Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kangani System
Mains level: Decolonization
Central idea
The article explores the historical exploitation of indentured labor, particularly focusing on the plight of Plantation Tamils in Sri Lanka. Shashi Tharoor emphasizes the challenges, discrimination, and struggles faced by this community, calling for a post-colonial, inclusive identity and highlighting the importance of decolonization in shaping a more equitable future for nations with colonial histories.
What is indentured labour?
- Definition: Indentured labor is a historical practice where individuals, often from impoverished backgrounds, enter a contract (indenture) with an employer.
- Terms: In exchange for their service, laborers receive passage, accommodation, and sometimes wages, binding them to work for a specified number of years (typically 4 to 7).
- Purpose: Common during the 17th to 20th centuries, indentured labor served as a substitute for slavery, especially in regions where slavery had been abolished.
Key Highlights:
- Bicentenary Commemoration: The article discusses the recent commemoration of the bicentenary of Tamil indentured laborers’ arrival in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the historical significance of this event.
- Impact of British Empire: Shashi Tharoor highlights the detrimental impact of the British Empire’s policies, including the exploitation of colonies, draining of resources, and the introduction of indentured labor as a form of bonded servitude.
- Plight of Plantation Tamils: The article sheds light on the challenges faced by Plantation Tamils in Sri Lanka, detailing their exploitation, discrimination, and struggles for basic rights, identity, and integration.
- Identity and Integration: Despite adversities, Plantation Tamils forged an identity rooted in Tamil traditions and values. The article acknowledges their journey towards integration and efforts to reclaim their heritage as equal citizens of Sri Lanka.
Challenges faced by these labors :
- Indentured Labor Exploitation: The article highlights the exploitative nature of indentured labor, depicting the harsh conditions, misinformation, and economic hardships faced by laborers brought to distant lands.
- Discrimination and Statelessness: Plantation Tamils faced discrimination by colonial practices, being labeled “foreigners” and rendered stateless. Discriminatory laws, like the Citizenship Act of 1948, further marginalized them.
- Kangani System: The detrimental role of the sub-contractor system, known as kanganies, is discussed, emphasizing the abuse of power and exploitation faced by Indian laborers even after the indenture period.
| Highly important term from prelims perspective
Kangani System:
Role: Kangani was like a boss who hired and supervised workers.
Function: Managed laborers on plantations, overseeing their work.
Abuse of Power: Kangani could be unfair, exploiting workers and causing them to be in debt.
After Work Ended: Unlike other workers, Plantation Tamils had no escape from the kangani system even after their work time was over.
Restrictions: Workers couldn’t ask to go home or buy land because of unclear contracts with the kangani. |
Key Phrases:
- Licensed Looting: Describes the initial phase of the British imperial project as a form of licensed looting in service of crude capitalism.
- Indentured Labour: Refers to the replacement of slavery with bonded servitude, termed “indentured labor,” as a consequence of the abolition of slavery.
- New Kind of Slavery: Hugh Tinker’s characterization of indentured labor, highlighting its exploitative and degrading nature.
- Decolonization: Stresses the importance of post-colonial countries breaking free from oppressive practices and attitudes inherited from their imperial rulers.
Analysis: Tharoor critically analyzes the historical exploitation by the British Empire, juxtaposing the wave of liberal humanism in Europe with the continued oppression in the colonies. He underscores the challenges faced by Plantation Tamils, portraying their struggle for identity and integration as a valorous subaltern endeavor.
Key Data/Facts:
- Bicentenary: Marks the 200th anniversary of Tamil indentured laborers’ arrival in Sri Lanka in November 1823.
- Citizenship Act of 1948: The legislation rendered Plantation Tamils stateless, hindering their assimilation into Sri Lankan society.
- Economic Shift to Tea: The shift from coffee to tea plantations in Sri Lanka resulted in a massive transfer of Indian Tamils due to increased demand for labor.
Way Forward:
- Decolonization: Tharoor emphasizes the need for post-colonial countries like Sri Lanka to actively decolonize themselves from oppressive practices inherited from imperial rulers.
- Inclusive Identity: The article suggests that forging an inclusive, post-colonial identity for all people in Sri Lanka should be central to the nation-building process.
- Land Ownership: The government’s potential plan to divide plantations, making workers owners of the land they work on, is seen as a positive step, representing a potential way forward.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hypertension
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- An analysis of recent National Family Health Survey data, as published in the journal JAMA, has revealed substantial disparities in the prevalence, diagnosis, treatment, and control of hypertension within Indian states and districts.
- These disparities underscore the need for targeted and decentralized solutions to address the complexities of hypertension care across the nation.
What is Hypertension?
- Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high.
- Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and is expressed as two numbers: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure.
- The systolic pressure represents the force when the heart contracts, while the diastolic pressure represents the force when the heart is at rest between beats.
- Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure consistently measures at or above 130/80 mm Hg.
- However, different organizations may have slightly different guidelines for defining hypertension.
Key Findings of the Study
- National-Level Observations: The national-level data reveals a common trend – a significant proportion of individuals with hypertension remain undiagnosed, and even among those diagnosed, many do not initiate treatment. Moreover, among those who commence treatment, few achieve adequate blood pressure control.
- Inter-State Variation: The study notes that while the prevalence of hypertension is comparable in southern states, it is notably higher than the national average, with 29.9% of the population in these states affected compared to 26.8% nationally.
- District-Level Disparities: The study highlights substantial variations within states. For instance, in Meghalaya, the prevalence of hypertension differs significantly across Garo Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Khasi Hills districts, affecting the diagnosis rates. A similar scenario is observed in Karnataka’s Chikmagalur, Shimoga, Udupi, and Chitradurga districts.
Impact of Demographics and Education
- Gender and Age: Despite hypertension being more prevalent in men, the data surprisingly reveals that women are more likely to be diagnosed, receive treatment, and achieve blood pressure control.
- Socio-Economic Status: Individuals in the wealthiest quintile demonstrate higher rates of prevalence, diagnosis, treatment initiation, and control.
- Education Level: Completion of schooling correlates with better rates of diagnosis, treatment, and control compared to those with no schooling or up to Class 11.
Significance of Inter-State and Inter-District Variability
- Resource Allocation: District-level data can guide state governments in allocating resources efficiently. It helps identify districts with a high prevalence of hypertension that may require increased screening and diagnostic facilities or better accessibility to medicines.
- Continuum of Care: Managing chronic conditions like hypertension requires a distinct healthcare approach. Ensuring regular availability of medicines, digitization of records for follow-ups, and the establishment of accessible treatment centers are critical components of an effective continuum of care.
Controlling Hypertension in India
- WHO’s Call to Action: The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the potential to avert nearly 4.6 million deaths in India by 2040 if half of hypertensive individuals can control their blood pressure.
- Government Initiative: India launched a comprehensive initiative in 2023 to treat 75 million people with hypertension or diabetes by 2025. This endeavor extends beyond infrastructure expansion to active screening, treatment initiation, medication accessibility, and follow-up mechanisms.
Conclusion
- India’s quest to bridge the gaps in hypertension care demands a multifaceted approach.
- The district-level insights offered by this study can guide policymakers in crafting targeted solutions, ultimately enhancing the continuum of care for hypertension and contributing to better public health outcomes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Read the attached story
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Silk, often hailed as the queen of fibers, boasts a rich and diverse history, with roots stretching back over 5,000 years to ancient China.
- Its story encompasses the transition from the wild silk moth (Bombyx mandarina) to the domesticated silk moth (Bombyx mori), offering a fascinating glimpse into human ingenuity and nature’s adaptability.
Silk Moth Domestication
- Ancient Beginnings: Humans began domesticating silk moths from the wild Bombyx mandarina in China, marking the dawn of sericulture.
- Global Reach: The domesticated Bombyx mori moth, significantly larger than its wild ancestor, now thrives worldwide, including in India.
- Silk Powerhouse: India’s prowess in silk production makes it the second-largest raw silk producer globally, after China.
Silkworms and Mulberry Leaves
- Exclusive Diet: Caterpillars, known as silkworms, feed solely on the leaves of mulberry plants (genus Morus).
- Cocoon Construction: The domesticated silk moth extrudes silk fibers of remarkable length, up to 900 meters, to construct larger cocoons. These caterpillars have lost the ability to fly and their pigmentation, adapting to human care.
Diversity in Silk
- Wild Silk Varieties: “Wild” silks, including muga, tasar, and eri, are derived from various moth species such as Antheraea assama, Antheraea mylitta, and Samia cynthia ricini.
- Contrasting Characteristics: Non-mulberry silks differ significantly from mulberry silks, featuring shorter, coarser, and harder threads.
The Enigmatic Cocoon Colors
- Natural Variations: Domesticated silk moth cocoons come in a stunning array of colors, including yellow-red, gold, flesh, pink, pale green, deep green, and white.
- Human Influence: Selective breeding for differently colored cocoons aimed to create colored silks, but these pigments are water-soluble, eventually fading. Acid dyes are used to achieve colored silks in the market.
- Origins of Pigments: Pigments in cocoons are derived from carotenoids and flavonoids produced by mulberry leaves. Silkworms ingest these chemicals, which are then bound to silk proteins and spun into a single fiber.
Mutant Strains and Genetic Insights
- Valuable Resource: Mutant strains of silk moths have emerged due to mutations in genes governing pigment uptake, transport, and modification.
- Diversity from Domestication: Silk domestication’s molecular basis has been primarily explored in China and Japan, with notable contributions from Indian scientists.
Decoding Cocoon Colors: A Model Emerges
- Genetic Factors: Researchers at Southwest University in Chongqing, China, proposed a model explaining how different mutations create diverse cocoon colors.
- Key Genes: Genes like Y, C, F, Rc, and Pk play roles in pigment transportation and absorption, leading to variations in cocoon colors.
- Green Cocoon Mystery: Mutations in the Y gene result in green cocoons when carotenoids are not absorbed, but flavonoids are. The intensity of green depends on other genes’ mutations, affecting flavonoid uptake.
- Flavonoid Cluster: A cluster of closely related genes influences flavonoid uptake in cocoons.
Gene Manipulation and Domestication
- Hybrid Offspring: Researchers have created hybrid moths by interbreeding domesticated and ancestral silk moths.
- Apontic-like Gene: Mutations in the apontic-like gene revealed differences in melanin production between domesticated and wild silk moths.
- Regulatory Sequences: Variations in gene regulation sequences dictate when and where genes are activated or deactivated.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Power transmission
Central Idea
- In 1954, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, referred to dams as “the temples of modern India” during a visit to the Bhakra Nangal Dam site.
- This statement emphasized the critical role of electricity in the nation’s development and its transmission as the cornerstone of economic progress.
This article offers a simplified introduction to the world of electric power transmission.
Three Components of Power Supply
- Generation: Electricity is generated at power plants, including renewable energy installations.
- Transmission: It involves the distribution of electricity through a network comprising substations, switches, overhead and underground cables, transformers, and more.
- Distribution: The final step is delivering electricity to consumers, tailored to the requirements of various machines and applications.
Key Principles of Electric Power Transmission
- Efficiency and Voltage: Lower current and higher voltage enhance transmission efficiency. Transformers play a crucial role in voltage manipulation, stepping it up before transmission and reducing it for consumers.
- Resistance and Cable Thickness: Transmission cables exhibit resistance, leading to energy loss. Thicker cables minimize losses but also increase costs.
- Distance and Transmission Cost: Longer transmission distances result in lower costs.
- Alternating Current (AC): AC power transmission is predominant due to its adaptability and higher efficiency compared to direct current (DC). However, higher AC frequencies result in increased resistance.
Understanding AC Power
- Three-Phase AC: AC power transmission commonly utilizes three-phase AC, where voltage periodically changes polarity.
- Phases in AC: In a three-phase AC circuit, three wires carry AC current in different phases, typically at 120°, 240°, and 360°.
- AC in Household Appliances: Consumers receive three-phase AC power, which is used in household appliances for ease of control.
Transmission Process
- Voltage Stepping: Voltage is stepped up at power plants using transformers before being transmitted.
- Transmission Lines: Suspended from transmission towers, transmission lines carry the electricity across long distances.
- Safety Measures: Insulators, circuit-breakers, grounding, arresters, and dampers ensure safe and stable transmission.
- Switches: Used to control current availability and to redirect currents between lines.
- Substations: Different types of substations perform tasks like power collection, frequency modification, voltage reduction for distribution, and diagnostics.
Operation of Power Grids
- National Grids: A national grid encompasses generation, transmission, and distribution. It must accommodate various power sources, production locations, and consumption patterns.
- Storage Facilities: Grids include storage systems to manage surplus and deficit power supply.
- Flexible Sources: Gas turbines and automated systems respond to fluctuating consumer demand or emergencies.
- Grid Management: Grids maintain synchronized frequencies, manage demand, control voltage, and improve power factor.
- Wide-Area Synchronous Grids: Such grids, where all generators produce AC at the same frequency, result in lower costs but require measures to prevent cascading failures.
Key agencies in Power Transmission
India’s power transmission sector relies on key agencies to manage and enhance the electricity grid. These include:
- State Transmission Utilities (STUs): Managing intrastate power transmission within each state.
- National Load Despatch Centre (NLDC): Maintaining national power balance and grid security.
- Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs): Overseeing regional power operations and grid stability.
- Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC): Regulating tariffs and power transmission at the national level.
- State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs): Regulating power transmission within individual states.
- Private Transmission Companies: Collaborating with government agencies for grid expansion and modernization.
Conclusion
- Electric power transmission is a complex but vital aspect of modern civilization, serving as the backbone of economic development.
- Understanding its basic principles sheds light on the intricate network that powers our lives and fuels progress.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: deepfake
Mains level: Discussions on Deepfakes
Central idea
The article highlights challenges in deepfake regulation using the example of the Rashmika Mandanna video. It calls for a balanced regulatory approach, citing existing frameworks like the IT Act, and recommends clear guidelines, public awareness, and potential amendments in upcoming legislation such as the Digital India Act to effectively tackle deepfake complexities.
What is deepfake?
- Definition: Deepfake involves using advanced artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning algorithms, to create manipulated content like videos or audio recordings.
- Manipulation: It can replace or superimpose one person’s likeness onto another, making it appear as though the targeted individual is involved in activities they never participated in.
- Concerns: Deepfakes raise concerns about misinformation, fake news, and identity theft, as the technology can create convincing but entirely fabricated scenarios.
- Legitimate Use: Despite concerns, deepfake technology has legitimate uses, such as special effects in the film industry or anonymizing individuals, like journalists reporting from sensitive or dangerous situations.
- Sophistication Challenge: The increasing sophistication of AI algorithms makes it challenging to distinguish between genuine and manipulated content.
Key Highlights:
- Deepfake Impact: The article discusses the impact of deepfake technology, citing the example of a viral video of actor Rashmika Mandanna, which turned out to be a deepfake.
- Regulatory Responses: It explores different approaches to regulate deepfakes, highlighting the need for a balanced response that considers both AI and platform regulation. Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar’s mention of regulations under the IT Act is discussed.
- Legitimate Uses: The article recognizes that while deepfakes can be misused for scams and fake videos, there are also legitimate uses, such as protecting journalists in oppressive regimes.
Challenges:
- Regulatory Dilemma: The article points out the challenge of finding a balanced regulatory approach, acknowledging the difficulty in distinguishing between lawful and unlawful uses of deepfake technology.
- Detection Difficulty: Advancements in AI have made it increasingly difficult to detect deepfake videos, posing a threat to individuals depicted in such content and undermining trust in video evidence.
- Legal Ambiguities: The article highlights legal ambiguities around deepfakes, as creating false content is not inherently illegal, and distinguishing between obscene, defamatory, or satirical content can be challenging.
Key Facts:
- The article mentions the viral deepfake video of Rashmika Mandanna and its impact on the debate surrounding deepfake regulations.
- It highlights the challenges in detecting the new generation of almost indistinguishable deepfakes.
Government Actions:
- Legal Frameworks in Action: The Indian government relies on the Information Technology (IT) Act to regulate online content. For instance, platforms are obligated to remove unlawful content within specific timeframes, demonstrating an initial approach to content moderation.
- Policy Discussions on Deepfakes: Policymakers are actively engaging in discussions regarding amendments to the IT Act to explicitly address deepfake-related challenges. This includes considerations for adapting existing legal frameworks to the evolving landscape of AI-generated content.
What more needs to be done:
- Legislative Clarity for Platforms: Governments should provide explicit guidance within legislative frameworks, instructing online platforms on the prompt identification and removal of deepfake content. For instance, specifying mechanisms to ensure compliance with content moderation obligations within stringent timelines.
- AI Regulation Example: Develop targeted regulations for AI technologies involved in deepfake creation. China’s approach, requiring providers to obtain consent from individuals featured in deepfakes, serves as a specific example. Such regulations could be incorporated into existing legal frameworks.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Drawing inspiration from successful public awareness initiatives in other domains, governments can implement campaigns similar to those addressing cybersecurity. These campaigns would educate citizens about the existence and potential threats of deepfakes, empowering them to identify and report such content.
- Global Collaboration Instances: Emphasizing the need for global collaboration, governments can cite successful instances of information-sharing agreements. For example, collaboration frameworks established between countries to combat cyber threats could serve as a model for addressing cross-border challenges posed by deepfakes.
- Technological Innovation Support: Encourage research and development by providing grants or incentives for technological solutions. Specific examples include initiatives that have successfully advanced cybersecurity technologies, showcasing the government’s commitment to staying ahead of evolving threats like deepfake.
Way Forward:
- Multi-pronged Regulatory Response: The article suggests avoiding reactionary calls for specialized regulation and instead opting for a comprehensive regulatory approach that addresses both AI and platform regulation.
- Digital India Act: The upcoming Digital India Act is seen as an opportunity to address deepfake-related issues by regulating AI, emerging technologies, and online platforms.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NACP
Mains level: One Health approach
Central idea
The article delves into the alarming air pollution crisis in Delhi and the National Capital Region, highlighting global and local concerns. It emphasizes the health impact of air pollution, particularly on vulnerable groups like children, and evaluates India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and potential strategies for effective air quality management.
Key Highlights:
- Air Quality Crisis: Delhi and the National Capital Region face a severe air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 500, prompting various restrictions and interventions.
- Global Air Pollution Concerns: Air pollution is a global issue, affecting low- and middle-income countries the most. The World Health Assembly Resolution 68.8 emphasizes addressing the health impact of air pollution, highlighting its role in millions of global deaths.
- India’s Efforts: The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched in 2019 aims to reduce PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations by 20-30% by 2024 through diverse interventions targeting vehicular pollution, industrial emissions, waste management, and more.
| Let’s revise for prelims
India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
Ministry Under Which NCAP Operates: Operated under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Establishment and Jurisdiction: Launched in 2019 to address air pollution and improve air quality. Encompasses various interventions to reduce pollution levels.
Objective: Aims to achieve a 20-30% reduction in concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 by 2024 (base year, 2017).
Key Components: Focuses on reducing vehicular pollution through regulatory norms. Promotes public transport and enhances infrastructure. Addresses industrial emissions, waste management, and stubble burning.
Legal Framework: Aligned with existing environmental laws and regulations. Operates within the framework of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. |
Challenges:
- Health Impact: Air pollution, laden with pollutants like PM2.5, leads to severe health consequences, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory issues, and neurological disorders.
- Vulnerability of Children: Children are particularly vulnerable due to developing lungs, higher exposure, and increased susceptibility to neurotoxic compounds, leading to various health issues.
- Social Gradient in Exposure: Studies indicate that air pollution often exhibits a social gradient, impacting marginalized communities more, challenging the notion that it affects everyone equally.
Key Phrases:
- Air Quality Index (AQI): Measures air pollution levels, categorized into ranges with associated health advisories. Delhi’s AQI touching 500 signifies hazardous air quality.
- NCAP: India’s National Clean Air Programme, launched to combat air pollution, emphasizing reductions in PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations through diverse strategies.
- One Health Approach: Recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, urging comprehensive actions to address the impact of land, air, and water use on well-being.
Analysis:
- Global Concerns: Nearly 90% of the global population breathes air exceeding prescribed pollution limits, with low- and middle-income countries facing the most significant impact.
- NCAP Effectiveness: The NCAP outlines specific interventions to combat air pollution, but the effectiveness of measures like the odd-even scheme in Delhi is debated, with studies showing mixed results.
Key Data:
- Health Impact: Air pollution contributes to chronic diseases and cancer, with a third of deaths from major diseases linked to air pollution, rivaling the impact of smoking.
- Global Scenario: Delhi ranked as the most polluted city globally in terms of fine particulate matter, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive air quality management.
Way Forward:
- Stringent Standards: Evolve more stringent air quality standards, considering the absence of safe thresholds, especially for particulates and ozone.
- Airshed-Centric Approach: Transition from city-centric to airshed-centric air quality management, recognizing the local factors affecting pollutant dispersion.
- Global Cooperation: Leverage international platforms like the G20 to address pollution in the context of climate action and promote a One Health approach globally.
In essence, the article underscores the critical need for immediate and comprehensive measures to combat the escalating air pollution crisis, emphasizing the global and local impact on health and the environment.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NCRB
Mains level: Mental Health
Central idea
The article sheds light on the alarming rates of student suicides in Kota, primarily attributed to academic pressure. It explores the various pressures students face, their coping mechanisms, and the significant impact on mental health, emphasizing the urgent need for institutionalized counseling and holistic well-being programs.
Key Highlights:
- Student Suicides in Kota: According to NCRB data in 2021, student suicides in India accounted for 8% of total suicides. Kota, a prominent coaching hub, witnessed 25 suicides this year, raising concerns about academic pressure.
- Impact of NEET and JEE Exams: Students believe clearing these exams is crucial for a better life, leading to heightened stress. Almost 20% often suffer from thoughts related to under-performing, impacting mental health.
- Contributing Factors: Parental pressure, financial stress, and peer pressure contribute to students’ anxieties. Loneliness is prevalent, with 53% experiencing it occasionally.
Different Kinds of Pressures:
- NEET and JEE Significance: Students perceive success in NEET and JEE exams as vital for a better future, intensifying academic pressure.
- Fear of Under-Performance: Nearly 20% constantly grapple with thoughts of potential consequences if they under-perform, leading to heightened stress levels.
- Immediate Family Influence: Students with family members who studied in Kota before them often face additional academic pressure.
- Parental Expectations: Almost 10% experience frequent parental pressure, while a quarter encounters it occasionally, affecting mental well-being.
- Gender Disparity: Girls tend to face slightly higher parental pressure compared to boys, highlighting gender-specific challenges.
- Financial Pressure: 6% of students frequently feel financial stress, and 25% experience it occasionally, adding to the array of pressures.
Impact on Mental Health:
- Post-Coaching Mental Health: Close to 30% report a decline in mental health after joining coaching classes, indicating the adverse impact of the academic environment.
- Body Pain and Emotional Changes: A significant portion experiences heightened nervousness, mood swings, and physical discomfort, adversely affecting mental health.
- Loneliness Prevalence: More than half (53%) experience loneliness occasionally, reflecting the emotional toll of the academic journey in Kota.
- Psychological Strain: Emotional challenges such as increased nervousness, mood swings, and loneliness affect approximately three in every ten students.
- Anger and Frustration: Nearly 30% feel a rise in anger, and over a quarter report increased frustration and fear, showcasing the multifaceted impact on emotional well-being.
Challenges and concerns:
- Deteriorating Mental Health: Close to 30% feel their mental health worsened after joining coaching classes. Over 40% feel more fatigued, and many report increased nervousness, loneliness, and mood swings.
- Limited Professional Help: Despite poor mental health indicators, only 3% seek assistance from mental health professionals, emphasizing a lack of awareness and proactive initiatives.
- Need for Proactive Measures: Almost half (48%) don’t feel the need for mental health visits, underlining the necessity for more proactive efforts in promoting mental well-being.
- Advocacy for Mental Health: The data highlights the urgency of institutionalized counseling mechanisms and increased awareness to encourage young individuals to prioritize mental health.
Way Forward:
- Implementing Comprehensive Counseling: Establishing structured counseling services within coaching centers and Kota to address students’ mental health needs.
- Promoting Awareness: Conducting awareness campaigns to emphasize the importance of seeking professional mental health support.
- Integrating Holistic Approaches: Incorporating holistic well-being programs that address not only academic stress but also overall physical and mental health.
- Educational Initiatives: Launching educational initiatives to equip students with coping skills and stress management techniques.
- Scholarship Programs: Expanding scholarship programs to ease financial burdens and create a more inclusive educational environment.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bharat Atta
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- In a bid to maintain stability in food prices during the festive season, the Indian government has unveiled a subsidized packaged wheat flour initiative accessible to all consumers.
- Termed “Bharat Atta,” the scheme aims to release a quarter of a million tonnes of state-owned wheat to various cooperative outlets and federations.
Bharat Atta
- Distribution Channels: The government has chosen Kendriya Bhandar, a network of cooperative general stores, along with the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation, as the primary channels for distributing Bharat Atta.
- Reduced Price: Bharat Atta is offered at a reduced price of ₹27.50 per kilogram, which is lower than the earlier rate of ₹29.50 at Kendriya Bhandar.
- Expansion: To ensure accessibility, the subsidized flour will be available at Kendriya Bhandar, NAFED, NCCF, government cooperative outlets, and food vans operated by NAFED and NCCF.
- Government Support: The government is facilitating this scheme by milling the wheat through firms selected through a tender process, thereby minimizing the milling cost, which is approximately ₹1.80 per kilogram for large wheat millers.
Why such move?
- Free Cereals: PM recently announced that cereals would be provided free of cost to 800 million beneficiaries entitled to subsidized food for the next five years.
- Price Controls: The government has implemented various measures such as banning wheat and rice exports, setting a floor price for onion exports, and reducing import duties on pulses to combat rising food prices.
- Election Context: These anti-inflation measures come as India faces key assembly elections in five states and a general election in the near future.
Challenges in implementation
- Cereal Inflation: Despite a significant wheat harvest, India continues to grapple with high cereal inflation, which has persisted for over a year, reaching double digits.
- Record Foodgrain Production: The fourth and final round of estimates for the 2022-23 crop output indicates a record high in foodgrain production. However, wheat production slightly decreased from initial estimates.
- Positive Outlook: Despite minor fluctuations, wheat production remains higher than the previous year, reflecting a positive outlook for addressing food price concerns.
Conclusion
- The government’s subsidized wheat flour initiative, Bharat Atta, exemplifies its dedication to ensuring that the joy of the festive season is not marred by soaring food prices.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Advocate-on-Record (AoR)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- In a recent development, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a public interest litigation filed by an Advocate-on-Record (AoR), emphasizing that an AoR cannot be a mere “signing authority.”
- This incident has sparked discussions on the role and significance of AoRs in the Indian legal system.
Who is an Advocate-on-Record (AoR)?
- Historical Roots: The AoR system is influenced by British legal practices, distinguishing between barristers who argue cases and solicitors who handle client matters. In India, senior advocates are designated by the Court, akin to barristers, and cannot solicit clients but are briefed by other lawyers, including AoRs.
- Exclusive Right to File Cases: Only an AoR is authorized to file cases before the Supreme Court of India. They serve as a vital link between litigants and the highest judicial authority in the country.
- Elite Legal Practitioners: AoRs are a select group of elite lawyers, primarily based in Delhi, whose legal practice predominantly revolves around the Supreme Court. They may also represent clients in other courts.
- Court of Last Opportunity: The concept behind the AoR system is to ensure that a litigant is represented by a highly qualified lawyer because the Supreme Court is often considered the last resort for legal remedies.
Becoming an AoR
- Eligibility Criteria: To qualify as an AoR, an advocate must meet specific criteria set by the Supreme Court Rules, 2013.
- Examination: Aspiring AoRs must clear an examination conducted by the Supreme Court, which includes subjects like Practice and Procedure, Drafting, Professional Ethics, and Leading Cases.
- Training Requirement: Before taking the exam, an advocate must undergo training with a court-approved AoR for at least one year. This training is preceded by a minimum of four years of legal practice.
Responsibilities and Rules Governing AoRs
- Geographical Presence: AoRs must maintain an office in Delhi within a 16-kilometer radius of the Supreme Court.
- Employment of Registered Clerk: Upon registration as an AoR, an undertaking is required to employ a registered clerk within one month.
- Regulatory Authority: While Section 30 of the Advocates Act grants lawyers the right to practice law nationwide, it explicitly acknowledges the Supreme Court’s authority to establish rules under Article 145 of the Constitution for regulating its own procedure.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IPMDA Initiative, QUAD
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) initiative, recently unveiled by the Quad grouping (India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S.), underscores a shared commitment to uphold a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
What is IPMDA Initiative?
- IPMDA Initiative was announced at the Quad Leaders’ Summit in Tokyo, 2022.
- It primarily aims to track dark shipping.
- Dark ships are vessels with their Automatic Identification System (AIS) – a transponder system – switched off so as not to be detectable.
- It focuses on tracking other tactical-level activities: to respond to climate and humanitarian events and to protect their fisheries, which are vital to many Indo-Pacific economies.
Significance of IPMDA for India
- IPMDA represents a substantial effort to bolster security and stability in the Indo-Pacific, a region of paramount global geopolitical significance.
- India’s Navy, currently possessing over 140 ships and submarines, is on course to achieve a formidable fleet of 170 to 180 vessels by 2028.
Lessons from Recent Events
- Recent global events, including the border standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, conflicts in Ukraine, and turmoil in West Asia, underscore the need for resilience and readiness in the face of uncertainties.
- Indian Navy recognizes the importance of integrated joint operations and a holistic approach to national defense, and a well-coordinated defense strategy involving all three Services.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: India-Bhutan Relations and China Factor
Central Idea
- The recent three-day visit of Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk to Assam marked a significant milestone in India-Bhutan relations.
- Notably, it was the first-ever visit by a Bhutanese monarch to the state, signifying the close ties between the two neighbours and a fresh chapter of cooperation.
Bhutan and India: Historical Context
- Border Proximity: Despite sharing a 265.8 km border, this visit was the first of its kind, underscoring the uniqueness of the occasion.
- Challenging Times: The peaceful relationship between India and Bhutan faced complexities in the 1990s when insurgent groups from Assam established camps and operated in Bhutan’s southeast forests.
1990s: Indian Insurgent Presence in Bhutan
- Backdrop: Pressure on insurgent groups in Assam, due to Indian military crackdowns and changes in Bangladesh’s political landscape, compelled them to seek refuge elsewhere.
- Bhutanese Sanctuary: Insurgent groups, including ULFA, NDFB, and KLO, set up camps in Bhutan’s Samdrup Jongkhar district, near the Assam border.
Bhutan’s Initial Approach
- Reluctant Engagement: Bhutan initially ignored the presence of Indian insurgents on its territory and attempted dialogue with them.
- Diplomatic Pressure: The situation strained diplomatic relations with India, its significant neighbor, funder, and trade partner.
- Limited Military Capability: Bhutan’s small and inexperienced military hindered decisive action against the insurgents.
- Unfruitful Talks: Despite multiple rounds of dialogue with ULFA and NDFB, no tangible outcomes were achieved, with the KLO refusing to engage in talks.
Triggers for the Military Crackdown
- Direct Threat to Sovereignty: The presence of insurgents became a direct threat to Bhutan’s sovereignty and national security.
- Impact on Relations: Insurgent activities had negative implications for Bhutan-India relations, affecting development, economic activities, and bilateral trust.
- Humanitarian Consequences: Attacks on Bhutanese nationals, threats, extortion, and violence-affected innocent lives and disrupted travel and trade routes.
- Arms Supply to Ethnic Nepalese: Concerns emerged that insurgents might supply arms to ethnic Nepalese Lhotshampas, who were subjected to repression by the royal government, potentially sparking an ethnic insurgency in southern Bhutan.
Operation All Clear: The Result
- Coordinated Offensive: On December 15, 2003, the Royal Bhutan Army, supported by the Indian Army, launched ‘Operation All Clear,’ simultaneously targeting ULFA, NDFB, and KLO camps.
- Indian Support: India provided logistical and medical assistance and sealed the Indo-Bhutan border to prevent insurgent escape into India.
- Significant Outcome: The operation resulted in the killing or capture of at least 650 insurgents, including top leaders from the three groups.
Conclusion
- Bhutan’s historic royal visit to Assam signifies a strengthening of bonds and a reaffirmation of friendship after a complex period.
- The military operation ‘Operation All Clear’ demonstrated Bhutan’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and security, ultimately contributing to regional stability.
- Today, India and Bhutan stand united, fostering peace, cooperation, and prosperity in the region.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Odd-Even Scheme
Mains level: Delhi Air Pollution Menace
Central Idea
- The Odd-Even scheme, designed to reduce vehicular emissions and combat severe air pollution in Delhi, has garnered attention and scrutiny.
- While this emergency action has been implemented in response to deteriorating air quality, experts emphasize that it may not be a panacea for all pollution woes.
Odd-Even Scheme
- Reduction in Vehicles: The scheme aims to curtail vehicular pollution by restricting the number of cars on the road. However, it has limitations, as it excludes two-wheelers and taxis, which are significant contributors to emissions.
- Two Aspects of Transport Pollution: Transport pollution encompasses emissions from exhaust tailpipes and wear and tear of tires and brakes. Tailpipe emissions contain pollutants like PM2.5, soot, organics, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and poly-aromatic hydrocarbons.
Why such move?
- Curbing Local Sources of Pollution: Transport is a dominant source of pollutants when considering Delhi’s local emissions. Vehicles play a crucial role in exacerbating air quality issues.
- Complex Challenges: Estimating the scheme’s exact impact on pollution levels is challenging due to multiple factors, including emissions from outside Delhi, restricted coverage of the transport fleet, and exemptions.
Prior Experience and Expert Opinions
- Experience from 2016: A study conducted on the Odd-Even scheme implemented in January 2016 indicated limited success in mitigating air pollution. PM2.5 levels decreased marginally in specific areas but not significantly citywide.
- Comprehensive Approach Needed: Experts argue that while the Odd-Even scheme can contribute to pollution reduction, it should be viewed as one element of a comprehensive strategy, combined with measures like construction halts, during periods of stagnant air.
- Not a Silver Bullet: Emergency actions, including the Odd-Even scheme, cannot independently solve air quality issues, and their effectiveness is influenced by various factors.
Assessing Impact Based on Pollution Concentration
- Air Quality Index (AQI) May Not Tell the Full Story: Experts emphasize the importance of considering pollutant concentration levels rather than relying solely on the Air Quality Index (AQI) for assessing the scheme’s impact.
- Concentration Matters: Monitoring the concentration of pollutants provides a clearer picture of the scheme’s effectiveness in reducing harmful substances in the air.
Transportation Role in Delhi’s Pollution
- Contributor to Emissions: Transport, including vehicles and cars, is a substantial contributor to PM2.5 emissions in Delhi, accounting for a significant portion of the pollution.
- Role of Four-Wheeler Cars: Four-wheeler cars contribute about 8% of emissions within the transport sector. Reducing their presence on the road can make a notable difference.
Lessons from Other Cities
- Global Precedents: Other major cities, such as Beijing and Paris, have implemented vehicle restrictions to address pollution issues.
- Comprehensive Measures: The success of such schemes often depends on their comprehensive nature and alignment with specific local conditions.
Conclusion
- The Odd-Even scheme in Delhi serves as a critical emergency measure to combat air pollution during periods of severe deterioration.
- While it can contribute to reducing vehicular emissions, experts emphasize that it should be part of a broader strategy that addresses multiple pollution sources.
- Analyzing pollutant concentration levels provides a more accurate assessment of the scheme’s impact, and it is crucial to view it in conjunction with other measures to ensure sustained improvements in air quality.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Dopamine
Mains level: The problem with social media and its business model
Central idea
The article delves into the social media crisis, pointing fingers at Meta for exacerbating youth mental health issues through Instagram’s addictive features. Legal actions highlight the platforms’ intentional exploitation of young users’ vulnerabilities. To address this, a suggested solution is contemplating a shift from the current profit-driven business model to a subscription-based one.
Key Highlights:
- Social Media Crisis: Social media platforms, especially Meta (formerly Facebook), are facing a crisis due to concerns about their impact on mental health, particularly among youth.
- Legal Action Against Meta: Forty-two US Attorney Generals have filed lawsuits against Meta, alleging that Instagram, a Meta-owned platform, actively contributes to a youth mental health crisis through addictive features.
- Allegations Against Meta: The lawsuit claims that Meta knowingly designs algorithms to exploit young users’ dopamine responses, creating an addictive cycle of engagement for profit.
- Dopamine and Addiction: Dopamine, associated with happiness, is triggered by likes on platforms like Facebook, leading to heightened activity in children’s brains, making them more susceptible to addictive behaviors.
Prelims focus – Dopamine
- Neurotransmitter: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger in the brain.
- Feelings of Pleasure: It is associated with feelings of pleasure, reward, and satisfaction.
- Reward System: Dopamine plays a crucial role in the brain’s reward system, reinforcing certain behaviors.
- Motivation: It is linked to motivation, focus, and regulating mood.
- Addiction and Habits: Dopamine is involved in the development of addictive behaviors and habits.
- Social Media Impact: Activities on social media, like receiving likes or positive feedback, can lead to a release of dopamine.
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Key examples for mains value addition
- The Social Dilemma (2020): A Netflix show that revealed how social media, led by Meta, messes with our minds and influences our behavior, especially impacting the mental health of youngsters.
- Frances Haugen’s Revelations: A whistleblower exposed internal Meta documents showing that Instagram worsened body image issues for teen girls, making social media’s impact on mental health a serious concern.
- US Surgeon General’s Advisory: The government’s health expert issued a warning about the negative effects of social media on young minds, emphasizing its importance in President Biden’s State of the Union address.
Challenges:
- Addictive Business Model: The core issue with social media is its business model, focusing on user engagement and data monetization, potentially at the expense of user well-being.
- Transformation from Networks to Media: Social networks, initially built for human connection, have transformed into media properties where users are treated as data for advertisers, impacting their habits and behaviors.
- Global Regulatory Scrutiny: Meta faces regulatory challenges beyond the US, with UK, EU, and India considering legislative measures. India, having the largest Instagram user base, emphasizes accountability for content hosted on platforms.
Analysis:
- Business Model Critique: The article argues that the problem with social media lies in its business model, which prioritizes user engagement for data collection and monetization.
- Regulatory Consequences: If the lawsuit succeeds, Meta could face significant penalties, potentially adding up to billions of dollars, and signaling a major setback for the company.
- Global Impact: Regulatory scrutiny extends beyond the US, indicating a need for platforms to be more accountable and responsible for their content and user interactions on a global scale.
Key Data:
- Potential Penalties: Meta could face penalties of up to $5000 for each violation if the lawsuit succeeds, posing a significant financial threat considering Instagram’s large user base.
- Regulatory Pressure in India: India, with 229 million Instagram users, emphasizes the end of a free pass for platforms, signaling a global shift towards increased accountability.
Way Forward:
- Shift to Subscription Model: The article suggests that social networks might consider adopting a subscription model, akin to OpenAI’s approach, to prioritize user well-being over advertising revenue.
- Listen to Regulatory Signals: Platforms are urged to heed regulatory signals and work collaboratively to address issues rather than adopting a confrontational stance.
- Long-term Survival: To ensure long-term survival, social media networks may need to reevaluate their business models, aligning them with user well-being rather than prioritizing engagement and data monetization.
In essence, the article highlights the crisis in social media, legal challenges against Meta, the critique of the business model, global regulatory scrutiny, and suggests potential shifts in the industry’s approach for long-term survival.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mubarak Manzil Palace
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Hidden amidst the ruins of Punjab’s Malerkotla town lies the 19th-century Mubarak Manzil Palace, a poignant symbol of the state’s indifference towards its rich heritage.
- Beyond its architectural significance, this palace holds a deep cultural and emotional connection for both Sikhs and Muslims alike.
- However, despite its historical value, the restoration of this magnificent structure has languished in bureaucratic inertia.
About Mubarak Manzil Palace
- Historical Significance: The Mubarak Manzil Palace dates back to the 19th century and stands as a testament to the region’s historical heritage.
- Cultural Significance: Beyond architecture, the palace holds immense cultural and emotional importance for Sikhs and Muslims, serving as a shared legacy.
- Unfulfilled Hope: Begum Munawwar-ul-Nisa, the last surviving member of Malerkotla’s royal family, passed away recently, with her desire to witness the palace’s restoration remaining unfulfilled.
Delayed Restoration Efforts
- Congress Government’s Approval: In 2021, the previous Congress government granted approval for the acquisition and preservation of the palace, kindling hopes for its revival.
- Family Disputes and Financial Constraints: The palace had fallen into disrepair due to family disputes and financial limitations. Begum Nisa, after resolving the disputes, appealed to the State government to take over and restore the palace.
- Unfulfilled Promises: Although Begum Nisa and her family entrusted 29 rooms of the palace to the government’s care, the restoration work has yet to commence. Despite expert assessments in 2022, progress has been stalled, leaving the heritage in disrepair.
Cultural Significance
- Guru Gobind Singh’s Blessing: Malerkotla holds a significant place in Sikh history as it was Nawab Sher Mohammed Khan who protested against the execution of Guru Gobind Singh’s younger sons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, in 1705. Guru Gobind Singh blessed the town to live in peace.
- Sikh Reverence: Sikhs deeply respect Malerkotla’s royal family for their historical role. The restoration of the palace is considered a fitting tribute to their legacy.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: TCAS-Kavach
Mains level: Rail mishaps prevention
Central Idea
- The tragic train collision in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, resulting in 14 fatalities and 50 injuries, highlights the critical importance of implementing Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS).
- In this case, the indigenous TCAS known as ‘Kavach’ was not in place on the route where the collision occurred, emphasizing the need for enhanced railway safety measures.
What is TCAS-Kavach?
- Cab Signalling System: Kavach serves as a cab signalling train control system with anti-collision capabilities, acting as a vigilant guardian of the existing signalling infrastructure.
- Development: Developed over a decade, starting in 2012, by the Indian Railways Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).
- Warning Mechanism: Kavach is designed to alert the locomotive pilot if they fail to notice a ‘red signal’ and continue at a speed that would surpass the signal. If the pilot does not slow down below 15 kilometres per hour, Kavach automatically applies the brakes, bringing the train to a halt.
Deployment of Kavach
- Components: The Kavach setup involves three key components: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in the tracks, RFID readers, computers, and brake interface equipment in locomotives, and radio infrastructure including towers and modems at railway stations.
- Intercommunication: These components communicate with each other, enabling real-time monitoring of train movements and the transmission of signals to locomotives. Visual interferences, such as hilly terrain or haze, do not affect their functionality.
- Antenna Communication: Locomotives are equipped with antennas that communicate with towers at railway stations and display warnings to the driver on their monitor.
Preventing Accidents with Kavach
- Testimonial Evidence: Union Railway Minister test ride of Kavach demonstrated its effectiveness in averting accidents. Two trains moving towards each other on the same track at high speed were stopped 400 meters short of collision as Kavach applied automatic brakes.
- Human Error: The Andhra Pradesh train accident was attributed to the deceased loco pilot’s ‘human error.’ Had Kavach been in place, it could have warned the pilot about overshooting the red signal and applied emergency brakes, potentially avoiding the accident.
Cost and Implementation Challenges
- Deployment Cost: Implementing Kavach costs ₹50 lakh per kilometer for the Indian Railways.
- Coverage: Currently, Kavach covers only 1,500 kilometers of rail routes, a small fraction of the total 68,000-kilometer network. Expanding its coverage, particularly on high-density routes, remains a formidable challenge.
- Budget Allocation: The Indian Railways has allocated ₹4,000 crore under the Signalling and Telecom budget, including ₹2,000 crore from the Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK) fund for Kavach implementation.
- Slower pace: However, the limited allocation may result in gradual progress, with only about 2,500 to 3,000 kilometers of installation expected during the year.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: National Security Strategy
Central Idea
- India is embarking on a historic journey as it initiates the development of its inaugural National Security Strategy (NSS).
- The National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) is actively collecting insights and inputs from diverse Central ministries and departments, laying the foundation for a comprehensive strategy that will play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s interests.
Explained: National Security Strategy
- Crucial Milestone: India’s NSS represents its first-ever comprehensive document that outlines security objectives and strategies.
- Periodically Updated: The NSS evolves over time, addressing both traditional and non-traditional threats while fostering accountability among agencies tasked with implementation.
- Guiding Holistic Security: The NSS will serve as a guiding framework for military, defense, and security reforms, offering a holistic perspective on national security, threats, and strategies to counter them.
Scope and Content of India’s NSS
- Modern Challenges: The NSS is poised to encompass a broad spectrum of contemporary challenges, including financial and economic security, food and energy security, information warfare, critical information infrastructure vulnerabilities, supply chain concerns, and environmental issues.
- Comprehensive Approach: It will adopt a comprehensive approach to tackling emerging threats, aligning with India’s evolving security landscape.
Global Precedents
- Established Nations with NSS: Developed nations with robust military and security infrastructures maintain National Security Strategies, updated periodically. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia have published their NSS.
- China’s Comprehensive National Security: China has a closely integrated Comprehensive National Security strategy, tightly linked to its governance structure.
- Pakistan’s National Security Policy: Pakistan recently unveiled a National Security Policy for 2022-2026, outlining its national security objectives and priorities.
India’s Imperative for a National Security Strategy
- Long-Debated Need: The idea of a National Security Strategy for India has long been debated within military circles and the strategic community.
- Urgency in Uncertain Times: Rising geopolitical tensions and the uncertain global environment have heightened the urgency for India to formulate a comprehensive strategy.
- Relevance Highlighted: Experts and former officials emphasize that a national security strategy is vital to provide clear political direction to the Armed Forces, guide military reforms, and address modern security challenges effectively.
Past Attempts and Hurdles
- Failed Attempts: India has previously made three attempts to develop a national security strategy, all without fruition.
- Political Hesitation: Some speculate that hesitation at the political level, driven by concerns about accountability in defense management, may have impeded the strategy’s release.
- Varied Views: There have been differing views within the strategic community regarding the absence of a national security strategy, ranging from a lack of cohesive government efforts to intentional non-disclosure of national security objectives.
Conclusion
- India’s journey towards formulating its National Security Strategy marks a significant milestone in its quest for a well-defined and coordinated approach to security.
- As India forges ahead, this inaugural strategy promises to provide a roadmap for addressing complex security challenges, ensuring national interests are protected, and fostering a secure future in an ever-evolving world.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Deep Ocean Mission, Samudrayaan
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- India’s Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) is a visionary initiative aimed at exploring and harnessing the immense potential of the ocean’s depths.
- Among its groundbreaking objectives, DOM will deploy an indigenous submersible with a three-member crew to reach a depth of 6,000 meters in the ocean, marking India’s first foray into the profound oceanic abyss.
Deep Ocean Mission Overview
- Mission Pillars: DOM, principally led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), encompasses six pillars:
- Development of deep-sea mining technologies and a crewed submersible for exploring depths of 6,000 meters.
- Ocean climate change advisory services, involving extensive ocean observations and modeling.
- Technological innovations for deep-sea biodiversity exploration and conservation.
- Deep-ocean survey to identify potential sites of multi-metal hydrothermal sulphides mineralization.
- Harnessing energy and freshwater resources from the ocean.
- Establishment of an advanced Marine Station for Ocean Biology.
- Strategic Significance: DOM aligns with the ‘New India 2030′ vision, focusing on a blue economy as a core objective for India’s growth. It is part of the United Nations’ ‘Decade of Ocean Science’ (2021-2030) and complements Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on sustainably utilizing the ocean’s potential for national development.
- Collaborative Efforts: Multiple MoES institutes, including the Centre for Marine Living Resources and Ecology (CMLRE), Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), and National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), collaborate with national institutes and academia to achieve DOM’s objectives.
Progress on Pillar 1: Deep-Sea Mining Technologies and Crewed Submersible:
- ‘Samudrayaan’ Initiative: India’s deep ocean mission, ‘Samudrayaan,’ was launched in 2021 under the leadership of MoES. It aims to reach a depth of 6,000 meters in the central Indian Ocean using the ‘Matsya6000’ submersible, accommodating a crew of three members.
- Submersible Features: Matsya6000 is equipped with scientific sensors, tools, and an operational endurance of 12 hours (extendable to 96 hours in emergencies). The submersible’s design is complete, with testing and experimentation at a depth of 500 meters scheduled in the upcoming year.
- Mining System: NIOT is developing an integrated system for mining polymetallic nodules from the central Indian Ocean bed. This mineral-rich region, allocated by the United Nations International Seabed Authority (ISA), includes copper, manganese, nickel, and cobalt.
- Successful Trials: NIOT conducted deep-sea locomotion trials with the ‘Varaha’ underwater mining system at a depth of 5,270 meters in the central Indian Ocean. Varaha collected polymetallic nodules during the trial, marking a significant milestone.
- Challenges: Deep-sea exploration faces immense challenges, including high pressure, soft and muddy ocean bed surfaces, power supply constraints, visibility limitations, temperature variations, and corrosion. NIOT and MoES are committed to addressing these complexities.
Significance of the Chosen Depth (6,000 meters)
- Strategic Depth: Targeting a depth of 6,000 meters serves a strategic purpose. India aims to sustainably extract valuable resources such as polymetallic nodules and sulphides, with ISA allocating regions in the central Indian Ocean for exploration.
- Resource Distribution: Polymetallic nodules, rich in metals like copper, manganese, nickel, iron, and cobalt, are found around 5,000 meters deep. Polymetallic sulphides occur at approximately 3,000 meters. By operating at 6,000 meters, India can effectively cover depths of 3,000 to 5,500 meters, spanning its Exclusive Economic Zone and the central Indian Ocean.
Challenges in Deep-Ocean Exploration
- High Pressure: Exploring the deep oceans involves extreme pressure conditions, with water exerting tremendous force. Equipment must be meticulously designed to withstand these conditions.
- Soft Ocean Bed: The soft and muddy ocean bed complicates landing and maneuvering for heavy vehicles.
- Material Durability: Electronics and instruments must endure underwater conditions, unlike space where objects are designed to function in a vacuum.
- Extraction Challenges: Extracting materials from the ocean bed necessitates significant power and energy, with the need to transport extracted minerals to the surface.
- Visibility Constraints: Limited natural light penetration in deep waters poses visibility challenges.
Matsya-6000 and Varaha: A Vision for India’s Ocean Exploration
- Matsya6000: India’s flagship deep-ocean submersible combines features of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous remote vehicles (AUVs). It accommodates a crew of three, is constructed from titanium alloy, and is designed to withstand high pressures.
- Varaha: Varaha is India’s deep-ocean mining system, operating on the flexible riser technique. It successfully conducted deep-sea locomotion trials at a depth of 5,270 meters, marking a world record.
- Unique Ecosystem: India is poised to possess a comprehensive underwater vehicle ecosystem, encompassing deep-water ROVs, polar ROVs, AUVs, deep-water coring systems, and more.
Conclusion
- India’s Deep Ocean Mission is a pioneering endeavour to explore and harness the potential of the ocean’s depths.
- With Matsya6000 and Varaha, India is poised to join the selective nations conducting deep-ocean exploration and mining.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: H. pylori
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Indian researchers have developed a groundbreaking two-step PCR-based assay for detecting Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, determining clarithromycin resistance, and distinguishing drug-sensitive strains.
- This molecular diagnostic tool reduces the detection time from weeks to just six-seven hours and exhibits remarkable accuracy, boasting 100% sensitivity and specificity.
About H. Pylori Detection
- Helicobacter pylori, often abbreviated as H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can infect the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine.
- It is a common bacterial infection associated with various gastrointestinal conditions, including gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) and peptic ulcers (sores or lesions in the lining of the stomach or the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine).
Why discuss this?
- Increasing Resistance: India faces a growing challenge of clarithromycin-resistant H. pylori strains, resulting in decreased treatment efficacy.
- Asymptomatic Infections: While most H. pylori infections are asymptomatic, 10–15% of cases lead to peptic ulcer disorders or stomach cancer.
- Prevalence in India: H. pylori infections affect 60-70% of the Indian population, acquired in childhood and persisting if not treated.
- Gastric Cancer Risk: H. pylori infection is a significant risk factor for gastric cancer.
Understanding Drug Resistance Mechanism in H. Pylori
- Genome Sequencing: Researchers identified a point mutation (A to G mutation at position 2143) in the 23S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene as the cause of clarithromycin resistance.
- Confirmation: They isolated and transferred the 617 base pairs containing the mutation to drug-sensitive bacteria, which became resistant, confirming the mutation’s role.
- Published Findings: The study’s results were published in the journal Gut Pathogens.
- Exploring Binding Affinity: Bioinformatics analysis revealed that drug-resistant strains had weaker binding affinity to clarithromycin compared to drug-sensitive strains.
- Impact of Weak Binding: Weaker binding limits the drug’s penetration into bacteria, rendering it ineffective against resistant strains.
Development of the PCR-Based Assay
- Biopsy Samples: The DNA template used for the assay was prepared by amplifying a small segment containing the point mutation directly from biopsy samples.
- Validation: DNA templates from cultured bacteria were compared with those from biopsy samples to validate their accuracy.
- Two-Step PCR: The assay employs a two-step PCR approach to detect H. pylori infection and differentiate resistant from sensitive isolates.
- Allele-Specific Primers: Resistant-specific and sensitive-specific primers exploit the point mutation for selective amplification.
- High Accuracy: Evaluation against conventional methods and sequencing analysis demonstrated 100% sensitivity and specificity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Enemy Property, Butler Palace
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Lucknow’s iconic Butler Palace, an Enemy Property on the banks of the Gomti River, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation after decades of abandonment and obscurity.
About Butler Palace
- Official Residence: Butler Palace was originally commissioned in 1915 as the official residence of the Avadh Commissioner, Harcourt Butler.
- Ownership by the Raja: It later came under the ownership of the rajas of Mahmudabad, a family with roots tracing back to the 13th century and a history of allegiance to the Mughals.
- Partition and Dispute: After India’s partition, Raja Mohammed Amir Ahmad Khan migrated to Pakistan, while his son, Mohammad Amir Mohammad Khan, stayed in India. Legal disputes over properties, including Butler Palace, ensued.
Genesis of Enemy Property
- Post-War Migration: The origins of enemy property can be traced back to the aftermath of the India-Pakistan wars in 1965 and 1971, which led to the migration of people from India to Pakistan.
- Defence of India Rules: Framed under The Defence of India Act, 1962, these rules empowered the Indian government to assume control of properties and companies owned by individuals opting for Pakistani nationality.
- Custodian of Enemy Property: The central government vested these “enemy properties” in the Custodian of Enemy Property for India (CEPI).
- Similar Instances: A parallel situation emerged concerning property left behind by individuals who relocated to China after the 1962 Sino-Indian war.
- Tashkent Declaration: A pivotal development occurred with the Tashkent Declaration in 1966, where India and Pakistan agreed to discuss the return of properties and assets seized by either side during the conflicts.
- Pakistan’s Disposition: Notably, the Government of Pakistan disposed of all such properties within its territory in 1971.
Legal Framework for Handling Enemy Property
- Enemy Property Act, 1968: Enacted in 1968, this legislation established the continuous vesting of enemy property in the Custodian of Enemy Property for India (CEPI) under the Home Ministry.
- Scope of Properties: The CEPI, acting on behalf of the central government, oversees a range of enemy properties spread across multiple states. This includes both immovable and movable assets, such as shares and gold.
- Amendment in 2017: Parliament passed The Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2016, which introduced amendments to The Enemy Property Act, 1968, and The Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.
Scale and Geographic Distribution
- Vast Inventory: India currently hosts a significant inventory of 12,611 enemy properties, collectively estimated to be worth over ₹1 lakh crore.
- Revenue Generation: The government has generated revenue exceeding ₹3,400 crore by disposing of enemy properties, predominantly involving movable assets like shares and gold.
- Immovable Properties: Interestingly, no immovable enemy properties have been sold to date.
- Origin Breakdown: Out of the 12,611 properties under CEPI’s purview, 12,485 were associated with Pakistani nationals, while 126 were linked to Chinese citizens.
- Regional Distribution: Uttar Pradesh leads with the highest number of enemy properties (6,255), followed by states like West Bengal, Delhi, Goa, Maharashtra, and others. Notably, several states across India have a share of enemy properties, underscoring the broad geographical scope.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PMGKAY
Mains level: No
Central Idea
What is PMGKAY?
- PMGKAY is a food security welfare scheme announced by the GoI in March 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic in India.
- The program is operated by the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
- The scale of this welfare scheme makes it the largest food security program in the world.
Targets of the scheme
- To feed the poorest citizens of India by providing grain through the Public Distribution System to all the priority households (ration card holders and those identified by the Antyodaya Anna Yojana scheme).
- PMGKAY provides 5 kg of rice or wheat (according to regional dietary preferences) per person/month and 1 kg of dal to each family holding a ration card.
At what rate are food grains provided under the NFSA?
- NFSA beneficiaries are entitled to receive food grains at highly subsidised rates.
- Under the food law, rice is provided at Rs 3 per kg, wheat at Rs 2 per kg, and coarse grains at Re 1 per kg.
Success
- Pandemic mitigation: It was the first step by the government when pandemic affected India.
- Wide section of beneficiaries: The scheme reached its targeted population feeding almost 80Cr people.
- Support to migrants: It has proven to be more of a safety net to migrant people who had job and livelihood losses.
- Food and Nutrition Security: This has also ensured nutrition security to children of the migrant workers.
Limitations of the scheme
- Corruption: The scheme has been affected by widespread corruption, leakages and failure to distribute grain to the intended recipients.
- Leakages: Out of the 79.25 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), only 55 crore have so far received their 5 kg.
- Inaccessibility: Many people were denied their share due to inability to access ration cards.
- Low consumption: Livelihood losses led to decline in aggregate demand and resulted into lowest ever consumption expenditure by the people owing to scarcity of cash.
- Resale of subsidized grains: This in turn led to selling of the free grains obtained in the local markets for cash.
Back2Basics: National Food Security (NFS) Act
- The NFS Act, of 2013 aims to provide subsidized food grains to approximately two-thirds of India’s 1.2 billion people.
- It was signed into law on 12 September 2013, retroactive to 5 July 2013.
- It converts into legal entitlements for existing food security programmes of the GoI.
- It includes the Midday Meal Scheme, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme and the Public Distribution System (PDS).
- Further, the NFSA 2013 recognizes maternity entitlements.
- The Midday Meal Scheme and the ICDS are universal in nature whereas the PDS will reach about two-thirds of the population (75% in rural areas and 50% in urban areas).
- Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and certain categories of children are eligible for daily free cereals.
Key provisions of NFSA
- The NFSA provides a legal right to persons belonging to “eligible households” to receive food-grains at a subsidised price.
- It includes rice at Rs 3/kg, wheat at Rs 2/kg and coarse grain at Rs 1/kg — under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
- These are called central issue prices (CIPs).
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