Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Halal
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- On November 18, the Uttar Pradesh government imposed a state-wide ban on the “production, storing, distribution, and sale of halal certified edible items.”
Understanding Halal and Halal Food
- Definition of Halal: ‘Halal’ is an Arabic term meaning ‘permissible’ in English.
- FAO Guidelines on Halal Food: The Food and Agriculture Organization defines halal food as compliant with Islamic Law, including specific slaughter methods.
- Vegetarian Food and Halal: Generally, vegetarian food is deemed halal unless it contains prohibited substances like alcohol.
- Labeling of Halal Products: Products claimed as halal must visibly display this on their labels.
Halal-Certified Products
- Purpose of Certification: Halal certification ensures food preparation adheres to Islamic law and is free from contamination.
- Certification Bodies in India: Various private companies in India, like Halal India Pvt Ltd and Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust, offer halal certification. Some are government-recognized, while others are not.
Controversy Surrounding Halal-Certified Products
- Legality: The debate centers on the legality of certificate-issuing authorities and allegations of targeting specific religious communities.
- Parallel Authority issue: The Indian government does not require halal certification; FSSAI certification is the standard for edible products.
- International Trade and Halal Certification: As per the USDA 2022 report, halal certification is not essential for export or import trade permissions.
- Religious violations: A case was filed against entities in Lucknow for purportedly exploiting religious sentiments to enhance sales through halal certification.
Legal Aspects of Halal Certification
- Complaints against Certification: Complaints have emerged against companies for allegedly issuing forged halal certificates for financial benefits.
- Accusations of Illegal Certification: These companies are accused of lacking official recognition to issue halal certificates.
Halal Certification System in India
- Certifying Agencies: Various agencies provide halal certification to Indian companies, products, or food establishments.
- Government Accreditation: The National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies under the Quality Council of India accredits these Halal Certification Bodies.
- Advantages of Certification: Certification from recognized bodies benefits companies in both domestic and international markets.
- DGFT Guidelines: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade mandates that only facilities with valid certification from accredited bodies can export ‘halal certified’ meat and meat products.
- Government’s i-CAS Scheme: The ‘India Conformity Assessment Scheme’ was developed to regulate the halal certification process.
Implications of the Ban
- Quality confusions: The ban aims to address confusion over food quality standards and align with the Food Safety and Standards Act.
- Curbing forged certification: Companies issuing forged certificates are accused of fostering social unrest and betraying public trust.
- Economic Impact: There are apprehensions about a potential conspiracy to undermine the sales of non-halal certified products.
- Financial Misuse: There are allegations that profits from these activities could be funneled towards supporting terrorist organizations and anti-national activities.
Conclusion
- This ban reflects the complex interplay between food safety regulations, religious practices, and commercial dynamics.
- It highlights the need for a balanced approach in addressing such multifaceted issues.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UAPA
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Students in Jammu & Kashmir were booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) after allegations of abuse and threats during the World Cup final, along with raising pro-Pakistan slogans.
- Jammu & Kashmir police invoked a ‘softer provision’ of UAPA, citing the act of ‘terrorizing’ others with pro-India or anti-Pakistan sentiments.
What is UAPA?
- Purpose: UAPA empowers the government to investigate and prosecute acts of terrorism, and to designate entities as “unlawful” or “terrorist” organizations or individuals.
- Enactment: Introduced in 1967, based on recommendations from the National Integration Council to counter national divisiveness. Initially focused on secessionist activities without explicit mention of terrorism.
- Evolution of UAPA:
- Introduction of Terrorism (2004): Post-repeal of POTA, UAPA was amended to include terrorism. It defined terrorism, associated punishments, and introduced provisions for seizing ‘proceeds of terrorism’.
- Post-26/11 Amendments (2008): Expanded the definition of terrorism, introduced stringent bail conditions, and extended police and judicial custody durations. It also made bail more difficult to obtain and shifted the burden of proof to the accused in certain cases.
- Economic Security (2012): Included economic security under terrorism, categorizing activities like counterfeiting currency as terrorist acts. It also increased the duration for which an organization could be declared unlawful.
- Individual Designation (2019): Allowed the government to designate individuals as terrorists and expanded the NIA’s powers.
The ‘Softer’ Provision: Section 13
- Section 13 of UAPA: Deals with punishment for ‘unlawful activities’ rather than ‘terrorist activities’. It includes imprisonment up to seven years for participating in, advocating, abetting, or inciting unlawful activities.
- Implications: Although termed ‘softer’, this section still carries significant penalties and makes bail challenging to obtain.
Criticism and Concerns
- Vague Definitions: The act’s broad and vague definitions, especially post-2008 amendments, allow for a wide interpretation of what constitutes terrorism or unlawful activities.
- Human Rights Concerns: The act has been criticized for potentially violating human rights, including the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial.
- Use against Dissenters: There have been instances where UAPA has been used against activists, journalists, and protestors, raising concerns about its use to suppress dissent.
Conclusion: Balancing Security and Rights
- Need for Scrutiny: The use of UAPA, especially its ‘softer’ provisions, requires careful scrutiny to ensure it doesn’t infringe on fundamental rights while addressing security concerns.
- Debate on Amendments: Ongoing debates about UAPA focus on finding a balance between national security needs and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Finance Commission
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Union Cabinet approved the terms of reference (ToR) for the Sixteenth Finance Commission.
- The Commission will devise a formula for revenue sharing between the Centre and the States for the period starting April 1, 2026.
About Finance Commission
- Establishment: The Finance Commission (FC) of India was established by the President in 1951 under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution.
- Purpose: Its primary role is to define and regulate the financial relations between the central government and the individual state governments.
- Legislative Framework: The Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951, further outlines the qualifications, appointment, disqualification, term, eligibility, and powers of the Finance Commission.
- Composition: Appointed every five years, the FC comprises a chairman and four other members.
- Evolution: Since the First FC, changes in India’s macroeconomic landscape have significantly influenced the Commission’s recommendations.
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 268: Facilitates the levy of duties by the Centre, with collection and retention by the States.
- Article 280: Outlines the FC’s composition, qualifications for members, and its terms of reference. It mandates the FC to recommend the distribution of net tax proceeds between the Union and States and the allocation among States. It also addresses the financial relations between the Union and States and the devolution of unplanned revenue resources.
Key Functions of the Finance Commission
- Tax Devolution: Recommends how net tax proceeds should be distributed between the Center and States.
- Grants-in-Aid: Determines the principles governing these grants to States.
- Augmenting State Funds: Advises on measures to enhance the States’ Consolidated Funds to support local bodies and panchayats, based on State Finance Commissions’ recommendations.
- Other Financial Functions: Addresses any other financial matters referred by the President.
Members of the Finance Commission
- Structure and Standards: The Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951, provides a structured format and global standards for the FC.
- Qualifications and Powers: Specifies rules for members’ qualifications, disqualification, appointment, term, eligibility, and powers.
- Composition: The Chairman is chosen for their experience in public affairs. The other members are selected based on their judicial experience, knowledge of government finances, administrative and financial expertise, or special economic knowledge.
Challenges for the 16th Finance Commission
- Overlap with GST Council: The coexistence with the GST Council, a permanent constitutional body, presents a new challenge.
- Conflict of Interest: Decisions by the GST Council on tax rates could impact the FC’s revenue-sharing calculations.
- Feasibility of Recommendations: While the Centre often adopts the FC’s suggestions on tax devolution and fiscal targets, other recommendations may be overlooked.
Major Outstanding Recommendations
- Fiscal Council Creation: The 15th FC proposed a Fiscal Council for collective macro-fiscal management, but the government has shown reluctance.
- Non-Lapsable Fund for Internal Security: Though the Centre agreed ‘in principle’ to establish this fund, its implementation details are pending.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rat-Hole Mining, Coal reserves in NE
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The rescue operation in Uttarakhand using rat-hole mining, a method banned for its hazardous nature and environmental impact, brings to light the complexities and challenges of mining practices in India.
What is Rat-Hole Mining?
- Description: A primitive and hazardous method of mining involving digging small tunnels, just large enough for a person to crawl through, to extract coal.
- Types:
- Side-Cutting: Following a visible coal seam on hill slopes.
- Box-Cutting: Involves digging a pit and then creating horizontal tunnels.
- Irony: Thecued workers from Assam, a region that lost lives to rat-hole mining in Meghalaya, were ironically saved using the same method.
Why is Rat-Hole Mining Banned?
- Location: Prevalent in Meghalaya, a Sixth Schedule State where central mining laws don’t apply.
- Risks: Asphyxiation, mine collapse, flooding, and severe environmental impacts.
- NGT Ban (2014): Due to safety hazards and environmental degradation, including river pollution.
- Continued Illegal Mining: Despite the ban, illegal mining and transportation persist, with significant loss of lives (e.g., 17 miners drowned in 2018 in East Jaintia Hills).
Factors Leading to the NGT Ban
- Activism: Environmental and human rights groups highlighted the dangers for two decades.
- Child Labor: Reports estimated around 70,000 children, mostly from Bangladesh and Nepal, were employed in these mines.
- Official Acknowledgment: Under pressure, the State admitted to child labor in 2013, leading to the NGT ban in 2014.
Feasibility of such mining
- Economic Viability: Thin coal seams in Meghalaya make rat-hole mining more economically feasible than open-cast mining.
- Coal Reserves: Meghalaya has significant coal reserves dating back to the Eocene age.
- Government Action: Meghalaya announced the approval of mining leases for ‘scientific’ mining in 2023.
- Concerns: Skepticism remains among anti-mining activists about the implementation of sustainable and legal mining practices.
Conclusion
- While the approval of ‘scientific’ mining offers a legal and potentially safer avenue, it remains to be seen how effectively it will replace the dangerous and unregulated rat-hole mining, especially in regions with unique geological and socio-political contexts like Meghalaya.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nolamba Pallava Dynasty
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Ancient relics belonging to the Nolamba Pallavas dynasty were unearthed in Cholemarri village, situated 22 km from Penukonda in Sri Sathya Sai district.
Significant Findings
- Battlefield Site: Evidence suggests a fierce battle in the 9th century AD between the Nolamba Pallavas and the Bhana-Vaidambas.
- Inscriptions and Artifacts:
-
- An inscription of Mahendra Nolambadhi Raja (875-897 AD), ruler of Henjeru (now Hemavati), was found in the fields.
- Hero stones with Telugu inscriptions (written in ancient Kannada script) from the Nolamba and Vijayanagara periods were discovered near Anjaneyaswamy temple.
About the Nolamba Dynasty
- Time Period: Ruled from the 8th to the 12th centuries C.E.
- Geographical Extent: Nolambavadi region, covering parts of southeast Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
- Political History: Initially feudatories to Pallavas, Chalukyas of Badami, Gangas, and Rashtrakutas, later to Chalukyas of Kalyani. Often referred to as Nolamba Pallava in inscriptions.
- Capitals: Initially Chitradurga, later shifted to Hemavati.
- Origin:
- Founded by Mangala Nomabathi Raja (735–785 A.D.).
- Emerged as governors under Pallavas and Chalukyas.
- Experienced shifts in allegiance between Pallavas, Chalukyas, Banas, and Vaidumbas.
- The term “Nolambas” came into existence post the Chalukyas’ resurgence under Vikramaditya I.
- Decline: Overrun by Ganga king Marasimha, who claimed the title Nolambakulantaka.
- Cultural Contributions: Known for constructing grand temple complexes like Kalleshwara Temple in Aralaguppe, Bhoganandishwara Temple in Nandi, and Ramalingeshwara Temple in Avani.
- Religious Affiliation: Predominantly Shaivites, with temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lantana Camara
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- In an exhibition in Bengaluru, sculptures of elephants made from Lantana camara gained popular attraction.
About Lantana Camara
- Lantana camara, commonly known as lantana, belongs to the verbena family (Verbenaceae) and originates from the American tropics.
- Lantana was introduced to India in the early 19th century as an ornamental plant during the British colonial period. Its colorful flowers made it popular in gardens.
- This shrub has the ability to spread across forest floors, climb like a creeper over trees, and easily intertwine with native vegetation.
- Lantana is highly adaptable, thriving in diverse ecosystems.
Impacts on Local ecosystem
- Lantana’s invasive nature poses a serious threat to native flora and fauna. It competes with native plants for resources, often leading to a reduction in native biodiversity.
- It forms dense thickets that alter the structure of habitats that impede the movement of animals and change the microhabitat conditions, such as light availability and soil composition.
- It can invade agricultural land, reducing crop yields, and can also infest pastures, impacting grazing for livestock.
- It is toxic to livestock and can cause health issues if ingested. This adds to the economic burden for farmers who need to ensure their animals do not graze on lantana-infested land.
- The plant increases the risk of fire in the ecosystems it invades because it forms dense thickets that can easily catch and spread fire.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Industry-academia collaborations in Indian higher education are underutilized
Central idea
The article underscores the underutilization of collaborations between Indian higher education institutions (HEIs) and industries, hindering gains from intellectual property (IP) commercialization. It identifies key challenges such as divergent goals, cultural differences, communication gaps, and the need for trust-building.
Key Highlights:
- Industry-academia collaborations in Indian higher education are underutilized, hindering potential gains from IP commercialization and technology transfers.
- Collaborative success requires shared goals, addressing cultural differences, establishing effective communication, and building trust.
Key Challenges:
- Divergent Goals: Misalignment between HEIs’ focus on theoretical knowledge and industries’ profit-driven practical applications.
- Cultural Differences: Varied approaches to data scrutiny and application development create challenges in collaboration.
- Communication Gaps: Lack of understanding of industry regulatory processes and language differences hinder effective partnerships.
- Building Trust: Fear of research results being published without considering commercial implications, requiring clear agreements.
Key Terms:
- Intellectual Property (IP)
- Technology Transfer
- Collaborative Goals
- Cultural Gap
- Communication Channels
- Trust Building
- Short-term Collaborations
- Long-term Research Collaborations
- Symbiotic Relationship
Key Phrases:
- “Shared goals crucial for collaboration success.”
- “Cultural gap between academia and industry must be bridged.”
- “Effective communication channels and trust-building are essential.”
- “Clear agreements on IP and publication to ensure transparency.“
Key Examples:
- Collaboration between HEI and renewable energy company highlights cultural differences.
- Pharmaceutical company collaboration emphasizes the need for understanding regulatory processes.
- University-tech company collaboration for software application development showcases IP arrangement challenges.
Key Facts:
- Many Indian HEIs miss out on capitalizing on research through IP commercialization.
- Lack of collaboration hampers gains from patents, licensing, and start-up ventures.
Critical Analysis:
- The article highlights crucial challenges in industry-academia collaborations and emphasizes the importance of addressing them for mutual benefit.
- The need for effective communication, trust-building, and clear agreements is appropriately underscored.
Way Forward:
- Foster a culture of open dialogue and flexibility.
- Implement training programs for understanding industry processes.
- Encourage short-term collaborations for quick problem resolution.
- Promote long-term research collaborations for cutting-edge technology development.
- Government funding agencies should announce research grants and encourage joint project proposals.
By addressing these challenges and fostering collaboration, Indian higher education institutions and industries can create a mutually beneficial ecosystem.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 2023 women reservation Act
Mains level: Two routes for women's political empowerment
Central Idea
Political empowerment of women in India faces challenges despite the 2023 women reservation Act, with recent Assembly elections showing inadequate efforts by political parties to field more women candidates.
Key Highlights:
- Two routes for women’s political empowerment: legislative reservation and quotas within political parties.
- Examples from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan using legislative reservation.
- Countries like Australia, Canada, South Africa, and Sweden achieve women’s representation without legislatively-backed quotas.
- In India, the 2023 Act reserves 33% seats for women in State Assemblies and Parliament.
- Despite the Act, recent Assembly elections show insufficient commitment from political parties.
Key Challenges:
- In Madhya Pradesh, BJP and Congress fielded 28 and 30 women candidates, respectively, out of 230 seats after the Act.
- Telangana sees minimal increase, with BJP and Congress fielding 12 women candidates each out of 119 seats.
- No party in any state reaches the mandated 33% mark for women candidates.
- Despite innovative moves like Congress reserving 40% seats in UP in 2022, overall progress is lacking.
- TMC’s success in Odisha and West Bengal suggests regional parties are more proactive in women’s political representation.
Key Facts and Data:
- Act passed in Lok Sabha with significant majority, only two opposing members.
- In Uttar Pradesh 2022 elections, Congress reserved 40% seats for women, a bold move.
- BJD and TMC’s success in Odisha and West Bengal elections with more women candidates.
Critical Analysis:
- The Act, though commendable, looks good on paper due to its linkage with delimitation after 2026.
- Regional parties like TMC have shown commitment and won with more women candidates, questioning the reluctance of national parties.
Way Forward:
- National and regional parties need to demonstrate genuine commitment to women’s political empowerment by increasing the number of women candidates.
- Learning from the success of regional parties like TMC, other political entities should actively promote and support women in politics.
- Continuous monitoring and public discourse can encourage political parties to fulfill their commitment to women’s representation.
While the enactment of the 2023 women reservation Act is a positive step, recent Assembly elections reveal a gap between legislation and action, with political parties showing reluctance to genuinely empower women in politics. Continuous efforts and monitoring are crucial for bridging this gap and ensuring meaningful representation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health Strategy (ARSH) and the National Adolescent Health Programme (RKSK)
Mains level: social justice education
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Music Frog
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Scientists have identified a new species of ‘music frog’, named Nidirana noadihing, in Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Nidirana noadihing: The Music Frog
- Location: It came from the place, Noa-Dihing River, from where the specimens were collected.
- Size: The frogs grow up to 6 cm, with males measuring between 1.8 to 2.3 inches and females between 2.4 to 2.6 inches.
- Appearance: They have a robust body, a rounded snout, smooth skin with bony protrusions on their backs, and a pale cream line bordered with dark brown running down their bodies.
- Eye Features: The frogs have irregularly shaped spots on their eyelids, moderately large eyes with gold-rimmed pupils, and dark brown irises with a golden spackle.
- Colouration: Their throat, forelimbs, thighs, and lower legs are light brown and pinkish, while their groin and the outside of their thighs are pale yellow with irregular dark olive patches.
Habitat and Behavior
- Habitat: Nidirana noadihing inhabits swamps, ponds, and paddy fields, often constructing nests for egg-laying.
- Vocalization: The species is distinguished by its unique call, which led to its discovery near the Noa-Dihing river.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kashi Tamil Sangamam
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Centre announced the schedule for second phase of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam from December 17 to 30.
Kashi Tamil Sangamam
- Kashi Tamil Sangamam celebrates the historical and cultural ties between North and South India.
- It is managed by IIT Madras and BHU (Banaras Hindu University).
- Its main goal is to bring together the knowledge and cultural traditions of North and South India, helping people understand our shared history and strengthen connections between these regions.
- The Ministry of Education organizes this event with help from other ministries like Culture, Textiles, Railways, Tourism, Food Processing, Information & Broadcasting, and the Uttar Pradesh Government.
- This effort aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, which focuses on combining traditional Indian knowledge with modern knowledge systems.
Cultural Significance
- In the 15th century, King Parakrama Pandya from the Madurai area wanted to build a Lord Shiva temple, so he went to Kashi (Uttar Pradesh) to get a lingam.
- On his way back, he rested under a tree, but the cow carrying the lingam wouldn’t move when he tried to continue his journey.
- Parakrama Pandya took this as a divine sign and set up the lingam there, in what is now known as Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu.
- The Pandyas built the Kasi Viswanathar Temple in present-day Tenkasi, southwestern Tamil Nadu, near the Kerala border, for those who couldn’t travel to Kashi.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project Q*
Mains level: AI advancements
Central Idea
- OpenAI, a leading AI technology company, has been embroiled in a high-profile controversy following the dismissal of Sam Altman, its CEO.
- At the heart of the controversy is the development of a new AI model named Q* (Q-star), which has raised significant concerns among OpenAI staff and the broader tech community.
What is Project Q*?
- Advanced AI Algorithm: Q* represents a significant advancement in AI, capable of solving complex mathematical problems, even those outside its training data.
- Step towards AGI: This model is seen as a stride towards Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), capable of performing any intellectual task that a human can.
- Development Team: The breakthrough is attributed to Ilya Sutskever, with further development by Szymon Sidor and Jakub Pachoki.
Why is Q* Feared?
- Potential for Accelerated Scientific Progress: Researchers have expressed concerns about Q*’s ability to rapidly advance scientific discovery, questioning the adequacy of existing safety measures.
- Internal Warnings: Reports suggest that Q*’s capabilities could pose a threat to humanity, a concern believed to be a major factor in Altman’s dismissal.
Concerns Surrounding Project Q*
- Advanced Reasoning and Abstract Understanding: Q* reportedly exhibits unprecedented logical reasoning and understanding of abstract concepts, raising concerns about unpredictable behaviors.
- Combination of AI Methods: According to researcher Sophia Kalanovska, Q* might merge deep learning with human-programmed rules, enhancing its power and versatility.
- AGI Implications: As a step towards AGI, Q* could surpass human capabilities in various domains, leading to control, safety, and ethical issues.
- Capability for Novel Idea Generation: Unlike existing AI models, Q* could potentially generate new ideas and pre-emptively solve problems, leading to decisions beyond human control or understanding.
- Risks of Misuse and Unintended Consequences: The advanced capabilities of Q* heighten the risk of misuse or unforeseen harmful outcomes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Parthenon Sculptures
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- UK PM Rishi Sunak cancelled his meeting with visiting Greek PM over the latter’s comments on ancient Parthenon Sculptures housed in the British Museum.
Parthenon Sculptures
- The Parthenon Sculptures are ancient Greek stone sculptures over 2,000 years old, originally part of the Parthenon temple in Athens.
- These sculptures, including a 75-meter-long frieze, are significant artifacts of Athens’ Golden Age, depicting gods, heroes, and mythical beings.
- In the early 19th century, Thomas Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin and British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, removed the sculptures from the Parthenon.
- The marbles were subsequently purchased by British Museum in 1816.
Debate over Legitimacy
- Greece has accused Lord Elgin of stealing the sculptures, while he maintained he had permission from the Ottoman authorities.
- The original document granting permission has been lost, leading to disputes over its authenticity and content.
Greece’s Campaign for Return
- Greece’s demand for the sculptures’ return dates back to its independence in the early 1830s.
- The campaign gained momentum in the 1980s, spearheaded by Greek actress and then-culture minister Melina Mercouri.
- The British Museum argues that the sculptures were legally acquired and rejects Greece’s demands for their return.
- The museum contends that public benefit lies in having the sculptures in two locations, citing the impossibility of reassembling them completely and concerns over safe return.
Current Developments
- Prime Minister Sunak has described the marbles as a significant asset to the UK and opposes changing laws to facilitate their return.
- Despite the cancelled meeting, Greek officials intend to continue negotiations with the British Museum.
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Central idea
Bullying is the lived reality of thousands of queer kids in this country and yet, we have no regimen in place to deal with it, both in schools and at an institutional level.
Key Highlights:
- Personal Experience: The author shares personal experiences of facing bullying for being effeminate during school.
- Recent Tragedy: The article addresses the recent suicide of Pranshu, a sixteen-year-old queer teen, due to online bullying.
- Nature of Bullying: Bullying of queer kids includes name-calling, physical violence, and sexual violence, impacting mental health.
- Global Impact: Global data shows LGBTQ+ youth face higher health and suicide risks.
- Systemic Deficiency: Lack of a comprehensive system to address bullying and support LGBTQ+ students.
- Challenges in Communication: Efforts to address homophobia through communication with school management faced obstacles.
- Initiative Opposition: The NCERT’s teacher-training manual for helping queer children faced opposition and was taken down.
- NCPCR Critique: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is criticized for not protecting queer kids.
- Media Disparity: Limited media coverage and attention to the suicides of queer individuals compared to other LGBTQ+ issues.
Key Challenges:
- Bullying Complexity: Widespread bullying of queer kids in schools, including name-calling, violence, and sexual harassment.
- Systemic Deficiency: Lack of a comprehensive system to address bullying and support LGBTQ+ students.
- Initiative Challenges: Opposition and challenges faced by initiatives, like the NCERT’s teacher-training manual, aimed at helping queer children.
- Media Disparity: Limited media coverage and attention to the suicides of queer individuals compared to other LGBTQ+ issues.
Key Terms:
- Queer
- Bullying
- Homophobia
- LGBTQ+
- NCERT
- NCPCR
- Suicide
- Online Bullying
Key Phrases:
- “Mass online bullying”
- “Name-calling, physical, and sexual violence”
- “Systematic approach to address bullying”
- “Teacher-training manual”
- “National Commission for Protection of Child Rights”
- “Media coverage for queer deaths”
Key Examples and References:
- Personal experiences of the author facing bullying.
- Suicide of Pranshu, a sixteen-year-old queer teen.
- NCERT’s teacher-training manual for queer children.
- National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).
Key Facts:
- Global data indicates higher health and suicide risks for LGBTQ+ youth.
- Lack of media coverage for deaths of queer individuals compared to other LGBTQ+ issues.
- Initiatives, like the NCERT’s manual, face opposition and challenges.
Key Data:
- Specific data on the prevalence of bullying or suicide rates among queer youth is not provided.
Critical Analysis:
- The article highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive system to address bullying and support queer kids.
- Criticizes the NCPCR for its perceived failure to protect queer children.
- Raises questions about media coverage and societal attention to the suicides of queer individuals.
- Emphasizes the importance of teacher training and institutional measures to combat homophobia.
Way Forward:
- Model anti-bullying programs after successful initiatives in countries like Canada and Sweden.
- Allocate funds for the development and implementation of anti-bullying programs in collaboration with NGOs.
- Adopt the approach taken by the United Kingdom, where teacher training includes LGBTQ+ inclusive education.
- Introduce mandatory LGBTQ+ sensitivity training for teachers through national education boards.
- Follow the success of LGBTQ+ awareness campaigns in cities like San Francisco. Sponsor and promote community workshops with the involvement of local leaders and LGBTQ+ activists.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: cyber attacks
Mains level: evolving landscape of terrorism emphasizes the shift to cyberspace
Central idea
The article underscores the transformation of terrorism into cyberspace, emphasizing the significance of robust cybersecurity measures in the face of escalating state-sponsored cyberattacks.
Key Highlights:
- Mumbai holds the unfortunate title of the most terror-attacked city globally.
- The November 26, 2008 (26/11) attacks were the most audacious, lasting three days.
- Intelligence was available before 26/11 attacks, but preventive measures failed.
- Post-attack, significant changes were made in the police department and security apparatus.
Key Challenges:
- Despite reforms, the landscape of terror warfare has shifted to cyberspace.
- The Russia–Ukraine and Israel–Hamas conflicts demonstrate the growing threat of cyber warfare.
- State-sponsored cyberattacks against India increased by 278% between March 2021-September 2023.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- 26/11 terror attacks, cyberspace, cyber warfare, state-sponsored cyberattacks.
Key Examples and References:
- November 26, 2008, terror attacks in Mumbai.
- Israel-Hamas conflict and the failure of the Iron Dome against cyber threats.
- 2023 India Threat Landscape Report by Cyfirma.
Key Facts and Data:
- State-sponsored cyberattacks on India increased by 278% from March 2021-September 2023.
- India faced 13.7% of all global cyberattacks.
- 13.91 lakh cybersecurity incidents in India in 2022.
Critical Analysis:
- Cybersecurity is of paramount importance in a highly digitized world.
- Recent incidents, including Apple’s warning, highlight the urgency for robust cybersecurity measures.
- The need for nationwide education and training on cyber threats is crucial.
Way Forward:
- Urgent investment in robust cybersecurity measures across government, private sector, and individual citizens.
- Comprehensive education programs, starting in schools, to raise awareness about cyber threats.
- Adequate training and financial support for government agencies to strengthen cybersecurity.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of terrorism emphasizes the shift to cyberspace, demanding urgent and comprehensive cybersecurity measures, education, and training to safeguard against potential online threats like a “cyber 26/11.”
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: na
Mains level: Maratha mobilization for reservation
![The Marathas' Demand for Reservation: A Litigation History [2014-21] - Supreme Court Observer](https://www.scobserver.in/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Maratha-Litigation-History-2640-x-1100-px.png)
Central Idea:
- The Maratha community’s demand for reservation in education and employment stems from a crisis of dominance, influenced by urban and rural challenges.
Urban Crisis:
- Well-paid jobs in urban areas, historically held by Marathas, have rapidly disappeared since the late 1990s.
- Large-scale manufacturing industries and establishments providing such jobs have closed or downsized, leading to increased competition for fewer opportunities.
- Marathas, historically socially superior, used their dominant caste position to secure a significant share of jobs, particularly in the public sector.
- Economic liberalization and the shrinkage of public sector jobs have intensified competition among Marathas for limited opportunities.
Rural Crisis:
- Closure of factories has led to the return of workers to villages, disrupting the pattern of workers retiring in villages and their offspring working in cities.
- Rural youth face challenges migrating to urban areas for better-paying jobs, impacting the financial support they traditionally provided to family members in villages.
- Informal sector jobs become the primary option for rural Maratha youth, diminishing their social standing and pride in rural settings.
- The focus on secure public sector jobs, which have also decreased, becomes crucial for rural Maratha youth.
Education Challenges:
- Increased aspirations for higher education among Marathas face a decline in government institutions and a rise in private unaided colleges with exorbitant fees.
- Marathas, with limited financial resources, compete for a limited number of open-category seats in public institutions.
- Decrease in government-run educational institutions exacerbates the challenges faced by Maratha aspirants.
Crisis of Dominance:
- The combination of urban and rural crises contributes to a crisis of dominance for the Marathas.
- Disturbance of caste hierarchy norms due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion adds to Marathas’ anxiety.
- The demand for reservation reflects the need for increased formal sector jobs and the expansion of public educational institutions to address the crisis.
Key Highlights:
- Maratha community demands reservation in education and public employment, intensifying since 2016.
- Historically, Marathas dominated well-paid jobs, but recent urban and rural crises have led to increased competition and challenges.
- Closure of manufacturing industries, decreasing public sector jobs, and rural youth’s struggles contribute to the crisis.
- Educational aspirations face challenges with a decline in government institutions and increased private college fees.
Key Challenges:
- Disappearance of well-paid urban jobs, increased competition, and shrinking public sector employment.
- Rural crisis disrupts the traditional pattern of workers retiring in villages and offspring working in cities.
- Decline in government-run educational institutions, limited open-category seats, and rising private college fees.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Urban crisis, rural crisis, crisis of dominance, economic liberalization, formal sector jobs.
- Reservation, Maratha mobilization, well-paid jobs, private unaided colleges, public sector employment.
Key Examples and References:
- Maratha protests since 2016, closure of manufacturing industries, decreased public sector jobs.
- Disturbance in traditional caste hierarchies due to Dalit mobility and OBC economic and political assertion.
Key Facts and Data:
- Marathas historically occupied over 29% of open-category jobs in government.
- Jobs in the private formal sector increased from 2% to 3.5%.
- Contractual government jobs increased from 0.7 million to 15.9 million in 2017-18.
- Only 22.2% of colleges are managed by the government as of 2019.
Critical Analysis:
- Maratha crisis stems from economic shifts, urban-rural dynamics, and disturbance in caste hierarchies.
- Limited opportunities, competition, and declining public sector jobs contribute to the community’s mobilization.
- Educational challenges add to the complexity, demanding a comprehensive solution.
Way Forward:
- Address urban and rural crises by creating more formal sector jobs.
- Expand public educational institutions and implement large-scale scholarship programs.
- Focus on inclusive policies to reduce competition and restore traditional patterns of employment.
Conclusion:
- The Maratha mobilization for reservation is rooted in the challenges posed by the disappearance of well-paid jobs, urban-rural dynamics, and the disruption of traditional caste hierarchies. Addressing these challenges requires a focus on creating more opportunities in the formal sector and expanding accessible public education.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's Maritime Vision 2030
Mains level: Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic development
Central idea
The article underscores the evolving challenges in the maritime domain, emphasizing the shift from traditional military approaches to a developmental model for maritime security. It highlights the need for collaboration among developing nations to address unconventional threats, such as illegal fishing and climate change, while acknowledging the reluctance to prioritize collective action over political and strategic autonomy.
Key Highlights:
- Evolution of Maritime Challenges: New dimensions in hard security challenges, including asymmetrical tactics and grey-zone warfare. Use of land attack missiles and combat drones reshaping the security landscape.
- Shift in Demand for Maritime Security: Growing demand from states facing unconventional threats such as illegal fishing, natural disasters, and climate change. Need for a broader approach beyond military means to address diverse maritime challenges.
- India’s Developmental Approach: Maritime Vision 2030 focuses on economic growth and livelihood generation through port, shipping, and inland waterway development. Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative with seven pillars, including maritime ecology, marine resources, and disaster risk reduction.
New Threats in Maritime Domain:
- Recent developments include Ukraine’s asymmetrical tactics and China’s maritime militias, indicating a shift to improvised strategies.
- Emerging threats involve grey-zone warfare, land attack missiles, and combat drones.
Demand for Maritime Security:
- Majority of recent demand stems from unconventional threats like illegal fishing, natural disasters, and climate change.
- Addressing these challenges requires commitment of capital, resources, and specialized personnel.
Global South’s Perspective:
- Developing nations perceive Indo-Pacific competition among powerful nations as detrimental to their interests.
- Challenges involve interconnected objectives in national, environmental, economic, and human security.
Challenges in Global South:
- Rising sea levels, marine pollution, climate change disproportionately impact less developed states, leading to vulnerability.
- Unequal law-enforcement capabilities and lack of security coordination hinder joint efforts against maritime threats.
Creative Models for Maritime Security:
- Maritime security transcends military actions, focusing on generating prosperity and meeting societal aspirations.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2030 emphasizes port, shipping, and inland waterway development for economic growth.
- Dhaka’s Indo-Pacific document and Africa’s Blue Economy concept align with a developmental approach.
Fight Against Illegal Fishing:
- Significant challenge in Asia and Africa marked by a surge in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
- Faulty policies encouraging destructive methods like bottom trawling and seine fishing contribute to the problem.
India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative:
- Encompasses seven pillars, including maritime ecology, marine resources, capacity building, and disaster risk reduction.
- Advocates collective solutions for shared problems, garnering support from major Indo-Pacific states.
Challenges in Achieving Consensus:
- Implementation of collaborative strategy faces hurdles in improving interoperability, intelligence sharing, and establishing a regional rules-based order.
- Balancing sovereignty and strategic independence remains a priority for many nations, hindering consensus.
Key Challenges:
- Complexity of Unconventional Threats: Conventional military approaches insufficient; requires capital, resources, and specialist personnel. Challenges include illegal fishing, marine pollution, human trafficking, and climate change.
- Global South’s Coordination Challenges: Unequal law-enforcement capabilities and lack of security coordination among littoral states. Reluctance to prioritize collective action due to varying security priorities and autonomy concerns.
- Vulnerability of Less Developed States: Disproportionate impact of rising sea levels, marine pollution, and climate change on less developed states. Vulnerability stemming from inadequate resources to combat environmental and security challenges.
- Lack of Consensus and Reluctance: Reluctance among littoral states to pursue concrete solutions and collaborate. Paradox of non-traditional maritime security, where collective issues clash with political and strategic autonomy.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Grey-Zone Warfare: Tactics that fall between peace and war, creating ambiguity in conflict situations.
- Asymmetrical Tactics: Strategies that exploit an opponent’s weaknesses rather than confronting strengths directly.
- Maritime Vision 2030: India’s 10-year blueprint for economic growth in the maritime sector.
- Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic development.
- Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: India’s initiative with pillars like maritime ecology, marine resources, and disaster risk reduction.
- IUU Fishing: Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
- Bottom Trawling and Seine Fishing: Destructive fishing methods contributing to illegal fishing.
Key Examples and References:
- Ukraine’s Asymmetrical Tactics: Utilization of unconventional strategies in the Black Sea.
- China’s Maritime Militias: Deployment in the South China Sea as an example of evolving threats.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2030: Illustrates a developmental approach to maritime security.
- Illegal Fishing in Asia and Africa: Rising challenge with negative environmental and economic impacts.
Key Facts and Data:
- Maritime Vision 2030: India’s 10-year plan for the maritime sector.
- Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: Seven-pillar initiative for collective solutions in the maritime domain.
Critical Analysis:
- Shift to Developmental Model: Emphasis on generating prosperity and meeting human aspirations in addition to traditional security measures.
- Comprehensive Maritime Challenges: Recognition of diverse challenges beyond military threats, including environmental and economic goals.
- Littoral State Reluctance: Paradox in the Global South, where collective issues clash with autonomy, hindering collaborative solutions.
Way Forward:
- Collaborative Strategies:Improved interoperability, intelligence sharing, and agreement on regional rules-based order.
- Prioritizing Collective Action: Developing nations must prioritize collective action over sovereignty for effective maritime solutions.
- Sustainable Development Goals: Prioritize sustainable development goals in littoral states, addressing challenges such as illegal fishing and climate change.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Guru Nanak and his teachings
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Guru Nanak Jayanti commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of its ten Gurus.
- It is celebrated worldwide as Guru Nanak Gurpurab on Kartik Poornima, the full-moon day in the month of Katak (October–November).
Five Key Aspects of Guru Nanak’s Life
[1] Early Life and Philosophical Inclination:
- Born on April 15, 1469, in a Hindu family in Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan).
- Displayed an early interest in philosophical and spiritual questions.
- Worked as an accountant before embarking on a spiritual journey with a Muslim minstrel, Mardana.
[2] Mystical Experience at Age 30:
- Had a transformative spiritual experience during an early morning ablution by a river.
- Received a divine mission to spread a message of unity and devotion.
- Emerged after three days with the profound declaration, “There is no Hindu, there is no Mussalman.”
[3] Extensive Travels and Interfaith Dialogue:
- Traveled widely, including to Sri Lanka, Baghdad, and Mecca, on journeys called ‘udaasis’.
- Engaged with various religious figures, including Hindu pandits and Sufi saints.
- Advocated for the oneness of God and universal brotherhood.
[4] Preaching the Oneness of God:
- Emphasized the unity of humanity and the presence of one God in all.
- Challenged religious orthodoxy and rituals, promoting a direct connection with the divine.
- His teachings laid the foundation for Sikhism, attracting followers from diverse backgrounds.
- His teachings and hymns are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
- He wrote in Punjabi, using a script known as Gurmukhi.
[5] Succession and Legacy:
- Spent his final years in Kartarpur, establishing a community with daily prayers and hymns.
- Introduced the practice of ‘langar’, a communal kitchen serving free meals.
- Chose Lehna (later Guru Angad) as his successor, bypassing his own sons.
- Passed away on September 22, 1539, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual and social reform.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rythu Bandhu Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
Rythu Bandhu Scheme: Key Facts
- The Rythu Bandhu scheme is also known as Farmer’s Investment Support Scheme (FISS).
- It is a welfare programme for farmers started in 2018 by the Telangana government.
- Under the scheme, the state government provided the 58 lakh farmers in Telangana with ₹5,000 per acre of their land as a farm investment for two crops.
- There is no ceiling on the number of acres held by a farmer.
- So, a farmer who owns two acres of land would receive Rs 20,000 a year, whereas a farmer who owns 10 acres would receive Rs 1 lakh a year from the government.
- This investment is made twice a year, once for kharif harvest and once for Rabi harvest.
- It is the country’s first direct farmer investment support scheme where cash is paid directly to the beneficiary.
Reasons for suspension
- The election commission had allowed the disbursement of funds for the rabi harvest this season, provided they are not publicised, in accordance with the model code of conduct.
- However, the model code was violated after the state finance minister made a public announcement of the same.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fibre Optic Technology
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the crucial role of the internet in maintaining global connectivity, facilitated largely by high-speed internet connections.
- These connections, enabling video chats, online payments, and virtual meetings, largely depend on the technology of optical fibers.
Understanding Optical Fibers
- Composition and Size: Optical fibers are thin strands of glass, almost as thin as a human hair, used for transmitting information.
- Information Transmission: They carry various forms of data, including text, images, and videos, at speeds close to that of light.
- Everyday Relevance: Optical fibers play a vital role in everyday communications like text messaging and phone calls.
- Fragility vs. Strength: Despite their thinness, these fibers are strong and durable when encased in protective materials.
- Versatility: They are flexible enough to be laid underground, underwater, or wound around spools.
Historical Perspective
- Charles Kao’s Contribution: About 60 years ago, physicist Charles Kao proposed using glass fibers for telecommunications, a suggestion that earned him a Nobel Prize in 2009.
- Replacing Copper Wires: Kao’s idea was initially met with skepticism but eventually replaced copper wires in telecommunication.
How Optical Fibers Work?
- Light as an Electromagnetic Wave: Light, part of the electromagnetic spectrum, can be controlled and guided through optical fibers.
- Total Internal Reflection: This phenomenon allows light to travel long distances within the fiber with minimal loss of power.
- Fiber Optic Communication System: This system includes a transmitter, the optical fiber, and a receiver to encode, carry, and reproduce information.
Data Transmission and Resistance
- High Data-Transmission Rate: Optical fibers can transmit data at rates of several terabits per second.
- Insensitivity to External Disturbances: Unlike copper cables, they are not affected by external factors like lightning or bad weather.
Development of Fiber Optic Cables
- Early Experiments: The concept of guiding light in transparent media dates back to the 19th century, with demonstrations by Jean-Daniel Colladon and others.
- Medical and Defense Applications: Early glass objects were used in medicine and defense before their adaptation for data transmission.
- Advancements in the 20th Century: Significant progress occurred in the 1950s and 1960s, including the development of glass-clad fibers and the invention of lasers.
Modern Manufacturing
- Fiber-Optic Cable Production: Today, glass fibers are produced using the fiber-drawing technique, ensuring high purity and engineered refractive index profiles.
- Loss Reduction: Modern optical fibers have significantly reduced signal loss, less than 0.2 dB/km.
Future of Fiber Optics
- Expanding Applications: Fiber optics technology is now integral to various fields, including telecommunication, medical science, and laser technology.
- India’s National Mission: The Indian government’s 2020 Union Budget announced a significant investment in quantum technologies and applications, highlighting the future potential of fiber optics.
- Quantum Optics and Communication: The technology stands at the forefront of a new era, with expanding possibilities in quantum optics and home connectivity.
Conclusion
- Impact of Fiber Optics: The evolution of fiber optics has revolutionized communication and connectivity, offering high-speed, reliable data transmission.
- Continued Growth and Innovation: As the technology continues to advance, its applications are likely to expand further, driving innovations in various sectors and enhancing global connectivity.
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