Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Constitutional provisions
Mains level: Caste census analysis
What’s the news?
- The upcoming Supreme Court hearing on August 18th regarding petitions challenging the Patna High Court’s decision to uphold the Bihar government’s caste survey has sparked significant debate and interest.
Central idea
- The caste survey, initiated by the State government, aims to gather comprehensive socio-economic data to shape targeted policies for marginalized communities. The Patna HC’s recent dismissal of petitions against the survey has reignited discussions surrounding the necessity and constitutionality of such an initiative.
What is a caste-based survey?
- A caste-based survey is a comprehensive data collection initiative launched by the Bihar state government in India. This endeavor aims to gather detailed socio-economic information about various castes, sub-castes, and religious groups within the population of Bihar.
- The survey is estimated to collect socio-economic data for a population of 12.70 crore in the 38 districts of Bihar.
- The primary objective is to gain a deeper understanding of the living conditions and economic status of different communities, especially those that have historically faced marginalization and socio-economic disadvantage.
Why the need for a caste census?
- Incomplete Data: The standard Census focuses solely on SC and ST data, leaving a substantial void in comprehending the socio-economic aspects of OBCs and their subdivisions.
- Targeted Policies: A lack of comprehensive data obstructs the creation of effective policies tailored to the distinct requirements of different caste groups.
- Equitable Development: The caste census has the potential to reveal disparities within various castes, enabling customized development strategies for historically marginalized communities.
- Historical and Contemporary Insights: With deep historical roots, the caste system’s evolution can be better understood through a comprehensive census that captures both historical and contemporary dynamics.
- Political and Governance Implications: The initiative carries political implications, potentially influencing electoral strategies and governance agendas focused on the welfare of backward classes.
- Constitutional Clarification: Legal scrutiny over caste surveys provides clarity on the authority to conduct such initiatives, delineating roles between state and central governments.
- Inclusive Governance and Policy Efficacy: By focusing on accurate and comprehensive caste-specific data, policies can be better tailored to uplift marginalized groups, promoting inclusive governance.
- Evidence-Based Decision-Making: In a data-centric era, decisions grounded in concrete socio-economic data hold greater potential for equitable and effective governance.
Union government’s stance
- Unfeasibility: The Union government categorically declared that a socio-economic caste census is deemed unfeasible, administratively difficult, and cumbersome.
- Historical Policy Decision: The Union government’s affidavit, responding to a writ petition from the State of Maharashtra, highlighted that excluding castes beyond Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) was a conscious policy decision made since the 1951 Census.
- Official Discouragement of Caste: The Union government asserted that the policy of official discouragement of caste has been in place since the 1951 Census, implying a deliberate stance against extensive caste-based categorization.
- Previous Survey Flaws: In 2011, the Union government conducted a Socio-Economic and Caste Census; however, due to data flaws, the raw data collected from nearly 130 crore Indians was never made public.
Why is it being challenged?
- Constitutional Jurisdiction: Opponents of the survey argue that the Bihar state government’s decision to conduct the caste-based survey infringes upon constitutional jurisdiction. They contend that only the central government has the exclusive authority to carry out comprehensive censuses.
- Census Act Compliance: The absence of a formal notification under Section 3 of the Census Act, 1948, issued by the central government raises doubts about the legitimacy of the state government’s appointment of District Magistrates and local authorities for data collection. This legal requirement plays a crucial role in determining the authority to conduct such surveys.
- Executive Order Controversy: Challengers claim that the survey’s data collection, facilitated through an executive order, violates the Puttaswamy judgment, which emphasizes safeguarding personal data from government intrusion.
- State vs. Central Mandate: While the High Court maintains that the state government is authorized to formulate policies for better administration, this stance contradicts the argument that only the central government can undertake comprehensive censuses.
- Privacy Apprehensions: The High Court’s dismissal of privacy concerns based on the Puttaswamy judgment’s triple-test criteria for data collection is being contested. Opponents stress that personal data sensitivity necessitates more stringent considerations.
Way forward
- Legal Resolution: Await the Supreme Court’s verdict to obtain a clear understanding of the constitutional validity of state-level caste surveys. This ruling will provide a framework for future actions and delineate the roles of state and central governments.
- Collaboration with the Central Government: To address concerns about legal jurisdiction and the Census Act, the state government could seek collaboration and endorsement from the central government. This collaboration could help ensure compliance and legitimacy.
- Privacy Safeguards: Implement stringent privacy measures in the survey. Ensure that personal data collection adheres to established legal standards, safeguarding citizens’ rights and addressing potential privacy concerns.
- Balanced Implementation: Strike a balance between political considerations and the integrity of the survey. Prioritize unbiased data collection over immediate political gains.
- Effective Use of Data: Utilize the survey data to inform targeted policies aimed at reducing socio-economic disparities among different caste groups. Ensure that the survey’s outcomes translate into tangible welfare improvements.
- Long-Term Vision: Plan for continuous monitoring and updates of collected data. Use this data to guide policy adjustments in response to changing socio-economic dynamics over time.
Conclusion
- While the State’s efforts to gather comprehensive socio-economic data and address the concerns of marginalized groups are commendable, the constitutional and privacy challenges inherent in the initiative should not be overlooked. The outcome of this legal battle is likely to have far-reaching implications for the understanding of caste dynamics, policy formulation, and political strategies in India.
Also read:
The Caste Census and Mandal Politics: Analysis
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Murmansk Port
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- India’s engagement with Russia’s Arctic region has been strengthening with India-bound goods constituting the maximum share of cargo handled this year by Murmansk, located about 2,000 km northwest of Moscow.
About Murmansk Port
- Murmask Port is a major seaport located in northwestern Russia, specifically in the city of Murmansk.
- The port was established in 1916 as a supply point for the Russian military during World War I.
- It is situated in the city of Murmansk, which is the largest city north of the Arctic Circle in Russia.
- It is located on the Kola Peninsula on the shores of the Barents Sea.
- The port serves as a crucial gateway to the Arctic region.
- The port is an important node along the Northern Sea Route, a shipping route that connects Europe and Asia via the Arctic Ocean.
- Its ice-free waters enable year-round maritime activities, making it an important hub for shipping and trade in the Arctic.
Significance of the Port
- Murmansk Port is strategically located near rich natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas in the Arctic region.
- It plays a role in facilitating the export of these resources.
- The port is well-connected to various transportation networks, including railroads, pipelines, and roads.
- It serves as a hub for moving goods to and from the Arctic and the rest of Russia.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Matangini Hazra, Kanaklata Barua
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- On the eve before Independence Day, President of India paid tributes to great women freedom fighters like Matangini Hazra and Kanaklata Barua.
[A] Matangini Hazra
- Early Life and Dedication: Born in 1869 in Hogla village, West Bengal, Matangini Hazra’s early life was marked by poverty and lack of formal education. She married at a young age and was widowed by 18. Devoted to social causes, she emerged as a dedicated freedom fighter.
- Gandhian Influence: During the Nationalist movement, Hazra’s admiration for Mahatma Gandhi earned her the nickname “Gandhiburi” in her village. She actively participated in protests, earning her several arrests and jail sentences.
- Quit India Movement: A prominent leader during the Quit India Movement of 1942, Hazra led a procession of around 6,000 protesters, mostly women, towards the Tamluk police station. She was shot three times by British police during a confrontation, and she passed away at the age of 73 while chanting “Vande Mataram.”
- Legacy: Matangini Hazra’s sacrifice inspired revolutionaries to establish local governments. In 1977, the first statue of a woman revolutionary in Kolkata Maidan was dedicated to her. Schools, streets, and neighborhoods across Bengal are named after her as a tribute to her immense contribution to the freedom struggle.
[B] Kanaklata Barua
- Young Martyr: Kanaklata Barua, a symbol of courage, was just 17 years old when she became a martyr. She led the Mrityu Bahini procession to unfurl the Tricolour at Gohpur police station in Assam during the Quit India Movement.
- Daring Spirit: Despite the age limit for joining the Mrityu Bahini being 18 and above, Barua’s determination led her to be an exception. Just two days into joining, she was at the head of the procession, holding the Tricolour.
- Tragic End: In a confrontation with the police at the police station, Barua refused to let go of the flag, even as bullets rained down. She fell, holding onto the flag until another volunteer took it from her. Her bravery and sacrifice left an indelible mark on the movement.
- Legacy: Kanaklata Barua’s story continues to inspire generations. In her honor, the Coast Guard named a Fast Patrol Vessel “ICGS Kanaklata Barua” in 2020, ensuring that her legacy lives on as a testament to her remarkable spirit and dedication to India’s freedom.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Annapurna Food Packet Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Rajasthan’s government launched the Annapurna food packet scheme as part of its welfare initiatives, aiming to support 1.10 crore people, especially those hit hard by the pandemic.
Annapurna Food Packet Scheme
- The scheme primarily benefits families identified through the National Food Security Act (NFSA) survey, encompassing poor and destitute families.
- It also extends beyond NFSA beneficiaries to encompass families that received ₹5,500 pandemic assistance, totalling around 1.05 crore beneficiaries.
Benefits and Contents
- Monthly Distribution: Eligible beneficiaries can collect Annapurna food packets monthly from fair price shops (FPS) at no cost.
- Content Details: Each packet contains essential items – 1 kg gram pulses, sugar, and iodized salt, 1 litre soybean refined edible oil, 100 grams each of chilli powder and coriander powder, and 50 grams of turmeric powder.
- Commission to FPS: FPS will receive a ₹10 commission per packet distributed, incentivizing their participation.
Back2Basics: National Food Security Act (NFSA)
- The NFS Act was enacted on 12th September 2013, with retrospective effect from 5th July 2013.
- It integrates legal entitlements for prevailing food security initiatives of the GoI, encompassing the Midday Meal Scheme, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and the Public Distribution System (PDS).
- The NFSA enshrines a legal right for individuals belonging to “eligible households” to acquire food grains at subsidized rates.
Features
- Recognizing Maternity: The NFS Act acknowledges the importance of maternal health by incorporating maternity entitlements within its provisions.
- Coverage Spectrum: While the Midday Meal Scheme and ICDS are accessible to all, the PDS caters to about two-thirds of the population (75% in rural areas and 50% in urban areas).
- Special Benefits: Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and specific categories of children enjoy the privilege of daily free cereals, enhancing their nutritional security.
- Subsidized Rates: The act establishes central issue prices (CIPs) for food grains, offering rice at Rs 3/kg, wheat at Rs 2/kg, and coarse grains at Rs 1/kg through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Karnail Singh Isru, Goan Liberation
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Karnail Singh Isru, a valiant activist, is remembered with reverence and admiration on India’s Independence Day.
- He made the ultimate sacrifice while participating in the Goa Liberation Movement, striving for the state’s accession to India.
Who was Karnail Singh Isru?
- Birth and Childhood: Born on September 9, 1930, in Chak 30 village (now in Pakistan), Isru lost his father at a young age and was raised by his mother. His upbringing was marked by a strong sense of justice and a longing for freedom.
- Inspired by National Heroes: Isru’s admiration for national heroes like Bhagat Singh and Udham Singh, along with their dedication to the freedom movement, ignited a fire within him. Their struggle against colonial oppression left a deep impact on his young mind.
Joining the Goa Liberation Movement
- Formation of Ideals: Isru’s involvement in student activism and his presidency of the student union highlighted his commitment to social justice. He joined the Communist Party of India (CPI) and embraced rationalist ideals.
- Goa Liberation Movement: In the 1950s, despite India’s independence, the territories of Goa, Daman and Diu, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli remained under Portuguese rule. CPI sent Satyagarhis, followers of Gandhian principles, to Goa to hoist the Indian flag on Independence Day.
His Fateful Journey
- Sahodrabai Rai’s Leadership: Isru, alongside other Satyagarhis, embarked on the march towards Goa under the leadership of Sahodrabai Rai. They aimed to challenge colonial rule and establish India’s sovereignty in the region.
- Tragedy Strikes: As they entered the Patradevi village in North Goa, Portuguese forces opened fire on the Satyagarhis. Isru’s unwavering determination led him to the forefront, but tragically, he was struck by a bullet in his chest. His sacrifice was a significant moment in the fight for Goa’s liberation.
Legacy and Remembrance
- Tributes in Punjab: Isru’s memory is etched in the heart of Punjab, where the government and political parties organize annual functions to honor his sacrifice. A statue, library, park, and school bear his name, reflecting the respect he commands.
- Recognition in Goa: In Goa, a bronze bust of Isru was installed in the primary school of Patradevi village, commemorating his sacrifice. His bravery and dedication are a source of inspiration for generations.
Also read:
In news: Goa Liberation Day
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Aditya L1 mission
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Although the mission launch date is yet to be announced, the Aditya-L1 satellite has arrived at the Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, for integration with the launch vehicle, PSLV.
Aditya-L1 Mission
- Aditya-L1’s primary objective is to closely observe the Sun and gather insights into its corona, solar emissions, flares, solar winds, and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs).
- The satellite is equipped with seven advanced payloads for these scientific endeavors.
- The mission promises round-the-clock imaging of the Sun, enabling an unprecedented understanding of its behavior and impacts.
Significance of the mission
- Solar Influence: The evolution of every celestial body, including Earth and distant exoplanets, is intricately linked to its parent star. The Sun’s weather and environment have a profound impact on the entire solar system.
- Space Weather Impact: Variations in solar activity can disrupt satellite orbits, damage electronics, trigger power blackouts, and induce disturbances on Earth. Accurate knowledge of solar events is essential for comprehending and predicting space weather phenomena.
L1 Lagrange Point Advantage
- Continuous Solar Observations: Positioned at the Lagrangian Point 1 (L1) — about 1.5 million km from Earth — Aditya-L1 will be uniquely positioned to observe the Sun without the interference of occultation or eclipses. L1 is an orbital location where gravitational forces create stable regions of attraction and repulsion.
- L1’s Significance: The Solar and Heliospheric Observatory Satellite (SOHO) is stationed at L1 and has facilitated groundbreaking solar research. Aditya-L1’s observations will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of solar behavior.
Comparison with International Missions
- Closer than Ever: While NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has ventured closer to the Sun, Aditya-L1 will focus on direct solar observations from a greater distance.
- Technical Challenges: Many instruments and components for Aditya-L1 are being developed in India for the first time, representing both a challenge and an opportunity for the nation’s scientific and engineering communities.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Features of the platform
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has unveiled a Public Tech Platform for Frictionless Credit to transform credit accessibility and lending efficiency.
About the Public Tech Platform
- It is developed by the RBI’s subsidiary Reserve Bank Innovation Hub (RBIH).
- It aims to streamline the credit delivery process by enabling seamless digital information flow to lenders.
- It intends to simplify the credit assessment by providing an end-to-end digital ecosystem that facilitates the smooth exchange of essential digital data among stakeholders.
Features of the Platform
- Open Architecture: The platform adopts an open architecture model, fostering interoperability and collaboration among various financial sector players.
- Plug and Play Model: The open Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and standards enable seamless integration and interaction among participating entities.
- Efficiency and Scalability: The platform aims to enhance lending efficiency, reduce costs, expedite disbursement, and scale up lending operations.
Launch and Scope
- Calibrated Rollout: The platform is set to launch as a pilot project on August 17, 2023, with gradual access to information providers and use cases.
- Initial Focus: The pilot phase will focus on credit products like Kisan Credit Card loans, dairy loans, collateral-free MSME loans, personal loans, and home loans.
- Integration and Services: The platform will integrate services such as Aadhaar e-KYC, state government land records, satellite data, PAN validation, Aadhaar e-signing, account aggregation, and more.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Red Fort
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Every year on August 15, India commemorates its Independence Day with the hoisting of the national flag at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi.
- This historic tradition, initiated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, holds deep significance in India’s journey towards self-rule and liberation from colonial rule.
About Red Fort
- Constructed by: The Red Fort, also known as “Lal Qila” in Hindi, was constructed during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Its construction began in 1638 and was completed in 1648. It was designed to be the main residence of the Mughal emperors.
- Architectural Marvel: The Red Fort is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, characterized by its red sandstone walls and intricate marble decorations. It combines Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Red Fort was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. It is recognized for its historical and cultural significance and its exceptional architectural design.
- Layout: The Red Fort is a massive structure with walls extending over 2 kilometers. It is designed in the shape of an irregular octagon, with two main entrances: the Lahore Gate and the Delhi Gate.
- Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas: The complex houses the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience). The former was used for addressing the general public, while the latter was reserved for private meetings and discussions.
- Mumtaz Mahal: Within the complex, there is a white marble structure known as Mumtaz Mahal, often mistaken for the Taj Mahal. It is the burial place of Shah Jahan’s wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Historical Significance of the Red Fort
- Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Era: Under the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal rule, Delhi emerged as a pivotal capital city. It became synonymous with the seat of power, and the Mughals established their dominion from the magnificent Red Fort.
- Symbolic Rulership: The Mughal emperors’ association with Delhi granted them symbolic legitimacy even as their actual authority waned. They continued to be recognized as the sovereign rulers of India, despite their diminishing control.
- Rebellion of 1857: The Rebellion of 1857 further emphasized the Red Fort’s symbolic significance. The rebels rallied around the aged Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar, underscoring the fort’s role as a rallying point for indigenous authority.
Impact of British Imperialism
- British Rule and Red Fort: After suppressing the Rebellion of 1857, the British retained the Red Fort but stripped it of its grandeur. They transformed the fort into a British garrison, erasing elements of its Mughal heritage.
- Co-opting Symbolism: Despite reducing Delhi’s significance, the British recognized its symbolic importance. The Delhi Durbars and the decision to shift the capital to Delhi from Calcutta highlighted its centrality and authority.
Red Fort and India’s Independence Struggle
- INA Trials: The Red Fort regained prominence during the Indian National Army (INA) trials, where INA officers were tried for treason. These trials evoked nationalistic sentiments and established the Red Fort as a symbol of resistance against British oppression.
- Reclaiming for Independence: As India approached independence, Nehru’s decision to hoist the national flag at the Red Fort in 1947 symbolized the reclamation of this historical site from British colonial rule. It marked the assertion of India’s sovereignty and the culmination of its struggle for freedom.
Key events
- INA Trials: The Red Fort played a crucial role in the trials of the Indian National Army (INA) officers in the mid-1940s. The trials stirred nationalist sentiments and highlighted the site as a symbol of resistance against British rule.
- Nehru’s Flag Hoisting: Jawaharlal Nehru’s decision to hoist the national flag from the Red Fort on August 15, 1947, signified the reclamation of the site from colonial dominance and marked India’s emergence as a sovereign nation.
Annual Celebration and Symbolism
- Continuing Tradition: The tradition of hoisting the national flag and delivering the Independence Day address from the Red Fort continues to this day.
- Reclamation of Identity: The celebrations at the Red Fort annually emphasize the triumph of India’s struggle for independence and the reclaiming of its cultural and historical identity from colonial rule.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cauvery River
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Tamil Nadu has urged the Supreme Court to compel Karnataka to release 24,000 cusecs of water immediately.
- The state seeks the release of 36.76 TMC for September 2023, as per the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal’s (CWDT) award.
About Cauvery River
- The Cauvery River, also spelled as ‘Kaveri’ and known as ‘Ponni’ in Tamil, originates from Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri range located in Karnataka’s Kodagu district.
- It spans approximately 800 km, traversing through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, until it eventually reaches the Bay of Bengal.
- The river’s catchment area covers regions in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and the Union Territory of Pondicherry.
- Key tributaries that join the Cauvery include Harangi, Hemavati, Kabini, Suvarnavathi, and Bhavani.
- Distinguishing it from other rivers in South India, the Cauvery remains perennial due to its dual reliance on both advancing and retreating monsoons for rainfall.
|
Cauvery Water Dispute: Historical Background
- 1892 Onset: The water dispute dates back to 1892 between the British-ruled Madras Presidency and the princely state of Mysore (now Karnataka).
- 1924 Agreement: A 50-year agreement mediated by the British aimed to quell tensions but merely laid the groundwork for future disagreements.
- Post-Independence Battles: Karnataka’s dam constructions in the 1960s-80s sparked Tamil Nadu’s appeal to the Supreme Court. The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) followed.
- Interim Measures: The Cauvery River Authority (CRA) in 1998 implemented interim orders. Contentious issues persisted despite CWDT’s 2013 award.
- Final Award: The CWDT’s award in 2013 allocated water quantities for Tamil Nadu (419 TMC), Karnataka (270 TMC), Kerala (30 TMC), and Puducherry (7 TMC).
Water Sharing Criteria
- Monthly Schedule: Karnataka, the upper riparian state, is mandated to provide Tamil Nadu with a specified water quantity each month.
- Annual Allocation: In a “normal” year, Karnataka must provide 177.25 TMC to Tamil Nadu, of which 123.14 TMC is during the southwest monsoon.
- Challenges: The contentious period is the monsoon when disagreements often arise due to varying rainfall.
Constitutional Provisions for Water Sharing
- Article 262: Empowers Parliament to address inter-State river disputes; IRWD Act, 1956 enacted under this article.
- Seventh Schedule: Defines the legislative authority over water resources in Entry 17 (State List) and Entry 56 (Union List).
Resolving Cauvery Water Sharing
(A) Supreme Court’s 2018 Verdict
- Cauvery as National Asset: The Supreme Court declared Cauvery a “national asset” and upheld inter-State river water equality.
- Allocation Adjustments: The Court noted deficiencies in CWDT’s assessment, leading to Karnataka receiving marginal relief and Tamil Nadu’s allocation reduced to 177.25 TMC.
- Formation of CMB: The Court directed the establishment of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) for effective implementation of orders.
(B) Cauvery Water Management Scheme
- CWMA Establishment: The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) was formed to regulate water releases with assistance from the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC).
- Permanent and Technical Bodies: CWMA oversees water regulation, while CWRC ensures data collection and implementation of the final award.
Current Status and Future Implications:
- Ongoing Challenge: The Cauvery water dispute remains an ongoing challenge with historical and legal dimensions.
- Resource Management: The establishment of CWMA and CWRC aims to address the dispute through effective water management.
- Continued Struggle: The dispute underscores the complexity of water sharing in a federal system and the need for equitable solutions.
Tamil Nadu’s Contention
- CWMA’s Decision: The CWMA sought 10,000 cusecs for 15 days from Karnataka, but Karnataka proposed only 8,000 cusecs up to August 22.
- Previous Agreement: Karnataka’s refusal to adhere to the earlier agreement of 15,000 cusecs for 15 days at the CWRC meeting irked Tamil Nadu.
- Distress-sharing Formula: TN CM supports a distress-sharing formula, but Karnataka has not embraced it.
Karnataka’s Perspective
- Rainfall Deficit: Karnataka claims lower rainfall in Cauvery’s catchment areas, including Kerala, leading to reduced inflow into its reservoirs.
- Challenging Situation: Karnataka stated that it couldn’t release water as the reservoirs received less inflow this year.
- Lack of Consistency: Despite Karnataka’s endorsing distress-sharing, the state declined to accept the formula.
Future Scenario
- Tamil Nadu’s Concerns: The Mettur reservoir’s storage is critically low, impacting farmers and the upcoming kuruvai crop.
- Water Shortage: The current water availability may last only 10 days, considering dead storage and drinking water needs.
- Awaiting Supreme Court: The case’s outcome now rests with the Supreme Court’s interpretation and decision.
- Need for a Resolution: The pressing need for a mutually acceptable distress-sharing formula is evident.
Ongoing Challenges and Factors Prolonging the Dispute:
- Erratic Water Levels: Flood-drought cycles, pollution, and groundwater depletion have led to unpredictable water levels.
- Idealistic Calculations: SC’s verdict relies on favorable conditions that often do not align with reality.
- Dependency and Population: Both states rely heavily on the river, causing conflicting water needs for urban areas and agriculture.
- Inefficient Water Use: Inefficient irrigation methods lead to low crop productivity per unit of water used.
- Hydropolitics and Delays: Political parties capitalize on water disputes for mobilization. Prolonged tribunal adjudications contribute to delays.
Global Lessons
- Good Water Neighbors Project: Collaboration between Israelis, Jordanians, and Palestinians demonstrates the power of dialogue and cooperation for shared water resources.
- Nile Basin Initiative: Regional partnership among Nile Basin countries showcases cooperation for equitable water management, enhancing prosperity and peace.
|
Conclusion
- The Cauvery River dispute is a microcosm of water-related challenges in India.
- To address this century-old struggle, collaborative efforts, sustainable practices, and empowered community involvement are essential.
- By learning from global examples and innovating locally, a future of equitable water allocation, prosperity, and harmony can be envisioned.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Constitutional provisions
Mains level: Minimum age requirements for parliamentary candidacy analysis
What’s the news?
- The 132nd Report on Election Process and Reform, presented to the Rajya Sabha in August 2023, recommends aligning the minimum age for candidacy with the voting age of 18.
Central idea
- A Parliamentary Committee has proposed reducing the age restriction on MPs and MLAs to 18 years. Though the EC has opposed the proposal, Constituent Assembly debates show several leaders back then favored lower age criteria for our lawmakers. Calling the current criteria outdated, the committee argued that legislative bodies could benefit from a wider range of perspectives.
Background
- On May 18, 1949, during the heated deliberations of India’s Constituent Assembly, responsible for drafting the nation’s Constitution, a pivotal debate emerged.
- The focus was the insertion of an Article outlining criteria for prospective parliamentarians’ minimum age.
- The motion proposed setting 25 years as the entry age for the Lok Sabha and 35 years for the Rajya Sabha.
- Amidst this discourse, Durgabai Deshmukh, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle and an advocate for women’s emancipation, proposed an amendment.
- Her amendment aimed to lower the minimum age for Rajya Sabha candidacy from 35 to 30, reflecting changing times and evolving youth engagement in civic matters.
- The amendment’s adoption led to the incorporation of Article 84 and Article 173 in the Constitution, mandating 25 and 30 years as the minimum age for entry into the lower and upper houses, respectively, at both the central and state levels.
A Global Perspective on Youth Participation
- The United Nations Human Rights Council’s 2018 report highlights challenges faced by youth in accessing their rights.
- Less than 2% of parliamentarians worldwide are under 30, indicating a lack of youth representation.
- Countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada have embraced young candidates with innovative ideas and fresh perspectives.
- European nations such as Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, and Ireland have set lower minimum age requirements for candidates.
- Fridays for the Future, led by Greta Thunberg, exemplifies the influence of youth-led activism on global issues.
Youth and Political Participation in India
- Student Politics and University Campuses:
- University campuses, traditionally seen as breeding grounds for free debate and critical thinking, have played a pivotal role in nurturing young leaders.
- The Lyngdoh Committee’s recommendations in 2012, which introduced upper age limits for student union elections, marked a transformative shift.
- Recent statistics reveal that student union office-bearers at top Indian universities have an average age of 22.5 years, reflecting more youthful leadership.
- Panchayat-Level Representation:
- At the grassroots level, efforts to infuse youth representation have resulted in significant positive changes.
- In various states, a growing number of individuals aged 21 and above have found representation in roles such as village pradhan and block pramukh.
- This demonstrates a trend towards acknowledging the capabilities and perspectives of younger individuals in local governance.
- Parliamentary Representation:
- However, this progressive trend is not consistently reflected at the national parliamentary level.
- An analysis of India’s parliamentary history shows a decline in the percentage of MPs aged 25–40 from 26% in the first Lok Sabha to 12% in the current 17th Lok Sabha.
- Despite India’s young country status, with 65% of the population below 35 years old, the average age of MPs remains relatively high.
The Impact of Youth Representation: Amplifying Progressive Agendas
- Visibility of Youth-Centric Issues:
- Diverse representation in parliament ensures increased visibility of issues pertinent to youth.
- The long-standing demand for women’s reservation quotas highlights the effectiveness of targeted representation in addressing gender-specific concerns.
- Similarly, youth representatives can champion matters like technology, unemployment, and education, shaping policies that resonate with younger generations.
- Contemporary Relevance and Innovation:
- Young parliamentarians are poised to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to complex problems.
- Issues like climate change, technology, and socio-economic disparities require dynamic approaches that youth are well-equipped to provide.
- Their engagement can foster debates that reflect the current aspirations and challenges of the population.
- Empowerment of Underrepresented Groups:
- Youth representation also holds the promise of empowering marginalized and minority groups.
- The inclusivity brought about by youth engagement ensures that the concerns of various communities are adequately addressed.
- This can contribute to a more equitable and diverse governance approach.
- Challenging Traditional Notions:
- The presence of young parliamentarians challenges traditional notions that associate political competence solely with age.
- Global examples of successful young leaders breaking barriers underscores the capacity of youth to drive change.
- Age should not be a barrier to representation when youth demonstrate awareness, dedication, and commitment to their responsibilities.
Challenges Hindering Youth Inclusion
- Experience and Maturity Concerns:
- Critics contend that younger candidates may lack the life experience and maturity required to make informed decisions on complex issues.
- The belief that political competence is directly proportional to age is deeply ingrained, presenting a challenge to reform efforts.
- Entrenched Norms and Resistance:
- Prevailing norms link effective leadership with advanced age, creating resistance to embracing younger candidates.
- Societal skepticism toward entrusting significant responsibilities to youth can impede the acceptance of policy changes.
- Divergence from International Trends:
- The Election Commission’s cautious stance on lowering the minimum candidacy age contrasts with global trends.
- Several democracies have successfully integrated younger leaders, tapping into their fresh perspectives and innovative thinking.
- Balancing Youthful Vigor and Expertise:
- Striking a balance between the energy of youth and the wisdom gained from experience remains a challenge.
- Effective leadership requires not only innovative ideas but also a nuanced understanding of the intricacies of governance.
- Perception of Representation Bias:
- Concerns exist that youth-centric representation might overshadow the needs of other demographic groups.
- Addressing this perception and ensuring comprehensive policy formulation are essential for garnering broad support.
- Cultural and Mindset shifts:
- Overcoming deep-rooted beliefs that equate age with political competence demands a cultural shift.
- Effective awareness campaigns can challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive environment for younger leaders.
Addressing the Age Discrepancy
- The 132nd Report on Election Process and Reform, presented to the Rajya Sabha in August 2023, recommends aligning the minimum age for candidacy with the voting age of 18.
- The report highlights global practices and underscores the significance of young parliamentarians voicing contemporary issues.
Way forward
- Policy Alignment and Adaptation: Reassess existing policies to align the minimum candidacy age with the voting age, promoting consistency and inclusivity.
- Youth-Centric Educational Initiatives: Establish comprehensive political education programs and leadership training to equip young aspirants with essential governance skills.
- Cross-Generational Mentorship: Facilitate intergenerational dialogue to combine experience with innovation, allowing for a holistic approach to decision-making.
- Incentivized Youth Participation: Encourage political parties to integrate young candidates into their election strategies through incentives and tangible support.
- Collaborative Advocacy Efforts: Engage stakeholders in advocacy campaigns, leveraging global examples to advocate for reducing the minimum candidacy age.
Conclusion
- The need for a more inclusive and representative democracy demands a reevaluation of the minimum age requirements for parliamentary candidacy. As the world embraces youthful voices, India’s evolving landscape should not lag behind. A political consensus can pave the way for a more dynamic, inclusive, and progressive parliamentary system, with the potential to reshape the nation’s future.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Inflation trends
Mains level: Inflation and its impact
Central idea
- In recent weeks, a notable surge in vegetable prices has acted as a harbinger of a potential increase in overall inflation, as gauged by the consumer price index. This inflationary trend, if sustained, could breach the upper threshold of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) targeted inflation framework.
Inflation Trend Analysis
- Initial Indications of Upward Movement: The recent surge in vegetable prices over the past few weeks served as an early signal of an impending inflationary trend. These signs prompted expectations of an escalation in overall inflation, as gauged by the consumer price index, during the months of July and August.
- Confirmed by Official Data Release: The National Statistical Office’s data release on Monday solidified these apprehensions. Headline retail inflation surged to a 15-month high of 7.44 per cent in July, marking a substantial increase from the 4.87 per cent recorded in June.
- Food Prices as the Main Catalyst: Dissecting the data, it becomes evident that the major driving force behind this surge has been the elevated food prices. The consumer food price index soared to 11.51 per cent in July, significantly up from the 4.55 per cent reported the previous month.
- Core Inflation and Goods/Services Inflation Trends:
- Core Inflation: Excluding the volatile food and fuel components, core inflation has shown a moderation trend, as noted by ICRA.
- Goods and Services Inflation: Both goods (excluding food) and services inflation have demonstrated a softening trend, indicating a certain degree of stability.
Food Categories and Their Impact
- Vegetables: This category experienced a staggering price rise of 37.3 per cent, serving as a primary contributor to the overall increase.
- Spices: Prices of spices surged by 21.6 per cent, further accentuating the inflationary pressure within the food segment.
- Pulses and Products: With an inflation rate of 13.2 per cent, pulses and related products added to the upward trend in food prices.
- Cereals and Products: A rise of 13 per cent in this category also contributed to the overall surge in food inflation.
Central Bank’s Perspective
- Early Warnings Heeded: Recognizing the potential implications for overall inflation, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) took swift action during its recent monetary policy committee meeting.
- Proactive Forecast Revision: In a preemptive move, the RBI adjusted its inflation projection for the second quarter upwards. The initial estimate of 5.2 per cent was revised to 6.2 per cent, reflecting the central bank’s readiness to address the imminent inflationary pressure.
- Confirmation through Data: The RBI’s perspective received validation with the release of official data by the National Statistical Office. The subsequent surge in headline retail inflation to a 15-month high of 7.44 per cent in July, from the previous month’s 4.87 per cent, bolstered the central bank’s concerns.
- Food as a Key Driver: The central bank’s analysis correctly identified that the main driver behind this inflationary surge was the escalating food prices. The consumer food price index’s significant rise to 11.51 per cent in July, compared to 4.55 per cent in the previous month, reinforced the central bank’s focus on this critical aspect.
Impact of the inflation trends
- Consumer Affordability: The surge in vegetable prices contributes to overall inflation, impacting consumers’ ability to afford essential goods. As prices rise, individuals might need to allocate more of their budget to food, potentially reducing spending on other items.
- Budgetary Strain: Higher food prices, particularly vegetables, strain household budgets, affecting families’ purchasing power. This burden is often more pronounced for lower-income households, potentially leading to trade-offs in spending and impacting overall consumption patterns.
- Cost-Push Inflation: The rise in food prices, driven by vegetables and other factors, can lead to cost-push inflation. This occurs when higher production costs are passed on to consumers, causing a general increase in the price level across various sectors.
- Wage Pressure: Elevated inflation can lead to demands for higher wages by workers to maintain their real income levels. Businesses might face challenges managing increased labor costs, potentially affecting profitability.
- Monetary Policy Adjustment: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) might need to consider adjusting its monetary policy to address the rising inflation. This could involve raising interest rates to control demand and curb price increases, potentially impacting borrowing costs and investments.
Conclusion
- Despite optimism about a forthcoming correction in vegetable prices, the economy remains vulnerable to external shocks such as crude oil price fluctuations. The committee’s continued vigilance and strategic policy responses will be pivotal in managing inflationary pressures and maintaining economic stability.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Read the attached story
Mains level: Reforming criminal justice system
Central Idea
- Union Home Minister’s introduction of three crucial bills in the Lok Sabha has set the stage for a transformative shift in India’s criminal justice system.
Overhauling Criminal Justice System
- The 3 bills introduced are-
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023,
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023, and
- Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023
- They are collectively aimed at replacing outdated laws, have sparked debates and anticipation of profound changes in legal proceedings.
- The bills seek to repeal the archaic Indian Penal Code, the Indian Evidence Act, and the Code of Criminal Procedure, introducing a modern framework aligned with contemporary legal needs.
Key Reforms Proposed:
- Capital Punishment for Mob Lynching: The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill introduces capital punishment for mob lynching, emphasizing the gravity of this crime.
- Stricter Laws for Sexual Violence: Deception leading to sexual relations is designated as a separate crime. False promise of marriage carries a ten-year imprisonment term.
- Sedition and Terrorism Definitions: The bills redefine sedition and introduce a comprehensive definition of terrorism, separatism, and armed rebellion, streamlining the legal treatment of these offenses.
- Video Recording of Survivor Statements: For sexual violence cases, the video-recording of survivor statements becomes mandatory, ensuring accurate and reliable evidence collection.
- Speedy Justice: The bills propose amendments aimed at expediting the criminal justice system, aiming to bring revolutionary changes.
- Transparency and Accountability: Police accountability is emphasized through measures such as providing complaint status within 90 days, consultation with victims before withdrawal of cases, and introduction of community service for specific crimes.
Impact on Criminal Justice
- Modernization: The bills signify a transition from colonial-era laws to contemporary legal frameworks that address evolving societal concerns.
- Faster Trials: Proposed reforms, including fixed timelines for chargesheets and prosecution sanctions, aim to accelerate trial proceedings and curb undue delays.
- Evidence Integrity: The mandatory videography of search and seizure enhances transparency and prevents tampering, ensuring the integrity of evidence.
- Victim Empowerment: Consultation with victims before case withdrawal empowers them in the legal process, fostering a victim-centric approach.
- Accountability and Streamlining: Designating a police officer for custody notifications, mandatory online disclosure, and limited remission of sentences promote transparency and accountability.
Political and Social Implications
- Political Accountability: The bills emphasize that individuals with political influence will not escape legal consequences, thereby promoting fairness and equality.
- Public Safety: Stricter laws on mob lynching and sexual violence underscore the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety and protecting vulnerable groups.
- Legal Efficacy: The bills aim to elevate India’s conviction rate by introducing forensic evidence collection standards and expediting trial proceedings.
Conclusion
- The introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023, and its companion bills marks a significant step towards modernizing India’s criminal justice system.
- These reforms, driven by the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice, hold the potential to reshape legal proceedings, empower victims, and ensure a more equitable legal environment.
- As these bills undergo parliamentary scrutiny, the anticipation of their impact on India’s legal landscape is palpable, with expectations of a more efficient, effective, and just criminal justice system for the nation.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Special Economic Zones
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Northeast region’s journey with SEZs has been marked by challenges and missed opportunities.
- Despite the approval of five SEZs in the region between 2007 and 2021, none have become operational.
Overview of Unoperational SEZs in NE
- Unrealized IT SEZs: The report underscores the delay in establishing IT SEZs in Manipur and Sikkim, both of which were approved in 2013 and 2021 respectively.
- Nagaland’s Unfulfilled Promise: Despite approvals dating back to 2007-9, the SEZs in Nagaland remain dormant, representing a missed opportunity for economic growth.
- Pending Agro-Products Zone: The agro-products zone approved in Tripura in 2019 is yet to materialize, indicating the need for coordinated efforts to overcome hurdles.
What are SEZs?
- Distinctive Zones: A Special Economic Zone is an area characterized by distinct trade and business regulations set apart from the rest of the country.
- Economic Objectives: SEZs aim to enhance trade balance, encourage investments, generate employment, facilitate efficient administration, and amplify economic growth.
- Favorable Financial Policies: SEZs offer tailored financial policies that encompass investment, taxation, customs, trading, quotas, and labor regulations.
- Tax Incentives: Businesses within SEZs may benefit from tax holidays, a designated period of reduced taxation upon establishment within the zone.
Inception of SEZs in India
- EPZs Pioneering: India embraced the concept of Export Processing Zones (EPZs) with Asia’s inaugural EPZ established in Kandla in 1965.
- Genesis: India’s SEZ policy was inaugurated on April 1, 2000, with the intent of bolstering foreign investments and creating a globally competitive environment for exports.
- Objectives: The policy aimed to boost exports, level the playing field for domestic enterprises, and provide a comprehensive legal framework for SEZ development and operation.
- Regulatory Framework: The SEZ Act of 2005 furnished the regulatory umbrella covering crucial aspects of SEZs and the units operating within them.
Distinct Characteristics of SEZs
- Diverse Zone Types: SEZs encompass various categories such as free-trade zones (FTZs), export processing zones (EPZs), industrial estates (IEs), free ports, and more.
- Enhanced Foreign Investment: SEZs attract foreign direct investment (FDI) by multinational corporations (MNCs) and international businesses, spurring economic growth
Setting up SEZs
- Open to All: Any private, public, joint sector, state government, or its agencies can establish an SEZ.
- Foreign Participation: Foreign agencies are also permitted to establish SEZs in India.
- States Role: State government representatives within inter-ministerial committees on private SEZs offer consultations on proposals.
- Infrastructure Provision: State governments must ensure the provision of essential resources like water and electricity before SEZ proposals are recommended.
- Labor Laws: SEZs adhere to normal labor laws, enforced by respective state governments, with a focus on simplification of procedures and introducing single-window clearance.
Benefits offered
- Economic Boost: SEZs aim to streamline business processes, improve infrastructure, and offer tax benefits, propelling FDI and export growth.
- Trade Growth: SEZs contribute significantly to India’s exports by providing a conducive environment for production and export-oriented activities.
- Investor Attraction: The relaxation of regulations and access to advanced infrastructure in SEZs entices international investors seeking to capitalize on export-driven opportunities.
Conclusion
- The parliamentary report serves as a clarion call to address the stagnation of SEZs in Northeast India and transform the challenges into opportunities.
- It underscores the importance of crafting a fresh industrial development scheme that is responsive to the region’s dynamics.
- By leveraging the unique strengths of the Northeast, the government has the chance to not only rectify the current situation but also contribute to the inclusive economic growth of the entire nation.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Harami Nala
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Union Home Minister has visited the sensitive and strategically important ‘Harami Nala’ creek in the Kutch region of Gujarat, near the India-Pakistan border.
- This channel, notorious for its historical connections to infiltrations, illegal activities, and maritime challenges, offers a glimpse into the complexities of border security and regional dynamics.
About Harami Nala
- High-Profile Attention: The spotlight on ‘Harami Nala’ has intensified with visits from prominent figures, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, underlining the strategic importance of Sir Creek Area.
- Geographical Context: Situated at the Rajasthan border, ‘Harami Nala’ is a 22-kilometer tidal channel in Gujarat’s Kutch region, serving as a natural boundary between India and Pakistan.
- Physical Traits: It carries water and sediment, inhabited by protected marine species. The water level and flow fluctuate based on weather conditions, spanning a stretch of twenty to twenty-five kilometres.
Decoding the Name
- Meaning behind the Name: Translated as the “rogue or treacherous channel,” the name ‘Harami Nala’ encapsulates the channel’s notoriety as a potential ingress point for infiltrators.
- Historical Context: The channel’s reputation as an entry route for criminals, terrorists, and undesirable elements from Pakistan to India has led to the naming. Instances of infiltrations and discoveries of abandoned boats have reinforced its dubious repute.
- Illegal Activities: The channel’s ecosystem, including prawns and other marine life, is exploited through illegal fishing. Despite its ecological significance, this practice remains a challenge.
Harami Nala’s Historical Connections
- Geostrategic Significance: The channel’s proximity to the coast and urban centers like Gujarat and Mumbai has made it an alluring route for potential infiltrators.
- Terror Connection: Notably, Ajmal Kasab, a perpetrator of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, was believed to have entered India through Harami Nala, highlighting the channel’s strategic implications.
Challenges and Complexities
- Border Security: While Indian security efforts are robust, the channel remains a challenge due to its historical use for illicit activities.
- Maritime Interplay: The confluence of maritime dynamics, security concerns, and border complexities underscores the intricate nature of the region.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-USHA Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal have not signed the required MoU for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) under the PM-USHA scheme.
- Concerns revolve around budget allocation and the absence of specific funds for NEP reforms.
PM-USHA Scheme
- The Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) was introduced as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to financially support institutions in States/UTs.
- Its aim was to enhance access, equity, and excellence in higher education with improved efficiency, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness.
- The initial phase of the scheme commenced in 2013, followed by the second phase in 2018.
- In alignment with the National Education Policy, the RUSA initiative has been revamped as the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).
Challenges and Concerns
- Lack of Additional Funds: The MoU requires states to undertake NEP-related administrative, academic, accreditation, and governance reforms. States are concerned that there are no extra funds designated specifically for NEP reforms within the scheme.
- 40% State Contribution: States have to bear 40% of the expenses under the PM-USHA scheme, leading to further apprehensions about their ability to fund NEP initiatives.
- Incomplete Alignment: The MoU doesn’t explicitly address the financial needs for implementing NEP changes, leading to dissatisfaction among some state governments.
Government Response and Flexibility
- Consultations and Integration: The University Grants Commission (UGC) chairman emphasizes the integration between NEP and PM-USHA through the MoU, which necessitates alignment with NEP principles.
- Streamlined Approach: The PM-USHA scheme consolidates various components and offers states more flexibility in focusing on felt needs.
- Focus on Prioritized Districts: States can identify priority districts based on enrollment ratios, gender parity, and demographic proportions, ensuring tailored educational interventions.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Malaiyali Tribe
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Malaiyali tribe, scattered across Tamil Nadu’s hilly regions, has undergone a remarkable transformation over two centuries.
- From their initial foraging lifestyle to settling atop the Yelagiri hill and constructing traditional clay huts, the tribe has transitioned into a more modern way of life.
- Amidst the evolving landscape, one old-fashioned hut remains as a testament to their history.
Malaiyali Tribe
- Historical Settlement: Over 200 Malaiyali tribespeople established a comprehensive system on Yelagiri hill with clay huts for shelter, storage, farming, and cattle.
- Modern Evolution: Today, only one antiquated hut endures, belonging to tribesman Govinthasamy, while the rest have given way to brick-and-mortar homes.
- Malaiyali Tribe: “Malai” means hill and “yali” means people, depicting the tribespeople who settled across Tamil Nadu’s hilly regions.
Significance of Red Clay
- Integral Material: Red clay played a pivotal role in building huts, burying the dead, and sustaining the tribe’s lifecycle from birth to death.
- Unique Construction: Huts were constructed with red clay on teak wood frames, embodying the tribe’s connection to nature.
- Practicality and Value: Despite its worn appearance, the hut holds immense value due to the scarcity and high cost of materials like teak wood.
Distinctive Hut Features
- Roofing: A 12-foot thatched roof made of dry bamboo leaves, waxed with cow dung to prevent leaks during monsoons.
- Interior Space: Deceptively small from outside, the hut accommodates eight people and an attic for storing household items.
- Functional Evolution: Originally meant for living, the hut transformed into a storage space for seeds during sowing and grains post-harvest.
- Elevated Structure: The hut stands on a teak wood stilt to prevent flooding during heavy rains and deter rodents.
- Storage Space: Stilts create additional storage beneath the house for grains or poultry.
- Traditional Living: The one-room structure housed various activities, highlighting the tribe’s reliance on agriculture.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Urea Gold
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The recent launch of “Urea Gold,” a fortified fertiliser by Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd (RCF), has sparked interest as it combines urea with sulphur to enhance nitrogen use efficiency (NUE).
- It seeks to tackle challenges of escalating urea consumption and declining agricultural efficiency.
What is Urea Gold?
- Composition: “Urea Gold” blends urea with sulphur to create a fortified fertiliser aimed at improving NUE and crop performance.
- NUE Enhancement: The fortified blend ensures gradual nitrogen release, sustaining plant health and potentially reducing fertiliser application frequency.
Challenges of Urea Consumption and NUE Decline
- Urea Consumption Surge: Urea consumption has risen from 26.7 million tonnes to 35.7 million tonnes between 2009-10 and 2022-23, making it India’s predominant fertiliser choice.
- Import Dependency: Domestic urea production relies heavily on imported natural gas. India’s annual consumption trails only China’s, where coal-based production prevails.
- Declining NUE: Only around 35% of nitrogen applied through urea benefits crops, raising concerns about resource wastage and increased fertiliser application.
Fortified Fertiliser Solution
- Coating Strategy: Fortified fertilisers entail coating primary nutrients (N, P, K) with secondary nutrients (S, calcium, magnesium) and micronutrients (zinc, boron, manganese, etc.).
- Enhanced Benefits: Coated fertilisers act as “carrier products” for secondary and micronutrients, thereby increasing their N and P use efficiency and ensuring controlled nutrient release.
- Innovation by Yara International: The “Procote” technology facilitates micronutrient coating, demonstrating improved fertiliser efficacy.
- Efficacy Confirmation: The trials substantiated amplified paddy and wheat yields through micronutrient-coated fertilisers, potentially mitigating NUE concerns.
Pricing and Distribution Challenges
- Pricing Complexities: Existing subsidies for coated fertilisers like zincated urea and boronated DAP may not incentivise companies to promote fortified products.
- Farmer Adoption Hurdles: Discrepancies in pricing between fortified and non-fortified fertilisers have deterred farmers from embracing coated options.
- Optimal Implementation: Advocates suggest factory-level coating to ensure uniform nutrient distribution and user convenience. Freeing maximum retail prices (MRPs) for coated fertilisers could bolster adoption.
- Striking Pricing Balance: Since traditional fertilisers receive substantial subsidies, fortified product premiums must remain reasonable to encourage affordability.
Conclusion
- Amidst the challenges of dwindling NUE and escalating urea consumption, the introduction of “Urea Gold” and fortified fertilisers holds promise for enhancing agricultural efficiency.
- The journey to successful implementation necessitates addressing pricing discrepancies and distribution intricacies.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Metagenomics
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Genome sequencing technologies played a crucial role in identifying the causative agent of the COVID pandemic.
- This approach, known as metagenomics, revolutionized pathogen identification and surveillance, enabling rapid response to emerging threats.
Metagenomics and COVID-19
- Unprecedented Scale: Scientists rapidly applied genome sequencing to identify SARS-CoV-2, making it one of the most sequenced organisms in history.
- Break from Tradition: Instead of traditional microbiological methods, patient samples were directly subjected to genome sequencing, expediting virus identification.
- Global Genome Surveillance: The success of genome sequencing led to the development of technologies like CovidSeq assay and spurred national and international SARS-CoV-2 genome surveillance initiatives.
What is Genome Sequencing?
- Genome sequencing is the process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism’s genome.
- The genome refers to the entire set of genetic material present in an organism’s cells, including all the genes and non-coding regions.
- Genome sequencing involves reading and deciphering the order of the nucleotide bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) that make up an organism’s DNA.
- The genome sequencing process typically involves several steps:
- DNA Extraction: Genetic material (DNA) is extracted from the cells of the organism being studied.
- DNA Fragmentation: The extracted DNA is broken down into smaller fragments for sequencing. These fragments are usually around a few hundred base pairs in length.
- Sequencing: The individual DNA fragments are then sequenced using advanced sequencing technologies. Various methods, such as Sanger sequencing or next-generation sequencing (NGS), can be employed for this purpose.
- Data Analysis: The sequence data generated is processed and analyzed using specialized bioinformatics tools. The data is assembled to reconstruct the complete genome sequence.
- Annotation: Once the genome sequence is assembled, it is annotated to identify genes, regulatory elements, and other functional components within the genome.
|
Application in Pathogen Surveillance
- Genome Surveillance Technologies: Several technologies based on genome sequencing, such as the CovidSeq assay, were developed for SARS-CoV-2 detection.
- GISAID Repository: GISAID became a repository for global genome-sequence data, reflecting high-throughput genome surveillance activities.
- India’s Initiatives: India initiated a national genome-sequencing and surveillance program for SARS-CoV-2, fostering national-level efforts.
Nigerian Study and Metagenomic Sequencing
- Application of Metagenomics: Nigerian scientists employed metagenomic sequencing to study pathogen surveillance in three cohorts of patients.
- Versatile Approach: The study identified 13 distinct viruses among the cohorts and aided in detecting co-infections and undiagnosed conditions.
- Diagnostic Power: Metagenomics helped link symptoms to pesticide poisoning in some cases, showcasing its diagnostic potential.
Diverse Applications and Future Prospects
- Expanding to Other Pathogens: Genome sequencing technologies are being applied to detect other pathogens like Zika, dengue, lumpy skin disease, and drug-resistant tuberculosis.
- Environmental Surveillance: Genome surveillance is being extended to diverse sources, such as wastewater, air, soil, and animals, aiding in early detection and response strategies.
- Mainstay for Pathogen Defense: The speed, accuracy, and adaptability of genome sequencing make it a cornerstone for future pathogen detection, surveillance, and response.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Luna 25, Chandrayaan
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The moon exploration scene has intensified as Russia’s “Luna 25” mission prepares for a soft landing near the lunar South Pole, challenging India’s “Chandrayaan-3” in the race to touch down first.
- While Luna 25’s earlier launch and more direct trajectory give it an edge, Chandrayaan-3’s unique features and India-Russia collaboration in space activities also merit attention.
Luna 25’s Accelerated Journey
- Launch and Orbit: Luna 25 was launched on August 10, aiming to enter lunar orbit by August 16.
- Lunar Landing Date: The Russian lander is anticipated to attempt a soft landing between August 21 and 22, ahead of Chandrayaan-3’s possible landing date of August 23.
Key Factors behind Luna 25’s Lead
- Trajectory and Fuel Storage: Luna 25 followed a direct trajectory due to its lighter payload and higher fuel efficiency.
- Payload Comparison: Luna 25’s lift-off mass is 1,750 kg, significantly lighter than Chandrayaan-3’s 3,900 kg. The latter includes a Lander-Rover and propulsion module.
- Lunar Dawn Advantage: Luna 25 benefits from an earlier lunar dawn at its landing site, ensuring optimal power generation through solar panels.
What is Lunar Dawn?
- Lunar dawn is the period on the Moon when the Sun is about to rise over the lunar horizon, resulting in the gradual illumination of the lunar surface, similar to Earth’s sunrise.
- During lunar dawn, the Moon’s surface transitions from darkness to light as the Sun’s rays gradually touch and illuminate different areas.
- It occurs due to the Moon’s rotation on its axis, causing changing lighting conditions as it orbits the Earth.
- Unlike Earth, the Moon lacks a significant atmosphere, resulting in distinct lighting, sharp shadows, and no diffusion of sunlight.
- Astronauts on lunar missions, like the Apollo missions, have observed lunar dawn first-hand, providing unique perspectives on the Moon’s surface.
|
Chandrayaan-3’s Distinct Features
- Coated Rover: Chandrayaan-3 boasts a rover with a 500-metre range, unlike Luna 25.
- Scientific Objectives: Chandrayaan-3 emphasizes soil and water-ice study, especially near the southern pole, owing to craters in permanent shadow.
- Experiment Suite: Chandrayaan-3’s Lander carries experiments like RAMBHA, ChaSTE, ILSA, and LRA, providing crucial insights into moon’s properties.
Collaboration and Competition
- India-Russia Space Collaboration: Both countries have collaborated extensively in space activities, such as Russia’s contribution to India’s Chandrayaan-2 mission’s lander-rover design.
- Chandrayaan-1 to Chandrayaan-2 Gap: India developed its lander-rover technology independently after Russia’s withdrawal, leading to an 11-year gap between Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2 missions.
Future Prospects
- Human Moon Missions Race: India, the US, and China are actively pursuing human moon missions after India’s Chandrayaan-1’s water molecule discovery in 2008.
- Progress and Challenges: While India has made strides, countries like the US and China have achieved landing and sample return missions. India’s efforts to develop heavier launch vehicles for more ambitious missions continue.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sant Ravidas, Bhakti Movement
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a ₹100 crore temple dedicated to Sant Ravidas in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar.
Guru Ravidas
- Ravidas was an Indian mystic poet-saint of the Bhakti movement and founder of the Ravidassia religion during the 15th to 16th century CE.
- Venerated as a guru (teacher) in the region of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and mainly Punjab and Haryana. He was a poet-saint, social reformer and spiritual figure.
- The life details of Ravidas are uncertain and contested. Scholars believe he was born in 1450 CE, in the cobbler caste.
- Ravidas’s devotional verses were included in the Sikh scriptures known as Guru Granth Sahib.
- The Panch Vani text of the Dadupanthi tradition within Hinduism also includes numerous poems of Ravidas.
- He taught the removal of social divisions of caste and gender and promoted unity in the pursuit of personal spiritual freedoms.
Significance of his teachings
- Philosophy and values of Sant Ravidas like social justice, equality and fraternity have been imbued in our constitutional values.
- He had envisaged a society that is based on equality and free from any kind of discrimination.
- He gave it the name ‘Be-gampura’ (a city near Lahore) where there is no place for any kind of grief or fear.
- Such an ideal city would be bereft of fear, vulnerability or scarcity. Rule of law based on the right ideas like equality and welfare of all would be the principle for governance.
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
Attend Now