Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Uniform Civil Code, Law commission
Mains level: 22nd Law Commission of India, Development over the Uniform Civil Code and recommendations by 21st Law Commission,
Central Idea
- The 22nd Law Commission of India has recently announced its intention to gather public opinions and engage with recognized religious organizations regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). This move comes as a result of the previous 21st Law Commission’s consultation paper on the Reform of Family Law, which stated that the formulation of a UCC is not necessary or desirable at the present stage.
All you need to know about Law Commission of India
- Non-statutory body: The Law Commission of India is a non-statutory body and is constituted by a notification of the Government of India. It plays a crucial role in legal reforms and the development of the Indian legal system.
- Establishment: The first Law Commission was established in 1955, and since then, there have been several subsequent commissions. The Law Commission operates under the Law Commission Act, 1956.
- Composition: The Commission consists of a chairman, who is typically a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India or a retired Chief Justice of a High Court, and other members, including legal experts and scholars.
- Role and Functions: The primary function of the Law Commission is to examine and review the existing laws of the country, suggest reforms, and make recommendations for new legislation. It also conducts research, studies, and consultations on various legal issues referred to it by the government.
- Research and Reports: The Commission conducts in-depth research on legal matters, examines specific subjects, and prepares detailed reports with recommendations for legal reforms. These reports cover a wide range of topics, including civil and criminal laws, family laws, constitutional law, administrative law, and other legal areas.
- Consultation with Stakeholders: The Law Commission seeks public opinion and engages with stakeholders, including government departments, judiciary, legal professionals, academic institutions, and civil society organizations, to gather diverse perspectives on legal issues and proposed reforms.
- Implementation of Recommendations: The government reviews the reports and recommendations of the Law Commission and decides on their implementation. While the Commission’s recommendations are not binding, they often influence legislative changes and legal reforms.
- Timeframe and Term: Each Law Commission has a specific term, usually three years, during which it functions. At the end of the term, a new Commission may be constituted.
- Impact and Significance: The Law Commission’s recommendations and reports have played a crucial role in shaping Indian laws and legal reforms. Many landmark legislations and amendments have been based on the Commission’s suggestions.
- Relationship with Judiciary and Parliament: The Law Commission often collaborates with the judiciary, seeking inputs from judges and addressing legal issues raised in court cases. It also interacts with Parliament, which may refer specific matters to the Commission for its expert opinion.
- Recent Developments: The Law Commission continues to address contemporary legal challenges, such as reforms in family laws, criminal justice system, electoral laws, and other areas. It adapts to changing societal needs and legal developments to provide relevant recommendations
What is Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?
- The UCC aims to establish a single personal civil law for the entire country, applicable to all religious communities in matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption, etc.
- The idea of a UCC has a long history in India and has been a topic of debate and discussion.
- This article explores the basis for a UCC, its timeline, the conflict with the right to freedom of religion, minority opinions, challenges to implementation, and the way forward.
What is the latest development regarding 22nd Law Commission and UCC?
- The 22nd Law Commission of India has expressed its intention to gather public opinions and engage with recognized religious organizations regarding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
- The Commission aims to solicit views from the public as well as religious organizations on the topic of the UCC.
- By actively seeking public opinions and engaging with religious organizations, the 22nd Law Commission aims to gather diverse perspectives on the UCC. This approach recognizes the significance of public input and the need to consider the viewpoints of various religious groups that may be affected by the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code.
What are the concerns associated with the process?
- Opposition from Religious Organizations: Religious organizations may have differing views on the UCC, and some may oppose the idea altogether. Engaging with these organizations may lead to resistance and challenges in reaching a consensus on the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code.
- Potential Polarization: The UCC is a sensitive and contentious issue in India due to its potential impact on religious personal laws. Engaging with religious organizations and seeking public opinions may further polarize society along religious lines, leading to heightened tensions and divisions.
- Influence of Traditional Practices: Religious organizations may advocate for the preservation of traditional practices and oppose any reforms or changes proposed by the UCC. This can hinder the progress of gender equality and other social reforms that the UCC aims to achieve.
- Difficulty in Reaching a Consensus: Gathering public opinions from a diverse population with varying viewpoints can make it challenging to reach a consensus on the implementation of the UCC. Conflicting opinions and interests may hinder the formulation of comprehensive and effective recommendations.
- Delay in Decision-Making: Engaging with multiple stakeholders, including the public and religious organizations, can prolong the decision-making process. This delay may impede the timely implementation of reforms and the realization of the goals set by the UCC.
- Dilution of Gender Justice: In some cases, religious organizations may advocate for the preservation of discriminatory practices against women in the name of religious freedom or cultural practices. This can hinder efforts to establish gender justice and equality, which are crucial objectives of the UCC.
Pragmatic recommendations put forth by the 21st Law Commission
- Gender Justice and Uniformity of Rights: The Commission emphasized that family laws of every religion should be reformed to ensure gender justice. It advocated for the uniformity of rights rather than imposing uniform laws, recognizing the diversity of cultural practices while safeguarding equality.
- Economic Rights of Women: The Commission highlighted the need to address the economic rights of women. It recommended the abolition of the Hindu coparcenary system, which was seen as being used for tax evasion. The Commission also proposed reforms in inheritance laws across religions to ensure fair and equal distribution of property.
- No-Fault Divorce and Division of Matrimonial Property: The Commission suggested the introduction of “no-fault divorce” in all personal laws, simplifying the process of divorce and reducing the adversarial nature of divorce proceedings. It also recommended that all property acquired after marriage should be divided between the spouses upon dissolution of the marriage, ensuring equitable distribution.
- Muslim Law of Inheritance and Succession: The Commission recommended the codification of the Muslim law of inheritance and succession, aiming to establish uniform provisions for Shias and Sunnis. It advocated for inheritance based on proximity to the deceased rather than preference to male agnates, promoting gender equality in inheritance rights.
- Polygamy and Conversion: The Commission commented on the issue of polygamy and conversion, noting that while polygamy is permitted within Islam, it is rare among Indian Muslims. It highlighted instances of individuals from other religions misusing conversion to Islam for the sole purpose of solemnizing another marriage. This observation supported the need for a Uniform Civil Code.
- Best Interest of the Child: The Commission stressed that courts should prioritize the principle of the “best interest of the child” in matters of custody and guardianship. This approach ensures that decisions related to child custody are made based on what is most beneficial for the child’s well-being and development.
- Parsi and Christian Women’s Rights: The Commission addressed the rights of Parsi and Christian women, recommending reforms in their personal laws to ensure gender equality and protection of women’s rights.
Conclusion
- The debate surrounding the Uniform Civil Code continues to evolve, with the 22nd Law Commission seeking public views and engaging religious organizations. However, it is crucial to consider the pragmatic recommendations made by the 21st Law Commission. Balancing diversity and equality remain a significant challenge, and any future actions regarding the UCC should strive to protect the rights of all individuals while recognizing the importance of cultural differences in a diverse society.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Medical education related reforms in news
Mains level: A three-year diploma course for rural medical practitioners, arguments in favour and criticism and a way forward
Central Idea
- West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s proposal to introduce a three-year diploma course for medical practitioners, who would then serve in primary health centers (PHCs), has sparked a debate on its potential impact. While some argue that it could address the shortage of doctors in rural areas, others express concerns about the adequacy of training and the potential erosion of the medical education structure.
What is the proposal is all about?
- The proposal put forth by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee suggests the introduction of a three-year diploma course for medical practitioners.
- The aim of this proposal is to address the shortage of doctors in rural areas by training individuals who would then serve in primary health centers (PHCs) in those regions.
- The idea is to provide basic healthcare services to rural populations by creating a cadre of medical practitioners who are specifically trained for this purpose.
What are the reasons behind such proposal?
- Shortage of Doctors in Rural Areas: Despite having a significant number of MBBS seats in India, there continues to be a severe shortage of doctors in rural areas. Many doctors prefer to practice in urban areas, leaving rural populations underserved.
- Aversion to Rural Practice: There exists a general aversion among doctors to practice in rural areas due to various reasons, such as limited infrastructure, lack of amenities, and professional isolation. This aversion contributes to the scarcity of healthcare providers in rural regions.
- Access to Basic Healthcare: Rural populations often face challenges in accessing basic healthcare services due to geographical barriers, lack of transportation, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Introducing trained medical practitioners in rural areas can improve the availability and accessibility of healthcare services for these communities.
- Cost and Recruitment Challenges: Recruiting and retaining fully qualified doctors in rural areas can be costly and challenging. The proposal for a three-year diploma course aims to provide a more feasible and practical solution by training healthcare professionals who can handle primary healthcare needs and work in rural settings.
- Inequity in Healthcare: There is a concern about the inequitable distribution of healthcare resources, with urban areas receiving more qualified doctors compared to rural areas. It attempts to address this inequity by deploying medical practitioners specifically trained for rural healthcare, ensuring that rural populations receive adequate medical attention.
Arguments in favour of the proposal
- Addressing Doctor Shortage: The primary benefit of the proposal is that it can help alleviate the acute shortage of doctors in rural areas. By training medical practitioners specifically for rural healthcare settings, the proposal aims to ensure that these underserved regions have access to basic healthcare services.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to recruiting fully qualified doctors to rural areas, implementing a three-year diploma course can be a more cost-effective solution. It allows for the training of healthcare professionals who possess the necessary skills to handle primary healthcare needs in rural settings without the extensive training period required for a full-fledged medical degree.
- Improving Healthcare Accessibility: Introducing trained medical practitioners in rural areas improves the accessibility of healthcare services for the rural population. By having healthcare providers available locally, rural communities can receive timely medical attention without the need to travel long distances to urban areas, particularly for primary healthcare needs.
- Filling Immediate Healthcare Needs: The proposal aims to bridge the immediate gap in healthcare by deploying medical practitioners who can handle non-critical situations effectively. These practitioners can provide essential medical care, diagnose common ailments, offer preventive services, and refer critical cases to higher-level healthcare facilities.
- Reducing Disparity: The proposal seeks to reduce the disparity between rural and urban healthcare by ensuring that rural populations have access to healthcare professionals who are specifically trained to cater to their needs.
- Incentivizing Rural Practice: By creating a specific cadre of medical practitioners trained for rural areas, the proposal can potentially incentivize doctors to serve in rural settings. It acknowledges the challenges and aversion towards rural practice and offers a tailored training program to prepare healthcare professionals for the realities and demands of working in rural healthcare settings.
- Enhancing Continuity of Care: Deploying trained medical practitioners in rural areas can contribute to the continuity of care. By having a consistent presence of healthcare professionals in rural communities, it ensures that patients receive ongoing medical attention, follow-ups, and necessary treatments, thereby improving healthcare outcomes.
Concerns raised against the proposal
- Inadequate Training and Skills: Critics argue that a three-year diploma course may not provide sufficient training and expertise to deal with the complex healthcare challenges in rural areas. They express concerns that these practitioners may lack the necessary knowledge, experience, and skills to handle emergency situations or provide specialized care required in rural healthcare settings.
- Compromising Quality of Care: There is a concern that employing less qualified practitioners in rural areas may compromise the quality of healthcare provided to rural populations. It is argued that rural communities deserve the same level of medical expertise and care as urban areas. Introducing practitioners with a shorter training period may create disparities in the quality of healthcare between rural and urban regions.
- Professional Discrimination: Critics contend that deploying less qualified practitioners in rural areas can be seen as discriminatory. It implies that rural populations are being provided with lower-quality healthcare professionals compared to their urban counterparts. This approach may perpetuate healthcare inequalities and undermine the principle of equal access to healthcare for all citizens.
- Retention and Continuity of Care: Skepticism arises regarding the retention of healthcare professionals trained through the diploma course in rural areas. Concerns are raised that these practitioners may consider rural service as a stepping stone to more desirable urban positions, leading to a lack of continuity of care in rural communities.
- Impact on Medical Education Structure: Some argue that introducing a separate diploma course for rural practitioners may erode the existing structure of medical education. It may create a parallel system that devalues the full-fledged medical degrees and dilutes the standards of medical education, leading to potential academic discrimination and confusion in the healthcare sector.
- Need for Holistic Solutions: Critics suggest that focusing solely on training mid-level practitioners may not address the underlying issues causing doctor shortages in rural areas. They argue that a comprehensive approach is needed, including incentivizing doctors for rural practice, improving infrastructure, providing support systems, and addressing the social and economic factors that contribute to the aversion toward rural practice.
- Distribution of Medical Colleges: Critics also emphasize the need to address the concentration of medical colleges in certain regions, exacerbating the shortage of doctors in rural areas. Redistributing medical colleges and increasing their numbers in underserved regions could potentially contribute to a more equitable distribution of healthcare resources.
Way forward
- Strengthening Medical Education: Focus on improving the quality of medical education and training to produce doctors who are well-equipped to serve in rural areas. This includes emphasizing rural health components in the curriculum, promoting community-based learning experiences, and fostering a sense of social responsibility among medical students.
- Incentivizing Rural Practice: Implement targeted incentives and benefits to attract doctors to rural areas. This can include financial incentives, career advancement opportunities, preferential admission to post-graduate courses, loan forgiveness programs, and improved working conditions. Such measures can help address the aversion to rural practice and encourage doctors to serve in underserved regions.
- Compulsory Rural Postings: Explore the implementation of mandatory rural postings for medical graduates as a way to ensure a continuous supply of doctors in rural areas. However, adequate support systems should be in place to ensure the well-being and professional growth of doctors during their rural service.
- Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure: Invest in improving healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, including the establishment and upgrading of primary health centers, sub-centers, and other healthcare facilities. This includes ensuring availability of necessary equipment, medicines, and adequate support staff to enhance the functioning of healthcare services.
- Telemedicine and Technology Integration: Leverage telemedicine and technology solutions to bridge the gap in healthcare access. Telemedicine platforms can facilitate remote consultations, diagnosis, and follow-up care, connecting rural patients with specialists in urban areas. Additionally, technology can aid in data management, resource allocation, and monitoring of healthcare services in rural regions.
- Redistribution of Medical Colleges: Address the concentration of medical colleges in certain regions by redistributing and increasing their numbers in underserved areas. This can help ensure a more equitable distribution of healthcare resources and encourage medical students to practice in rural settings.
- Collaborations and Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government agencies, medical institutions, non-profit organizations, and private sectors to collectively address the challenges of rural healthcare. Collaborative efforts can enhance resource sharing, knowledge exchange, and the implementation of effective strategies to improve healthcare delivery in rural areas
- Community Engagement and Health Awareness: Involve local communities in healthcare decision-making processes, encourage their active participation, and enhance health awareness through community-based programs. This can help empower communities to take charge of their own health, improve preventive practices, and create a supportive environment for healthcare professionals in rural areas.
Conclusion
- While the proposal for a three-year diploma course for rural medical practitioners sparks a debate, it is crucial to strike a balance between addressing the shortage of doctors in rural areas and maintaining the quality of healthcare. Ultimately, a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach is required to ensure accessible and sustainable healthcare services for all sections of society.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Titan Submersible
Mains level: Submersible Tourism
Central Idea: All five crew onboard the Titan submersible are dead after a catastrophic implosion.
What is Submersible?
- Submersibles are vessels designed for underwater travel, often used for research, exploration, and tourism purposes.
- They are white tubes of about 6.7 meters long and 2.8 meters wide, and have a top speed of three knots or 5.5 kilometers (3.5 miles) an hour.
- In the context of tourism, submersibles provide passengers with the opportunity to experience the wonders of the underwater world and explore marine ecosystems.
- Submersible tourism has gained popularity among adventurous travellers, offering unique opportunities to explore the underwater world.
Submersible Tourism and the Titanic Site
- The wreckage of the RMS Titanic, discovered in 1985, has been a popular destination for tourists over the years.
- OceanGate Expeditions began offering Titanic expeditions, taking crews of “citizen scientists” and “crew members” to the site since 2010.
About Titan Submersible
- The Titan submersible was constructed using titanium and filament-wound carbon fiber.
- With a length of 22 feet and a weight of 10,432 kg, it was capable of reaching depths of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet).
Functionality and Equipment
- The submersible employed 4 electric thrusters for movement and maneuverability.
- Equipped with an array of cameras, lights, and scanners, the Titan facilitated deep-sea exploration and surveying.
- Communication in deep waters was achieved using sound waves (sonar) since radio waves do not transmit effectively.
Differentiating Submersibles and Submarines
- Submersibles, such as the Titan, are not fully autonomous and require support ships for launch and recovery.
- They descend using weights and do not possess the power to launch independently.
- Submarines, on the other hand, are self-propelled and capable of launching and returning without external support.
Depth and Cost
- The maximum depth for the OceanGate Titanic expedition is around 12,800 feet, with the wreck located at 12,500 feet.
- The cost of touring the Titanic varies, with the OceanGate expedition priced at $250,000 per person.
Safety Considerations in Submersible Tourism
- The submersible tourism industry adheres to international safety standards and has maintained a safety record without incident for 50 years, according to the Marine Technology Society (MTS).
- Submersible tour companies conduct detailed risk assessments for each experience, ensuring clients are aware of the potential risks involved.
- Clients often undergo risk assessments and sign waivers before embarking on submersible journeys.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Summer Solstice
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The summer solstice, also known as the longest day of the year, occurs on June 21st for those living north of the Equator.
- This article explores the significance of the summer solstice, the reasons behind its occurrence, and the effects it has on different parts of the world.
What is Summer Solstice?
- The summer solstice is the moment when the Earth’s axial tilt is most inclined towards the Sun.
- It occurs annually on or around June 21st in the Northern Hemisphere.
- During the summer solstice, the Sun follows its highest and longest path across the sky.
- This results in an extended duration of daylight hours, making it the longest day of the year.
Factors Influencing the Summer Solstice
- Earth’s Axial Tilt: The Earth’s axis is tilted relative to its orbit around the Sun, at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees.
- Tropic of Cancer: The summer solstice takes place when the Sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer, located at 23.5 degrees north latitude.
- Seasonal Variations: The tilt of the Earth’s axis causes different latitudes to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year.
Sunlight Distribution in the Hemispheres
- The Northern Hemisphere receives the maximum amount of sunlight during the summer solstice, typically on June 20, 21, or 22.
- In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its peak sunlight during the winter solstice, which occurs on December 21, 22, or 23.
Cultural Significance and Celebrations
- The summer solstice holds cultural and religious significance in various civilizations throughout history.
- Festivals and rituals often commemorate this astronomical event, symbolizing the triumph of light and fertility.
- People around the world celebrate the summer solstice through festivals, bonfires, music, dancing, and outdoor activities.
- Notable celebrations include the Summer Solstice Stonehenge Festival in England and the Midnight Sun Festival in Norway.
Back2Basics: Solstices and Equinoxes
|
Summer Solstice |
Winter Solstice |
Equinoxes |
| Date |
Around June 21st |
Around December 21st |
Around March 20th and September 22nd |
| Hemisphere |
Northern |
Northern |
Global (Equal duration of day and night) |
| Day Length |
Longest day and shortest night |
Shortest day and longest night |
Equal day and night duration |
| Sun’s Path |
Highest arc in the sky |
Lowest arc in the sky |
Intermediate arc in the sky |
| Season |
Summer |
Winter |
Spring and Autumn |
| Axial Tilt |
North Pole tilted towards the Sun |
South Pole tilted towards the Sun |
No tilt, relative to the Sun |
| Daylight Hours |
Maximum |
Minimum |
Approximately equal |
| Cultural Significance |
Celebrated as the triumph of light, festivals, and rituals |
Celebrated as the return of light, festivals, and rituals |
Symbolizes balance and transition, celebrated by various cultures |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Medicines Patent Pool (MPP)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) has entered into sub-licence agreements with Indian and Indonesian companies to produce generic versions of the cancer drug Nilotinib.
- Nilotinib is used in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukaemia, a type of blood cancer.
What is Medicines Patent Pool (MPP)?
- Mission and Purpose: The MPP is a United Nations-backed organization focused on increasing access to life-saving medicines for low- and middle-income countries.
- Addressing IPR: The MPP works to overcome barriers related to intellectual property rights and patents that limit the availability and affordability of essential medicines.
- Voluntary Licensing Agreements: The MPP negotiates voluntary licensing agreements with pharmaceutical companies to allow the production of generic versions of patented medicines.
- Production of Affordable Generics: By securing licenses, the MPP enables qualified manufacturers in low- and middle-income countries to produce and distribute affordable generic medicines.
Need for MPP
- Collaborative Approach: The MPP collaborates with governments, non-profit organizations, civil society groups, and pharmaceutical companies to address global health challenges and promote access to medicines.
- Focus on Priority Diseases: The MPP’s efforts are particularly significant in diseases like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, hepatitis C, and other priority areas where access to affordable medications is crucial.
- Sustainable Supply of Generic Medicines: Through licensing agreements, the MPP ensures a sustainable supply of quality-assured generic medicines, promoting market competition and expanding treatment options.
- Improving Health Outcomes: The MPP’s work reduces the burden of high drug costs and enhances access to life-saving treatments, ultimately improving health outcomes and saving lives.
- Benefit for Low- and Middle-Income Countries: The MPP’s initiatives directly benefit patients in low- and middle-income countries by increasing access to affordable medicines and reducing disparities in healthcare.
Recent agreements signed
- Licence Agreement with Novartis: In October 2022, the MPP signed a licence agreement with Novartis Pharma AG, the Switzerland-based pharmaceutical corporation that holds the patent for Nilotinib.
- First Sub-Licence Agreements: The recent sub-licence agreements with Indian companies Eugia, Hetero, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, along with the Indonesian firm BrightGene, mark the first such agreements for a cancer treatment drug by the MPP.
Benefits
- Generic Versions of Nilotinib: The licensed manufacturers can produce generic versions of Nilotinib.
- Manufacturing: The selected manufacturers have the rights to manufacture generic Nilotinib in India and seven middle-income countries.
- Supply in 44 Territories: The non-exclusive licence agreement allows for the supply of generic Nilotinib in 44 territories covered by the agreement, subject to local regulatory authorisation.
- Affordable Treatment Option: Charles Gore, the executive director of the MPP, states that the production of generic Nilotinib will provide an affordable treatment option for people diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia in the covered countries.
- Increasing Access to Cancer Medication: The MPP’s initiative aims to improve access to essential cancer medications by reducing costs and increasing availability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- During PM Modi’s state visit to the US, he presented First Lady Jill Biden with a 7.5-carat lab-grown diamond as a gift.
- Lab-grown diamonds, also known as LGDs, have gained popularity in recent years due to their ethical and environmental advantages over mined diamonds.
| The diamond, a gift for First Lady Jill Biden, was gifted in a papier mache box. “Known as kar-e-kalamdani, Kashmir’s exquisite papier mache involves sakthsazi or meticulous preparation of paper pulp and naqqashi, where skilled artisans paint elaborate designs,” a statement from the MEA said. |
What is Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD)?
- Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds created using technology that simulates the natural geological processes of diamond formation.
- Unlike diamond simulants, such as Moissanite or Cubic Zirconia, LGDs possess the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds.
Ethical and Environmental Advantages
- LGDs are considered socially and environmentally responsible alternatives to mined diamonds.
- Their production avoids the socially exploitative aspects of diamond mining and reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional mining practices.
Characteristics of gifted diamond
- Carat Weight: The diamond weighs 7.5 carats. Carat weight refers to the size and weight of the diamond, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams.
- Origin: The diamond is created in a laboratory using advanced technology and does not come from natural diamond mining.
- Certification: The diamond has been certified by the Gemological Lab, IGI (International Gemological Institute). Certification ensures that the diamond meets industry standards for quality and authenticity.
- Cutting and Polishing: The diamond is expertly cut and polished to enhance its brilliance and visual appeal. The precise craftsmanship and attention to detail result in a well-cut and faceted diamond.
Methods of LGD Production
(A) High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) Method:
- This common method involves subjecting a diamond seed, typically made of graphite, to extreme pressures and temperatures to transform it into a diamond.
- HPHT requires heavy presses capable of generating immense pressure (up to 730,000 psi) and temperatures exceeding 1500 degrees Celsius.
(B) Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and Explosive Formation:
- CVD involves the deposition of carbon atoms onto a diamond seed using a gas mixture, resulting in the growth of a diamond layer.
- Explosive formation, known as detonation nano-diamonds, utilizes explosive reactions to create tiny diamond particles.
Properties and Applications of LGDs
- Optical Properties and Durability: LGDs possess similar optical dispersion to natural diamonds, giving them the characteristic sparkle. Their durability makes them suitable for industrial applications, such as cutters and tools.
- Enhanced Properties and Industrial Uses: LGDs can have their properties enhanced for specific purposes, such as high thermal conductivity and negligible electrical conductivity. These properties make LGDs valuable for electronics, acting as heat spreaders for high-power laser diodes and transistors.
Impact on the Diamond Industry
(A) Sustainable Growth in the Jewellery Industry
- As natural diamond reserves decline, LGDs are gradually replacing mined diamonds in the jewelry sector.
- The production processes for LGDs, including cutting and polishing, align with established practices in the diamond industry.
(B) India’s Diamond Industry
- The rise of LGDs is unlikely to significantly impact India’s diamond industry, which specializes in polishing and cutting diamonds.
- India’s established diamond industry can continue to thrive while incorporating LGDs as part of its offerings.
Commercial LGD Production in India: InCent-LGD
- In the Union Budget 23-24, a 5-year research grant was announced for an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) with the aim of encouraging the development of LGD machinery, seeds, and recipes.
- It would establish the India Centre for Lab Grown Diamond (InCent-LGD) at IIT Madras.
- The primary aim of InCent-LGD is to provide technical assistance to domestic industries and entrepreneurs, fostering indigenous manufacturing of Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure and High Temperature (HPHT) systems.
- The project seeks to expand the Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD) business by offering affordable technology to start-ups, creating employment opportunities, and boosting LGD exports.
Economic significance of LGDs
- The Gems and Jewellery sector contributes approximately 9% to India’s total merchandise exports and plays a crucial role in the economy.
- LGD have emerged as a notable technological development in the industry, finding applications not only in jewellery but also in sectors like computer chips, satellites, 5G networks, defense, optics, and thermal & medical industries.
- The global LGD diamond market, valued at $1 billion in 2020, is expected to grow rapidly, reaching $5 billion by 2025 and surpassing $15 billion by 2035.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Umbilical Cord Blood, Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantations (HSCT)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea: A celebrity couple publicly announced that they had chosen to preserve her baby’s cord blood just a few days before her baby girl was born.
What is Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)?
- What is it? : HSCT is a medical procedure used to treat various disorders affecting the blood, immune system, and metabolism.
- Source of Hematopoietic Stem Cells: Hematopoietic stem cells, which have the ability to develop into different blood cell types, can be obtained from sources such as bone marrow, peripheral blood, or umbilical cord blood.
- Autologous, Allogeneic, and Haploidentical Transplantation: HSCT can involve the use of the patient’s own stored cord blood (autologous), stem cells from a compatible donor (allogeneic), or partially matched stem cells from a family member (haploidentical).
- Procedure Steps: HSCT involves the destruction or suppression of the patient’s abnormal or deficient hematopoietic cells, followed by the infusion of healthy stem cells.
- Commonly Treated Conditions: HSCT is commonly used to treat conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, aplastic anemia, inherited immune system disorders, and metabolic disorders.
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ten Principal Upanishads
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- PM Modi presented the US President Joe Biden with a number of gifts, including a first edition print of the book The Ten Principal Upanishads from 1937.
Ten Principal Upanishads
- The Ten Principal Upanishads is translated from Sanskrit by Shri Purohit Swami, a scholar of Hindu scripture, and Irish poet WB Yeats.
- It is considered to be one of the best translations of the Upanishads, some of the most important Hindu religious texts.
- Written in the mid-1930s, the book was a product of Yeats’ desire to create a translation which is true to the original text while still being accessible for the layperson.
Two categories of Hindu scriptures
There are broadly two categories of Hindu sacred texts: Shruti (loosely translated as “the revealed”) and Smriti (“the remembered”).
[I] Shruti
- The Shruti category is considered to be the most authoritative and consists of the four Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva) and accompanying texts.
- These include Brahmanas (ritual texts), Aranyakas (“forest” or “wilderness” texts), and Upanishads (philosophical texts).
[II] Smruti
- The Smruti category of Hindu scriptures is less authoritative – in many ways they are considered to be derived from the first – but more popularly known.
- These include the great epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata, Dharmashastras, Puranas and all other post-Vedic scriptures.
What are the Upanishads?
- The Upanishads, also known as the Vedanta – as they signal the end of the total Veda – speculate about the ontological connection between humanity and the cosmos.
- They serve as foundational texts in many traditions of Hindu theology and have hence attracted far more attention than the Vedas themselves.
- Dated to roughly 800-500 BC, the Upanishads discuss concepts such as transmigration, which have today become central to Hindu tradition.
- Upanishads signify texts that were traditionally transmitted in intimate, teacher-student settings, imparting profound knowledge and spiritual insights.
(A) Spiritual Essence
- The Upanishads form the philosophical portion of the Vedic scriptures known as the Vedanta.
- They explore the metaphysical and mystical aspects of existence, aiming to unravel the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth.
(B) Origins
- The Upanishads were composed between 800-500 BC, following the earlier Vedic texts.
- Various sages, seers, and scholars authored the Upanishads, resulting in a rich diversity of philosophical perspectives.
(C) Themes and Subjects
- The Upanishads delve into profound concepts, such as the nature of the self (atman), the ultimate reality (brahman) (NOT Brahmin), and the relationship between the two.
- They explore metaphysical inquiries, the nature of existence, the concept of karma, the path to liberation (moksha), and the interconnectedness of all beings.
Key Upanishads and Teachings
- While there are over 200 Upanishads, a set of principal Upanishads is considered the most significant and influential.
- There are ten main (or principal) Upanishads:
- Esha
- Kena
- Katha
- Prashna
- Mundaka
- Mandukya
- Taittiriya
- Aitareya
- Chandogya
- Brihadaranyaka
WB Yeats and his translation of Upanishads
(A) Who was WB Yeats?
- WB Yeats (1865-1939) was born in Ireland and is regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern English literature.
- He was a key figure in the Irish Literary Revival, which sought to promote Irish culture, folklore, and independence.
(B) His Interest in the Upanishads
- Yeats’ interest in Indian culture and philosophy predates his encounter with the Upanishads.
- In 1885, he met Mohini Chatterjee, a prominent figure in Bengal’s Theosophical circles, who visited Dublin. This meeting sparked Yeats’ early engagement with Indian themes in his poetry.
(C) Friendship with Rabindranath Tagore:
- Yeats developed a close friendship with Rabindranath Tagore, the renowned Indian poet, philosopher, and Nobel laureate.
- In 1912, they met in London, where Tagore introduced Yeats to his translated work, including Gitanjali.
(D) Introduction to the Upanishads:
- William Rothenstein, a photographer, sent Yeats the manuscripts of Tagore’s partial translation of the Upanishads.
- Impressed by their spiritual depth and cultural significance, Yeats became intrigued by the Upanishads’ teachings.
- Disappointed with the available English translations of the Upanishads, Yeats sought to create a translation that was both true to the original text and accessible to a wider audience.
- He collaborated with Sanskrit scholar Shri Purohit Swami, who helped him translate the Upanishads with an emphasis on clarity and understanding.
Back2Basics: Key Verses from Upanishads
| Verse |
Source |
Interpretation |
| “Om Asato ma sadgamaya…” |
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 1.3.28 |
Lead me from the unreal to the real, from darkness to light, from death to immortality. |
| “Aham Brahmasmi” |
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 1.4.10 |
I am Brahman (NOT Brahmin). |
| “Tat Tvam Asi” |
Chandogya Upanishad 6.8.7 |
That thou art. |
| “Ayam Atma Brahma” |
Mandukya Upanishad 1.2 |
This self is Brahman. |
| “Sarvam Khalvidam Brahma” |
Chandogya Upanishad 3.14.1 |
All this is Brahman. |
| “Neti, neti” |
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 2.3.6 |
Not this, not this. |
| “Satyam jnanam anantam brahma” |
Taittiriya Upanishad 2.1.3 |
Brahman is truth, knowledge, and infinite. |
| “Yato vacho nivartante, aprapya manasa saha” |
Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 2.3.1 |
Whence words turn away, along with the mind, unable to reach it. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MATSYA 6000
Mains level: Samudryaan Mission
Central idea
- Hope Dwindling for Titan Submersible: The Titan submersible lost all crew in an underwater implosion.
- Indigenous Indian Submersible: Indian scientists are preparing to undertake a similar dive in an indigenous vehicle called Matsya-6000.
What is Samudrayaan Mission?
- Samudrayaan is a mega mission related to the ocean/sea-launched in October 2021.
- It is aimed to develop “a self-propelled manned submersible to carry three human beings to a water depth of 6,000 meters in the ocean with a suite of scientific sensors and tools for deep ocean exploration.
- It seeks to carry out deep ocean exploration of non-living resources such as polymetallic manganese nodules, gas hydrates, hydro-thermal sulfides, and cobalt crusts, located at a depth between 1000 and 5500 meters.
About MATSYA 6000
- Developed indigenously, MATSYA 6000 is a manned submersible vehicle.
- It will facilitate the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) in conducting deep ocean exploration.
- It has an endurance of 12 hours of operational period and 96 hours in case of emergency, according to the ANI news agency.
- The manned submersible will allow scientific personnel to observe and understand unexplored deep-sea areas by direct intervention.
Design specifications
- Titanium Enclosure: Matsya-6000 features a titanium casing on the front and back, chosen over carbon fiber for enhanced safety.
- Syntactic Foam: The submersible is equipped with syntactic foam, a flotation device that helps determine its location even if it cannot resurface.
Need for such a mission
- Huge coastline: India has a unique maritime position, a 7517 km long coastline, which is home to nine coastal states and 1,382 islands.
- Blue Economy: The mission aims to boost the Central government’s vision of ‘New India’ that highlights the Blue Economy as one of the ten core dimensions of growth.
- Coastal Economy: For India, with its three sides surrounded by the oceans and around 30% of the nation’s population living in coastal areas and coastal regions play a major economic factor. It supports fisheries and aquaculture, tourism, livelihoods, and blue trade.
Lessons learned from Titan Submersible
- Precautions in Place: The Indian scientists working on Matsya-6000 assure multiple back-up safety measures for the crew.
- Safety System Reviews: There may be reviews of the employed safety systems in light of the Titan submersible incident.
- Test Dives and Depth Limit: Prior to the main dives, NIOT divers will undertake test dives up to 500 meters inside a steel submersible.
- Titanium vs. Steel: Titanium, being stronger yet lighter than steel, is preferred for resurfacing ease and balancing extreme ocean depths.
- Spherical Hull Perfection: The submersible’s hull must be perfectly spherical to evenly distribute extreme pressure at ocean depths.
Impact on Safety Measures
- Reviewing Safety Measures: The incident involving the Titan submersible prompts a reevaluation and rechecking of safety measures for the Matsya-6000 mission.
- Incorporating Lessons Learned: The accident serves as a learning opportunity to enhance the safety and reliability of the upcoming Indian mission.
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