In News:

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.

In News:

• 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.

In News:

• 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.

In News:

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.

In News:

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.

In News:

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:

1. Railways
2. Roads
3. Ports
4. Waterways
5. Airports
6. Mass Transport
7. Logistics Infrastructure

Semiconductor Ecosystem Development: It encompasses four key schemes:

1. Modified Scheme for Setting Up Semiconductor Fabs in India
2. Modified Scheme for Setting Up Display Fabs in India
3. 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
4. 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.

In News:

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.

Why is it in the News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released its updated Bacterial Priority Pathogens List (BPPL) 2024.

What is the Bacterial Pathogens Priority List?

• The Bacterial Pathogens Priority List (BPPL) is a crucial tool in the global effort to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Background:

• In 2017, the World Health Organization (WHO) created the first BPPL to guide investment in the research and development (R&D) of new antibacterial treatments, listing 13 bacterial pathogens (phenotypes).
• The list was developed using the Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) method, a scientific approach that evaluates and ranks alternatives based on multiple criteria, ensuring systematic and transparent decision-making.
• The 2024 WHO BPPL expands to cover 24 pathogens across 15 families of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, categorizing them into critical, high, and medium priority groups to guide R&D and public health efforts.

Significance:

• The BPPL directs priorities for R&D and investment in AMR, highlighting the necessity for region-specific strategies to combat resistance effectively.
• It is aimed at developers of antibacterial medicines, academic and public research institutions, research funders, public-private partnerships involved in AMR R&D, and policymakers responsible for AMR policies and programs.

What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability of microorganisms to persist or grow in the presence of drugs designed to inhibit or kill them.
• These drugs, called antimicrobials, are used to treat infectious diseases caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoan parasites.
• When microorganisms become resistant to antimicrobials, standard treatments are often ineffective, and in some cases, no drugs provide effective therapy.
• Consequently, treatments fail and this increases illness and mortality in humans, animals and plants.
• For agriculture, this causes production losses, damages livelihoods and jeopardizes food security.
• Moreover, AMR can spread among different hosts and the environment, and antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms can contaminate the food chain.
• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global threat of increasing concern to human and animal health.
• It also has implications for food safety, food security and the economic well-being of millions of farming households.

Why is it in the News?

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.

Why is it in the News?

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.

Why is it in the News?

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.

Why is it in the News?

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.

Why is it in the News?

At least nine people were injured after an explosion at the bustling Rameshwaram Cafe in Bengaluru’s Whitefield area recently, possibly by an improvised explosive device (IED).

What is Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)?

• An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) refers to a makeshift explosive device constructed and deployed unorthodoxly or improvised.
• These devices are typically crafted using commonly available materials, including explosives, triggers, and containers, often to cause destruction, injury, or death.
• IEDs can vary widely in design and complexity, ranging from simple pipe bombs to more intricate devices incorporating timers, remote controls, or even cellular communication for activation.
• IEDs can be deployed using a vehicle, carried, placed, or thrown by a person, delivered in a package, or concealed on the roadside.
• Due to their adaptable nature, IEDs are commonly used by insurgents, terrorists, and other malicious actors to carry out attacks against both military and civilian targets.
• Their unpredictable nature and often concealed placement make them particularly challenging for security forces to detect and mitigate.
• Efforts to counter IED threats involve a combination of technological advancements, intelligence gathering, and counterinsurgency strategies aimed at identifying and neutralizing these devices before they can cause harm.

Types of IEDs:

• Vehicle-Borne IEDs: Among the most destructive forms of IEDs are those concealed within vehicles. These can be driven to specific locations and detonated, causing massive explosions capable of levelling buildings.
• Suicide Bombings: Suicide bombings involve individuals strapping IEDs to their bodies, becoming human carriers of destruction. This method inflicts maximum damage in densely populated areas.
• Package IEDs: Package IEDs are small devices hidden in innocuous-looking packages. They are often placed in public spaces, targeting unsuspecting victims.

Methods of IED Initiation:

• Remote Control: IEDs can be remotely triggered using various methods, such as cell phones or radio signals, allowing attackers to maintain a safe distance from the explosion.
• Pressure Activation: Pressure-sensitive IEDs detonate when a certain amount of pressure is applied, making them lethal traps for those who inadvertently trigger them.
• Timers: IEDs can also be equipped with timers, which delay the explosion to occur at a specific time, further complicating detection and prevention.

The Devastating Impact of IEDs:

• The aftermath of IED explosions is often catastrophic, leading to loss of life, severe injuries, and widespread damage to infrastructure.
  • The psychological impact on survivors and affected communities can be long-lasting.

Detection Technologies and Challenges:

• Detection technologies such as (Metal Detectors, X-ray and Imaging Scanners, Explosive Trace Detection (ETD), and Sniffer Dogs) play a critical role in countering the threat of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), but they also face numerous challenges due to the evolving nature of these devices.

Why is it in the News?

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.

Why is it in the News?

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.