , so it shows that prices are rising but our incomes are not rising therefore though India have the cheapest food in the world there is most of people of india can’t afford it.It is not about the can’t afford food it’s a about a nutritional healthy diet divided by FAO and the UN.

Source: https://www.fao.org/documents/card/en?details=cc3017en

Meghalaya Shawl and Chhattisgarh’s Dhokra Art and Telangana Bidri Art vases (Times now)

31 Aug 2023

Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary (The Hindu)

30 Aug 2023

Cauvery Water dispute (Indian Express)

30 Aug 2023

Kampala Declaration (Down to Earth)

30 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

A total of 48 African countries have now agreed to adopt the Kampala Ministerial Declarationon Migration, Environment and Climate Change (KDMECC) to address the nexus of human mobility and climate change in the continent.

Facts About:

Background: KDMECC was originally signed and agreed upon by 15 African states in Kampala, Uganda in July 2022.

The Declaration is the first comprehensive, action-oriented framework led by Member States to address climate-induced mobility in a practical and effective manner.

The KDMECC-AFRICA is expected to be signed by Member States during the Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi on September 4, 2023.

Need:

Africa is one of the world's most vulnerable continents to the impacts of climate change.
Climate change, which leads to an increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, has a direct impact on migration.

Significance:

The Kampala Ministerial Declaration on Migration, Environment and Climate Change gives us the unprecedented opportunity to support Member State priorities in addressing the challenges while also leveraging migration for sustainable development.
It will ensure that all voices, including those of youth, women and persons in vulnerable situations are the priority of the expanded declaration.

Linkage between Climate change and Human Rights:

Climate change has indisputable long-term consequences on the environment, which, in turn, seriously undermine the enjoyment of human rights.
The African continent is projected to be one of the hardest hit by the negative effects of climate change.
The consequences of climate change are not only disproportionately felt by the most vulnerable and poorest populations; there are also disparities along gender lines.
The connections between climate change, gender equality, and women’s rightsare complicated and multidimensional.
In contrast, most existing studies on gender and climate change action offer a narrow conception of what gender equality and women’s rights mean in the context of climate change action.

Other similar declarations:

The Maputo Convention on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources: This Convention shall apply;

To all areas which are within the limits of national jurisdiction of any Party; and
To the activities carried out under the jurisdiction or control of any Partywithin the area of its national jurisdiction or beyond the limits of its national jurisdiction.

The Parties shall adopt and implement all measures necessary to achieve the objectives of this Convention, in particular through preventive measures and the application of the precautionary principle, and with due regard to ethical and traditional values as well as scientific knowledge in the interest of present and future generations.

Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/kampala-declaration-on-climate-change-human-mobility-now-has-48-african-countries-as-members-91393

Sequencing the Y Chromosome (The Hindu)

30 Aug 2023

Food Inflation & Challenges of Malnutrition (Down to Earth)

30 Aug 2023

Tags:

What is the News ?

According to recent data, the cost of meals rose by 65% in five years, wages by just 37% in the last five years.

Facts About:

In Mumbai, the cost of a vegetarian thali surged 65% in five years, while income for laborers and salaried workers in urban Maharashtra increased only 37% and 28%, respectively. This discrepancy is making essential food items unaffordable, leading to compromised meals.

What is Thalinomics?

Thalinomics is a term coined by an Indian economist and former Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India, Arvind Subramanian.
It refers to a concept that involves analyzing changes in the cost of a vegetarian thali (a meal consisting of a variety of dishes served on a single plate) to gain insights into the trends and dynamics of food inflation and affordability.
It involves tracking the prices of key ingredients that constitute a thali, such as cereals, pulses, vegetables, and other essential items.
This concept is particularly relevant in countries like India, where food affordability and inflation are significant concerns for a large population.

Key insights: A case study of Mumbai and urban Maharashtra

Rising Cost of Thali: The cost of preparing a home-cooked vegetarian thali in Mumbai has increased significantly by 65% over the past five years. This increase is attributed to rising prices of essential ingredients like rice, dal, vegetables, and other items that constitute a thali.
Income Growth: Over the same five-year period, the average wage earned by casual laborers in urban Maharashtra increased by 37%, while the average salary of regular salaried workers increased by 28%. These income growth rates reflect the changes in earnings for these two categories of workers.
Disparity Between Costs and Income: While the cost of a thali increased by 65%, income growth for casual laborers and salaried workers was significantly lower, at 37% and 28%, respectively.
Affordability Challenge: The disparity between rising costs and income growth has resulted in essential food items becoming increasingly unaffordable for households. This affordability challenge can lead to reduced portion sizes or a compromise in the variety and nutritional quality of meals.
Impact on Budget Share: The study also analyzes the portion of monthly wages or salaries required to afford two thalis every day for a month. This share increased from 22.5% of a casual laborer’s monthly earnings in 2018 to 27.2% in 2023. For salaried employees, it increased from 9.9% to 12.8% over the same period.

Incomplete Data: Data limitations, particularly regarding the absence of certain ingredients like spices and ghee in the analysis, This suggests that the actual cost of making a thali could be even higher than the calculated figures.

Key aspects of the relationship between thali prices and inflation

Inflation and Ingredient Prices: The prices of ingredients like rice, dal, vegetables, and oil can be affected by inflation. If the prices of these essential ingredients rise due to inflationary pressures, the overall cost of preparing a thali would increase.
Food Inflation: The cost of a thali, which is composed of various food items, is directly influenced by food inflation. If there’s high food inflation, it can significantly impact the affordability of thalis and other meals.
Supply and Demand Dynamics: Inflation can be driven by supply and demand imbalances. If there’s a shortage of certain ingredients due to supply disruptions (e.g., poor harvests or transportation issues), prices can rise. Similarly, changes in consumer demand patterns can affect the prices of specific ingredients, further impacting thali costs.
Monetary Policy: Central banks often use monetary policy tools to control inflation. Interest rate adjustments, money supply regulation, and other measures can impact inflation rates. High inflation rates can lead to increased production costs for farmers and manufacturers, which may trickle down to the prices of thali ingredients.
Income Effects: Inflation can impact consumers’ purchasing power. When inflation outpaces income growth, households might need to allocate a larger portion of their income to cover basic expenses like food. This can particularly affect lower-income households, leading to affordability challenges for items like thalis.
Regional Variation: Inflation rates can vary regionally and even locally. Different regions might experience different rates of inflation due to factors like supply chain disruptions, local economic conditions, and government policies.
Government Policies: Government policies such as subsidies, import/export regulations, and agricultural policies can influence ingredient prices and, consequently, the cost of preparing a thali. These policies can impact the supply and availability of key ingredients.

Implications of the higher cost of a thali

Nutritional Impact: The rising cost of thali ingredients can lead to compromised nutritional intake as households might cut back on certain items to manage expenses. This can result in inadequate diets and potential health implications.
Affordability Strain: As thali prices escalate, households may face financial strain by allocating a larger portion of their income to food expenses. This can limit their ability to save, invest, and engage in non-essential expenditures.
Dietary Diversity: Increased thali costs can potentially lead to reduced dietary diversity as households might opt for cheaper, less nutritious alternatives, affecting overall dietary quality.
Balanced Meals: Higher thali costs might lead to smaller portions or fewer items in the thali, disrupting the balance of a typical meal and potentially impacting satiety and nutritional completeness.
Quality of Life: Reduced dietary quality due to affordability challenges can have broader implications for individuals’ quality of life, health, and overall well-being.
Economic Struggles: For households with limited disposable income, the burden of increased thali costs can exacerbate economic struggles and hinder progress.

Way forward

Policy Interventions: Implement policies to address the widening gap between thali costs and income growth, ensuring that essential food remains affordable.
Income Enhancement: Focus on raising wages for casual laborers and salaried workers to match the rising cost of thalis.
Affordability Measures: Establish measures to mitigate the impact of expensive thalis on households, considering subsidies or targeted assistance.
Nutrition Awareness: Launch campaigns to educate households about maintaining nutritious diets even when faced with affordability challenges.
Gender-Inclusive Approach: Address gender disparities by formulating policies that empower women economically.
Data-Driven Approach: Base policies on accurate and up-to-date data on food prices, wages, and consumption patterns.
Food Security Initiatives: Strengthen food security programs to ensure access to nutritious food despite thali cost increases.
Policy Evaluation: Continuously assess the effectiveness of policies in addressing thali affordability and overall well-being.

Conclusion

The shifting dynamics between escalating costs and relatively stagnant income pose a serious challenge to maintaining a nutritionally balanced diet. As prices continue to rise, a more comprehensive approach is crucial to ensuring that affordable nutrition remains within reach for all strata of society.

Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/price-of-food-inflation-42483

Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23 (PIB)

29 Aug 2023

LK-99 (The Hindu)

29 Aug 2023

Moody’s Report on Demographic Dividend (Economic Times)

29 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Alongwith the population growth, strong education and quality infrastructure are key to reap economic gains in India: Moody

Facts About:

Relation between population growth and economic growth:

Population Growth as a Driver of Economic Growth (Early Stages)

A larger population means a larger labor force, which can lead to increased production, consumption, and innovation. This phenomenon is often referred to as the demographic dividend. When the ratio of working-age individuals to dependents (children and elderly) is high, it can create a favorable environment for economic expansion.

Labor Force and Human Capital:

A growing population can provide a larger labor force, which, if properly educated and skilled, can contribute to higher productivity and economic growth. However, for population growth to positively impact economic growth, there must be adequate investments in education, healthcare, and skill development to ensure that the workforce is productive and capable of contributing to economic activities.

Consumption and Demand:

A larger population can lead to increased consumption and demand for goods and services, which can stimulate economic growth. Businesses may expand to meet this increased demand, leading to higher levels of investment and production.

Urbanization and Productivity:

Population growth often leads to urbanization, as people move from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunities. Urbanization can lead to increased productivity due to factors like economies of scale, improved infrastructure, and better access to markets and resources.

Resource Constraints and Negative Impacts:

Rapid population growth without corresponding economic development and resource management can lead to resource constraints, environmental degradation, and increased competition for limited resources. This can have negative effects on economic growth in the long run.

Demographic Transition:

As economies develop and standards of living improve, birth rates tend to decline. This results in a shift from high population growth rates to lower ones. During this demographic transition, countries can experience a period of accelerated economic growth due to a relatively smaller dependent population.

Aging Population:

In more advanced economies, declining birth rates and increased life expectancy can lead to an aging population. While this may result in a decline in the working-age population, it can also create opportunities for innovation and growth in industries related to healthcare, elderly care, and technology.

Quality of Institutions and Policies:

The relationship between population growth and economic growth is influenced by the quality of institutions and policies in place. Good governance, effective healthcare systems, education policies, and infrastructure development play a crucial role in determining how population growth impacts economic growth.

In summary, the relationship between population growth and economic growth is not deterministic, and its effects can vary widely based on numerous factors. While a growing population can potentially provide a demographic dividend and contribute to economic growth, this positive outcome depends on factors such as investments in human capital, infrastructure, and sound governance.

Additionally, as countries progress in their development, the relationship often becomes more nuanced, with demographic transitions and changingpopulation structures influencing economic dynamics.

Factors responsible for India’s population growth

Falling mortality: The IMR has decreased from 40.7 in 2015-16 to 35.3 in 2019-21.
Increasing Life expectancy at birth: It reached to 69.7 years in the 2015-19 period from 31 in 1947.
Unintended pregnancies: 1 in every 7 unintended pregnancies of world occur in India.
Lack of female education, child marriage and early marriages, etc.

Challenges caused by growing population

Pressure on resources: As India has only 2.45% of the global surface area and 4% of the water resources.
Pandemic outbreaks: Due to increasing urbanization and expansion of humans in wild habitats.
Disruption and Conflicts: Due to rise in struggle for finite resource.
Decline in social indicators: Due to suboptimal public expenditures on health and education may not be possible.
Pressure on economy: Due to low skilled workforce, stagnant economy, unemployment, etc.
Widening gender gap: If expenditure on health and education decline, women would suffer the most.

Way ahead to harness the benefits of population growth

Supporting Reproductive Justice: Provisions of safe and effective methods of family planning and freedom to make the best reproductive choice.
Education for all: Educational attainment, particularly of girls, enhances intergenerational formation of human capital and has a positive impact on demographic behaviour with respect to nuptiality, fertility, health, etc.
Foster Inclusive Growth developing democratic institutions to facilitate equity in the society.
Facilitate migration to bridge the demand and supply of the workforce.
Investment in green technology and social innovations to adapt to and mitigate climate and environmental changes.
Better geriatric care, health insurance and pension facilities for 65+ age category.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/indicators/india-must-focus-on-education-and-infra-for-growth-moodys-report/articleshow/103147127.cms?from=mdr

Care Protocol for Babies in India (The Hindu)

29 Aug 2023

Seethakali folk art (Indian Express)

28 Aug 2023

Terai-Arc Landscape (TAL) (Times of India)

28 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, the poop of tigers has helped a team of scientists at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) understand the prey selection patterns of the striped feline in the Indian part of the Terai-Arc Landscape.

Facts About:

It is an 810km stretch between the river Yamuna in the west and the river Bhagmati in the east.
It comprises the Shivalik hills, the adjoining bhabhar areas and the Terai flood plains.
It is spread across the Indian states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and the low-lying hills of Nepal.
About 22% of the wild tiger population in India is found across the TAL, living amidst some of the highest human and livestock densities on the subcontinent.
The landscape boasts of some of India’s most well-known Tiger Reserves and Protected Areas, such as Corbett Tiger Reserve, Rajaji National Park, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Valmiki Tiger Reserve and Nepal’s Bardia Wildlife Sanctuary, Chitwan National Park, Sukhla Phanta Wildlife Sanctuary.
These forests are home to three flagship species: the Bengal tiger(Panthera tigris), the greater one-hornedrhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) and the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus).

Key Facts about the Wildlife Institute of India

It is an autonomous Institution of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.
It was established in 1982.
It offers training programs, academic courses and advisory in wildlife research and management.
The Institute is actively engaged in research across the breadth of the country on biodiversity-related issues.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/dehradun/10-tiger-corridors-across-india-need-attention-experts/articleshow/95518729.cms

The State of India’s Birds Report (The Hindu)

28 Aug 2023

RIGHT TO REPAIR (Indian Express)

28 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

In recent years, several states in the U.S. have enacted ‘right to repair’ laws.

Facts About:

It refers to government measures that forbid manufacturers to impose barriers that deny consumers the ability to repair consumer products.
The sectors identified for the right to repair include farming equipment, mobile phones/tablets, consumer durables, and automobiles/automobile equipment.
Government has launched a unified portal, https://righttorepairindia.gov.in, to onboard leading brands and reliable third-party technicians to provide easy access to overhauling services.
The portal has on boarded leading brands such as Apple, Samsung, Honda, Kent RO Systems, Havells, Hewlett Packard, and Hero MotoCorp.
- The portal seeks to streamline trade between original equipment manufacturers and third-party sellers.
The right to repair has been recognized in many countries across the globe, including the USA, UK, and European Union.

Significance of Right to repair for India:

Lowering costs for consumers: By providing access to third-party technicians, the right to repair can reduce costs for consumers who may not be able to afford expensive repairs or replacement devices.
Reducing electronic waste: India is one of the largest generators of electronic waste in the world, and the right to repair can help reduce e-waste by extending the lifespan of electronic devices and appliances.
Supporting small businesses: The right to repair can also support small businesses that provide repair services, by creating a level playing field with manufacturers who may have previously had a monopoly on repairs.
Empowering consumers: By giving consumers the ability to repair their own devices or choose where to have them repaired, the right to repair empowers consumers to make informed choices and take control of their own devices.
Promoting transparency and collaboration: The right to repair framework aims to build a consumer-centric ecosystem that promotes transparency and collaboration between manufacturers, sellers, and consumers.

Challenges associated with implementing right to repair in India

Limited Access to Information: Many manufacturers do not provide adequate information to consumers about repair options or how to repair devices, which can make it difficult for consumers to exercise their right to repair.
Lack of Awareness: Consumers lack awareness about their rights to repair and the benefits of repairing their devices leading to a lack of demand for repair services, limiting the growth of the repair industry.
Opposition from manufacturers: Some manufacturers may oppose the right to repair, arguing that it could compromise their intellectual property rights or lead to safety concerns making it difficult to pass legislation or regulations to support the right to repair.
Limited availability of spare parts: The availability of spare parts is often limited in India, particularly for older or less common models of devices makes it difficult for repair technicians to perform repairs or for consumers to find reliable repair services.
Lack of regulatory mechanism: Currently, there is no comprehensive regulation in India that governs the right to repair which can lead to confusion among consumers and repair technicians about their rights and responsibilities, and may limit the growth of the repair industry.

Way Forward:

Many countries around the world have been attempting to pass effective ‘right to repair’ laws. But the movement has faced tremendous resistance from tech giants such as Apple and Microsoft over the years.

The New York legislation is a reminder that it is time to not only acknowledge the right to repair of consumers but also respond to the corresponding rights of the manufacturers. This warrants some expedited policy changes to recognise the ‘right to repair’, be it through amendments in the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 or through a separate law.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-what-is-the-right-to-repair-movement-7400287/

Scholarship Schemes for Religious Minorities (PIB)

28 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

There is a shift in Centre’s policy towards minority education in the past few years. It has discontinued two key educational schemes for religious minorities and gradually cut down on the expenditure incurred on the programmes of the Ministry of Minority Affairs.

Facts About:

Minority Educational Schemes: Overview

Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Initially covering classes 1 to 10, now limited to classes 9 and 10.
Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Supports class 11 and above students, with increased funding this fiscal year.
Merit-cum-Means based Scholarship Scheme: Aided professional and technical courses, underwent significant funding reduction.
Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF): Provided financial assistance for research scholars but discontinued in 2022.
Padho Pardesh: Discontinued interest subsidy scheme for higher education abroad.
Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship: Scholarship for meritorious girls discontinued.

Policy Shift and Consequences

Change in Focus: Despite acknowledging the importance of education for religious minorities and inclusive growth, the government has discontinued two key educational schemes, narrowed the scope of another, and reduced expenditure on multiple programs by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
Beneficiary Drop: Between 2019 and 2022, the number of beneficiaries under six educational schemes for religious minorities decreased by 7%, while government spending on these programs declined by around 12.5%.
Budget Cuts: The Ministry of Minority Affairs faced a budgetary reduction of 38.3% for the fiscal year 2023-24, from Rs 5,020.5 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 3,097 crore. Additionally, a significant portion of funds allocated in the previous year went unutilized.

Importance of Strengthening Educational Aid

Diverse Religious Minorities: India encompasses over 30 crore people from religious minority communities, including Muslims (14.2%), Christians (2.3%), Sikhs (1.7%), Buddhists (0.7%), Jains (0.4%), and Zoroastrians.
Challenges Faced by Muslims: Muslims, the largest religious minority, confront challenges in areas like economics, health, and education. Their participation in formal employment remains low, with many working in the informal sector under poor conditions.
Sachar Committee Report: The Sachar Committee highlighted the deprivation and neglect faced by Muslims across various development dimensions, underscoring the need for affirmative action.
Formation of Ministry of Minority Affairs: Responding to these challenges, the UPA government established this Ministry in 2006 to ensure focused attention on the issues affecting minority communities.

Challenges and Impact

Reduction in beneficiaries and funding has impacted the implementation of schemes, resulting in a widening gap in education and economic parameters.
Poor coverage of beneficiaries and unchanged low unit costs remain hurdles in scheme implementation.
Muslim students’ enrolment in higher education is lagging behind other communities, worsening the existing disparities.

Way Forward

Strengthen educational aid through enhancing scholarships, such as pre-matric, post-matric, merit-cum-means, and national overseas scholarships.
Implement targeted schemes based on the 15-Point Programme to address development gaps in minority-concentrated localities.
Make scholarships demand-driven and provide additional financial resources to improve unit costs.
Increase the total budget allocation for the Ministry of Minority Affairs to address the deprivation in educational attainment for minorities.

Source: https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2022/mar/doc202231626301.pdf

G20 ministers agree to map global value chains, link MSMEs (Indian Express)

26 Aug 2023

China-Bhutan boundary dispute and its impacts on India (The Hindu)

26 Aug 2023

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The 13th Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on the China-Bhutan boundary issues was held recently.

Facts About:

A joint press release from Beijing and Thimphu said the 13th Expert Group Meeting (EGM) was held in Beijing
It described as an “important outcome” the setting up of a Joint Technical Team on the Delimitation of the China-Bhutan Boundary, which held its first meeting along the sidelines of the EGM.

The two sides had talks on
1. continuously implementing the MOU on the Three-Step Road Map for Expediting the China-Bhutan Boundary Negotiations
2. agreed to expedite and take simultaneous steps to implement the Three-Step Road Map
3. agreed upon keeping the positive momentum of frequent Expert Group Meetings
4. holding the 14th Expert Group Meeting on the China-Bhutan Boundary Issues as soon as possible
5. maintaining communication on holding the 25th Round of China-Bhutan Boundary Talk
It did not, however, announce a date for the already much delayed 25th round of boundary talks, which have not been held since 2016.
In recent months, both sides have portrayed the long-running talks as picking up speed and nearing a possible solution, which would have ramifications for India.
While there was a two-year gap between the 10th round of the EGM held in April 2021 and the 11th round of the EGM held in January 2023, the last two rounds have been held in relatively quick succession.

Impact on India

Experts in India have said any deal between Beijing and Thimphu that accedes to a “swap arrangement” between areas to the North (Jamparlung and Pasamlung valleys) with Doklam to the West would be of concern to India, given the proximity to India’s narrow “Siliguri corridor” that connects northeastern States with the rest of India.
India and China were involved in a stand-off in Doklam near the India-China-Bhutan trijunction in 2017.
In March, the Bhutanese Prime Minister said in an interview that the process of “demarcating territories” and “drawing a line” could be completed “after one or two more meetings”.

Conclusion

The boundary talks between Bhutan and China began in 1984, and the 24th round was held in 2016.

The talks have largely focused on disputed areas to Bhutan’s north, and to its west, abutting the Doklam plateau.

However, these have been stalled since 2016, especially after the 2017 Doklam stand-off.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/interview/post-covid-necessary-for-neighbours-to-work-together-bhutan-fm-on-china-bhutan-boundary-talks/article65646740.ece

7th Global Environment Facility (GEF) Assembly (Down to Earth)

26 Aug 2023

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As per the chief executive of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in a plenary session, it will likely to work more closely with civil society organisations in the future.

Facts About:

About: Environmental leaders from 185 countries will gather in Vancouver, Canada for the Seventh Assembly of the Global Environment Facility from August 22-26, 2023.

Global Environment Facility (GEF): The GEF Assembly, which meets every 4 years, is the global body that coordinates financing for international efforts to address climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and factors inhibiting land and ocean health.

Points of discussion:

Building on recent diplomatic breakthroughs on biodiversity loss, toxic chemicals, and the high seas, the GEF Assembly will be a critical stocktaking for 2030 goals to end pollution and nature loss, combat climate change, and propel inclusive, locally-led conservation.
GEF would work directly with non-governmental organisations that work at the convention level.
It is set to include the launch of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, a new source of funding for protecting species and ecosystems globally.
The fund will open new avenues for private sector and philanthropic support to enable rapid implementation of the historic Global Biodiversity Framework agreed at COP15 in Montreal, December 2022, and of the high seas treaty adopted in New York City, in June 2023.

Need of such an initiative:

Biodiversity funding needs differ between recipient countries, for example between countries with key areas for biodiversity (often large emerging countries such as Brazil and Indonesia) and the least developed countries (LDCs) or Small Island Developing States (SIDS), for which it is more difficult to access funds.

Global Biodiversity Framework:

It contains goals to be achieved by 2050 focus on ecosystem and specieshealth including;
- To halt human-induced species extinction,
- The sustainable use of biodiversity,
- Equitable sharing of benefits, and
- On implementation and finance to include closing the biodiversity finance gap of $700 billion per year.

Source: https://update-mac.com/?tid=103&tag_id=1528a5df-4f9e-4046-9232-3361bc5f2c12&cnv_id=e891de8lpg6sc0b4c&placement=20427977&sub1=726006&clickcost=0

India-Iran drop Foreign Arbitration clause in Chabahar Port Issue (The Hindu)

26 Aug 2023

Insurance Surety Bonds (PIB)

25 Aug 2023

National Medical Commission (Indian Express)

25 Aug 2023

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The National Medical Commission (NMC) has put on hold the regulations that make it mandatory for doctors to prescribe generic drugs.

Facts About:

In light of the criticism received by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) as well as the as the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA), the National Medical Commission put on hold the Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023.
Even the country’s apex drug regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Drug Control Organisation (CDSCO), questioned the language in the notification.
The participating bodies suggested that the guidelines be kept in abeyance until the WHO’s good manufacturing practices are implemented.
The participants said that prescribing only generic drugs will prompt pharmacies to sell generic drugs at high-profit margins, disincentivising firms that manufacture quality branded generics

National Medical Commission:

The National Medical Commission is a statutory body established under the National Medical Commission Act, 2019.
The NMC replaced the erstwhile Medical Council of India (MCI) which was established in 1934.

Objectives of NMC –

Improve access to quality and affordable medical education;
Ensure availability of adequate and high-quality medical professionals in all parts of the country;
Promote equitable and universal healthcare that encourages community health perspective and makes services of medical professionals accessible to all the citizens;
Encourages medical professionals to adopt latest medical research in their work and to contribute to research;
Objectively assess medical institutions periodically in a transparent manner;
Maintain a medical register for India;
Enforce high ethical standards in all aspects of medical services;
Have an effective grievance redressal mechanism.

Composition of NMC –

NMC is a 25-member body, majority of them being nominated by the Central government.
Tenure of NMC members is four years (except for part-time members whose tenure is two years).
- The NMC has 11 part-time members representing states or state medical councils.
The NMC chairpersons and other members, nominated by the Central government, cannot be renominated.
Any decision requires approval of the majority (minimum 13 out of 25) of the Commission.

Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023:

On August 2nd, the National Medical Commission had published the Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023 aimed at reshaping prescription practices.
It mandated that registered medical practitioners prescribe medications using “generic”, “non-proprietary”, or “pharmacological” names.
The guidelines define a generic drug as a “drug product that is comparable to brand/reference listed product in dosage form, strength, route of administration, quality and performance characteristics, and intended use.”
It says branded generic drug is one which has come off patent and is manufactured by drug companies and sold under different companies’ brand names.
The guidelines say, “Every RMP (Registered Medical Practitioner) should prescribe drugs using generic names written legibly and prescribe drugs rationally, avoiding unnecessary medications and irrational fixed-dose combination tablets.”
The guidelines have also talked about punitive measures against those violating the directive.
Besides the instructions on generic drugs, the NMC guidelines included directives on issues ranging from continued medical education, usage of social media platforms and maintaining a dynamic register of doctors.
It also barred doctors from attending events sponsored by pharmaceutical companies.
However, the NMC guidelines have not gone down well with the Indian Medical Association (IMA).

Issued Raised by the Indian Medical Association (IMA):

The IMA issued a statement in response to the regulations introduced by the NMC.
The IMA says the biggest impediment to generic drugs is the uncertainty about its quality.
IMA said that the quality control in the nation being very weak, there’s practically no guarantee of the quality of drugs and prescribing drugs without assured quality would be detrimental to patient health.
- The statement added that less than 0.1% of the drugs manufactured in India are tested for quality.
The IMA said that step should be deferred till the Government can assure the quality of all the drugs released into the market.
The statement says patient care and safety are not negotiable.
The IMA says it has been demanding for long that only good quality drugs should be made available in the country and prices should be uniform and affordable.
It urges the Government to have ‘one drug, one quality, one price’ system whereby all brands should either be sold at the same price or banned and only generics allowed while ensuring highest quality of these drugs.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/nmc-hold-regulations-mandating-doctors-prescribe-generic-drugs-bar-them-endorsing-drug-brand-8907964/

Gene-Edited Mustard (Indian Express)

25 Aug 2023

India and the Northern Sea Route (NSR) (The Hindu)

25 Aug 2023

ASTRA air-to-air Missile (PIB)

24 Aug 2023

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The Light Combat Aircraft(LCA) Tejas successfully test-fired an ASTRA beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile off the coast of Goa.

Facts About:

The ASTRA BVR missile is designed to engage and destroy highly maneuvering supersonic aerial targets. It has a range of over 100 kilometers.

BVR missiles are capable of engaging beyond the range of 20 nautical miles or 37 kilometres.

This missile has all weather day and night capability. The system is being developed to meet specific requirements.
It is jointly designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Research Centre Imarat (RCI) and other laboratories of DRDO.
ASTRA missile would significantly enhance the combat prowess of Tejas and reduce the dependency on imported weapons.

Tejas is a single-engine multi-role fighter aircraft capable of operating in high-threat air environments. It has been designed to undertake the air defence, maritime reconnaissance and strike roles.

The ASTRA Mk-I Weapon System integrated with SU-30 Mk-I aircraft is being inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Fujiwhara Effect (Indian Express)

24 Aug 2023

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Recently, powerful winds tormented the Bay Area and other parts of Central and Southern California, uprooting trees and disrupting the power supply due to Fujiwhara effect.

Facts About:

It was identified by a Japanese meteorologist Sakuhei Fujiwhara.
It was observed for the first time over the western Pacific Ocean, when typhoons Marie and Kathy merged in 1964.

What is it?

When two hurricanes (or cyclones, depending on where you live), spinning in the same direction, are brought close together, they begin ‘an intense dance around their common center’ – this interaction between two cyclones is called the Fujiwhara effect.

When it Occur?

If one hurricane’s intensity overpowers the other, then the smaller one will orbit it and eventually crash into its vortex to be absorbed.
On the other hand, if two storms of similar strengths pass by each other, they may gravitate towards each other until they reach a common center and merge, or merely spin each other around for a while before shooting off on their own paths.
In rare instances, the two ‘dancing’ cyclones, if they are intense enough, may merge with one another, leading to the formation of a mega cyclone capable of wreaking havoc along coastlines.

Experts have noted the rising frequency of this unusual effect, attributing it to a rapidly warming world and the subsequent heating of ocean waters.

Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwia1b_gj6OBAxXpSmwGHVb_DTQQFnoECBUQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Findianexpress.com%2Farticle%2Fexplained%2Fexplained-climate%2Ffujiwhara-effect-cyclones-dance-8905398%2F&usg=AOvVaw0_moE3dRI3IZbhz8XqmBkl&opi=89978449

CHANDRAYAAN 3 MAKES SOFT LANDING (The Hindu)

24 Aug 2023

National Curriculum Framework for school Education 2023 (PIB)

24 Aug 2023

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Recently, the final National Curriculum Framework (NCF) has been released by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).

Facts About:

Framed by: The NCF was drafted by the National steering committee headed by former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), K. Kasturirangan.
Key points:
- For languages:
  - From now, Students in Classes 9 and 10 will need to learn three languages, of which at least two will be native to India.
  - Classes 11 and 12, students will learn two languages, including one of Indian origin.
- Board Exams: The NCF states that all students will be allowed to take Board exams on at least two occasions during any given school year, with only the best score being retained.
- New Text books: It follows the lead of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and gives assent for formulating new textbooks from Grades 3 to 12 under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
- Number of Subjects: For students from Classes 9 to 12 has to study five mandatory subjects, with an option of adding one more subject.
- Now, the number of mandatory subjects for Classes 9 and 10 is seven and six for Classes 11 and 12.
- Optional subjects have been grouped in three parts in the NCF.
  - The first optional group includes art education, physical education and vocational education.
  - The second group includes Social Science, the Humanities, and interdisciplinary areas.
  - The third group includes Science, Mathematics, and computational thinking.
- Shift to semester-based term: The NCF has recommended that in the long term, all Boards should change to semester or term-based systems.
- Now, there is no hard separation between academic and vocational subjects, or between Science, Social Science, Art, and Physical Education.

NCF from NEP 2020:

The NCF brings the aims and commitments of the NEP:

This includes the full range of human capacities, values and dispositions that are aimed to be developed in school education.
Pedagogy, practices, and culture must work in tandem to develop these, and move away from an overemphasis on memorization and content accumulation; in fact, content reduction is required to create space for such development.
The 5+3+3+4 Curricular and Pedagogical structure of school education is reflected in the learning standards, the content, the pedagogy, and the assessment approaches.
It is integrative and holistic with equal status to all subjects and learning domains from Math to Sports.
It integrates vocational education in all schools, and there is integration across subjects while developing rigorous subject understanding and capacities.

National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT):

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is an autonomous organisation set up in 1961 by the Government of India to assist and advise the Central and State Governments on policies and programmes for qualitative improvement in school education.
The major objectives of NCERT and its constituent units are to:
- Undertake, promote and coordinate research in areas related to school education
- Prepare and publish model textbooks, supplementary material, newsletters, and journals and develops educational kits, multimedia digital materials, etc.
- organize pre-service and in-service training of teachers
- develop and disseminate innovative educational techniques and practices
- Collaborate and network with state educational departments, universities, NGOs and other educational institutions

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1951485

Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) (PIB)

23 Aug 2023

Debt-Fossil Fuel Trap (Indian Express)

23 Aug 2023

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Recently, a new report ‘The Debt-Fossil Fuel Trap’, was published by the anti-debt campaigners Debt Justice and partners.

Facts About:

Key Takeaways from ‘The Debt-Fossil Fuel Trap’ report:

Debt-Reliant Economies and Fossil Fuel Dependence:Poor countries burdened with heavy debts are compelled to rely on fossil fuel revenue to repay loans borrowed from wealthier nations, multilateral creditors like the World Bank and IMF, or private lenders.

For Example: Argentina has been supporting fracking projects in the Vaca Muerta oil and gas field in Northern Patagonia to generate revenues to ease the country’s debt crisis. Notably, the IMF has also backed these projects.

Surging External Debt Payments in Global South:The external debt payments of Global South countries have surged by 150% between 2011 and 2023, reaching the highest levels in 25 years.
Debt Crisis and Constrained Public Spending:Around 54 countries are facing a debt crisis, resulting in reduced public spending during the pandemic to meet loan repayment obligations.
Climate Challenges Amplify Borrowing in Global South:Many of these indebted countries lack adequate resources for climate adaptation, mitigation, and addressing loss and damage, forcing them to borrow more money.
Natural Disasters Escalate Debt-to-GDP Ratio:After events like natural disasters, countries can see their debt as a percentage of GDP rise significantly, such as Dominica’s experience after Hurricane Maria in 2017.
Unfulfilled Pledges: Despite promises to discontinue investing in fossil fuels in Global South countries, richer nations and lenders continue to finance fossil fuel projects through loans, perpetuating fossil fuel production.
Resource Backed Loans (RBLs):Resource backed loans (RBLs) are a mechanism through which repayment is tied to natural resources or future income streams derived from those resources.

Recommendations for a Sustainable Path Forward:

Implementing ambitious debt cancellation for countries in need without economic conditions
Rejecting repayments from fossil fuel projects.
Aligning bilateral and multilateral finance with a 1.5-degree warming scenario while avoiding fossil fuel financing.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/rich-countries-force-poor-nations-rely-fossil-fuels-8904371/

20th ASEAN India Economic Ministers’ Meeting (PIB)

23 Aug 2023

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India participated in the 20th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ Meeting.

Facts About:

The 20th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ meeting was held in Semarang, Indonesia.
The Economic Ministers or their representatives from all the 10 ASEAN countries viz. Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam participated in the meeting.
The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste also joined the Meeting as an observer.
The Ministers reviewed the bilateral trade and investment relations between India and ASEAN and underscored their commitment to strengthen and enhance the economic partnership between India and ASEAN to ensure that the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership delivers meaningful benefits for both sides, particularly in the post-pandemic era.
The Ministers also interacted with the ASEAN-India Business Council (AIBC).
The main agenda of this year’s meeting was the timely review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) which was signed in 2009.
India and ASEAN registered a bilateral trade of USD 131.5 billion in 2022-23. The trade with ASEAN accounted for 11.3% of India’s global trade in 2022-23.

ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA):

AITIGA is a trade deal between the ten member states of ASEAN and India.
ASEAN and India signed the Agreement at the 7th ASEAN Economic Ministers-India Consultations in Bangkok, Thailand in 2009. The Agreement, which came into effect in 2010, is sometimes referred to as the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement.
The Agreement has led to steadily increasing trade between ASEAN and India since its signing.
The Agreement originated out of the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation between India and ASEAN created in 2003.
It covers trade in physical goods and products and not services trade.

ASEAN and India signed a separate ASEAN-India Trade in Services Agreement in 2014.

Along with the ASEAN-India Investment Agreement, the three agreements collectively form the ASEAN-India Free Trade Area.

Under the Agreement, ASEAN and India have committed to progressively eliminating duties on 76.4 percent of goods and to liberalize tariffs on over 90 percent of goods.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1950902#:~:text=Shri%20Rajesh%20Agrawal%2C%20Additional%20Secretary,%2C%20Minister%20of%20Trade%2C%20Indonesia.

Strong case to restore Section 8(4) of the RP Act (The Hindu)

23 Aug 2023

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The recent disqualification of Rahul Gandhi, based on his conviction and imprisonment in a defamation case, has brought attention to the legal complexities and implications associated with the disqualification of sitting legislators in India. The focus is on the Supreme Court's decision to strike down Section 8(4) of the Representation of People Act 1951.

Facts About:

Disqualification and Legal Framework:

Instant Disqualification and Lily Thomas Case: The disqualification of Rahul Gandhi based on his conviction in a defamation case raised questions about the legal basis of instant disqualification for sitting legislators. The Supreme Court's judgment in Lily Thomas vs Union of India (2013) invalidated Section 8(4) of the Representation of People Act 1951, removing the three-month appeal window before disqualification took effect.
Section 8(3) and Disqualification: With the removal of Section 8(4), only Section 8(3) remains, which stipulates that a person convicted and sentenced to imprisonment for at least two years shall be disqualified from the date of conviction. The wording does not explicitly indicate an immediate disqualification upon the court's pronouncement of guilt.
Disqualification Authority and Presidential Role: The authority to declare a sitting legislator disqualified might lie with the President of India under Article 103. While the Supreme Court rejected this proposition in Lily Thomas, the Consumer Education & Research ... vs Union Of India & Ors (2009) held that the President's declaration is necessary for disqualification.

Legal Implications and Challenges:

Staying of Sentence and Conviction: The question arises whether the stay of only sentence or the stay of conviction itself is required to lift the disqualification. Different High Courts have held differing views on this issue, adding complexity to the interpretation of disqualification.
Quantum of Sentence and Disqualification: Disqualification hinges on the imprisonment term being two years or more. The recent case of Rahul Gandhi emphasized this connection, highlighting that the disqualification's trigger is the sentence length, not just the conviction itself.
Career Impact and Urgent Attention: Instant disqualification can significantly affect legislators' careers, especially given the slow pace of appeals and legal proceedings. There's a need to address this issue urgently to ensure the stability of legislators' careers and prevent abrupt disqualifications.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-strong-case-to-restore-section-84-of-the-rp-act/article67224103.ece

New Scheme Guidelines for North Eastern Region (PIB)

22 Aug 2023

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The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) releases new Scheme Guidelines for implementing Cabinet-approved Schemes during 15th Finance Commission's balance period (2022-2026).

Facts About:

The Cabinet approved Continuation of the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) with an outlay of Rs.8139.50 crore for the period from 2022-23 to 2025-26.
The scheme is a central sector scheme.It has two components viz. NESIDS-Road and NESIDS-Other Than Road Infrastructure (OTRI).
The objective of the NESIDS is to support infrastructure development in identified sectors including connectivity in the North Eastern States.
The Union Cabinet had also approved continuation of the ‘Schemes of North Eastern Council (NEC)’ for the period from 2022-23 to 2025-26 with a total outlay of Rs.3202.7 crore.
The MDoNER Schemes help provide gap-filling support to the eight North Eastern States as per their felt needs, by taking up projects – e.g., for developing infrastructure to mitigate connectivity and social sector deficits and enhancing livelihood and employment opportunities in the region.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=195088

ICMR study on post COVID mortality (Indian Express)

22 Aug 2023

PLI Scheme for Smartphone Manufacturing Industry & Its Effectiveness (The Hindu)

22 Aug 2023

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Over the last few months, former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan and the Minister of State for Electronics Rajeev Chandrasekhar have sparred over how well a Central government scheme to boost electronics manufacturing has been faring.

Facts About:

Former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan, along with two other economists, had released a brief discussion paper arguing that the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) programme isn’t really pushing India towards becoming a self-sufficient manufacturing powerhouse.
They argued that the government is using taxpayer money to create an ecosystem of low-level assembly jobs that will still depend heavily on imports.

What is the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Programme?

Around five years ago, the Government of India decided it wanted more companies to make things in India.
Manufacturing is a key ingredient to economic growth and also comes with what economists call a multiplier effect — every job created and every rupee invested in manufacturing has a positive cascading effect on other sectors in the economy.
To boost manufacturing in India, the Government introduced the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme.
Under PLI, the government gives money to foreign or domestic companies that manufacture goods here.
The annual pay-out is based on a percentage of revenue generated for up to five years.

PLI Programme for Smartphone Manufacturing Industry:

The industry that has shown the most enthusiasm for the scheme is smartphone manufacturing.
Companies like Micromax, Samsung, and Foxconn (which makes phones for Apple) can get up to 6% of their incremental sales income through the PLI programme.
With the scheme, mobile phone exports jumped from $300 million in FY2018 to an astounding $11 billion in FY23.
- Imports – while India imported mobile phones worth $3.6 billion in FY2018, it dropped to $1.6 billion in FY23.
Central government Ministers, including Mr. Chandrasekhar, have regularly cited this data as proof of the PLI’s scheme’s success.

Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan’s Argument:

In his paper, the former Central bank governor argued that while imports of fully put-together mobile phones have come down, the imports of mobile phone components — including display screens, cameras, batteries, printed circuit boards — shot up between FY21 and FY23.
- Incidentally, these are the same two years when mobile phone exports jumped the most.
He said that manufacturers aren’t really making mobile phones in India in the traditional sense which would involve their supply chain also moving to India and making most of the components here as well.
All that the companies are doing is importing all of the necessary parts and assembling them in India to create a ‘Made in India’ product.
Another criticism is that low-level assembly work doesn’t produce well-paying jobs and doesn’t nearly have anywhere the same multiplier effect that actual manufacturing might provide.

Union Government’s Response:

Minister of State for Electronics Rajeev Chandrasekhar’s argument is two-fold.
First, he said, Mr. Rajan wrongly assumed that all imports of screens, batteries, etc. are used to make mobile phones.
- It is possible these items are used also for computer monitors, DSLR cameras, electric vehicles etc.
He also argued that not all mobile phone production in India is supported by the PLI scheme, only around 22% so far.
The Minister’s overarching point is that the import dependency isn’t as bad as Mr. Rajan says it is.

Conclusion:

Former RBI Governor argued that even if only 60% of imports are used for production, India’s net exports will still be negative.
- That is, even if only 60% of screens, batteries, etc. are used to make mobile phones, the final import tally would still beat the final export tally.
The main divide is over whether the PLI programme will be able to create long-lasting jobs and firmly establish India as a manufacturing and supply hub that adds value to the production process.
The Union Government believes that it will take time for the PLI Scheme’s results to show.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/explained-the-debate-over-indias-smartphone-manufacturing-dreams/article67220769.ece

Marine Heat Waves (Indian Express)

22 Aug 2023

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Extreme Heat waves are harming marine life in the Mediterranean Sea.

Facts About:

Why are high sea temperatures a problem?

Lesser dissolution of gases: Gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide dissolve better at colder temperatures, so that means the warmer the water; the less oxygen is available to breathe.
Higher rate of respiration in marine organism: Higher temperatures also cause an increase in metabolism, which in turn means animals have to breathe even more than usual.
The rise in temperature accelerates metabolism, and the organisms need more food to maintain this metabolic rate.
More Algal blooms: They are more common in hotter waters. Such blooms can further deplete oxygen levels and produce toxins harmful for fish, marine mammals and birds.

What species and ecosystems are worst hit by marine heat waves?

High water temperatures are most harmful for animals living at the bottom of oceans, lakes or rivers.
These benthic species include corals, mussels, sponges, starfish and plants like sea grasses, and are often attached to rock or solid ground.
Scientists observed mass deaths of benthic species along thousands of kilometers of Mediterranean coastline between 2015 and 2019.

What does extreme heat in the Mediterranean mean for people?

Affecting fishing activities in the area: Fishermen are catching fewer familiar species and instead are finding more invasive fish which they have difficulty selling.
Increase in invasive fishes: Some are even poisonous, like the puffer fish migration is seen in the region.
Habitat loss: It could also lead to an overall decline in fish populations, while disappearing seagrass.

What is the phenomenon behind heat trap in oceans?

Ocean Heat Content (OHC): It is the amount of energy absorbed by and stored in the oceans. It is measured in joules.
When sunlight reaches the earth, oceans absorb this energy and store it as heat.
While the heat is first absorbed at the surface of the water body, some of it is eventually disbursed throughout.
Water has a higher heat capacity than air, which means that it can store much larger amounts of heat.
GHG emissions - These gases trap heat in a blanket around the earth, not allowing it to escape, thus raising the temperature of the earth’s surface and leading to global warming.

Why Mediterranean Sea is significant for global temperatures?

The Mediterranean Sea has significant implications for global temperatures due to its role as a "climate amplifier." This phenomenon is referred to as the "Mediterranean Effect" or "Mediterranean Climate Amplification." Here are the reasons:

Heat Absorption and Release: The Mediterranean Sea has a lower heat capacity compared to the vast oceans, such as the Atlantic or Pacific.
- As a result, it heats up and cools down more quickly. During the summer months, the Mediterranean Sea absorbs heat from the sun, leading to warming of the surrounding land areas.
- In winter, it releases the stored heat, moderating temperatures in nearby regions.
Warm and Dry Summers: The Mediterranean region experiences warm and dry summers, which are conducive to high evaporation rates from the sea's surface.
- This process results in the release of latent heat into the atmosphere, contributing to the warming of the air.
Atmospheric Circulation: The temperature contrast between the relatively warm Mediterranean Sea and the cooler landmasses during summer leads to the development of low-pressure systems over land.
- This creates a pressure gradient that drives winds from the sea to the land, bringing warm, moist air with it. This warm air can further increase temperatures over land areas.
Feedback Loops: The warming effect of the Mediterranean Sea can lead to feedback loops. Warmer land areas result in higher evaporation rates, which in turn contribute to the amplification of temperature rise.
- This cycle of heat absorption, release, and evaporation intensifies the Mediterranean Climate Amplification.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/extreme-heatwaves-mediterranean-sea-8901948/

Vegetated Canopies (Indian Express)

22 Aug 2023

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In a recent development in Spain, tensioned sail-like vegetated awnings or canopies known as “Greenshades” have been strategically installed on the facades of buildings.

Facts About:

Vegetated canopies are innovative structures designed to reintroduce greenery into urban landscapes.
Inspired by the natural canopies found in forests and diverse plant ecosystems, these canopies play a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect and enhancing the overall environmental quality of urban areas.
This installation approach not only adds an aesthetic dimension to the urban architecture but also serves as a practical solution for reintroducing green elements in areas where traditional planting is challenging.

Emulating Nature’s Canopies:

Mimicking the canopy formations observed in forest ecosystems, these vegetated awnings recreate a semblance of natural green cover.
By doing so, they provide shade, reduce direct sunlight exposure, and create a more pleasant atmosphere in commercial streets and public spaces.
This is particularly valuable in areas where the presence of trees and vegetation is limited.

Hydroponic Growth System:

The vegetation integrated within these awnings grows using a hydroponic growth system.
This method utilises a water supply point to provide the plants with the necessary moisture and nutrients. Additionally, a water outlet is incorporated into the design to facilitate efficient drainage.
This innovative approach ensures that the greenery thrives even in non-traditional planting environments.

BENEFITS OF VEGETATED CANOPIES

Cooling Effects via Evapotranspiration

Singular Green’s innovative canopy design efficiently reduces temperatures in both immediate areas and beneath the awnings.
Achieved through evapotranspiration, where plants transfer water to the atmosphere, this cooling process enhances comfort.

Air Quality Improvement through Plant Selection

Carefully chosen plants possess a special ability to absorb gases, including pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide.
This contributes to better urban air quality and healthier living conditions.

Noise Reduction with Sound Wave Absorption

Vegetated canopies excel at absorbing sound waves, minimising noise pollution and creating a more serene urban environment.
Incorporating sound-absorbing substrates enhances the auditory experience.

Oxygen Generation and Gas Filtration

Surprisingly, a single square metre of these canopies produces a year’s worth of oxygen for an individual.
Moreover, they serve as natural filters, removing harmful gases from the air and thus improving overall air quality.

Efficient Water and Lighting Integration

Beyond their green benefits, these canopies facilitate centralised water and lighting installations.
Integrated lights equipped with motion sensors respond to real-time needs, promoting energy-efficient urban infrastructure.

Promoting Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health

Introducing these canopies into urban spaces fosters biodiversity by creating habitats for diverse wildlife.
This initiative aligns with the vision of sustainable, nature-friendly cities, nurturing a harmonious urban ecosystem.

In the face of climate change-induced challenges, our response must be proactive, multifaceted, and holistic. The success of vegetated canopies as a means to combat extreme heat waves demonstrates that nature-inspired solutions have the power to transform urban environments into havens of sustainability, resilience, and well-being. By embracing such strategies and embarking on a collective journey, we can build cities that thrive in harmony with the planet.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/vegetated-canopies-green-spaces-urban-spain-8893918/

Concerns about Drilling in the North Sea (The Hindu)

22 Aug 2023

Turmeric Supplements (The Hindu)

21 Aug 2023

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Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a medical advisory warning Australians of the risk of liver injury from using medicines and herbal supplements containing turmeric or its active ingredient, curcumin.

Facts About:

Health benefits of turmeric:

The risk of liver injury did not appear to relate to curcuma longa consumed in typical dietary amounts as a food.
As a staple ingredient in South and South East Asian cuisine, turmeric is also used in Ayurvedic and Chinese-medicine concoctions.
Several studies report it to have anti-oxidant properties that can help with inflammation.
- These include arthritis and infections.
A research have reported that curcumin used along with the drug Artemisininwas effective in treating malaria when tested on mice.
There have also been studies investigating the drug as an adjuvant in chemotherapy based on results in mice and animal studies.
However, their effect in human trials have been inconclusive.

Adverse effects of turmeric:

The French Agency for Food reported various adverse effects, including reports of hepatitis, potentially related to the consumption of food supplements containing turmeric or curcumin.
The ANSES report underlines that turmeric has “choleretic” properties, which means it stimulates the secretion of bile to improve digestion, and therefore, it is advisable that those with bile duct disease should avoidturmeric.
Curcumin could also interact with medications such as anticoagulants, cancer drugs and immunosuppressants, reducing their safety and effectiveness.

Why is curcumin being used in supplements?

One of the challenges of turmeric and by extension curcumin is that very little of it is absorbed, or made ‘bioavailable’, by the body.
To improve its bioavailability, a popular approach is to use piperine, the major active component of black pepper, which improves bioavailability by 2000.
However, whether increasing the bioavailability of curcumin and packaging them in supplements makes them effective and safe for use in medicines is still being debated with no conclusive evidence emerging from trials.

Safe limit on consumption of turmeric:

The European Food Safety Authority has set an acceptable daily intake of 180 mg of curcumin per day for a 60 kg adult as the safe level of consumption.
A World Health Organization/Food and Agricultural Organisationadvisoryrecommends 3 mg/kg of body weight.
India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has standards that packaged turmeric must comply with but nothing on the recommended dietary allowance.
Statistically, on an average about 200 to 500mgs is consumed on a daily basis in Indian households.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/explained-are-turmeric-supplements-advisable/article67214093.ece

Expansion of BRICS (Indian Express)

21 Aug 2023

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Recently there have been internal conflicts about the nature and scope of the potential expansion of BRICS.

Facts About:

BRICS is an acronym for five regional economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
The first four were initially grouped as “BRIC” in 2001 by an economist Jim O’Neill, who coined the term to describe fast-growing economies that would collectively dominate the global economy by 2050.
Summits: The governments of the BRICS states have met annually at formal summits since 2009.
India hosted the 13th BRICS summit in 2021 virtually.
China hosted the 14th BRICS summit in 2022.
South Africa will host the 15th summit 2023.
BRICS is an important grouping bringing together the major emerging economies from the world, comprising:
- 41% of the world population,
- 24% of the world GDP
- Over 16% share in world trade.
- Total combined area of 29.3% of the total land surface of the world
Over a period of time, BRICS countries have come together to deliberate on important issues under the three pillars of:
- political and security,
- economic and financial and
- Cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
New Development Bank and BRICS: Formerly referred to as the BRICS Development Bank, is a multilateral development bank established by the BRICS states.
- The Bank shall support public or private projects through loans, guarantees, equity participation and other financial instruments.

The need for BRICS expansion

Economic strength: The economic strength of the five members of the grouping is not as promising as it was when the platform was first announced in 2009.
- Though the BRICS nations certainly represent 43% of the world’s population and around 30% of the global economy, their economic weaknesses are certain.
China’s anti-western orientation: China is focused on a quick expansion of BRICS with the aim of giving the platform a distinctly anti-western orientation.
Prevailing Anti-Western sentiment: Many realize that the doors of other groupings are closed to them.
- The clamour reflects prevailing anti-western sentiments and a pervasive desire to create a sizeable forum of the Global South.
Global challenges: Russia is being marginalised in the global economy, while China is facing a difficult economic environment with the west turning against it.

Challenges with expanding BRICS grouping:

An increase in membership is likely to weigh the group in favour of Chinabecause some countries waiting to join are also part of the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative.
- This raise concerns that an expanded BRICS could be seen as a Chinese-led anti-American bloc.
India, which has been strengthening its bilateral relationship with the US, has been concerned about expansion.
- India views China’s role in driving these countries for membership of BRICS along with the support of Russia.
India also raised its concern in last year’s BRICS that any addition of new members must follow the carefully thought-out objective criteria for membership.
- This should be mutually discussed among the present members, so that all are of the same view regarding expansion.
Further, at the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting last month, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the need to consider the ways in which existing BRICS countries collaborate with each other and engages with non-BRICS countries.

Way Forward:

The 15th BRICS summit holds multifaceted importance for India, offering a platform for addressing geopolitical concerns, facilitating bilateral talks, and advancing economic collaborations. As the global landscape continues to evolve, BRICS remains a critical forum for emerging economies to engage and collaborate on key global challenges. The outcomes of this summit will not only affect the member nations but also shape the broader trajectory of international relations and cooperation.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/brics-expansion-significance-for-india-8907925/

Megalithic Site In Kerala (The Hindu)

21 Aug 2023

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A large number of megalithic hat stones were found during a recent archaeological salvage excavation conducted by the Kerala Archaeology Department at Nagaparamba in Kuttippuram village, near Tirunavaya.

Facts About:

Hat stones, popularly called Thoppikkallu in Malayalam, are hemispherical laterite stones used as lid on burial urns during the megalithic period.

What is Salvage excavation?

Salvage excavation also known as rescue archaeology or emergency archaeology, refers to a type of archaeological excavation that is conducted in response to a situation where archaeological remains are threatened by construction, development, or other activities

Megaliths

Megaliths were constructed either as burial sites or commemorative (non-sepulchral) memorials.
Origin: As megalithic societies were preliterate, the racial or ethnic origins of the megalithic people are thus difficult to pin down.
Significance: Megaliths were not built for commoners. They signify the emergence of a ruling class or elite who presided over a surplus economy.
Time – Period: In India, archaeologists trace the majority of the megaliths to the Iron Age (1500 BC to 500 BC), though some sites precede the Iron Age, extending up to 2000 BC.

Geographical Spread: Megaliths are spread across the Indian subcontinent, though the bulk of them are found in peninsular India, concentrated in the states of Maharashtra (mainly in Vidarbha), Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Even today, a living megalithic culture endures among some tribes such as the Gonds of central India and the Khasis of Meghalaya.
Different Types of Megalithic Structure include: Stone Circles, Dolmen, Cist, Monolith and Capstone style.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/hat-stones-in-abundance-at-archaeology-site-near-tirunavaya/article67210231.ece

RBI allows switch from ‘floating to fixed rate’ regime (Indian Express)

19 Aug 2023

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) asked all regulated entities (REs), including banks and NBFCs, to give personal loan borrowers an option to switch over from a floating rate to a fixed rate regime at the time of resetting interest rates.

Facts About:

When a customer takes a loan, the interest rate reset clause in the loan agreement allows the lender to review the interest rate after a certain period, as per the occurrence of a scheduled reset date of the loan.
The reset rate is the new interest rate that a borrower must pay effective from the scheduled reset date.
EMI of a floating rate loan changes with periodical changes in reset interest rates.
These rates and the calculation are not uniform for all the banks as the cost of funds differs from banks.

Changes made by RBI:

The RBI asked banks to implement the following regulations:

For Regulated entities (RE) :
- At the time of sanction, REs will have to clearly communicate to the borrowers about the possible impact of a change in benchmark interest rate on the loan leading to changes in EMI and/or tenor or both.
- Any increase in the EMI/ tenor or both will have to be communicated to the borrower immediately through appropriate channels.
- At the time of reset of interest rates, REs will have to give the option to borrowers to switch over to a fixed rate as per their board-approved policy.
- The policy will also specify the number of times a borrower will be allowed to switch during the tenor of the loan.
- REs will have to disclose all applicable charges for switching loans from floating to fixed rate and any other service charges/ administrative costs in the sanction letter and also at the time of revision of charges or costs from time to time.
For EMI or Elongation of tenor:
- The borrowers will also be given the choice to opt for enhancement in EMI or elongation of tenor or for a combination of both options, and to prepay, either in part or in full, at any point during the tenor of the loan, with foreclosure charges.
- The RBI said REs will have to ensure that these instructions are extended to the existing as well as new loans by December 31, 2023.

Why has RBI issued new regulations?

RBI's Supervisory Reviews: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has conducted supervisory reviews and received feedback from the public.
Unreasonable Tenor Elongation: Instances of banks significantly extending tenors of floating rate loans without proper borrower consent and communication have been identified.
Interest Rate Changes: Banks can alter interest rates by adjusting the internal benchmark rate and spread during the loan term, potentially harming borrowers' interests and monetary transmission.
Arbitrary EMI Resets: Borrowers complain of banks arbitrarily resetting Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) and extending tenors without adequate notification.
Hidden Foreclosure Charges: Borrowers are often unaware of foreclosure charges, adding to borrower dissatisfaction.
Stress Concealment: RBI notes that prolonged tenor elongation may obscure underlying stress in banks' financial health.
Refinancing Challenges: While theoretically possible, refinancing floating rate loans across different banks with distinct internal benchmarks is complex due to varying benchmark adjustment methods.
Limited Borrower Options: Borrowers might feel compelled to stay with their original bank, paying higher charges, as refinancing is often impractical due to benchmark disparities.

Possible impacts:

Interest rate of borrowers: Banks can change the interest rate by changing the internal benchmark rate and the spread during the term of the loan which could harm the interest of the borrower and also impair monetary transmission.

Benefits of Fixed rate regime:

For borrowers:
- Protection from Rate Hikes: Shifting to a fixed rate provides protection against potential future increases in interest rates. This can be particularly beneficial if interest rates are expected to rise in the near future.
- Budgeting and Financial Planning: Fixed payments make it easier for borrowers to budget and plan their finances since they know exactly how much they need to allocate for their loan payments.
- Potential Cost: Fixed interest rates tend to be initially higher than prevailing floating rates. Borrowers opting for a fixed rate might end up paying more initially compared to what they would have paid with a floating rate if rates remain relatively stable or decrease.
For lenders:
- Interest Rate Risk Mitigation: Lenders are less exposed to interest rate risks when borrowers opt for fixed rates. They can better manage their own interest rate risk since they know the interest income they'll receive remains constant.
- Lending Profitability: Fixed-rate loans typically come with higher initial interest rates compared to floating-rate loans. This can lead to increased lending profitability for lenders, especially if rates remain stable or decline.
- Potential Lower Loan Demand: Higher initial fixed rates might deter some potential borrowers who are attracted to lower initial payments offered by floating rates.
- Limited Flexibility: Lenders might have less flexibility in adjusting loan terms for borrowers with fixed-rate loans, as the interest rate remains constant regardless of market conditions.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/rbi-fixed-rate-regime-personal-loan-8898445/

Bio-Trace Minerals Project (PIB)

19 Aug 2023

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Recently, the Technology Development Board under Department of Science and Technology (TDB-DST) collaborated with M/s Chemlife Innovations pvt ltd. for innovation in the Bio-Trace Minerals Project.

Facts About:

How does the collaboration between TDB and Chemlife Innovations align with India’s strategic framework for livestock development?

The collaboration between TDB and Chemlife Innovations aligns with India’s strategic framework, including the National Livestock Mission, which seeks to enhance livestock productivity, optimize feed resources, and infuse technology into livestock management. By developing bio-trace minerals for animal feed, the project addresses crucial aspects of animal nutrition, aligning seamlessly with the mission’s objectives.

What innovative technology does Chemlife Innovations employ in their project, and how does it contribute to sustainability?

Chemlife Innovations employs the “Accelerated Natural Bio Transformation” (ANBioT) technology, which facilitates chelation reactions using a proprietary nutrient medium. This technology operates under milder conditions and is eco-friendly, aligning with principles of sustainability by reducing environmental impact and resource consumption.

How does the use of pupa proteins contribute to the project’s eco-friendly approach?

Pupa proteins, rich in hydroxy amino acids, are utilized in the project as an alternative to imported ligands. This economical alternative not only enhances the project’s economic viability but also aligns with India’s goal of self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on imported resources and promoting sustainable practices.

What certifications does Chemlife Innovations hold, and how do they attest to the company’s commitment to quality?

Chemlife Innovations holds Global Certification for Animal Feed Additive Quality and Feed Safety, as well as the esteemed FAMI-QS certification. These certifications validate the company’s commitment to producing high-quality and safe products, maintaining global standards in their operations.

How does the project contribute to the circular economy, and what role does repurposing silk worm pupae meal play?

The project contributes to the circular economy by repurposing silk worm pupae meal, reducing waste generated by the silk industry. By using locally available by-products, the project aligns with principles of sustainability, economic viability, and import substitution goals.

How does the project’s innovative product “MinBioZen” address livestock health and sustainability?

“MinBioZen” is an innovative bio-trace mineral product developed by Chemlife Innovations. It integrates bioavailability and stability, optimizing livestock health and growth. This product showcases the company’s dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship, aligning with the goals of sustainable resource utilization.

Source: https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjUsaL43aGBAxVEwjgGHU5XAs8QFnoECBQQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpib.gov.in%2FPressReleaseIframePage.aspx%3FPRID%3D1950125&usg=AOvVaw16iXZ25GRw2ND9aklzZ5ri&opi=89978449

Agnibaan SOrTeD rocket (Economic Times)

19 Aug 2023

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A Chennai-based start-up AgniKul Cosmos, has commenced the process of integrating its cutting-edge Agnibaan SOrTeD rocket at its private Launchpad in Sriharikota.

Facts About:

The integration process was initiated on Independence Day on August 15, 2023.
A successful launch would make AgniKul the second Indian space tech start-up to send its launch vehicle into space after Skyroot Aerospace.
AgniKul: Established in 2017, by aerospace engineers Srinath Ravichandran and Moin SPM, along with IIT-Madras faculty member Prof. Sathyanarayan R Chakravarthy.

About Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator):-

Type: single-stage launch vehicle.

Powered by: AgniKul’s patented Agnilet engine.

Agnilet engine: It is the world’s sole single-piece 3D-printed engine.
It is a single-piece, 6 kilonewton (kN) semi-cryogenic engine.
Initial trial: early 2021.
Verified at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram.
3D printing: uses materials such as plastics and metals to convert products envisaged on computer-aided design to real three-dimensional items.

Payloads: up to 100 kg.

Altitude: 700 km

It can carry payloads in five different configurations. (LVM3-M2 rocket)

Stages: It is a customizable launch vehicle that could be launched in one or two stages.

Unique feature: unlike traditional sounding rockets that launch from guide rails, it will lift off vertically and follow a predetermined trajectory to perform a precisely orchestrated set of maneuvers during flight.

The rocket’s first stage could have up to seven Agnilet engines, depending on the mission, which are powered by Liquid Oxygen and Kerosene.

The rocket is also designed for launch from more than 10 different launch ports.

To ensure its compatibility with multiple launch ports, AgniKul has built a launch pedestal named ‘Dhanush’.

It will support the rocket’s mobility across all its configurations.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/chennai-based-agnikul-prepares-for-maiden-sub-orbital-flight-of-agnibaan-rocket/articleshow/102805834.cms?from=mdr

3D Printing (The Hindu)

19 Aug 2023

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India’s first 3D printed Post Office was inaugurated in Bengaluru’s Cambridge Layout.

Facts About:

India’s pioneering 3D-printed post office located in Bengaluru’s Cambridge Layout was recently inaugurated.

3D Printed Post Office

Swift Build: The 3D-printed post office was constructed in just 43 days, surpassing the original deadline by two days.
Construction Team: Larsen & Toubro Limited undertook the project in collaboration with IIT Madras.

Technological Process

Spatial Dimension: The post office covers an area of 1,021 square feet and was created using advanced 3D concrete printing.
Automated Procedure: Robotic printers used an automated process to layer concrete according to the approved design.
Strong Bonding: A specially formulated quick-hardening concrete ensured strong bonding between layers.
Rapid Construction: With robotic precision and pre-embedded designs, the project was completed in just 43 days, far shorter than the conventional 6 to 8 months.

Advantages of 3D Printing

Cost-Effective: The project cost ?23 lakhs, indicating a 30-40% cost reduction compared to traditional methods.
Showcasing Technology: The project highlighted concrete 3D printing technology using indigenous machinery and robots, showcasing its scalability.

Distinctive Features

Continuous Perimeter: The project boasted continuous perimeter construction without vertical joints.
Flexibility: The 3D printing accommodated curved surfaces and different site dimensions, overcoming flat wall limitations.
Structural Innovation: Continuous reinforced concrete footing and three-layer walls were created, enhancing structural integrity.
Reduced Timeline: The innovative technique drastically reduced the construction timeline to 43 days, minimizing material wastage.

Source: https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwi88OSW3aGBAxVDTWwGHafnBzMQFnoECB8QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thehindu.com%2Fnews%2Fcities%2Fbangalore%2Findia-first-3d-printed-post-office-is-now-open-for-business-in-bengaluru%2Farticle67208897.ece&usg=AOvVaw1xcvOgM9Z66xFGFeSZ-7W_&opi=89978449

Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas (Indian Express)

19 Aug 2023

INS Vindhyagiri' (PIB)

18 Aug 2023

Artificial Intelligence Index 2023 (Indian Express)

18 Aug 2023

PM Vishwakarma (Economic Times)

17 Aug 2023

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The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved a new Scheme named “PM Vishwakarma”

Facts About:

Type: Central Sector Scheme

Aim: To strengthen and nurture the Guru-Shishyaparampara or family-based practice of traditional skills by artisans and craftspeople working with their hands and tools.

– To improve the quality, as well as the reach of products and services of artisans and craftspeople and to ensure that the Vishwakarmas are integrated with the domestic and global value chains.

Coverage: The scheme will provide support to artisans and craftspeople of rural and urban areas across India.

– Eighteen traditional trades will be covered under the scheme. These include carpenter, boat maker, armourer, blacksmith, hammer and tool kit maker, locksmith, goldsmith, potter, sculptor, stone breaker, cobbler, mason, basket/mat/broom maker/coir weaver, traditional doll and toy maker, barber, garland maker, washerman, tailor and fishing net maker.

Duration of the scheme: Five years (FY 2023-24 to FY 2027-28).

Key Features of the scheme: Artisans and craftspeople will be provided a recognition through PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.

– The scheme has a provision of credit support of up to ?1 lakh (first tranche) and ?2 lakh (second tranche) with a concessional interest rate of 5%.

– It also has a provision to provide skill upgradation, incentive for toolkit as well as digital transactions and marketing support.

– Skilling programmes will take place at both basic and advanced types. Participants will get a stipend of ?500 per day while undergoing training.

– Beneficiaries will also receive up to ?15,000 to buy modern tools.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/pms-vishwakarma-scheme-launch-on-sept-17-70-ministers-to-attend-event-at-70-locations/articleshow/103559849.cms?from=mdr

The first-ever Global Summit on Traditional Medicine (The Hindu)

17 Aug 2023

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The first WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit will take place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Facts About:

First WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit:

Organized by: World Health Organization (WHO) and co-hosted by the Ministry of Ayush.

Aim: To bring together various stakeholders, such as traditional medicine practitioners, policymakers, academics, and others on a common platform to share best practices, evidence and innovation related to how traditional medicine contributes to health and sustainable development.

Significance: Traditional and complementary medicine has been vital for health in communities for centuries and has influenced modern medical knowledge.

– About 40% of today’s medicines have natural origins, including well-known drugs like aspirin and artemisinin.

– Currently, 170 countries have informed WHO about their use of traditional medicine, seeking evidence and data to guide safe, cost-effective, and fair policies and regulations.

About WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine:

In 2022, WHO with the support of the Government of India established the Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

Mandate: The centre provides leadership on all global health matters related to traditional medicine as well as extending support to member countries in shaping various policies related to traditional medicine research, practices and public health.

Significance: It is the first and only global outpost for traditional medicine across the globe.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/who-director-general-to-inaugurate-first-ever-global-summit-on-traditional-medicine/article67193778.ece

Removing gender stereotypes from the law (The Hindu)

17 Aug 2023

Legalising Cannabis : Good or Bad for India (The Hindu)

17 Aug 2023

Talwar-class Stealth Frigates (PIB)

16 Aug 2023

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Two Krivak- or Talwar-class stealth frigates are now expected to be delivered by May and October in 2024
The ship is in the final stages of development; in two months time, it will go for sea trials.

Facts About:

The Talwar class of frigates of the Indian Navy have been built in Russia under an Indo-Russian joint production.

The Talwar class guided missile frigates are modifiedKrivak III class frigates from Russia.

In October 2016, India and Russia signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement for four stealth frigates, after which a $1-billion deal was signed for direct purchase.

The Talwar Class has a displacement of 4,000 tons and speed of 30 knots and is capable of accomplishing a wide variety of naval missions, primarily, finding and eliminating enemy submarines and large surface ships.

Due to the use of stealth technologies and a special hull design, the resulting frigate features reduced radar cross section (RCS) as well as electromagnetic, acoustic and infrared signatures.

Source: https://swarajyamag.com/defence/russia-delays-advanced-talwar-class-stealth-frigates-delivery-yet-again-now-projected-to-join-navy-by-may-and-october-2024

Graphene-Aurora program (PIB)

16 Aug 2023

Deemed Forest (The Hindu)

16 Aug 2023

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Odisha has no ‘deemed forest’ as per the amended Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

Facts About:

What are deemed forests?

Deemed forest refers to land that resembles forests but has not been recognized as such by either the Union or the States.

They account for about 1% of the total forest land in the country.

In 1996, the Supreme Court expanded the remit of the Van (SanrakshanEvamSamvardhan) Act to areas that weren’t notified as forests but conformed to the “dictionary” definition of forests i.e. deemed forests.

The Godavarman verdict stated that the states must identify and categorize such land.
The SC directed the states to establish Expert committees to determine deemed forests in order to clarify the area that may be protected under the Forest (Conservation) Act.

According to the Forest Act, land cannot be diverted without the consent of the Centre as well as gram panchayats in the regions.

It serves as a deterrent to deforestation by directing the parties responsible for diverting forest land to grow trees on a plot of land equivalent to twice the razed area and imposing a significant monetary penalty.

What does the Odisha government directive mention?

All district collectors must ensure that the diversion of forest land for infrastructure projects, particularly state development projects, should follow provisions of the new law.

Any survey or exploration will also not be treated as a non-forestry activity.

Expert Committees

Although all the states were expected to form expert committees to identify deemed forests, not all States submitted their reports.

This has left states with enough leeway in defining or omitting large parcels of land as forests.

According to the Union Ministry of Environment, the amendments to the 1980 Act were necessary to remove ambiguities and clarify the application of the laws.

According to the amended act, the Forest Conservation Act would not apply to notified forest land that was legally diverted for non-forest uses between 1980 and 1996.

As a result, forest land that was not specifically notified as such would cease to be protected under the provisions of the Act.

The Union Environment Ministry had earlier stated that deemed forests would continue to be protected.

The amendments made to the FCA recognized deemed forest lands, which had been identified by the Expert Committee of the State. Therefore the provisions of the Act will be applicable in such lands also.

Future unclear

According to the latest Forest Survey of India, Odisha has approximately 52,156 square km or 130 lakh acres of forest coverage.

This amounts to 33.50% of the State’s geographical area, which is much higher than the national level of forest cover - 21.71%.

Since 1996, around 66 lakh acres have been identified as deemed forests in Odisha.

However, a majority of this land has not been officially notified in the government records.

This amounts to about 40-50% of Odisha’s forest land.

In addition, there are several community forests that are managed by tribal and forest-dependent groups while several have land title rights under the provisions of the separate Forest Rights Act.

The decision of the Odisha government that deemed forests have ceased to exist means that these will face an uncertain future.

One consequence of the new amendments is that there will be no check on forest diversion, making it easier to divert forest land.

According to data from the Union Coal and Mining Ministry, of the 19,200 hectares of forest land that have been diverted nationally for mining between 2017-2022, around 8,000 hectares was from Odisha.

The reality on the ground is that most of the forest officer bureaucracy isn’t too keen on protecting forest rights

Impact

The Adivasi communities of Odisha depend on the deemed forests for their livelihood.

These include some of the community-protected forests and bio-cultural habitats of vulnerable tribal groups such as the Dongria Kondhs in Niyamgiri.
The removal of deemed forest areas from the Act could adversely affect the statutory rights of these communities which have claimed community forest rights and habitat rights on such forests

Around 46% of Odisha’s geographical area is notified as fifth schedule area under the Constitution, where thePanchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act applies.

Boundary disputes: In Karnataka, people have alleged that large amounts of agriculture and non-forest land are “unscientifically” classified as deemed forest land.

This was found to have caused undue hardship to farmers in the region and restricted industrial development.

Criticism

Deemed forests already identified as forests in records ‘held’ by any department or administration should be considered as ‘forest’ even by the new amendment.

However, the directive of the Odisha government violates this.

It is uncertain if the amendment is yet to be considered to be law as the date of enforcement is yet to be notified.

The government has temporarily withdrawn the notification until the Union Government establishes the rules and guidelines of the new act.

The amendment narrows down the definition of forests.

As a result, vast tracts of forests are excluded which leaves them vulnerable to destruction.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/no-more-deemed-forests-says-odisha-government/article67198187.ece

Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) (PIB)

14 Aug 2023

National Medical Commission’s New Guidelines (Indian Express)

14 Aug 2023

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According to the National Medical Commission’s Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations or NMC RMP Regulations 2023, doctors can now refuse treatment to the unruly and violent patients.

Facts About:

The National Medical Commission Act, 2019:

It was introduced to address various issues and challenges in the medical field, including improving the quality of medical education, enhancing access to healthcare services, and ensuring ethical and transparent practices.
Key Provisions include:
- Ethical and Professional Conduct: The Act emphasizes maintaining ethical and professional conduct among medical practitioners and includes provisions to address any deviations from these standards.
- Community Health Providers: The Act introduces the concept of Community Health Providers who are allowed to practice limited medicine in underserved rural areas to address the shortage of doctors.
- Formation of the National Medical Commission (NMC): NMC is an regulatory body which regulates medical education and medical professionals.
- Establishment of Medical Advisory Council.
- Reforms in Medical Education.

Refusing treatment is a complex issue that involves various stakeholders viz. doctors and healthcare professionals, patients and their families, healthcare institutions, medical associations and regulatory bodies, legal authorities, ethics committees, public opinion and media, religious and cultural communities, etc.

Arguments in Favour of the Regulation:

Unruly Behaviour
- Justice: If an unruly patient’s behaviour poses a threat to their own safety, the safety of healthcare staff, or the safety of other patients, refusing treatment might be justified as a means to mitigate these risks.
  - For example, a 21-year-old patient attacked a doctor with a knife during consultation at Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
- Dignity and Integrity: Unruly behaviour can sometimes cross ethical boundaries, leading to disrespectful or abusive treatment of healthcare staff. Doctors have a right to work in an environment that respects their dignity and professional integrity.
  - For example, a 40-year-old doctor on duty in a hospital in Faridabad was assaulted by attendants of a patient as the doctor was attending to another patient, he could not immediately attend to the patient.
- Brings Deterrence: Allowing unruly behaviour to go unchecked might enable a cycle of disruptive or non-compliant behaviour, which could negatively impact the patient’s overall health outcomes. By refusing treatment, the doctor may communicate that certain standards of behaviour are expected for a therapeutic relationship to proceed.
- Right to Freedom to practise any profession: The regulations give the doctors the right to choose whom they will serve, except in case of a life-threatening emergency.

Financial Constraints
- Autonomy and Consent: Doctors are ethically obligated to provide patients with accurate information about their treatment options,including potential costs.
  - If a patient cannot afford the treatment, the doctor might argue that proceeding with treatment without full financial transparency could undermine the patient’s autonomy and informed consent.
  - In extreme cases, relatives of patients have been known to hold doctors or hospital staff hostage, demanding treatment.
- Professional Boundaries: Some proponents of this perspective argue that doctors have a professional duty to provide medical care and expertise, but they are not obligated to address broader societal issues such as patients’ financial difficulties.

Ethical Boundaries: Doctors have ethical responsibilities not only toward their patients but also toward themselves, their families and the healthcare community.
- For example, potential threats and violence have long-lasting impacts which manifests in the degradation of personal and professional relations.
Objectivity: Taking decisions which are free from subjectivity caused by emotions, perceptions and individual bias is necessary for long term sustainability.
- For example, Free medical care for a desperate patient may be ethical, but providing it to many patients may not be feasible for one provider.
Selfless Duty: Medical practitioners often prioritize the well-being of their patients above their own comfort, personal time and space. However, the job can be thankless at times.
- For example, During COVID-19 despite their selfless dedication, medical professionals were subjected to regular assaults and verbal abuse throughout the country.

Arguments against the Regulation

Dedication and the Duty of Care: Dedication is the sense of deep rooted commitment to devote oneself to a cause.. This includes a duty to provide care to those in need, regardless of their financial status.
- In India, out-of-pocket health expenditure accounts for more than half of total health expenditure pushing many households into poverty. This shows the dire need for empathy and compassion towards those in need.For example, Dr Ramanand Singh has been treating his patients for just Rs 50 for the past 35 years in Bihar. He even waives off his fees in cases where the patients cannot afford medical treatment.
Justice and Equity: The principle of justice requires that healthcare be distributed fairly and equitably.Denying treatment to a patient solely based on their inability to pay could be seen as unjust, perpetuating disparities in healthcare access.
Hippocratic Oath: Physicians pledge to do what is in the best interest of their patients and to avoid causing harm.
- Physicians promise to treat all patients fairly, regardless of their background, and to provide care to the best of their abilities without bias.
Unholy Nexuses: Many doctors form nexuses with drugmakers to prescribe specific drugs from their brand instead of generic drugs leads to considerable rise in treatment costs for patients.
- For example, freebies given to doctors including travel expenses, gifts etc. by drugmakers is a common practice.Beneficence: It means kindness or generosity and this principle refers to the moral obligation to act in a manner that will benefit others.The principle of beneficence obligates doctors to act in the best interests of their patients and to promote their well-being.
Compassion: It is the desire to end someone’s suffering which forms the core principle of a medical practitioner. Refusing treatment to individuals on certain grounds could lead to the possibility of crisis of conscience among several practitioners.
- Loss of Trust and Credibility: The medical profession relies on public trust, and denying treatment to those in need could erode that trust and damage the reputation of the medical community.
Responsibility: Some argue that healthcare professionals have a broader social responsibility to address systemic issues in healthcare, including affordability and access. Refusing treatment might be seen as abdicating this responsibility.
Undermining Right to Life: Providing a legal caveat for the registered physicians to refuse treatment is against the fundamental right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.
- Further, there is no specific definition of “abusive” in law as it is purely a subjective interpretation that may depend on the personal opinion of any individual.
- Subjective interpretation may further lead to exclusion on the basis of race, religion, caste, sex etc.

What Should be Done?

Persuasion: Influencing patients to follow prescribed norms for behaviour and ensuring smooth functioning.
- For example, during COVID-19 pandemic, voice messages were circulated using caller tune to make people aware of the importance of vaccination and prevent attacks on health workers.
Emotional Intelligence: Equipping and training medical personnel with necessary skills so that they can manage their emotions and try to avoid escalation of situation and providing practical solutions to the given problems.
Transparent Approaches: Consider alternative approaches before refusing treatment. This might involve social workers, mental health professionals, or conflict resolution experts to address the underlying issues contributing to the unruly behaviour.
- For example, Doctors in San Diego (USA)refer patients to low-cost family health centersthat provide caring, affordable, high-quality health care and supportive services to everyone.
Ethical Principles Balancing: Weigh the principles of patient autonomy, duty of care, patient safety, and respect for healthcare personnel’s well-being. Consider how refusing treatment aligns with these principles and what potential consequences might arise from the decision.
- For example, Doctors Without Borders is a Nobel Peace Prize receiver charity that provides humanitarian medical care in conflict zones to all those in need of medical care, irrespective of the role played by them in the conflict.
Tolerance: Accepting actions and practices which may be considered to be incorrect but still tolerable to some extent that they should not be prohibited or penalised heavily.
- For example, a significant number of the cases of unruly behaviour arises in situations which may not be considered as “common” and even the most well-behaved might behave in a way which is not acceptable in society due to the shock or intensity of the moment which one may not be able to handle.
Consent: Communicating the decision clearly to the patient, and explaining the reasons behind it thus ensuring that the patient understands the potential consequences of their behaviour on their health and the doctor-patient relationship.
Offering Continuity of Care: If possible, provide recommendations for alternative sources of care, whether within your healthcare institution or elsewhere. Ensure the patient’s ongoing health needs are addressed.

Conclusion

We must protect those who heal. Ethical decisions in healthcare are rarely black and white. It’s important to approach each situation with sensitivity, professionalism, and a commitment to upholding the well-being of patients, healthcare staff, and the broader community. Consulting with colleagues, supervisors, and ethics committees can provide valuable guidance in making these difficult decisions

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-health/doctors-new-national-medical-commission-guidelines-8890632/#:~:text=The%20guidelines%20say%20that%20doctors,but%20at%20least%20three%20credits.

Urea Gold (Indian Express)

14 Aug 2023

Indian judicial data on bail appeals (The Hindu)

14 Aug 2023

What is Luna-25? (The Hindu)

12 Aug 2023

MALABAR-2023 (PIB)

11 Aug 2023

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Indian Navy's indigenous frontline warships INS Sahyadri and INS Kolkata will participate in Exercise MALABAR 2023.

Facts About:

The MALABAR series of maritime exercises commenced in 1992 as a bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy and US Navy.
Japan joined the Naval Exercises in 2015. Malabar 2020 saw the participation of the Australian Navy.
This year marks the 27th edition of MALABAR which is being hosted by Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and will see participation from the US Navy (USN), Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
INS Sahyadri is the third ship of the indigenously designed and built Project-17 class multi-role stealth frigates.
INS Kolkata is the first ship of the indigenously designed and built Project-15A class destroyers.
1. Both ships have been built at Mazagon Dock Ltd, Mumbai and are fitted with a state-of-the-art array of weapons and sensors to detect and neutralise threats in surface, air and underwater domains.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1947436

China’s economy slides into deflation (Economic Times)

11 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Facts About:

China’s recent bout of deflation, marked by a decline in consumer prices for the first time in over two years, has sparked debates about its implications and causes.

This article delves into the intricacies of deflation, its potential impact on economic growth, and the unique circumstances driving deflation in China.

Understanding Deflation

Deflation Defined: Deflation refers to a sustained decrease in the general price level of goods and services within an economy.
Historical Context: Historically, the terms “inflation” and “deflation” were linked to changes in the money supply, with “inflation” representing a rise and “deflation” a fall in money supply.

Concerns Associated with Deflation

Economic Slowdown: Many economists view deflation as an indicator of dwindling demand for goods and services, potentially leading to an economic slowdown.
Demand-Supply Dynamics: Falling prices may prompt consumers to delay purchases, hampering demand and triggering a ripple effect throughout the economy.
Resource Utilization: A certain level of inflation is deemed necessary for optimal resource utilization, ensuring full economic potential is realized.

Varied Perspectives on Deflation

Positive Instances: Some economies have experienced deflation during periods of robust growth. Japan witnessed increased real income levels despite persistent deflation.
Economic Crises: Deflation can arise during economic crises when cautious spending and resource reallocation occur.
Consumer Demand and Prices: Some economists argue that consumer demand dictates prices, rather than the other way around.

China’s Deflation Scenario

Policy Measures: China’s central bank maintained low interest rates to stimulate demand amid the post-pandemic recovery.
Property Sector Turmoil: China’s pre-pandemic property sector challenges, affecting GDP contribution, may be a root cause of the current deflationary trend.
Complex Factors: While liquidity may not be the core issue, comprehensive analysis of money supply and monetary transmission is necessary to determine the underlying cause.

Repercussions of Chinese Deflation

[A] Positive Impacts:

Cheaper Imports: If Chinese goods become cheaper due to deflation, it could lead to lower import costs for India, benefiting consumers and businesses that rely on Chinese imports.
Lower Input Costs: Reduced prices for raw materials and intermediate goods from China could lower production costs for Indian industries that depend on these inputs.
Global Supply Chains: If Chinese deflation reduces the cost of production within global supply chains, Indian businesses integrated into these chains might experience cost savings.
Improved Trade Balance: Cheaper Chinese imports can contribute to a more favorable trade balance for India, especially if it leads to reduced import bills.

[B] Negative Impacts:

Export Competition: Cheaper Chinese exports due to deflation could increase competition for Indian exports in international markets, potentially affecting certain Indian industries.
Import Dumping: A flood of cheap Chinese goods into the Indian market could harm domestic producers, leading to job losses and economic strain.
Investment Flows: A slowdown in China’s economy caused by deflation might lead to reduced investor confidence and affect foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to India.
Currency Effects: If China’s central bank devalues its currency to boost exports in response to deflation, it could lead to a stronger Indian rupee, impacting India’s export competitiveness.
Commodity Prices: Reduced demand for commodities from China due to deflation could lead to lower global commodity prices, affecting Indian exporters of raw materials.

Conclusion

China’s encounter with deflation amidst efforts to boost demand and stabilize its economy presents a multi-faceted challenge.
Understanding the nuances of deflation, its interaction with demand dynamics, and China’s unique economic landscape are vital.
As China navigates its path forward, policymakers must consider the interplay of factors, including the property sector’s impact and broader economic goals.

Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwidya2w1qGBAxVcd2wGHTEWAzQQFnoECC0QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fm.economictimes.com%2Fopinion%2Fet-editorial%2Fwhy-chinas-economy-is-down-not-out%2Farticleshow%2F102731901.cms&usg=AOvVaw1udWdqudtF2oR3qve57xGB&opi=89978449

NavIC to link to Aadhaar enrolment devices (The Hindu)

11 Aug 2023

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The Department of Space (DoS) has told the Parliamentary Committee of Science and Technology that the Navigation with Indian Constellation or (NavIC) is going to be integrated into Aadhaar enrolment devices.

Facts About:

About the merger:

Need: Currently the Aadhaar enrolment kits that are used to collect and verify personal details are linked to Global Positioning system (GPS).
The DoS has conducted successful field trials and is providing technical expertise for the finalisation of procurement specifications for the devices.
Overall, the integration of NavIC into Aadhaar enrolment devices will enhance navigation accuracy and provide better disaster management capabilities.
Significance:
NavIC’s integration will enhance the accuracy and reliability of these devices.

Aadhaar authentication process:

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has been created, with the mandate of providing a Unique Identity (Aadhaar) to all Indian residents.
The UIDAI provides online authentication using demographic and biometric data.
Aadhaar authentication is the process involves Aadhaar Number, along with other attributes, including biometrics, is submitted online to the Aadhaar system for its verification on the basis of information or data or documents available with it.
During the authentication transaction, the resident’s record is first selected using the Aadhaar Number and then the demographic/biometric inputs are matched against the stored data which was provided by the resident during enrolment/update process.

How NavIC will ensure data protection?

NavIC offers two services:
Standard Position Service (SPS) for civilian users and;
Restricted Service (RS) for strategic users.
These two services are provided in both L5 (1176.45 MHz) and S band (2498.028 MHz).
NavIC coverage area includes India and a region up to 1,500 km beyond the Indian boundary.
Newer satellites will have an additional band called L1 that will be compatible with civilian use.

Present NavIC uses:

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) was already utilising NavIC as an alert dissemination system for major natural disasters like landslips, earthquakes, floods, and avalanches.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information System (INCOIS) relies on NavIC to broadcast cyclones, high waves, and tsunamis alert messages to fishermen venturing into the deep sea.

Organizations working with NavIC data:

NavIC standards were set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Telecom Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI), Telecom Engineering Centre (TEC), Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), and Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM), International Electrotechnical Committee (IEC), and International Standards Organisation (ISO).

Concerns with GPS or other global systems:

Threat to data security and sovereignty: System like GPS and GLONASS are operated by defence agencies of the respective nations.
Breach of personal information: It is possible that the civilian service can be degraded or denied.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/indian-gps-navic-to-link-to-aadhaar-enrolment-devices/article67181022.ece

India, Japan to restart trilateral cooperation with Sri Lanka (The Hindu)

11 Aug 2023

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Sri Lanka, India and Japan are studying ways of restarting trilateral cooperation on the East Container Terminal (ECT) project in Colombo.

Facts About:

Exploring New Avenues of Collaboration

Shared Vision for Indo-Pacific Stability: India and Japan share a vision of a Free Open and Inclusive Indo-Pacific (FOIIP), which they believe benefits all nations in the region. This common vision has provided a basis for renewed cooperation and joint initiatives.
Potential Areas for Collaboration: The Pathfinder Foundation's paper highlights potential areas of collaboration, including renewable energy projects, grid connectivity, development of Trincomalee as an oil pipeline hub, and people-centric initiatives like tourism and education.
Joint Economic Vision Statement: Leaders from India and Sri Lanka have issued a Joint Economic Vision Statement, setting the stage for collaborative efforts to catalyze economic growth.
While governments will play a role in kickstarting projects, they intend to involve the private sector in investment and execution.
Debt restructuring process:India, Japan, and France's collaborative effort in co-chairing a committee for Sri Lanka's debt restructuring process demonstrates the commitment to stabilizing the country's financial situation. This initiative aims to address debt-related challenges and foster economic recovery.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Balancing Interests and Lessons from the Past: Officials acknowledge the challenges faced in executing joint projects, given past setbacks. The need to align interests and strategies between India, Japan, and Sri Lanka remains a crucial factor in determining the success of future collaborations.
Toward a Resilient Indo-Pacific Partnership: Japan underscores the significance of Japan's partnership with India and Sri Lanka in realizing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
Japan emphasizes creditor parity, transparency, and debt sustainability in Sri Lanka's debt restructuring process.
Role of China: China's involvement in Sri Lanka's infrastructure projects and its status as the country's largest bilateral lender add complexity to the trilateral dynamics. China's investments in Sri Lanka have prompted concerns about debt sustainability and transparency.
While India and Japan aim to include China in the creditors' platform for Sri Lanka's debt restructuring process, China's decision to remain an observer highlights the complexities of fostering inclusive cooperation.

Conclusion

The revival of trilateral cooperation marks a crucial step toward promoting stability and development in the Indo-Pacific region. By overcoming challenges and leveraging their collective strengths, India, Japan, and Sri Lanka have the potential to contribute to a more interconnected and prosperous future for the region.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-japan-look-to-restart-trilateral-cooperation-with-sri-lanka-but-with-caution/article67180586.ece

Uniform Civil Code (Indian Express)

11 Aug 2023

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The Kerala Legislative Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution expressing its concern over the Union Government move to impose a Uniform civil code (UCC).

Facts About:

The Kerala Assembly resolution essentially strikes a cautious note that a proposed “UCC could harm the secular nature of the country. “
The resolution also talks about federalism – that the Centre could make a unilateral move on the contentious issue without consulting states.
The resolution also argued that, it is critical to note that the Uniform Civil Code was limited to Directive Principles.

What does Constitution say about UCC?

The Constitution refers to civil code only in its Directive Principles.
Implementation of Directive Principles is not mandatory.
The court may order to enforce Fundamental rights. But the Directive Principles of Article 44 of the Constitution cannot be enforced even by the courts.

Can the state legislate on UCC?

Article 162 of the Constitution:
The issue of personal laws falls in List III —the Concurrent List of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution.
While subjects in the Union lists fall within the purview of the Parliament, states can legislate on subjects in the State List.
For entries in the ‘Concurrent List’, Article 162 of the Constitution gives state governments the power to legislate on subjects where a central law does not occupy the field.
If there is a central law, it automatically gains precedence over the state law on the subject.
Entry 5 of Concurrent List:
Also the Entry 5 of the Concurrent lists “Marriage and divorce; infants and minors; adoption; wills, intestacy and succession; joint family and partition; all matters in respect of which parties in judicial proceedings were immediately before the commencement of this Constitution subject to their personal law.
This allows states the power to legislate on the subject but only in the absence of a central law.

Do states can bring their own personal laws again?

The answer to it is NO, due to following cases;

State laws on the issues mentioned in Entry 5 of the Concurrent List will not have precedence over central legislation.
On specific areas not covered by central legislation, states can legislate.
But central legislation already covers all aspects of marriage, divorce, inheritance and succession.

Supreme Court’s stand:

The Court mentioned that Article 162 of the Constitution indicates that the executive power of a State extends to matters with respect to which the Legislature of the State has power to make laws.
In view of the provisions of Entry 5 of the Concurrent List of the Seventh Schedule, the constitution of a Committee per se cannot be challenged as ultra vires.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/kerala-assembly-resolution-against-uniform-civil-code-8885558/#:~:text=The%20Kerala%20Legislative%20Assembly%20on,a%20common%20personal%20law%20code.

Bill on Election Commission members’ Appointments (Indian Express)

11 Aug 2023

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A Bill is set to be introduced in the Rajya Sabha with the view of overturning the effect of the Supreme Court’s (SC) verdict on the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs).

Facts About:

The Bill seeks to establish a committee of the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Cabinet Minister nominated by the PM for selecting members of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Current Procedure: Currently, the Law Minister suggests a pool of suitable candidates to the Prime Minister for consideration.
- The President makes the appointment on the advice of the PM.
As per the Bill, a Search Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary and comprising two other members, not below the rank of Secretary to the government, having knowledge and experience in matters relating to elections, shall prepare a panel of five persons who can be considered for appointment.
Then, as per the Bill, a Selection Committee consisting of the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet Minister to be nominated by the Prime Minister will appoint the CEC and other ECs.

Present structure to appoint CEC and ECs:

Under Article 324 (2), the President appoints the CEC and other ECs.
The President makes the appointment on the advice of the Union Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
The Constitution does not prescribe any qualifications, academic or otherwise, for appointment to these offices.
Tenure:
The tenure of office and the conditions of service of all the commissioners is determined by the President.
The tenure of commissioners is 6 years or up to the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
The CEC and the two other ECs have the same powers and emoluments, including salaries, which are the same as a Supreme Court judge.
All three commissioners have the same right of taking a decision. In case of a difference of opinion amongst the three members, the matter is decided by the Commission by a majority.

Process of removal:

Article 324 of the Constitution of India mentions the provisions to safeguard and ensure the independent and impartial functioning of the Election Commission.
The CEC is provided with security of tenure. He cannot be removed from his office except in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court.
Any other election commissioner or a regional commissioner cannot be removed from office except on the recommendation of the CEC.

Supreme Courts’ Judgment:

On March 2, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that a high-power committee consisting of the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India must pick the CEC and ECs.
The judgement by a bench came in 2015, challenging the constitutional validity of the practice of the Centre-appointed members of the Election Commission.
According to the judgement, the SC has now given the Opposition and the judiciary a say in the matter, ruling that the CEC and ECs must be appointed by the President on the advice of a committee comprising the PM, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and the Chief Justice of India.
Also, in 2018, a two-judge bench of the SC referred the case to a larger bench since it required a close examination of Article 324 of the Constitution, which deals with the role of a Chief Election Commissioner.

Debate around appointment of CEC and ECs:

Article 324(2) reads that “The Election Commission shall consist of the Chief Election Commissioner and such number of other Election Commissioners, if any, as the President may from time-to-time fix and the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners shall, subject to the provisions of any law made in that behalf by Parliament, be made by the President.”
The Parliament has the power to nullify the effect of a Court ruling by addressing the concerns flagged in the judgment.
In this case, the arrangement prescribed by the Supreme Court was specifically because the Court noted that there was a “legislative vacuum.” Filling that vacuum is well within the purview of the Parliament.
However, the idea of an independent body that conducts elections permeates through the judgement.
The Court repeatedly stated that to be the objective of the framers of the Constitution.
The composition of the Selection Committee in the Bill raises questions on whether the process is now independent or still rigged in favour of the Executive.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/bill-election-commission-members-appointment-process-explained-8885676/#:~:text=The%20Centre%27s%20Bill%20seeks%20to,Commission%20of%20India%20(ECI).

Consultative Committees (PIB)

10 Aug 2023

Small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) (The Hindu)

10 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

The recent increase in coal consumption, despite the increase in solar and wind power, suggests that reliable and low-carbon electricity resources are critical to ensure the deep decarbonisation of power generation, along with grid stability and energy security.

Small modular reactors – a type of nuclear reactor – can be helpful to India in this regard.

Facts About:

Sources of Energy Production:

India’s Energy sector is one of the most diversified in the world. Sources of power generation range from conventional sources such as coal, lignite, natural gas, oil, hydro and nuclear power, to viable non-conventional sources such as wind, solar, agricultural and domestic waste.
India was ranked fourth in wind power, fifth in solar power and fourth in renewable power installed capacity, as of 2020.
Near-universal household access to electricity was achieved in 2019, meaning that over 900 million citizens have gained an electrical connection in less than two decades.
But, the per capita electricity consumption in India is only one-third of the global average, even though the demand for energy has doubled.
So, to catch up with the increasing demand for energy, there is a need to make arrangements for a secure and sustainable form of self-reliance in the energy sector.

What are Small Modular Nuclear reactors (SMRs)?

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW (e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors.
SMRs, which can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity using:
Small– physically a fraction of the size of a conventional nuclear power reactor.
Modular – making it possible for systems and components to be factory-assembled and transported as a unit to a location for installation.
Reactors – harnessing nuclear fission to generate heat to produce energy.

Conventional Nuclear power plants vs. Small modular reactors:

Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) are efficient users of land and their grid integration costs are lower than those associated with variable renewable energy (VRE) sources because NPPs generate power 24x7 in all kinds of weather.
As an alternative, several countries are developing small modular reactors (SMRs) – nuclear reactors with a maximum capacity of 300 MW – to complement conventional NPPs.
SMRs can be installed in decommissioned thermal power plant sites by repurposing existing infrastructure, thus sparing countries from having to acquire more land and/or displace people beyond the existing site boundary.
SMRs can be safely installed and operated at several brownfield sites that may not meet the more stringent zoning requirements for conventional NPPs.

Need for SMRs:

According to the International Energy Agency, the demand for critical minerals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, required for clean-energy production technologies, is likely to increase by up to 3.5x by 2030.
This jump poses several global challenges, including the large capital investments to develop new mines and processing facilities.
The environmental and social impacts of developing several new mines and plants in China, Indonesia, Africa, and South America within a short time span, coupled with the fact that the top three mineral-producing and -processing nations control 50-100% of the current global extraction and processing capacities, pose geopolitical and other risks.

Advantages of SMRs:

SMRs are designed with a smaller core damage frequency (the likelihood that an accident will damage the nuclear fuel) and source term (a measure of radioactive contamination) compared to conventional NPPs.
They also include enhanced seismic isolation for more safety.
SMR designs are also simpler than those of conventional NPPs and include several passive safety features, resulting in a lower potential for the uncontrolled release of radioactive materials into the environment.

How nuclear reactors can lead to sustainable energy generation?

Accelerating the deployment of SMRs under appropriate international safeguards, by implementing a coal-to-nuclear transition at existing thermal power-plant sites, will take India closer to net-zero and improve energy security because uranium resources are not as concentrated as reserves of critical minerals.
Most land-based SMR designs require low-enriched uranium, which can be supplied by all countries that possess uranium mines and facilities for such enrichment if the recipient facility is operating according to international standards.
Further, serial manufacture of SMRs can reduce costs by simplifying plant design to facilitate more efficient regulatory approvals and experiential learning with serial manufacturing.

What are the initiatives to Achieve Self-reliance in the Energy Sector?

Gas Based Economy
Blending of Ethanol in Petrol
Prime Minister UjjwalaYojana
Renewable Energy Initiatives
National Hydrogen Mission

Way forward:

The aspects like investment, infrastructure development, private-public partnership, green financing, policy framework need to be strengthened both at the national level and regional level to cater to inclusiveness in the development process.
Green energy has tremendous potential in contributing to income, employment, and entrepreneurship and undoubtedly fosters sustainable development.
In addition to job and income generation, it opens up opportunities/avenues for investment and markets for new products and services. So, India should focus on achieving green energy and self-reliance in the Energy Sector together.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/small-modular-reactors-india-nuclear-power-net-zero/article67175626.ece

Asian Elephant Population and Demography Estimates (The Hindu)

10 Aug 2023

Belem Declaration (Down to Earth)

10 Aug 2023

Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (The Hindu)

10 Aug 2023

India takes first step to remove animals from Drug-testing (Indian Express)

10 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, an amendment to the New Drugs and Clinical Trial Rules (2023) passed by the Government of India, aims to replace the use of animals in research, especially in drug testing.

Facts About:

What is the reason behind shifting to Alternative testing modes?

The drug development journey involves rigorous testing to assess the efficacy and unintended effects.
The first step of this process has been to test the candidate molecule in at least two animal species: a rodent (mouse or rat) and a non-rodent, such as canines and primates
Lack of accuracy: Human response is influenced by factors like genetics and diet, leading to a significant mismatch between animal models and human responses.
This mismatch contributes to the high failure rate during human clinical trials, highlighting the need for more accurate testing methods.
Animals cannot consent to their own participation in research.
Welfare of animals: Critics argue that animal testing can cause suffering and harm to animals. Animals are held in sterile, isolated cages, forced to suffer disease and injury, and typically euthanized at the end of each study.

What are Alternative testing modes?

Organoids: These technologies encompass three-dimensional cellular structures, known as "organoids" or "mini-organs," which closely replicate the functions of specific body organs at a miniature scale.
Organ-on-a-chip: The "organ-on-a-chip" technology employs small chips with human cells and microchannels to simulate physiological processes.
- organ-on-a-chip are AA-battery-sized chips lined with human cells connected to microchannels, to mimic blood flow inside the body.
Additive manufacturing: 3D bioprinters use human cells as 'bio-ink' to build tissues. This could help make personalized drug tests and change how we create drugs.

What are Global regulatory frameworks that have adopted non-animal methods to test the effect and potential side-effects of new drug candidates?

European Union: In 2021, the European Union adopted a resolution for an action plan promoting non-animal technologies in research, regulatory testing, and education.
USA: The U.S. passed the FDA Modernization Act 2.0 in December 2022, permitting the use of these methods for drug safety and efficacy testing.
South Korea: South Korea introduced a Bill for advancing alternatives to animal testing in December 2022.
Canada: In June 2023, Canada amended its Environmental Protection Act to minimize vertebrate animal use in toxicity testing.

India

In March 2023, the Indian government incorporated non-animal alternatives for drug testing and development into the drug development process by modifying the New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules 2019.
This step followed public input and consultation with the Drug Technical Advisory Board, which advises governments on drug-related technical issues at both the Central and State levels.

What are the challenges with these alternate methods?

Multidisciplinary: Developing an organ-on-a-chip system requires multidisciplinary knowledge in the fields of cell biology, materials science, fluid dynamics, electronics, engineering, and pharmacology/toxicology to accurately replicate organ behavior and assess drug effects.
At present there is a lack of focused training and expertise in India.
Dependence of Imports: Most of the reagents, cell-culture related materials, and instruments for these technologies are currently imported from the U.S., Europe, and Japan.
Managing Complexity: Researchers simplify recreating human tissues in the lab by minimizing components for disease simulation.
No universal approach due to disease-specific variations; for example, a liver-on-a-chip won't fit all liver diseases.
Variability arises from differences in lab protocols, expertise, and specific research goals. Regulators express concerns about data consistency due to these variations.

Suggestions

Establishment of specialized institutes: Recently, a meeting organized by the Centre for Predictive Human Model Systems and Humane Society International India called for the need of specialized institutes similar to the Wyss Institute.
- WyssInsitute in Boston is a dedicated center that focuses on innovations that emulate human biology.
The dedicated institute will facilitate effective communication and collaboration across various fields.
Promoting innovation: Developing a comprehensive and self-sustaining ecosystem in India to address this gap in the fields of cell culture, material science, and electronics.
Guidelines: Urgent need for guidelines establishing minimal quality criteria and standards for these systems.
Existing guidelines on animal testing requirements need re-evaluation and updating to accommodate advancements in cell-based and gene-editing therapies.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/animal-trials-drug-development-india-amendment-2019-rules/article67019288.ece

ECOWAS and Niger Coup: Challenges and Potential Responses (Indian Express)

09 Aug 2023

State of Elementary Education in Rural India Report (Indian Express)

09 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the first State of Elementary Education in Rural India report.

Facts About:

Key Highlight of the Report:

Pan-India survey was conducted by the Development Intelligence Unit (DIU), across 6,229 rural households in 20 states, focussing on 6 to 16-year-old children in rural communities.

Equality Among Gender: Parents from rural communities believe that a child’s gender, whether a boy or a girl, should not hinder their educational aspirations.

Total of 78 percent of parents of girls and 82 per cent of parents of boys wanted to educate their children to graduation and above.

Parental participation: About 84 percent of parentsregularly attend parent-teacher meetings, demonstrating their active involvement in their children’s education.

Role of Parents: Majority of children (62.5 per cent) are under the supervision of their mothers when it comes to their studies, while 49 per cent are supervised by their fathers.

Over 38 per cent of parents opt for private tutors to further enhance their children’s education.
About 26 per cent of the children study under the supervision of a private tutor.

Drop Outs: Out of the total dropped-out children, around one-fourth of male children discontinued their education during primary schooling, due tolack of interest in studies.

Dropout rate for female children is high at 35 per cent, due to the need to contribute to the family’s earnings.
A higher proportion of both boys and girls dropped out of school after completing the primary school education (75 per cent for boys and 65 per cent for girls).

Increased access to smartphones: Nearly half, 49.3 percent of students in rural India have access to smartphones.

76.7 percent of these students primarily use their phones for entertainment purposes, such as playing video games and watching movies.
Only 34 percent of smartphone-accessible students use their devices for study-related downloads, while 18 percent access online learning through tutorials.

Learning Environment at Home: 40 percent of parents have age-appropriate reading materials available at home, beyond school books.

Only 40 percent of parents engage in daily conversations with their children about their school learning, while 32 percent have such discussions a few days a week.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/education/78-parents-in-rural-india-want-their-daughters-to-study-till-graduation-and-beyond-report-8885528/#:~:text=in%20family's%20earnings.- ,According%20to%20the%20survey%2C%20one%2Dfourth%20of%20male%20children%20dropped,after%20completing%20primary%20school%20education.

Gita Mittal Committee (The Hindu)

08 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Supreme Court panel flags reconstruction of lost essential documents of victims as the first healing step in Manipur.

Facts About:

The Committee

The committee was constituted to supervise, intervene and monitor relief and rehabilitation, restoration of homesteads, religious places of worships, better relief work, etc. in Manipur.
The committee is led by former Jammu & Kashmir High Court Chief Justice Gita Mittal, the committee includes Justices (retd) Shalini P Joshi and Asha Menon.
This move aims to oversee various aspects beyond the investigation, such as relief, rehabilitation, and compensation for those affected by the violence.
The committee's role extends beyond investigation, encompassing vital aspects of recovery and rebuilding.
The primary goal behind the committee is to restore public confidence, reinforce faith in the rule of law, and rebuild trust within the affected community.
The committee has filed three separate reports in the Supreme Court after meeting stakeholders on August 19.

The Reports

First report – The first of the three reports submitted by the committee highlights the loss of essential documentation of the residents of Manipur who have been dis-housed.
The committee suggests the appointment of a nodal officer to take charge of the reconstruction of these documents.
Second report – The committee’s second report raised concerns on the Manipur Victim Compensation Scheme (MVCS).
The committee says the MVCS needs to be substantially improved.
The MVCS should be in the same league as the schemes framed by the National Legal Services Authority (NLSA).
Third Report – The committee submitted a proposal for appointment of domain experts to facilitate its work.

Manipur Victim Compensation Scheme (MVCS)

Victim Compensation Scheme (VCS) – Compensation to persons groundlessly arrested is under Section-358.
The Government introduced the Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF) Scheme to enable support to victims of rape, acid attacks, human trafficking, women killed or injured in cross border firing.
The Manipur scheme – It provides that if a victim of violence has received benefits under any other scheme, then they would not receive any compensation under the state victim compensation scheme.
NALSA scheme – The benefit received under other schemes would be taken into consideration while determining the extent of benefits that would be additionally provided to the victims of violence.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/manipur-violence-supreme-court-to-pass-orders-on-august-25-to-facilitate-proper-functioning-of-justice-mittal-panel/article67218800.ece#:~:text=A%20Supreme%20Court%2Dappointed%20committee,taken%20to%20nurse%20the%20Stat

Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023 (PIB)

08 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

The Rajya Sabha approved the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation Amendment) Bill, 2023 which seeks larger participation of the private sector in mineral exploration and production, including that for sought-after lithium.

Facts About:

Key-highlights of the Bill

The Bill amends the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. The Act regulates the mining sector.

Out of restrictions: The reform initiative in the Bill brings lithium out from the list of restrictive atomic minerals where permission to mine could only be granted by the Centre to government companies.

Welcomed private players: The change would allow auction of this critical mineral, used extensively for making batteries for electric vehicles, by the private sector.

Forestry clearance process: The amendment Bill will also dispense with the cumbersome forestry clearance process for mine reconnaissance and prospecting operations, making it easier for the private sector to participate in exploration of the country’s mineral resources.

Auction power: The Bill empowers the central government to exclusively auction mining lease and composite exploration licence for certain critical high value minerals such as gold, silver, platinum and copper.

Exploration licence: One of the major reforms proposed in the Bill is to introduce exploration licence for deep-seated and critical minerals. The exploration licence granted through auction will allow the licencee from private sectors to undertake “reconnaissance” and prospecting operations for critical and deep-seated minerals.

Composite mineral licence: The reform proposals in the amendment legislation also include allowing states to grant composite mineral licence without having to get central nod.

Fixing mineral-wise maximum area: It will also raise and fix mineral-wise maximum area limits for mineral concessions to provide larger and economically viable mines to investors.

For prime minerals such as iron ore, the maximum area for prospecting licence and mining lease has been doubled to 50 sq. km and 20 sq. km respectively.
This would allow private entries to get same land area for mining as was earlier being given to government companies and that also by the state governments itself without any need for central approval.

What are Critical Minerals?

Critical minerals are elements that are the building blocks of essential modern-day technologies, and are at risk of supply chain disruptions.
These minerals are now used everywhere from making mobile phones, computers to batteries, electric vehicles and green technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.
Based on their individual needs and strategic considerations, different countries create their own lists.

Recent government interventions

Mineral Security Partnership (MSP): India joined Mineral Security Partnership (MSP),a US-led collaboration that aims to catalyse public and private investment in critical mineral supply chains globally.

The MSP includes Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, UK, the European Commission, Italy, and now India.

Identification of critical minerals: Recently, the Centre has identified ‘30 critical minerals’, which are essential for the country’s economic development and national security.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1947213

The Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill 2023 (PIB)

08 Aug 2023

Mediation Bill, 2023 (Live law)

08 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

The Parliament has passed the Mediation Bill 2023 to reduce pendency of court cases.

Facts About:

The Mediation Bill, 2021

It was introduced in the Rajya Sabha in December, 2021, with the Parliamentary Standing Committee being tasked with a review of the Bill.
The Bill aims at institutionalising mediation and establishing the Mediation Council of India.

Key Features of the Bill

Pre-litigation mediation

Parties must attempt to settle civil or commercial disputes by mediation before approaching any court or certain tribunals.
Even if they fail to reach a settlement through pre-litigation mediation, the court or tribunal may at any stage refer the parties to mediation if they request for the same.

Disputes not fit for mediation

The Bill contains a list of disputes which are not fit for mediation.
These include disputesrelating to claims against minors or persons of unsound mind, involving criminal prosecution, and affecting the rights of third parties. The central government may amend this list.

Applicability

The Bill will apply to mediations conducted in India:

involving only domestic parties

involving at least one foreign party and relating to a commercial dispute (i.e., international mediation)

if the mediation agreement states that mediation will be as per this Bill.

If the central or state government is a party, the Bill will apply to commercial disputes, and other disputes as notified.

Mediation process

Mediation proceedings will be confidential, and must be completed within 180 days (may be extended by 180 days by the parties).
A party may withdraw from mediation after two sessions.
Court annexed mediation must be conducted as per the rules framed by the Supreme Court or High Courts.

Mediators

Mediators may be appointed bythe parties by agreement, a mediation service provider (an institution administering mediation).
They must disclose any conflict of interest that may raise doubts on their independence.
Parties may then choose to replace the mediator.

Concerns Highlighted by the Parliamentary Standing Committee

Pre-Litigation

The panel highlighted many key issues including mandatory and coercive nature of pre-litigation mediation.
Making pre-litigation mediation necessary may result in case delays and provide another instrument in the hands of truant litigants to prolong case disposition.

Clause 26: The panel was against Clause 26of the draft which gives power to the SC or the High court to make laws of pre-litigation according to them.

Non-Applicability to Non-Commercial Disputes: The members questioned the non-applicability of the provisions of the Bill to disputes/matters of non-commercial nature involving the Government and its agencies.

Appointments: The panel had discussions about the qualifications and appointment of the Chairperson and Members of the proposed Mediation Council.

Recommendations Accepted by the Union Cabinet

Reducing the Time for Concluding a Mediation

The Union cabinet has accepted the recommendations of the standing committee by reducing the time for concluding a mediation from 180 to 90 days.

Making Pre-Litigation Mediation Voluntary

The recommendation for making pre-litigation mediation voluntary instead of mandatory was also much needed as voluntariness is an essential principle of mediation.

Recognition and Enforcement of Agreements

Recognition and enforcement of settlement agreements arising out of mediation is a welcome move.
This is also in line with India’s commitment as a signatory to the United Nations Convention on International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation (Singapore Convention).

Provisions of the Final Bill that Require a Relook

Limited Grounds to Challenge a Settlement Agreement

The limited grounds listed to challenge the enforcement of a settlement agreement and the fact that a period of 90 days is given to raise the challenge need a relook.
The fact that a settlement agreement is essentially a contract between the parties; there are several instances where grounds for challenge such as fraud and impersonation are detected at a later stage.

Technical Flaws in Clause 8

Clause 8 of the Bill entitles a party to move the Court before the commencement or during mediation for interim relief but only in “exceptional circumstances”.
The term “exceptional circumstances”is not only undefined in the Bill but is also abnormal to the settled principles of seeking interim relief before the civil courts.
Moreover, there is no remedy of appeal available against an order passed under this proposed section.

The Concept of Online and Community Mediation

A recent Niti Aayog report reveals that only 55 per cent of India have access to the internet and only 27 per cent possess compatible devices.
For online mediation to be a success, the government will have to scale the bandwidth accessibility to remote parts of the country.
As for community mediation, the Bill makes it mandatory to have a panel of three mediators.This requirement is unnecessary and impinges on the flexibility that mediation brings.

Restricting the Government’s Participation in Mediation to only Commercial Disputes

The real issue is that the government is the biggest litigant in the country.
Restricting the ability of the government to participate in mediation proceedings arising only out of commercial disputes goes against the objective of enacting the legislation.

Way Forward

Legal Aid Setup: Setting up legal aid or access to justice clinics with adequate IT infrastructure could address the issue of online mediation.

Inclusion of Government Related Disputes in the Bill

The standing committee had also recommended that government-related disputes be included in the Bill.
The common litigant sees the government as an adversary before the court of law. The Bill provided a golden opportunity to the government to change that perception.
This will inspire confidence amongst all stakeholders but would also help in reducing pendency backlog.

Conclusion

Mediation should be promoted as a preferred and voluntary mode of securing justice.

Although the legislature may have intended to lighten the load on the judiciary, the law needs to be improved because it may cause a delay in the administration of justice and raise the cost of litigation.

Source: https://www.livelaw.in/news-updates/parliament-passes-mediation-bill-234671

River Devika Rejuvenation Project (PIB)

07 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology sheds light on the progress of the River Rejuvenation Project, Devika. This initiative, inspired by the Namami Ganga campaign, aims to safeguard the sacred Devika River’s purity and health.

Facts About:

Comprehensive Waste Management:

Focus on Liquid Waste Management.
Creation of a network of pipes and manholes connecting households.
Objective: Efficient disposal of liquid waste, preventing pollution, and preserving the sanctity of the river.

Complementary Solid Waste Management:

Encompasses responsible collection, disposal, and management of solid waste.
Essential to prevent environmental degradation and maintain river and surrounding health.

Financial Allocation Breakdown:

Project investment exceeds Rs 190 crores.
Allocation shared between Central and Union Territory (UT) at a 90:10 ratio.

Empowering Communities through PRIs:

Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) pivotal for grassroots project success.
PRIs’ involvement enhances community engagement, fosters ownership, and promotes sustainable development practices.

Devika River:

Originates from Suddha Mahadev temple in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district.
Flows through western Punjab (now Pakistan) where it merges with the Ravi River.

Cultural Significance:

Revered by Hindus as sister of the Ganga River.
Devika River believed to be a manifestation of Goddess Parwati, benefiting the people of MaderDesha (areas between river Ravi and Chenab).

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1946187

Revised manufacturing rules for drug firms (Indian Express)

07 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

Recently the center government directed all pharmaceutical companies in the country to implement the revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Facts About:

Directions by the Government:

Larger companies with a turnover of over Rs 250 crore have been asked to implement the changes within six months.
The medium and small-scale enterprises with turnover of less than Rs 250 crore have been asked to do so within a year.

About Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP):

Quality Management: It is a set of guidelines and quality management principles which ensure pharmaceutical products, as well as other products in the food and healthcare industries, are consistently produced and controlled to meet quality standards appropriate for their intended use.
Aspects Include: It covers all aspects of the manufacturing process, including the premises, equipment, personnel, materials, production, quality control, documentation, and storage of finished products.

Need for the Improved Standards:

To match up with the Global Standards: Implementation of the new norms will bring the Indian industry on par with global standards.
1. Only 2,000 of the 10,500 drug manufacturing units in the country at present meet global standards, being WHO-GMP certified.
2. The improved standards will ensure that pharmaceutical companies follow standard processes, quality control measures, and do not cut corners, improving the quality of medicines available in India as well as sold in the global market.
To improve Indian Products Image: There have been a string of incidents where other countries have reported alleged contamination in India-manufactured syrups, eye-drops, and eye ointments.
1. The deaths of 70 children in the Gambia, 18 children in Uzbekistan, three persons in the United States, and six deaths in Cameroon have been linked to these products.
To rectify the Deficiencies: A risk-based inspection of 162 manufacturing units by the government found several deficiencies — incoming raw materials not being tested before use, product quality not being reviewed , absence of quality failure investigation, infrastructure deficiency to prevent cross-contamination, faulty design of manufacturing and testing areas, missing qualified professionals, and poor documentation.
To Provide a Structure to the Draft: Implementation of the revised good manufacturing practices (GMP) as listed in the 2018 draft schedule M of the drugs and cosmetics rules.

Major Changes & Significance:

Standard & Reliable Quality: The revised GMP guidelines focus on quality control measures, proper documentation, and IT backing to maintain quality of medicines produced.
Review & Validation: It introduces pharmaceutical quality systems, quality risk management, product quality review and validation of equipment.
Thorough Investigation: Carrying regular quality reviews of all its products, verify consistency of the quality and the processes, thorough investigation of any deviation or suspected defect and implementation of any preventive actions.
Evaluation of Changes: It also suggests a change control system to evaluate all changes that may affect the production or quality of the product.
Maintenance of Stability & Required Conditions:The companies will also be needed to mandatorily maintain the drugs in a stability chamber, set the proper temperature and humidity, and carry out an accelerated stability test as well.
Data Safety & Security: The guidelines also state that companies should have GMP-related computerized systems, which ensure that there is no tampering of data related to the processes.
- In case sensitive data is entered manually to the system, there will be additional checks to validate the accuracy of the data. Backups would also be created to ensure there is no loss of data.

Conclusion:

The step taken is a required and desirable one. Instituting the same quality across the industry will give confidence to regulators from other countries and will improve the quality of drugs in the domestic markets.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-health/revised-manufacturing-rules-for-drug-firms-what-changes-and-why-8879305/

5% of birds in India are endemic (The Hindu)

07 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

A publication, titled ‘75 Endemic Birds of India’, which was released on the 108th foundation day of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), points out that about 5% of birds found in the country are endemic and are not reported in other parts of the world.

Facts About:

India’s bird species:

India is home to 1,353 bird species, which represents approximately 40% of global bird diversity.
Of these 1,353 bird species, 78 species, which is around 5%, are endemic to the country.

About the Publication:

The publication highlights the importance of endemic bird species in the country.
The details of endemic bird species contained in the publication include etymology (meanings of scientific names) and their historical relevance along with vital facts such as subspecies’ differences, distinguishing traits, preferred habitats, breeding habits, and food preferences.
Objective: The publication is aimed at making information about endemic birds of the country available to everyone, and highlighting the efforts to conserve species that are found only in restricted areas.

Highlights from the Publication:

Around 75 bird species belong to 11 different orders, 31 families, and 55 genera, and exhibit remarkable distribution patterns across various regions in India.
The highest number of endemic species has been recorded in the Western Ghats, with 28 bird species.
Some of the rare species recorded in the country’s bio-geographic hotspot are;

The Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocycerosgriseus)
Malabar Parakeet (Psittaculacolumboides
Ashambu Laughing Thrush (Montecinclameridionalis)
The White-bellied Sholakili (Sholicolaalbiventris)

Amongst them 25 bird species are endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Bird species which are only found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are;
Nicobar Megapode (Megapodiusnicobariensis);
Nicobar Serpent Eagle (Spilornisklossi);
Andaman Crake (Rallinacanningi); and
Andaman Barn Owl (Tytoderoepstorffi).
Four species of birds are endemic to the Eastern Himalayas, and one each to the Southern Deccan plateau and central Indian forest.
Of the 78 endemic species, 25 are classified as ‘Threatened’ by the IUCN.
Three species are listed as ‘Critically Endangered’.
Five of the endemic birds in India are categorised as ‘Endangered’, and
17 as ‘Vulnerable’,
While 11 are categorised as ‘Near Threatened’ on the IUCN Red List.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/5-of-birds-in-india-are-endemic-reveals-zoological-survey-of-india-publication/article67162268.ece#:~:text=India%20is%20home%20to%201%2C353,are%20endemic%20to%20the%20country

India's Sugar Surplus and its Impact on Agriculture (The Hindu)

07 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?

India became the world’s top sugar producer in 2021-2022, surpassing Brazil, but the extensive use of resources in sugar production is depleting rapidly, leading to a potential crisis in the future.

Facts About:

The Factors Behind Excessive Sugar Production

The phenomenon of India's excess sugar production can be attributed to a confluence of factors, including government policies and measures aimed at promoting sugarcane cultivation. At the heart of this lies the fair and remunerative price (FRP) scheme, a government initiative ensuring that sugar mills pay sugarcane farmers a minimum price, thereby ensuring their fair profits
State governments have further incentivized sugarcane cultivation through substantial subsidies, which some critics argue are aimed at securing the votes of farmers in politically influential rural regions.
The repercussions of these policies have led to a significant sugar surplus, driving up exports to record levels. However, this expansionary approach has not escaped global scrutiny. Brazil, Australia, and Guatemala raised objections with the World Trade Organization (WTO), alleging that India's excessive export subsidies and domestic support violate international trade rules. The subsequent ruling against India by the WTO underscored the global ramifications of this sugar surplus.

Addressing the Excess Sugar Production: Ethanol as a Solution

To mitigate the challenges posed by surplus sugar production, the Indian government has explored alternative avenues, with a focus on diverting excess sugar to ethanol production. Ethanol, a versatile organic compound derived from fermenting sugarcane molasses or sugar, has a range of applications in various industries, from alcoholic beverages to chemicals and cosmetics.
In the realm of transportation, ethanol-blended petrol (EBP) has emerged as an effective strategy to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles, contributing to reduced crude oil imports and greenhouse gas emissions.
The government's Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) program, initiated in 2003, has made significant strides, aiming to achieve a blending rate of 20% by 2025. Reductions in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on ethanol have further supported this transition.
Efforts to channel a substantial portion of sugar towards ethanol production have yielded positive results, highlighting a potential solution to the problem of excess sugar.

Groundwater Depletion and Environmental Consequences

While India's EBP program has succeeded in reducing certain imports and emissions, it has also unearthed environmental concerns associated with sugarcane cultivation. The intensive water requirements of sugarcane, coupled with over-cultivation, have significantly impacted groundwater resources. This trend is particularly pronounced in India's top sugarcane-growing states, which rely heavily on groundwater for irrigation.
With sugarcane demanding approximately 3,000 mm of rainfall for optimal growth, regions that typically receive 1,000-1,200 mm of rainfall resort to excessive groundwater extraction from confined aquifers. A startling statistic emerges – the cultivation of 100 kg of sugar necessitates a staggering two lakh liters of groundwater for irrigation. This alarming scenario has escalated concerns, particularly in drought-prone and groundwater-stressed areas, threatening the availability of this vital resource.

Sustainable Solutions and the Path Forward

To safeguard India's agricultural sector from a looming crisis and ensure its long-term sustainability, a multifaceted approach is imperative. While the allure of financial gains from sugar surplus and exports is undeniable, a shift towards balanced and sustainable agricultural practices is essential.

Diversified Subsidy Schemes

A crucial step involves reevaluating incentive structures that disproportionately favor sugarcane cultivation over other crops. By introducing comprehensive and fair subsidy schemes for a variety of crops, farmers can be encouraged to diversify their cultivation practices. Such measures can prevent monocultures, promote equitable income distribution, and contribute to more efficient resource utilization.

Environmentally Responsible Cultivation

The adoption of environmentally conscious cultivation practices holds the key to mitigating the groundwater depletion crisis. Implementing methods such as drip irrigation, which directs water directly to the roots of sugarcane plants, can significantly reduce water consumption compared to traditional flood irrigation techniques. Government support through subsidies for setting up drip irrigation systems can accelerate this transition.

Integrated Water Management

India's agricultural landscape requires a comprehensive approach to water management, encompassing rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment, and improved canal irrigation networks. By minimising stress on groundwater reservoirs and exploring alternative water sources for irrigation, the strain on vital resources can be alleviated.

Investment in Research

Despite significant strides, gaps remain in understanding groundwater availability and distribution. Investing in comprehensive groundwater research and data collection is essential for informed decision-making and sustainable resource management.

Conclusion:

As India assumes a prominent role in the global agricultural arena, the imperative for sustainability becomes increasingly apparent. While the achievements in sugar production are commendable, the nation must navigate the delicate balance between economic gains and environmental responsibility. By reassessing subsidy structures, promoting diversified cultivation practices, and embracing environmentally conscious techniques, India can pave the way for a resilient agricultural sector that not only based on the article: meets domestic demands but also ensures the well-being of future generations.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/india-excess-sugar-production-guzzling-groundwater/article67157121.ece

Organ shortage continues to cost lives (The Hindu)

07 Aug 2023

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What is the News ?
According to recent data, around three lakh patients wait for organ donation in the country.

About:

the number of donors (including cadavers) grew from 6,916 in 2014 to only 16,041 in 2022.
The country registered 1,589 kidney, 761 liver and 250 heart transplants in the deceased category that year.
Kidney and pancreas transplants grew from 3 in 2014 to 22 in 2022.
In contrast, living donor kidney transplants rose from 4,884 in 2014 to 9,834 in 2022.
Liver transplants in this category grew from 1,002 to 2,957
one person is added to the waitlist every 10 minutes in the country

Ministry’s steps to enhance organ donations

doing away with the domicile rule
removal of age bar for registration of recipients
removal of fee for registration for transplant
easing rules on withdrawal of life support (passive euthanasia)
facilitation of organ transport across the country
giving special casual leave for employed organ donors

The annual need for 2,00,000 kidney transplants highlights the pressing urgency of the situation.

However, a mere 10,000 transplants are performed each year, revealing a staggering gap.
The demand for deceased donors is substantial because many families lack suitable living donors.
Therefore, relying on deceased donors can help partially meet this demand
statistics indicate around 70%-75% of donors are women. Wives, mothers, and sisters have emerged as the most prevalent sources of donatio

Organ donation pledges in India need to translate into actual donations and for that, medical staff need to be educated.

They must be able to recognise, identify, inform, and counsel familiesabout brain death and the importance of organ donation.
The gap between demand and supply continues to be tremendous. So, there is a need to equip our ICU staff with knowledge and awareness, the sooner the gap will close.

Greater awareness will improve in following way

One cadaver can save up to eight lives.
Two donated kidneys can free two patients from dialysis treatment.
One donated liver can be split among two patients on the waitlist.
Two donated lungs mean two other patients are given a second chance, and a donated pancreas and donated heart translate to two more patients receiving the gift of life.
One tissue donor — someone who can donate bone, tendons, cartilage, connective tissue, skin, corneas, sclera, and heart valves and vessels — can save the lives of as many as 75 people.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/indias-poor-organ-donation-record-continues-to-cost-lives/article67161978.ece#:~:text=Three%20lakh%20patients%20wait%20for,donor%20can%20save%20several%20lives

STARFIRE Algorithm (PIB)

25 Jul 2023

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Why in the News?
Researchers at Raman Research Institute (RRI) have recently successfully created an algorithm named STARFIRE.

Facts About STARFIRE Algorithm:

The STARFIRE Algorithm, also referred to as the Simulation of TerrestriAl Radio Frequency Interference in oRbits around Earth (STARFIRE) algorithm, is designed for its specific application in modeling and analyzing terrestrial radio frequency interference within Earth's orbits.
The model possesses several advantages, including its capability to estimate Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) emitted by various sources such as FM radio stations, Wi-Fi networks, mobile towers, radar, satellites, and communication devices.

This estimation aids in designing and fine-tuning antennas for optimal performance.

The algorithm can effectively estimate and map unwanted RFI signals in space, providing valuable insights for enhancing data quality from future space-based Astronomy missions.
By facilitating the design of instruments capable of operating optimally in the presence of RFI, the algorithm significantly enriches the data obtained from future space missions.
Another noteworthy advantage of the STARFIRE Algorithm is its usefulness in orbit selection for upcoming missions, contributing to better planning and execution.
To develop this model, scientists utilized data from FM transmitter stations in six countries worldwide, including Canada (8,443 stations), USA (28,072 stations), Japan (Tokyo - 21 stations), Australia (2,664 stations), Germany (2,500 stations), and South Africa (1,731 stations), making the model comprehensive and robust.

Biological Diversity Amendment Bill (The Hindu)

25 Jul 2023

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Why in the News?
The Lok Sabha recently passed the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2021, aimed at modifying the provisions of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

About Biological Diversity Act, 2002:
The act was enacted in 2002, it aims at the conservation of biological resources, managing its sustainable use and enabling fair and equitable sharing benefits arising out of the use and knowledge of biological resources with the local communities.
Regulatory Structure: The act envisaged a three-tier structure to regulate the access to biological resources:

The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) at the national level.
State Biodiversity Boards(SBB) at the state level.
Biodiversity Management Committees at the local body level.
Under the Biological Diversity Act of 2002, provisions are made to share benefits with biodiversity conservers, holders, and creators of associated knowledge. These benefits encompass monetary compensation, sharing of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), and technology transfer.

Amendments Made in Biodiversity Bill 2021:

Regarding Access to biological resources and associated knowledge, It amends the classification of entities, list of activities requiring intimation, and adds exemptions.
Approval for Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) will be required before the grant of IPR instead of before the application itself.
SBB will determine benefit sharing while granting approvals to domestic entities as per the regulations by NBA.
The Bill decriminalises the offences and makes offences punishable with a penalty between one lakh rupees and Rs 50 lakh.

Significance of the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill 2021:
The Bill seeks to amend the 2002 Act to:

Simplify compliance requirements for domestic companies.
Encourage the Indian system of medicine and cultivation of wild medicinal plants,
Facilitate fast-tracking of processes for research, patent application, and transfer of research results,
Decriminalise offences, and
Encourage foreign investment in the sector.

Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) (LiveMint)

25 Jul 2023

Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam (The Hindu)

25 Jul 2023

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Why in the News?
Due to heavy rainfall in the river's catchment area, the water level in the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) across the Cauvery recently surpassed the 100-ft mark, although its capacity reaches 124.80 feet.

About Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) Dam:

Situated in Karnataka's Mandya district, it lies beneath the merging point of the Kaveri river with its tributaries, Hemavati and Lakshmana Tirtha.
It is a type of gravity dam.
The dam is named for the then ruler of the Mysore Kingdom, Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV.
The dam was designed by Sir M. Visvesvaraya, a famous Indian engineer.
The reservoir is also the main source of drinking water for all of Mysore city and almost the whole of Bangalore.
The water released from this dam is further used as an important source of water in the state of Tamil Nadu.
An ornamental garden named “Brindavan Gardens” is attached to the dam.

Kaveri River:

Kaveri or Cauvery is a sacred river of southern India. It is known as the Ganga of South India.
It rises on Brahmagiri Hill of the Western Ghats in southwestern Karnataka state.

Drainage Basin:

It flows in a southeasterly direction through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and descends the Eastern Ghats in a series of great falls.
Before emptying into the Bay of Bengal south of Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, the river breaks into a large number of distributaries forming a wide delta called the “garden of southern India.”

Tributaries of Kaveri:

Arkavathi, Hemavathi, Lakshmana Theertha, Shimsa, Kabini and Harangi.

National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) (Indian Express)

25 Jul 2023

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Why in the News?
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) recently addressed the Manipur DGP, urging the filing of an FIR against three individuals.
About the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR):

NCPCR is a statutory body set up in March 2007 under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005.
It is under the administrative control of the Ministry of Women & Child Development.
The Commission's mandate is to ensure that all laws, policies, programmes, and administrative mechanisms are in consonance with the child rights perspective as enshrined in the Constitution of India and also the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
It inquires into complaints relating to a child's right to free and compulsory education under the Right to Education Act, 2009.
It monitors the implementation of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Composition of NCPCR:

This commission has a chairperson and six members of which at least two should be women.
All of them are appointed by Central Government for three years.
The maximum age to serve in commission is 65 years for Chairman and 60 years for members.

Functions and responsibilities of NCPCR:

Examine and assess current safeguards for child rights and propose effective implementation strategies.
Submit periodic reports to the central government on the efficacy of these safeguards.
Conduct investigations into child rights violations and recommend legal action when appropriate.
Raise awareness about child rights and available safeguards through diverse channels, such as publications, media, and seminars.
Conduct inspections of institutions housing children, including juvenile homes, and suggest remedial measures if required.
Investigate complaints and proactively address issues related to child rights deprivation, violation, and non-implementation of protective laws.

National Dental Commission Bill, 2023 (TIO)

24 Jul 2023

ISRO's PSLV-C56 (The Hindu)

24 Jul 2023

Silver cockscomb (Down To Earth)

24 Jul 2023

Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary (The Hindu)

24 Jul 2023

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Why in the News?

In a recent development, the Government of Goa has been directed by the Goa Bench of the Bombay High Court to take action within the next three months. Specifically, they are required to officially designate the 208 sq. km. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) along with its adjoining areas as a tiger reserve, as per the court's decision.

Key Facts About Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary:

Location:

It is located in the Northern Part of Goa, Sanguem taluka, near Valpoi town.
The sanctuary is named after the Mhadei River (also known as Mandovi River), which originates from the Sahyadri range of mountains in Karnataka (Belgaum district) and falls in the Arabian Sea at Panaji crossing Goa.
There are a number of picturesque waterfalls, including Vazra Sakla Falls and Virdi Falls.
It is known for its nesting grounds of critically endangered Long-billed vultures near Vazra Falls.

Flora and Fauna

The sanctuary is abundant with lush vegetation, characterized by a dense cover of moist deciduous trees, interspersed with pockets of evergreen species.
t is particularly well-known for its sacred groves that protect rare and indigenous trees.
Faunas like Indian gaur, Barking deer, Sambar deer, Asian palm civet, small Indian civet, Wild boar, Indian hare etc. found here.
The sanctuary holds immense allure for herpetologists due to its impressive diversity of snakes, encompassing all four of India's notorious venomous species - the Indian krait, Russell's viper, Saw-scaled viper, and Spectacled cobra.

Meri Maati Mera Desh campaign

24 Jul 2023

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Why in the News?

The 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign has been recently launched by the Union government of India, as a culminating event of the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebration, commemorating 75 years of Indian Independence.

About Meri Maati Mera Desh campaign:

Soil collected from various parts of the country during August will be utilized to create a garden along the Kartavya Path in Delhi.
Events have been planned at different levels including panchayat, village, block, urban local bodies, and state and national levels, respectively.
The five-point agenda includes the installation of a shilaphalakam (memorial plaque) bearing the names of those who made the supreme sacrifice, following specific specifications.
Execution of the shilaphalakam project can be undertaken through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) by leveraging local materials and resources.
'Vasudha Vandhan' aims at every gram panchayat or village renewing Mother Earth by planting 75 saplings of indigenous species and creating an Amrit Vatika.
'Veeron Ka Vandan' will honor freedom fighters and the families of deceased freedom fighters.
Young volunteers and others will collect soil from each panchayat/village and bring it to the block, from where the 'Mitti Kalash' will be transported to Delhi.
Urban areas will organize events at local bodies, notified area councils, Cantonment Boards, and town panchayats from August 9 to 15, and in larger municipalities and municipal corporations from August 16 to 20.
The 'Mitti Kalash' will be ceremoniously brought to the larger municipalities/corporations and then transported to Kartavya Path.

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Kodo Millet

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Centre for Science and Environment

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National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2024-2030

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First in the World Challenge

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Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB)

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PARAKH RashtriyaSarvekshan 2024

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Hwasong-19

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Asset Recovery Interagency Network–Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP)

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Discovery of the First "Black Hole Triple" System

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ISRO's Analogue Space Mission in Ladakh

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Melanistic Tigers

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PM rolls out Ayushman Bharat for Citizens aged 70 and above

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LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)

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Anti-Counterfeiting Ink developed using Luminescent Nanomaterials

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MhadeiWildlife Sanctuary

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Report of The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change, 2024

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CRS Mobile App

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Replicas of Konark Wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan

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Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

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Ayurveda Day 2024

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'Act4Dyslexia' Campaign

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New Disability Certificate Rules (RPwD Rules, 2024)

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Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)

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Greenhouse Gas Levels Hit Record High in 2023: World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

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C-295 Aircraft

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ISRO’s First Electric Propulsion-Led Spacecraft (TDS-1)

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Emissions Gap Report 2024

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Hong Kong Discovers Dinosaur Fossils

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2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI)

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New Space Missions and Developments

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ISRO-DBT Agreement for Biotechnology Experiments in Space

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21st Livestock Census

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Launch of 'Abhay'

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Center for Generative AI, Srijan

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Pandemic Fund Project

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Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024

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National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM)

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Precision Medicine, Biobanks, and Regulatory Challenges in India

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Microfinance Institutions (MFIs)

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Environmental Ship Index (ESI)