Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hindu Kush Himalayas
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) called for ‘bold action’ and ‘urgent finance’ to prevent collapse of Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH).
About Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH)
|
Description |
| Geographic Location |
South Asia, spanning Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan. |
| Area |
Approximately 3,500,000 square kilometers |
| “Water Tower of Asia” |
At least 12 rivers fan out in every direction across the Asian continent from it, including:
– Syr Darya and Amu Darya towards the now-dead Aral Sea
– Tarim toward the Taklamakan
– Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra towards the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal
– Yellow river towards the Gulf of Bohai
– Yangtze towards the East China Sea
– Mekong towards the South China Sea
– Chindwin, Salween, and Irrawaddy towards the Andaman Sea |
| Glaciers |
Home to thousands of glaciers, including Mount Everest and K2. |
A Region on the Brink
- Biodiversity Hotspot: The HKH region, characterized by its remarkable biodiversity, is described as a ‘biosphere on the brink’ by experts.
- Scope of Crisis: The speed and scale of habitat and nature loss in the HKH region are deemed ‘catastrophic,’ and urgent action is required.
Alarming Statistics
- Biodiversity Richness: The HKH region boasts four of the world’s 36 global biodiversity hotspots, 575 Protected Areas, and 335 important bird areas.
- Biodiversity Loss: Despite conservation efforts, the region has witnessed the loss of 70% of its original biodiversity over the last century.
- Human Dependence: 85% of mountain communities in the HKH region rely on this biodiversity for food, water, flood control, and cultural identity.
- Population Pressure: With 241 million people residing in the HKH region, 31% face food insecurity, and half experience various forms of malnutrition.
Human Impact
- Threat to Humanity: The declining nature in the HKH region now endangers not only animal and plant life but also human societies.
- Water Tower of Asia: This region, known as the ‘Water Tower of Asia,’ supplies essential ecosystem services, including clean water for one-third of the global population.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Floor Test, No confidence Motion
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The new government has won the trust vote on the floor of the Jharkhand Assembly. A floor test serves as a pivotal check to determine if the executive enjoys the confidence of the legislature.
What is Floor Test?
- Definition: A floor test is a constitutional measure employed to ascertain whether the Chief Minister, appointed by the Governor, commands the majority support of the Legislative Assembly.
- Governor’s Role: The Governor appoints the CM, typically from the party securing the majority of seats in the Assembly.
- Voting of Confidence: If the majority is challenged or questioned, the Chief Minister must seek a vote of confidence to prove the majority among the members present and voting.
- Consequences of Failure: Failure to secure the majority in the floor test necessitates the resignation of the Chief Minister.
- Application: Floor tests are conducted both in the Parliament and state legislative assemblies. They are also utilized in cases of disputes within coalition governments.
Postponement of Floor Tests
- Legal Precedent: Recent Supreme Court rulings have clarified that floor tests need not be postponed even if the decision on the disqualification of rebel members is pending.
- Shivraj Singh Chouhan v/s Speaker Case: The 2020 case involving Shivraj Singh Chouhan established this principle.
- Discretion in Special Cases: In exceptional situations with no clear majority, the Governor can use discretion to expedite the selection of the Chief Ministerial candidate for a floor test.
Composite Floor Test
- Multiple Claimants: When multiple individuals stake a claim to form the government, a Composite Floor Test is conducted.
- Majority Determination: In cases where the majority is unclear, a special session is convened to ascertain the majority.
- Counting the Majority: Majority is determined based on those present and voting. Voting can occur through voice votes or division voting, involving electronic gadgets, ballots, or slips.
- Speaker’s Vote: In case of a tie, the Speaker may cast the deciding vote.
Challenges with the Floor Test
- Luring of MLAs: In some instances, ruling party MLAs may be lured with rewards or incentives, undermining the constitutionality and fairness of the floor test.
- Constitutional and Moral Implications: Such actions are seen as constitutionally immoral and unjust, as they circumvent the Tenth Schedule through engineered defections using the judicial process.
Back2Basics: No Confidence Motion
- Rule 198 of Lok Sabha: The process for a No Confidence Motion is explained under this rule in the Lok Sabha.
- Constitutional provisions: While the Constitution does NOT mention the terms ‘No Confidence Motion’ or ‘floor test,’ Articles 75 and 164 establish the collective responsibility of the executive to their respective legislatures.
- Procedure: Any Opposition member can move a no-confidence motion, which requires the backing of at least 50 members for acceptance.
- Discussion Period: The Speaker announces a date for discussion, which must occur within 10 days from the date of acceptance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Unfair Means in Public Exams
Introduction
- The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, introduced in Lok Sabha, seeks to combat “unfair means” in public examinations and enhance transparency and credibility in the examination system.
- This comprehensive legislation addresses various aspects of unfair practices in public exams and outlines stringent penalties for violations.
“Unfair Means” in Examinations
- Enumerating Offenses: Section 3 of the Bill outlines at least 15 actions that constitute “unfair means” in public examinations, primarily for monetary or wrongful gain.
- Examples: These actions include question paper leaks, unauthorized access to question papers or answer sheets, tampering with answer sheets, providing unauthorized solutions to questions, and conducting fake examinations.
Scope of “Public Examinations”
- Defining Public Examinations: Under Section 2(k), a “public examination” encompasses any examination conducted by designated “public examination authorities” listed in the Bill’s Schedule or notified by the Central Government.
- Designated Authorities: The Schedule includes entities like UPSC, SSC, RRBs, IBPS, and NTA, responsible for various national-level examinations.
- Central Government’s Authority: Ministries and Departments of the Central Government, along with their attached and subordinate offices for staff recruitment, fall under the Bill’s purview.
Penalties for Violations
- Stringent Measures: Section 9 stipulates that offenses are cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable.
- Cognizable Offenses: Authorities can arrest individuals without a warrant.
- Non-Bailable: Bail is not a matter of right and is subject to a magistrate’s discretion.
- Non-Compoundable: Complainants cannot withdraw the case, necessitating a trial.
Punishments
- Individual Offenders: Violators may face imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines of up to Rs 10 lakh.
- Additional Penalty: Failure to pay the fine can result in additional imprisonment, as per the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
- Service Providers: Those providing support for examination conduct can be fined up to Rs 1 crore, along with other penalties.
- Organized Paper Leaks: In cases of organized paper leaks constituting “organized crime,” offenders may face imprisonment for a minimum of five years, extendable up to ten years, and a fine not less than one crore rupees.
Rationale Behind the Bill
- Addressing Rampant Paper Leaks: Numerous cases of question paper leaks in recruitment exams nationwide have disrupted the hiring process and affected millions of applicants.
- Need for Specific Legislation: The absence of a substantive law to address unfair practices in public examinations necessitated a comprehensive central legislation.
- Objectives: The Bill aims to ensure transparency, fairness, and credibility in public examinations while deterring individuals and entities exploiting vulnerabilities in the system for wrongful gains.
- Model Draft for States: The Bill is intended to serve as a model for states to adopt at their discretion, assisting them in preventing disruptions in their state-level public examinations.
Conclusion
- This legislation represents a significant step toward safeguarding the integrity of public examinations in India.
- By establishing stringent penalties for unfair practices and addressing the issue of paper leaks, the legislation seeks to reassure candidates that their sincere efforts will be duly rewarded and their future secured.
- Moreover, the Bill’s potential to serve as a model for state-level legislation enhances its impact in curbing exam-related malpractices.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cabbage Mutation
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- A recent paper sheds light on the remarkable ability to induce sterility in a diverse range of plants, including cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, tomato, and rice. This sterility is achieved through a minute genetic deletion.
- This deletion holds the promise of significantly boosting crop yields through a phenomenon known as heterosis.
Unveiling Genetics
- DNA Structure: DNA consists of two long strands, each comprising four nucleotide bases: Adenine (A), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G), and Thymine (T). These bases form pairs (A-T and G-C) held together by hydrogen bonds.
- Genome Organization: The cabbage plant (Brassica oleracea) genome contains approximately 1.06 billion base pairs distributed across 18 chromosomes. Each chromosome pair, derived from pollen and egg, shares a mostly identical sequence.
- Role of Genes: Genes are well-defined DNA sequences, typically spanning a few thousand base pairs. When expressed, a gene’s segment is transcribed into RNA, which serves as the blueprint for protein synthesis.
- Protein Production: RNA is processed by cellular machinery called ribosomes, directing the assembly of amino acids into proteins.
Role of Sterility in Hybrid Vigor
- Discovery of Ms-cd1: Around 44 years ago, a cabbage plant with a natural mutation known as Ms-cd1 was identified. This mutation rendered the plant male-sterile, with a crucial twist: the eggs of the mutant plant could still be fertilized by pollen from normal plants, yielding normal seeds.
- Hybrid Seeds: All seeds from mutant plants resulted from out-crossing, where eggs were fertilized by pollen from different strains. Such hybrid seeds, also called out-cross seeds, give rise to more robust plants with enhanced vigor, known as heterosis.
- Dominant Mutation: The Ms-cd1 mutation was found to be dominant, meaning its presence in just one chromosome of the pair caused male sterility, regardless of the other chromosome’s status.
- Recessive Mutations: The researchers demonstrated that mutations in both copies of the Ms-cd1 gene were necessary for male fertility. In such cases, the mutations became recessive.
Crucial Missing Base-Pair
- Genetic Mapping: Through genetic mapping, researchers identified a crucial distinction between the mutated and non-mutated Ms-cd1 genes: the mutated gene lacked a single DNA base pair in its promoter region.
- Promoter’s Role: The promoter sequence binds to regulatory proteins that control when and in which cells a gene is transcribed into RNA.
- ERF Binding: In the mutated gene, this missing base-pair disrupted its binding to the regulatory protein ERF, allowing the Ms-cd1 gene to remain expressed, leading to male sterility.
- Fine-Tuning of Protein Levels: Proper pollen development depends on a precise balance of Ms-cd1 protein levels, with ERF binding regulating its expression at different stages of development.
Extending the Discovery
- Cross-Species Applicability: The dominant mutant gene was introduced into other plant species, including rice, tomato, and arabidopsis. In all cases, the recipient plants exhibited pollen developmental disruptions.
- A Promising Tool: The genetic deletion of a single base-pair emerges as a powerful tool to produce hybrid seeds, not only in cabbage but also in various other crops.
- Implications for Agriculture: This breakthrough offers the potential to harness heterosis and enhance crop yields across plant species, addressing global food security challenges.
Conclusion
- The genetic deletion that induces male sterility in plants represents a remarkable stride in agricultural science, offering the prospect of abundant harvests through hybrid seeds.
- This discovery opens new doors for sustainable agriculture and reinforces the critical role of genetic research in addressing the world’s growing food demands.
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Central Idea:
The ongoing crisis in the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) dispute settlement mechanism (DSM), particularly the paralysis of the appellate body (AB) due to the US blocking the appointment of new members, poses a significant challenge to the multilateral trading regime. Developing countries like India are pushing for the restoration of the AB to its original form, but alternative options are being considered due to the US’s reluctance.
Key Highlights:
- The DSM, particularly the AB, is crucial for ensuring compliance with WTO rulings and maintaining a rules-based global trading system.
- The US has blocked the appointment of new AB members since 2019, rendering it ineffective and undermining the enforcement of WTO rulings.
- Developing countries, led by India, are advocating for the restoration of the AB to its original form to ensure fairness and predictability in dispute resolution.
- Alternative options include joining interim arrangements led by the European Union or proposing a diluted AB with limited powers, but these may compromise the effectiveness of the DSM.
- Scholars propose a compromise solution where countries can opt out of the AB’s jurisdiction, allowing its restoration while accommodating the US’s concerns.
Key Challenges:
- The deadlock caused by the US’s opposition to the AB’s functioning has led to a crisis in the DSM, undermining the WTO’s authority.
- Developing countries face the challenge of balancing their desire for a fully functioning AB with the need to accommodate the US’s concerns to maintain consensus within the WTO.
- Alternative solutions, such as interim arrangements or diluted AB proposals, may lack the necessary enforceability or compromise the integrity of the DSM.
Key Terms:
- World Trade Organisation (WTO)
- Dispute Settlement Mechanism (DSM)
- Appellate Body (AB)
- Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA)
- International Court of Justice (ICJ)
Key Phrases:
- “Crisis in the dispute settlement mechanism”
- “Paralysis of the appellate body”
- “Developing countries’ advocacy”
- “Alternative options”
- “Compromise solution”
Key Quotes:
- “The WTO’s DSM — its crown jewel — comprises a binding two-tiered process with a panel and an appellate body (AB).”
- “Consequently, countries have found an easy way to avoid complying with the WTO panel rulings. They appeal into the void, thereby rendering the WTO toothless.”
- “A fully functional dispute settlement, with the checks and balances that the appellate body provides, is the best bet for the developing world.”
- “India and other developing countries should continue striving for the ideal solution: The restoration of the AB in the form it existed till 2019.”
Key Statements:
- “The ongoing crisis in the dispute settlement mechanism (DSM) poses a significant challenge to the multilateral trading regime.”
- “Developing countries are pushing for the restoration of the AB to its original form to ensure fairness and predictability in dispute resolution.”
- “Alternative options may compromise the effectiveness of the DSM and undermine the enforcement of WTO rulings.”
Way Forward:
- Advocate for Restoration: Developing countries should continue advocating for the restoration of the AB to its original form, emphasizing its importance for ensuring fairness and predictability in the global trading system.
- Explore Compromise Solutions: Consider compromise solutions, such as allowing countries to opt out of the AB’s jurisdiction, to accommodate the concerns of key stakeholders like the US while maintaining the integrity of the DSM.
- Strengthen Interim Arrangements: If necessary, explore joining interim arrangements led by entities like the European Union to provide temporary solutions while working towards a more permanent resolution within the WTO framework.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)
Mains level: Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G)
Central Idea:
The article discusses the progress and challenges of India’s sanitation programs, particularly focusing on the Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) and its Phase II. It highlights the importance of behavioral change alongside infrastructure development for sustainable sanitation practices.
Key Highlights:
- Improvement in sanitation coverage in India from 39% in 2014 to 100% in 2019 under SBM-G.
- Launch of Phase II of SBM-G focusing on sustainability and ODF Plus status by 2024-25.
- Challenges including non-usage of toilets due to various reasons such as lack of infrastructure, hygiene issues, and social norms.
- Disparities in toilet access and usage across different states and socio-economic groups.
- Importance of social networks and behavioral change campaigns in promoting sanitation practices.
- Lack of synergy and coordination among various government programs addressing basic needs.
Key Challenges:
- Ensuring sustained usage of toilets post-construction.
- Addressing disparities in access and usage across different regions and socio-economic groups.
- Overcoming social norms and behaviors hindering sanitation practices.
- Lack of coordination among different government programs related to basic needs.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G)
- Open Defecation Free (ODF)
- Total Sanitation Campaign
- ODF Plus
- Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)
- Social norms
- Behavioral change campaigns
Key Quotes:
- “The construction of toilets does not automatically lead to their use.”
- “Sanitation behavior also varies across socio-economic classes.”
- “Behavioral change in sanitation cannot happen independently.”
Key Examples/Anecdotes:
- Survey findings showing reasons for non-usage of toilets in different regions.
- Observations on the influence of social networks on sanitation behavior.
Key Statements:
- “Improvement in sanitation coverage needs to be viewed from the perspective of behavioral change for true sustainability.”
- “Social norms and economic conditions significantly influence toilet usage.”
Key Facts/Data:
- Sanitation coverage improved from 39% in 2014 to 100% in 2019 under SBM-G.
- NARSS-3 reported 95% toilet access but only 85% usage in rural India.
- Around 10 crore toilets were constructed between 2014 and 2019.
Critical Analysis:
The article effectively highlights the progress and challenges in India’s sanitation programs, emphasizing the importance of behavioral change alongside infrastructure development. It underscores the need for targeted efforts to address disparities and overcome social norms hindering sanitation practices. Additionally, the critique of the lack of synergy among government programs provides valuable insight into the inefficiencies in addressing basic needs.
Way Forward:
- Strengthening behavioral change campaigns tailored to different socio-economic contexts.
- Enhancing coordination among government programs addressing basic needs.
- Targeted interventions to address disparities in access and usage across regions and socio-economic groups.
- Continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure sustained usage of sanitation facilities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: United Nations World Food Programme
Mains level: women's empowerment and nutrition
Central Idea:
The article highlights the success of a decentralized approach to tackling malnutrition in Uttar Pradesh by empowering women through community-based micro-enterprises. This initiative, led by self-help groups, focuses on producing fortified and nutritious foods for pregnant/breastfeeding mothers and children, distributed via the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) programme.
Key Highlights:
- Collaborative effort between the Department of Women and Child Development and the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission.
- Decentralized production of take-home rations by women’s enterprises.
- Positive impact on livelihoods with over 4,000 women engaged in 204 self-help group micro-enterprises.
- Re-formulation of take-home rations to enhance nutritional value and address monotony.
- Focus on strengthening demand through diverse and nutritious products.
- Innovation through app-based solutions and QR code tracking for supply chain management.
Key Challenges:
- Ensuring consistent quality and safety standards.
- Overcoming logistical challenges in decentralized production and distribution.
- Addressing potential resistance to change from centralized to decentralized models.
- Sustaining long-term engagement and empowerment of women.
Key Terms:
- Self-help groups
- Micro-enterprises
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
- Fortified foods
- Decentralized production
- Nutritional supplementation
- Livelihood opportunities
Key Phrases:
- Women’s empowerment for nutrition
- Decentralized model for take-home ration production
- Strengthening demand through diverse products
- Innovation and sustainability in food production
- Multi-stakeholder approach for effective solutions
Key Quotes:
- “Engaging women from the community to run the take-home ration production units is a game-changer.”
- “The State-wide expansion of micro-enterprises led by women confirms successful targeting and demonstrates how empowering women can bring about effective and sustainable processes.”
Key Examples and References:
- Collaboration between the Department of Women and Child Development and the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission.
- Use of two pilot plants by the United Nations World Food Programme in Unnao and Fatehpur.
- Expansion to 202 production units across 43 districts, benefiting 12 million ICDS beneficiaries.
Key Statements:
- “This initiative presents an excellent opportunity for women to earn a livelihood and contribute to the local economy.”
- “The re-formulated take-home rations are nutritious and designed to support the health and well-being of children.”
Key Facts/Data:
- Over 4,000 women engaged in 204 self-help group micro-enterprises.
- Aim to generate an additional income of ₹8,000 a month for each woman.
- Products include sweet and savory options like aata besan halwa and daliya moong dal khichdi.
- Expansion to 202 production units across 43 districts, benefiting 12 million ICDS beneficiaries.
Critical Analysis:
- The initiative effectively addresses the intersection of women’s empowerment and nutrition, leveraging community resources for sustainable impact.
- Decentralized production and diverse product offerings enhance accessibility and acceptability.
- Challenges such as quality control and scalability need continuous monitoring and adaptation.
Way Forward:
- Continued support for women’s empowerment and capacity building.
- Strengthening of quality assurance mechanisms.
- Further research and innovation in product development and supply chain management.
- Collaboration with stakeholders for scaling up and sustainability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Non-communicable diseases
Mains level: leveraging technology to empower individuals to manage their health effectively
Central Idea:
Prathap C. Reddy, founder and chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, advocates for India’s transformation into a developed nation by 2047, emphasizing the crucial role of healthcare in this vision. He highlights India’s demographic advantage, technological innovations in preventive healthcare, and the potential for India to lead the world in healthcare delivery and medical value travel.
Key Highlights:
- India’s demographic dividend, with a young population, presents a significant opportunity for development.
- The importance of prioritizing preventive healthcare to address the growing burden of chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
- Technological advancements, including AI and machine learning, are revolutionizing preventive healthcare by enabling early detection and personalized prevention plans.
- India’s healthcare sector is undergoing transformation, focusing on patient-centered care, expanded access, and quality improvement.
- India’s healthcare infrastructure and clinical talent have gained global recognition, making it a preferred destination for medical value travel, particularly in specialized treatments like oncology, cardiology, and robotic surgeries.
Key Challenges:
- Addressing the increasing burden of chronic diseases and lifestyle-related health issues.
- Ensuring equitable access to preventive healthcare tools and services across all segments of the population.
- Scaling up healthcare infrastructure and workforce to meet the growing demand, especially in rural areas.
- Overcoming barriers to the adoption of AI-driven healthcare solutions, including data privacy concerns and regulatory challenges.
- Balancing the need for affordable healthcare with maintaining high-quality standards in a cost-effective manner.
Key Terms:
- Demographic dividend
- Preventive healthcare
- Chronic diseases
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Medical value travel
- Patient-centered care
- Healthcare infrastructure
- Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)
Key Phrases:
- “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India)
- “Health equity for all”
- “Clinical excellence and prowess”
- “Patient at the absolute centre”
- “Medical value travel hub”
- “AI-driven healthcare solutions”
Key Quotes:
- “India’s healthcare sector is at the cusp of transformation, potentially giving rise to a new healthcare model for the world to follow.”
- “Preventive healthcare has touched new possibilities, empowering individuals to take control of their own health.”
- “India stands at a pivotal moment in its healthcare journey.”
- “Every individual and institution in the country should resolve to make India’s progress their priority.”
Key Statements:
- India’s demographic dividend offers a unique opportunity for development, but the health of the population is crucial for maximizing this potential.
- Technological innovations in healthcare, including AI, have the potential to revolutionize preventive care and improve health outcomes.
- India’s healthcare sector has gained global recognition for its clinical excellence, infrastructure, and affordability, positioning it as a leader in medical value travel.
Key Examples and References:
- Success of Apollo Hospitals Group in providing high-quality healthcare services and driving medical tourism in India.
- Impact of technological interventions in preventive healthcare, such as AI-driven risk prediction and personalized prevention plans.
- Growth of medical value travel industry in India, attracting patients from around the world for specialized treatments at lower costs.
Key Facts and Data:
- India’s population exceeds 1.4 billion, with a median age of 29 years, presenting a significant demographic dividend.
- India has over 101 million diabetics and 136 million prediabetics, making it the diabetes capital of the world.
- Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality in India, and cancer incidence is projected to rise by 57.5% by 2040.
- India’s healthcare costs are approximately one-tenth of the global average, making it an attractive destination for medical value travel.
Critical Analysis:
- While the article emphasizes the potential of technological innovations and medical value travel in transforming India’s healthcare sector, it’s essential to ensure that these developments benefit all segments of the population, particularly those in rural and underserved areas.
- The challenge of addressing the growing burden of chronic diseases requires a comprehensive approach, including not only preventive measures but also effective management and treatment strategies.
- Balancing affordability with quality in healthcare delivery is crucial to maintain India’s competitiveness in medical value travel while ensuring that patients receive optimal care.
Way Forward:
- Prioritize investments in preventive healthcare, leveraging technology to empower individuals to manage their health effectively.
- Expand access to healthcare services, especially in rural and underserved areas, through innovative delivery models and infrastructure development.
- Foster collaboration between public and private sectors to drive healthcare innovation and address key challenges in the sector.
- Focus on capacity building and skill development to ensure a competent healthcare workforce capable of delivering high-quality care across all settings.
- Advocate for policies that promote affordability, accessibility, and quality in healthcare delivery, ensuring that India’s healthcare system remains inclusive and sustainable.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ergosphere
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- Rotating black holes, also known as Kerr black holes, possess a fascinating region called the ergosphere, which sets them apart from their non-rotating counterparts.
Formation of Black Holes
- Origin: Black holes are born from massive stars that exhaust their nuclear fuel and undergo a supernova explosion. The remaining core collapses under its own gravitational force, forming a black hole.
- Gravitational Singularity: At the core of a black hole lies a gravitational singularity, a point where the laws of general relativity cease to provide accurate predictions.
- Event Horizon: Surrounding the singularity is the event horizon, a boundary beyond which nothing, not even light, can escape. It acts as a point of no return for anything entering it.
What is Ergosphere?
- Ergosphere Description: Beyond the event horizon, rotating black holes feature another unique region known as the ergosphere. This region extends further out from the singularity, creating an additional sphere around the black hole.
- Name Origins: The term ‘ergosphere’ finds its roots in the Greek word ‘ergon,’ which means ‘work.’ It earned this name due to the intriguing possibility it offers – the extraction of matter and energy from this region.
Characteristics of the Ergosphere
- Intriguing Property: Unlike the event horizon, objects can enter the ergosphere and potentially escape from it, provided they move at speeds less than that of light.
- Acceleration Potential: Some scientists have explored the idea of sending objects into the ergosphere to leverage their unique characteristics. Objects within the ergosphere can gain energy and momentum, effectively “borrowing” some of the black hole’s angular momentum.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kalaripayattu
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- The introduction of Kalaripayattu, a southern Indian martial arts form, into the Khelo India games in 2021 has led to its growing popularity among boys and girls in Haryana.
About Kalaripayattu
- Originates from ancient knowledge of the human body.
- Originated in Kerala during the 3rd century BC, lasting until the 2nd century AD; currently practiced in parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
- Practiced in a ‘Kalari’, a term in Malayalam indicating a gymnasium or a symbolic battlefield.
- The term ‘Kalari’ appears in Tamil Sangam literature, denoting both a battlefield and a combat arena.
- Considered one of the oldest martial arts in the world.
- Known as the precursor to modern Kung Fu, often referred to as the “Father of Modern Kung Fu.”
- Integrates Hindu rituals and philosophies, alongside medicinal practices derived from Ayurveda.
- Incorporates elements from yoga and finger movements from Nata dances.
Weapons used:
Weapons are categorized into four groups:
- Cutting, Slicing, and Piercing: Swords and daggers.
- Pole Weapons: Spears and axes.
- Bludgeoning Instruments: Sticks and maces.
- Projectiles: Arrows, discuses, catapults, boomerangs, and other hand-thrown weapons.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: GST Appellate Tribunal
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Appellate Tribunals, eagerly anticipated to address taxpayer disputes within the six-and-a-half-year-old indirect tax regime, are set to commence operations around July or August.
What is GST Appellate Tribunal?
- The GST Appellate Tribunal is a quasi-judicial body proposed to be established to resolve disputes related to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India.
- It will function as an independent body to hear appeals against orders passed by the GST authorities or the Appellate Authority.
- The tribunal will be composed of a national bench and various regional benches, headed by a chairperson appointed by the central government.
- The proposed tribunal is expected to help expedite the resolution of disputes related to GST and reduce the burden on the judiciary.
Under GST, if a person is not satisfied with the decision passed by any lower court, an appeal can be raised to a higher court, the hierarchy for the same is as follows (from low to high):
- Adjudicating Authority
- Appellate Authority
- Appellate Tribunal
- High Court
- Supreme Court
Need for such Tribunal
- Unburden judiciary: GST Appellate Tribunal will help resolve the rising number of disputes under the 68-month-old indirect tax regime that are now clogging High Courts and other judicial fora.
- Improve efficiency of GST System: Overall, the establishment of the GST Appellate Tribunal is expected to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the GST system in India.
- Independent mechanism: The proposed Tribunal will provide an independent and efficient mechanism for resolving disputes related to GST.
- Avoid tax evasion: It will help to expedite the resolution of disputes, reduce the burden on the judiciary, and promote greater certainty and predictability in the GST system.
Issues with present litigation
- Compliance issues: The GST system is relatively new in India, having been implemented in 2017, and there have been several issues with compliance and interpretation of rules and regulations.
- Complex adjudication hierarchy: The current dispute resolution mechanism involves multiple layers of adjudication, starting with the GST officer and as mentioned above.
- Time-consuming process: This process can be time-consuming, costly, and burdensome for taxpayers, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.
Significance
- The creation of these tribunals had been in the pipeline since the implementation of the GST regime on July 1, 2017.
- The number of pending appeals by taxpayers related to central GST levies had surged to over 14,000 (June 2023).
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Places of Worship Act
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, has once again come into focus due to ongoing civil suits challenging the religious character of mosques in Varanasi and Mathura.
Enactment of the Places of Worship Act
- Background: The Act was enacted in September 1991, during the Babri-Masjid Ram Janmabhoomi dispute, to address issues related to the status of places of worship.
- Objectives: It aimed to freeze the religious character of places of worship as it existed on August 15, 1947, and prevent the conversion of places of worship from one denomination to another.
Key Provisions of the Act
- Continuity of Religious Character: The Act ensures that the religious character of a place of worship remains unchanged from its status on August 15, 1947.
- Prohibition on Conversion: It prohibits the conversion of a place of worship of any religious denomination into one of a different denomination.
- Abatement of Pending Cases: All pending legal proceedings regarding the conversion of a place of worship, initiated before August 15, 1947, would abate upon the Act coming into force, and no new proceedings can be initiated.
Exceptions to the Rule
- Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites: The Act does not apply to ancient and historical monuments and archaeological sites protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
- Settled Disputes: It does not apply to suits that were already settled or disposed of or to conversions by acquiescence.
Status of Ongoing Cases on the Gyanvapi Mosque
- Current Litigation: Ongoing civil suits in Varanasi involve claims by Hindu worshippers asserting their right to worship deities within the Gyanvapi mosque premises.
- Basis for Suits: The Hindu side claims that an old temple of Lord Vishweshwar existed at the center of the mosque compound, demolished by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1669.
- Court Orders: Court orders have favored the position that these suits are not barred by the Places of Worship Act. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted a survey that reported the existence of a temple before the mosque.
Implications of the Act in the Mathura Dispute
- Shahi Idgah Mosque: Civil suits in Mathura pertain to the Shahi Idgah mosque near the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, with claims that it was built over Lord Krishna’s birthplace.
- Challenging Compromise: The suits challenge a compromise reached in 1968 between Sri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan and the Shahi Idgah Trust. The Allahabad High Court has transferred all Mathura dispute suits to itself.
- Act’s Applicability: Court decisions have held that the Act does not bar these suits. In the Mathura dispute, the Act is not applicable as the compromise decree predates its enactment.
Conclusion
- The Places of Worship Act, enacted to freeze the status of places of worship, is facing challenges in ongoing disputes, particularly in Varanasi and Mathura.
- Courts have ruled that the Act does not prohibit these suits, emphasizing the need for a case-by-case examination to determine religious character.
- These developments underscore the complexities and legal interpretations surrounding the Act’s application in the context of evolving disputes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Adjournment of Court
Mains level: Issues with Judicial Functioning
Introduction
- During the Supreme Court’s 75th-year Foundation Day address, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) highlighted four crucial issues within the judiciary that require “difficult conversations.”
- This article delves into these issues and their historical context.
Major Issues with Legal Profession
[1] Problem of “Adjournment Culture”
- Definition: Adjournment culture refers to the practice of lawyers repeatedly seeking adjournments, delaying scheduled hearings.
- Effect on Justice: Prolonged adjournments lead to case delays and contribute to the growing backlog of pending cases.
- Legal Framework: Order XVII of the Civil Procedure Code, 1908 sets rules for granting adjournments, limiting them to three times, with sufficient cause shown.
- Vicious Cycle: Advocates exploit heavy workloads to seek adjournments, perpetuating delays.
[2] Managing Lengthy Oral Arguments
- Constitutional Bench Matters: The court directs parties to schedule oral arguments to avoid repetition in important cases.
- Mixed Success: Past cases, like the Ayodhya title dispute, had lengthy hearings despite scheduling.
- Recent Improvements: Under CJI UU Lalit, a Constitution Bench case involving EWS reservations achieved efficiency through time scheduling.
- US Model: The US Supreme Court restricts oral arguments to 30 minutes per side, considered but not adopted in India.
[3] Alternatives to Extended Court Vacations
- Flexi-Time: Introducing flexi-time for lawyers and judges is suggested, allowing them to choose working hours within a specified total.
- Philippines Example: The Philippines implemented flexi-time for court employees based on valid reasons.
- Historical Suggestions: Past reports and government recommendations aimed to reduce court vacations to tackle case backlog.
- Supreme Court Rules: In 2014, the court limited summer vacations to seven weeks instead of ten.
[4] Ensuring Equal Opportunities for First-Generation Lawyers
- Leveling the Field: The CJI emphasizes providing a level playing field for first-generation lawyers and marginalized segments with the potential to succeed.
- Progress: Over 50% of junior civil judge exam candidates are women, and 41% of Supreme Court law clerk candidates are women.
- Inclusivity Efforts: Initiatives by the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) aim to support diversity, including giving weightage to first-generation lawyers for Senior Advocate designations.
- Judicial Recognition: The judiciary acknowledges the growth and contributions of first-generation lawyers, dismissing claims that recognition is solely based on wealth and proximity.
Conclusion
- The judiciary faces multifaceted challenges, including adjournment culture, oral argument lengths, court vacations, and ensuring a fair platform for first-generation lawyers.
- Addressing these issues requires frank discussions, reforms, and continued efforts to uphold the principles of justice and inclusivity within the legal profession.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fiscal Deficit
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- In her Budget speech, FM revealed the government’s plans to reduce the fiscal deficit to 5.1% of GDP in 2024-25 and below 4.5% by 2025-26, surprising many analysts who expected slightly higher deficit targets.
- This article explains fiscal deficit, its significance, how the government funds it, and the implications of reducing the deficit.
What is Fiscal Deficit?
- Definition: Fiscal deficit represents the gap between a government’s revenue and its expenditure. When expenses exceed revenues, the government must borrow money or sell assets to cover the deficit.
- Revenue Sources: Taxes are the primary source of government revenue. In 2024-25, tax receipts are expected to be ₹26.02 lakh crore, while total revenue is estimated at ₹30.8 lakh crore. Total government expenditure for the same period is projected at ₹47.66 lakh crore.
Government Funding of Fiscal Deficit
- Borrowing: To finance the fiscal deficit, the government borrows money from the bond market, where lenders compete to purchase government-issued bonds.
- Central Banks: Central banks, such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), play a significant role in the credit market by purchasing government bonds in the secondary market, indirectly providing funds to the government.
- Borrowing Amount: In 2024-25, the Centre aims to borrow ₹14.13 lakh crore from the market, lower than the target for 2023-24.
Why Does Fiscal Deficit Matter?
- Inflation: High fiscal deficits can lead to inflation, as the government may resort to printing money to fund the deficit.
- Market Confidence: Fiscal discipline, reflected in lower deficits, can boost confidence among lenders, potentially improving bond ratings and reducing borrowing costs.
- Debt Management: A high fiscal deficit can strain the government’s ability to manage public debt. India’s public debt may rise significantly, affecting the country’s fiscal health.
- International Borrowing: A lower fiscal deficit may make it easier for the government to issue bonds overseas and access cheaper credit.
Future Prospects
- Reducing Fiscal Deficit: The government plans to lower the fiscal deficit to 5.1% of GDP in 2024-25. It aims to achieve this primarily through increased tax collections, expecting a rise of 11.5%.
- Balancing Act: Balancing the budget through tax hikes could dampen economic growth, but achieving the ambitious fiscal deficit target remains uncertain.
Conclusion
- Fiscal deficit, the gap between government revenue and expenditure, holds significant implications for inflation, market confidence, debt management, and international borrowing.
- The government’s plan to reduce the fiscal deficit in the coming years involves a delicate balance of revenue generation and expenditure control.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Higher education in foreign countries
Introduction
- Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education in English-speaking countries, notably Canada and the U.K., are facing increased difficulties due to tightening immigration rules.
- This shift in regulations is affecting various aspects of the admission process and has raised concerns among higher education experts.
Recent Policy Changes
[1] Canada’s Revised Requirements:
- The Canadian government, responding to political tensions with India, revised its requirements in December 2023 to enhance the protection of international students.
- Notable Changes:
- The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) amount, necessary for visa applications, increased from 10,000 Canadian dollars (approximately ₹6.15 lakh) to 20,635 Canadian dollars (around ₹12.7 lakh).
- Canada has limited the total number of study permits or student visas to be issued to 3.6 lakh, down from nearly four lakh.
[2] UK’s Restriction on Dependant Family:
- Starting in 2024, international students in the UK will be prohibited from bringing dependant family members while pursuing their studies.
[3] Increased GIC Requirements in Other Countries:
- Countries like Germany and Australia have steadily raised their GIC amounts by around 10% annually, with Germany requiring 11,208 euros (₹10 lakh) for visa applications as of May 2023.
Impact on Students
- Financial Challenges: The substantial increase in GIC requirements, such as in Canada, poses financial challenges for Indian students, making it difficult to afford living expenses in expensive countries.
- Reduced Visa Accessibility: Canada’s reduction in the number of study permits affects Indian students’ access to higher education in the country.
- Change in Study Choices: The stricter rules have led to changes in study preferences, with some students considering countries like Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the Netherlands, Finland, Taiwan, and Israel as alternative destinations for their education.
Mixed Implications
- Addressing Diploma Mills: Canada’s measures are aimed at curbing the issue of ‘diploma mills,’ improving the quality of education, and discouraging unethical practices by agents.
- Impact on Bachelor’s Degree Seekers: While master’s program students benefit from eased norms, those pursuing bachelor’s degrees in Canada face uncertainty and delays in their visa applications.
Conclusion
- The recent changes in admission rules for Indian students seeking higher education abroad highlight the evolving landscape of international education.
- These alterations necessitate adaptability among students and have sparked shifts in study preferences towards countries with more accessible pathways
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rare Dusted Apollo Butterfly
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- In a remarkable discovery, the elusive Dusted Apollo butterfly (Parnassius stenosemus) was sighted and photographed for the first time in Himachal Pradesh.
Dusted Apollo
- Historical Rarity: Dusted Apollo is a rare high-altitude butterfly, initially discovered in 1890.
- Sighting Details: The butterfly was spotted and photographed in September 2023 during a trek to Manimahesh Lake in Chamba.
- Wide Range: The Dusted Apollo’s distribution extends from Ladakh to West Nepal.
- Altitude Preference: This unique butterfly thrives at altitudes ranging from 3,500 to 4,800 meters in the inner Himalayas.
- Comparing Species: Dusted Apollo closely resembles Ladakh Banded Apollo (Parnnasius stoliczkanus) but exhibits distinct features.
Implications for Conservation
- Rare Find: Dusted Apollo had never been photographed in Himachal Pradesh before.
- Additional Discovery: Another rare species, Regal Apollo (Parnnasius charltonius), was also photographed at Manimahesh, protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- Commercial Significance: Apollo butterflies are commercially valuable and are targeted by poachers, emphasizing the need for conservation.
- Endangered Species: Many Apollo butterfly species are endangered and require immediate conservation efforts.
- Community Awareness: Raising awareness about poaching and the significance of these species is vital for their protection.
- Conservation Measures: Suggested measures include establishing butterfly parks and conservation reserves in the state to safeguard these fragile creatures.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Buffalo and bulbul fights
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- The Assam government’s bid to revive traditional ‘Moh-Juj’ buffalo and bulbul (songbird) fighting during Magh Bihu has encountered a legal challenge from People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in the Gauhati High Court.
- PETA India seeks to ban these activities.
Buffalo and bulbul fights: Age-Old Tradition
- Folk Culture: Buffalo and bulbul fights are part of the folk culture during the Assamese winter harvest festival of Magh Bihu.
- Location: Buffalo fights are prominent in places like Ahatguri in Nagaon district, while bulbul fights are held at the Hayagriv Madhab Mandir in Hajo.
- Religious Significance: Bulbul fights are tied to religion, involving rituals, lamps, and offerings to Lord Vishnu.
- Historical Legacy: The practice has roots in the traditions of the Ahom rulers.
Discontinuation after SC Ruling
- Supreme Court’s Intervention: The fights were discontinued after the Supreme Court’s 2014 judgment banned the use of bulls as performing animals in events like jallikattu.
- Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI): Following the SC ruling, the AWBI urged the Assam government to stop animal and bird fights during Bihu celebrations.
- Resistance: Despite the prohibition, some continued to hold buffalo fights in defiance, leading to legal challenges.
Revival Efforts after SC Clears Path
- SC Ruling in 2021: The Supreme Court overturned its 2014 judgment, allowing states like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka to conduct traditional events involving bulls and animals.
- Assam Government’s SOPs: The Assam Cabinet approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for buffalo and bulbul fights without deliberate cruelty.
- Guidelines: SOPs permit fights in traditional locations, set specific dates, forbid harm to animals, and ban the use of intoxicating substances.
- Revival: Buffalo and bulbul fights were resumed in Magh Bihu, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma supporting the revival as part of Assam’s Bihu traditions.
PETA’s Legal Challenge
- PETA’s Petitions: PETA India filed petitions in the Gauhati High Court seeking a ban on both activities and an interim stay during the proceedings.
- Allegations: PETA claimed that buffalo owners instigated fights through slapping, shoving, and using wooden sticks, resulting in injuries. Bulbuls were allegedly captured and forced to fight.
- Court’s Response: The court heard PETA’s application and noted that organizing buffalo fights beyond January 25 violates government guidelines. It instructed the petitioners to inform the relevant authorities to prevent the event in violation of SOPs.
Conclusion
- The legal battle over the revival of traditional animal fights in Assam reflects the clash between cultural traditions, religious significance, and animal welfare concerns.
- The Gauhati High Court’s decision will shape the future of these practices in the region.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ammonia Emission
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Researchers have harnessed machine learning to provide precise estimates of ammonia emissions stemming from rice, wheat, and maize crops.
- Their dataset allows for a crop-specific assessment of emission reduction potential, suggesting that effective fertilizer management in these crops could decrease atmospheric ammonia emissions from agriculture by up to 38%.
Ammonia Emissions in Agriculture
Ammonia (NH3) emissions primarily originate from agricultural activities, particularly livestock farming and the application of synthetic and organic fertilizers.
- Livestock Farming: Livestock, such as cattle, poultry, and swine, produce ammonia through the breakdown of urea in their urine and faeces. Confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) are major contributors to ammonia emissions.
- Fertilizer Application: Ammonia is released when synthetic fertilizers containing ammonium-based compounds (e.g., ammonium nitrate) are applied to crops. Manure from livestock can also be used as organic fertilizer, contributing to ammonia emissions.
Why it matters?
- Environmental Impact: Ammonia emissions can lead to air pollution, especially in areas with intensive agriculture. It can react with other pollutants to form fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which has adverse effects on human health and the environment.
- Acid Deposition: Ammonia can undergo atmospheric transformation and contribute to acid rain, which can harm aquatic ecosystems, forests, and infrastructure.
- Nutrient Loss: Ammonia emissions represent a loss of valuable nitrogen nutrients from agricultural systems. This can reduce the efficiency of fertilizer use and contribute to nitrogen pollution in water bodies.
Significance of Ammonia Emissions
- Environmental Impact: Atmospheric ammonia is a significant environmental pollutant, affecting ecosystems and human health globally.
- Crop-Related Emissions: A substantial portion of anthropogenic ammonia emissions, 51-60%, originates from crop cultivation. Rice, wheat, and maize are responsible for approximately half of these emissions.
Machine Learning-Based Modeling
- Researchers’ Approach: The study employed machine learning to model ammonia emissions from rice, wheat, and maize farming worldwide. This modelling considered various factors such as climate, soil characteristics, crop types, irrigation, tillage practices, and fertilization methods.
- Dataset Development: To train the model, researchers curated a dataset comprising ammonia emissions data from over 2,700 observations, gathered through a systematic review of published literature.
- Global Emission Estimate: The model’s estimates revealed that global ammonia emissions reached 4.3 teragrams (4.3 billion kilograms) in 2018.
Emission Reduction Potential
- Optimizing Fertilizer Management: By spatially optimizing fertilizer management according to the model’s guidance, ammonia emissions from the three crops could potentially be reduced by 38%.
- Strategies: The optimized strategy involves deeper placement of enhanced-efficiency fertilizers into the soil using conventional tillage practices during the growing season.
Crop-Specific Contributions
- Reduction Potential: Under the proposed fertilizer management scenario, rice crops could contribute to 47% of the total reduction potential. Maize and wheat could contribute 27% and 26%, respectively.
- Emission Projections: Without management strategies, ammonia emissions could increase by 4.6% to 15.8% by 2100, depending on future greenhouse gas emissions levels.
Conclusion
- This study showcases how machine learning can provide valuable insights into ammonia emissions from crop cultivation.
- By optimizing fertilizer management practices, substantial reductions in ammonia emissions from rice, wheat, and maize crops can be achieved, contributing to environmental sustainability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bharat Ratna: India's highest civilian award.
Mains level: Advani's contributions, emphasizing his commitment to Indian values, secularism, and nationalism.
Central Idea:
The article praises Lal Krishna Advani’s significant contributions to Indian public life, emphasizing his role in promoting Indian civilizational values, correcting historical distortions, and fostering national unity. It highlights his quiet yet effective leadership, dedication to a new India, and his instrumental role in the formation and growth of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The author commends the government’s decision to confer the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, on Advani.
Key Highlights:
- Advani’s life mission focused on promoting the glory of Indian thought and building a modern, united nation.
- His extensive travels and yatras played a crucial role in shaping public opinion on critical issues.
- Instrumental in founding the BJP, Advani, along with Atal Bihari Vajpayee, contributed to the party’s remarkable rise.
- Advani’s commitment to a new India, drawing strength from its past and rising to its potential, is highlighted.
- He vehemently opposed historical distortions, pseudo-secularism, and advocated for the right spirit of secularism and nationalism.
Key Challenges: The article does not explicitly mention challenges. However, it may be inferred that Advani faced challenges in steering Indian thought away from historical distortions and in promoting a vision of nationalism that unifies all Indians.
Key Terms/Phrases:
- Bharat Ratna: India’s highest civilian award.
- Yatras: Extensive travels or journeys for a specific purpose, often used in the context of political or religious outreach.
- BJP: Bharatiya Janata Party, a prominent political party in India.
- Pseudo-secularism: The article criticizes false narratives and distortions in presenting the concept of secularism.
- Rath Yatra: A chariot procession, referring to Advani’s national movement in 1990.
- Ram Mandir: Refers to the recently consecrated temple dedicated to Lord Ram.
Key Quotes/Statements:
- “Advaniji emerged as one of the leading voices of India during the 70 years of his public life.”
- “His life’s mission has been to create awareness about the glory of Indian thought and build a modern united nation.”
- “He spared no effort to correct historical distortions and insults to the idea of India.”
- “Advaniji is more a man of deeds and less of words.”
Key Examples and References:
- Advani’s role in launching a Rath Yatra from Somnath in 1990.
- The successful partnership between Advani and Atal Bihari Vajpayee in founding and expanding the BJP.
- Reference to the recently consecrated Ram Mandir and Advani’s contribution to unleashing the power of nationalism.
Key Facts/Data:
- Advani’s public life spanning 70 years.
- The BJP’s parliamentary performance in 1984 and its subsequent rise to a national political force.
- Advani’s role as the Home Minister and efforts to fortify internal security.
Critical Analysis:
The article presents a positive and appreciative view of Advani’s contributions, emphasizing his commitment to Indian values, secularism, and nationalism. It portrays him as a quiet yet effective leader, focusing on tangible results. The author applauds the government’s decision to confer the Bharat Ratna on Advani.
Way Forward:
The article does not explicitly suggest a way forward. However, it implies that Advani’s legacy will endure through the principles and morals he upheld, the leaders he mentored, and the impact of his contributions on shaping the idea of India.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Credit Framework (NCrF)
Mains level: more active role of Higher Education Institutes (HEIs)
Central Idea:
The article advocates for a more active role of Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) in India to enhance students’ employability by incorporating micro-credentials, short-duration learning activities validating specific skills. It emphasizes the need to bridge the gap between traditional education and current job requirements, highlighting the flexibility and accessibility of micro-credentials. The evolving hiring practices, prioritizing skills over degrees, further reinforce the significance of these short-duration learning programs.
Key Highlights:
- Micro-Credentials Definition: Short-duration learning activities proving specific outcomes, offering flexibility for learners.
- Changing Hiring Practices: Shift towards prioritizing skills over degrees in recruitment.
- Industry Players: Various organizations and universities globally providing micro-credentials.
- National Credit Framework (NCrF): In India, a framework outlining learning outcomes and credits for progression.
- Quality Benchmarking: The importance of ensuring consistent quality standards and regulations for micro-credentials.
- Trust Building: Reliable assessment methods critical to fostering trust in micro-credentials.
- Potential Impact: Micro-credentials as a valuable addition to traditional education, enhancing students’ skills.
Key Challenges:
- Quality Assurance: Ensuring consistent quality in micro-credentials to prevent divergence in learning outcomes.
- Regulation: The need for clear regulations to facilitate recognition and endorsement in workplaces and educational institutes.
- Assessment Methods: Developing reliable assessment methods critical for establishing trust in micro-credentials.
Key Terms and Phrases:
- Micro-Credentials: Short-duration learning activities proving specific outcomes.
- National Credit Framework (NCrF): Framework in India outlining learning outcomes and credits.
- Just-in-Time Skills: Acquiring skills when needed, addressing the gap between traditional education and current job requirements.
Key Quotes:
- “Hiring practices are changing, with a tendency to prioritize skills over degrees.”
- “Micro-credentials are evolving as the new normal in higher education.”
Key Statements:
- The article asserts the need for HEIs to play a more active role in enhancing students’ employability.
- Micro-credentials are presented as a disruptive solution to bridge the knowledge gap between traditional education and job requirements.
Key Examples and References:
- Atingi, Alison.com, Credly, Coursera, edX, FutureLearn, Google, Linkedin, Microsoft, PwC, and Udacity are mentioned as organizations providing micro-credentials.
- Reference to the National Credit Framework (NCrF) in India as a guideline for learning outcomes and credits.
Key Facts and Data:
- The National Education Policy 2020 focuses on providing skilled education from school to higher levels.
- Micro-credentials can be one to five credit short modules, aligning with the NCrF.
Critical Analysis:
The article underscores the evolving nature of education and employment, recognizing the importance of skills over traditional degrees. It emphasizes the potential of micro-credentials in addressing these shifts and encourages collaboration between HEIs and industries.
Way Forward:
- Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between HEIs and industries for the development of credit-based micro-credentials.
- Regulation: Establish clear regulations to harmonize micro-credentials with existing academic programs.
- Quality Assurance: Ensure consistent quality in micro-credentials through reliable assessment methods.
- Awareness: Raise awareness among students and employers about the value of micro-credentials in enhancing skills and employability.
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