Why in the News?
India stresses the need for stringent monitoring during a recent review of the loan to Pakistan when the new PM Shehbaz Sharif seeking additional funding support from the IMF.
Background:
- Taking a tough stance, India has batted for “stringent monitoring” of any emergency funds provided by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to Pakistan, stressing that such funds must not be redeployed towards defense bills or repayment of loans from other countries.
- India’s position was put across to the IMF’s executive board during a recent review of an ongoing $3 billion short-term Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) granted to Pakistan by the Fund.
About International Monetary Fund (IMF):
- The IMF works to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity for all of its 190 member countries.
- It does so by supporting economic policies that promote financial stability and monetary cooperation, which are essential to increase productivity, job creation, and economic well-being.
- The IMF is governed by and accountable to its member countries.
Aims and Objectives:
- Furthering international monetary cooperation;
- Encouraging the expansion of trade and economic growth;
- Discouraging policies that would harm prosperity.
Functions of IMF:
- Policy Advice: As part of this process, which takes place at the global and regional levels, the IMF identifies potential risks and recommends appropriate policy adjustments to sustain economic growth and promote financial stability.
- Financial Advice: The IMF provides financial support to countries hit by crises to create breathing room as they implement policies that restore economic stability and growth. It also provides precautionary financing to help prevent crises. IMF lending is continuously refined to meet countries’ changing needs. The causes of crises can be domestic, external, or both.
- Domestic factors include inappropriate fiscal and monetary policies, which can lead to large current account and fiscal deficits and high public debt levels; an exchange rate fixed at an inappropriate level, which can erode competitiveness and result in the loss of official reserves, and a weak financial system. Political instability and weak institutions also can trigger crises.
- External factors include shocks ranging from natural disasters to large swings in commodity prices. With globalization, sudden changes in market sentiment can result in capital flow volatility. Both are common causes of crises, especially for low-income countries.
Significance of IMF monitoring:
- Essential in identifying risks that may require remedial policy adjustments.
- International cooperation on these efforts is critical in today’s globally integrated economy, in which the problems or policies of one country can affect many others.
- Focuses on individual countries or bilateral surveillance, and the global economy or multilateral surveillance.
Conclusion: There is uncertainty around Pakistan’s ability to quickly negotiate a new IMF program after the current one expires in April 2024 remains very high. Pakistan’s government liquidity and external vulnerability risks will remain very high until there is clarity on a credible longer-term financing plan
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indian women in STEM
Mains level: Read the attached story
In the news
- As Women’s Day (8th March) approaches, the spotlight turns to women scientists throughout history who shattered glass ceilings and left indelible marks on the scientific landscape.
- Their stories advocate for inclusivity, diversity, and equality within the realm of science.
- Celebrating Women Scientists: Initiatives like Vigyan Prasar’s resource book profiling Indian women scientists and anthologies like “Lilavati’s Daughters” and “Gutsy Girls of Science” highlight the achievements and struggles of women in science, providing inspiration for future generations.
- Biographical Works: Books like “Janaki Ammal: Life and Scientific Contributions” and “Chromosome Woman, Nomad Scientist” delve into the extraordinary lives of pioneering women like E.K. Janaki Ammal, offering insights into their groundbreaking research and battles against sexism, casteism, and racism.
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Gender Disparity in Indian Science
- Underrepresentation in Leadership: The Indian Academy of Sciences, founded by Nobel Laureate C.V. Raman in 1934, has never been led by a woman scientist. Statistics reveal that women comprise only 14% of India’s working scientists, with a meager 15% representation among faculty members in research institutes nationwide.
- Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize: Over 65 years, only 20 women scientists have been honoured with India’s prestigious SSB Prize for Science & Technology, despite 571 total recipients.
Status of Women in STEM: A Global Perspective
- Global Gender Gap: India’s STEM workforce comprises only 27% women, compared to 32% in non-STEM fields, highlighting disparities in gender representation.
- Research Participation: Worldwide, women constitute only 33% of researchers, with even lower representation in engineering and technology sectors.
- Educational Disparity: A gender gap persists in STEM education, with only 18% of girls pursuing higher-level STEM studies, compared to 35% of boys.
List of Notable Women Scientists mentioned in the News Article
- Gagandeep Kang: Known for her work in the field of microbiology and vaccine development, particularly in studying the epidemiology of rotavirus and other infectious diseases prevalent in India.
- Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw: A prominent figure in the biotechnology industry, she founded Biocon, one of India’s leading biotechnology companies, and has contributed significantly to the development of affordable biopharmaceuticals and healthcare solutions.
- Rohini Godbole: Renowned theoretical physicist known for her research in high-energy physics, particularly in the field of particle phenomenology and collider physics. She has also been actively involved in promoting science education and gender equality in STEM fields.
- Prajval Shastri Majumdar: Notable astrophysicist known for her research on the formation and evolution of galaxies, active galactic nuclei, and black holes. She has made significant contributions to understanding the dynamics of the universe through her work in observational astronomy.
- Kamala Sohonie: A pioneering biochemist, she was the first Indian woman to receive a Ph.D. in the field of science. Her research focused on enzymology and biochemistry, particularly in understanding the metabolism of nitrogen-containing compounds in bacteria.
- Lilavati (referred to in “Lilavati’s Daughters: The Women Scientists of India” anthology): Lilavati is a legendary figure in Indian mathematics, known for her contributions to algebra and arithmetic. Her legacy has inspired generations of mathematicians and scientists.
- Archana Sharma: A renowned cytogeneticist known for her research in understanding chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. She has contributed significantly to the field of genetics and genetic counseling.
- E.K. Janaki Ammal: An eminent botanist known for her research on plant breeding, genetics, and taxonomy. She made significant contributions to understanding the diversity of plant species in India and played a crucial role in the conservation of plant biodiversity.
- Bibha Chowdhuri: A pioneering physicist known for her research in cosmic ray physics and particle physics. She made significant contributions to understanding the properties of cosmic rays and their interactions with matter.
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Significance of Women’s Participation in STEM
- Economic Growth: Women’s involvement in STEM fields can catalyze economic growth, with potential GDP gains of up to 10% reported in studies.
- Gender Diversity: Enhancing female representation fosters diversity and inclusivity, enriching scientific discourse and innovation.
- Targeted Interventions: Involving women in research ensures the relevance and applicability of scientific outcomes to diverse communities.
- Inclusive Decision Making: Women’s perspectives contribute valuable insights to scientific research, leading to more informed decision-making processes.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): STEM empowerment aligns with SDG 5, promoting gender equality and women’s access to transformative technologies.
Challenges Faced by Women
- Implicit and Explicit Biases: Women scientists encounter biases suggesting their unsuitability for scientific pursuits, perpetuating the Matilda Effect wherein their achievements are undervalued, leading to discrimination in perks, promotions, and opportunities.
- Societal Stereotypes: Deep-rooted stereotypes perpetuate the notion that certain STEM fields are inherently male-dominated, discouraging women from pursuing these careers.
- Lack of Role Models: Limited visibility of female role models hinders aspiring women scientists from envisioning themselves in STEM leadership roles.
- Self-Efficacy Gap: Gender disparities in self-efficacy beliefs create barriers for women, affecting their confidence to pursue STEM disciplines.
- Work-Life Balance: Dual responsibilities and societal expectations impede women’s career progression in STEM, necessitating flexible policies and support systems.
- Systemic Discrimination: Bias and discrimination in educational institutions and workplaces perpetuate the underrepresentation of women in STEM.
Government Initiatives for Women in STEM
- STI Policy by DST: The Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy aims to achieve 30% women’s participation in science and technology by 2030, with significant strides in women’s leadership roles.
- Indo-US Fellowship: International collaborative research opportunities empower women scientists to expand their horizons and contribute to global scientific endeavors.
- Vigyan Jyoti: Initiatives like Vigyan Jyoti encourage young girls to pursue STEM education, addressing gender disparities from an early age.
- Gender Advancement Programs: GATI and KIRAN initiatives focus on creating gender-sensitive institutions and providing career opportunities for women in S&T.
- CURIE Initiative: The CURIE program supports the development of research infrastructure in women’s universities, fostering a conducive environment for women’s participation in R&D.
- SWATI Portal: It is aimed at creating a single online portal representing Indian Women and Girls in STEMM. It is a complete interactive database.
Way Forward
- Continued Advocacy: Initiatives and publications spotlighting women scientists serve as reminders of the ongoing need for advocacy and support to address gender inequality in the scientific community.
- Redefining the Culture in STEM: Mandating women’s representation in boards, implementing women-centric mentoring programs, and providing flexible work setups and childcare support.
- Investment in Women-Only Institutions: Establishing women’s technology parks and institutions to address specific challenges faced by women in STEM.
- Paid Internships: Encouraging states to offer paid internships to girl science students, particularly in rural areas, to enhance their participation in STEM.
- Positive Parenting: Fostering supportive environments at home to challenge stereotypical perceptions and inspire young girls to pursue careers in STEM.
Conclusion
- As Women’s Day approaches, reflections on the contributions and struggles of women scientists underscore the importance of fostering inclusivity, diversity, and equality within the scientific community.
- By celebrating their achievements and advocating for systemic changes, we pave the way for a more equitable and empowering future for women in science.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Article 371A, Sixth Schedule
Mains level: Read the attached story
In the news
- A shutdown and protest rally in Ladakh recently demanded statehood for the newly created Union Territory (UT) and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
- This highlights a broader issue concerning governance and autonomy in the region.
Centre’s Offer to Ladakh Representatives
- Article 371-like Protections: MHA offered to extend Article 371-like protections to Ladakh, addressing concerns raised by the Leh Apex Body (ABL) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA).
- Exclusion from Sixth Schedule: While acknowledging concerns, the government opts against including Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule, indicating a different approach to address regional issues.
Background: Ladakh’s Governance Post Article 370 Repeal
- Recognition as Union Territory: Post the repeal of Article 370, Ladakh was recognized as a separate Union Territory “without legislature,” akin to UTs like New Delhi and Pondicherry.
- Demand for Sixth Schedule Inclusion: Organizations like ABL and KDA have advocated for Ladakh’s inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, seeking greater autonomy in governance.
What is the Sixth Schedule?
- Article 244 in Part X of the Constitution outlines a special system of administration for designated ‘scheduled areas’ and ‘tribal areas.’
- The Fifth Schedule deals with scheduled areas and tribes in states except Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram (ATM2).
- The Sixth Schedule focuses on tribal areas in these four northeastern states.
Salient Features of Sixth Schedule:
(1) Autonomous Districts
- Tribal areas are constituted as autonomous districts within the executive authority of the state.
- The governor holds powers to organize and re-organize these districts, including boundary changes and division into autonomous regions.
(2) District and Regional Councils:
- Each district council consists of 30 members, including nominated and elected
- Regional councils also exist within autonomous regions.
- These councils administer areas under their jurisdiction, making laws on specific matters with the governor’s assent.
- They can establish village councils or courts for dispute resolution, with specified jurisdiction over appeals.
- District councils manage various facilities and services within their areas, including education and healthcare.
- They also have the authority to impose taxes and regulate certain activities.
(3) Laws Exemptions and Modifications:
- Acts of Parliament or state legislatures may not apply directly or may apply with modifications.
- The president or governor holds the power of direction in this regard, depending on the region.
(4) Governor’s Authority:
- The governor may appoint a commission to examine and report on matters concerning autonomous districts or regions.
- He/she also has the authority to dissolve a district or regional council based on commission recommendations.
Tribal Areas under Sixth Schedule
- Assam: North Cachar Hills District, Karbi Anglong District, Bodoland Territorial Areas District.
- Meghalaya: Khasi Hills District, Jaintia Hills District, Garo Hills District.
- Tripura: Tripura Tribal Areas District.
- Mizoram: Chakma District, Mara District, Lai District.
Reasons for such Demands in Ladakh
- Cultural Autonomy: Tribes in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram maintain distinct cultures, customs, and civilizations. Unlike tribes in other parts of India, they have not assimilated much with the majority population.
- Meeting tribal aspiration: The Parliamentary standing committee recommended including of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule because its tribal communities account for 79.61% of its total population.
- Autonomy and self-governance: Extending the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh could provide greater autonomy and self-governance to the local tribal communities.
- Cultural preservation: It could also help to protect the unique cultural identity of the local communities and preserve their traditional practices and customs.
Challenges posed by this demand
- Fragmentation: The demand to extend the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh has faced some opposition from certain quarters, who argue that it could lead to further fragmentation of the region and create new administrative challenges.
- Losing political capital: There are also concerns over the potential impact of the demand on the political and administrative structure of the region.
Conclusion
- While stopping short of Sixth Schedule inclusion, MHA’s move demonstrates a commitment to balancing local autonomy with national governance priorities.
- If implemented, it would mark the first instance of special provisions being introduced for a Union Territory, potentially setting a precedent for future governance arrangements in such regions.
Try this PYQ from CSE Prelim 2015:
Q.The provisions in the Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule in the Constitution of India are made to:
(a) Protect the interests of Scheduled Tribes
(b) Determine the boundaries between states
(c) Determine the powers, authorities, and responsibilities of Panchayats
(d) Protect the interests of all the Border States
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Solar Energy Transition
In the news
- Following two years of robust growth, India’s solar capacity additions sharply declined by 44% in 2023, the lowest since 2016.
- What triggered this slowdown, and will this trend persist? Let’s explore.
Solar Capacity Addition in 2023
- Decline in Capacity: India added 7.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar power capacity in 2023, a significant drop from the previous year’s record of 13.4 GW. This marked the lowest levels since 2016, except for the pandemic-affected 2020.
- Large-scale Projects Hit Hard: Capacity additions in large solar power projects declined by over 50% to 5.8 GW from 11.7 GW in 2022. However, rooftop solar power capacity continued to grow by 1.7 GW, consistent with 2022 levels.
- Cumulative Capacity: India’s cumulative solar power capacity reached 72 GW by the end of 2023, with large-scale projects contributing over 60 GW.
Reasons for the Decline
- Regulatory Hurdles: Solar power producers faced regulatory hurdles, including stricter grid connectivity rules and a Supreme Court directive in 2021 mandating the relocation of overhead power cables to protect the Great Indian Bustard habitats.
- Challenges in Compliance: Compliance with amended grid code provisions became more demanding, leading to delays in project execution. Land acquisition challenges also persisted, further delaying project timelines.
Outlook for 2024
- Temporary Setback: The decline in solar capacity addition in 2023 appears to be a temporary setback. The pipeline for 2024 is robust, with 105.3 GW of capacity planned, including an additional 70.6 GW awaiting auction.
- Delayed Projects: Large-scale projects that were delayed and granted extensions from December 2022 to June 2023 will contribute significantly to capacity additions in 2024.
Impact of ‘Make in India’
- Reduction in Imports: India’s solar capacity initially relied on imported cells from China. However, the imposition of customs duties on imported solar modules and cells led to a significant decline in imports.
- Promoting Local Manufacturing: The introduction of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) enabled local manufacturers to participate in government bids. However, the ALMM mandate was suspended until April 2024 to maintain momentum in solar installations.
Alignment with India’s Energy Targets
- Renewable Energy Capacity: In 2023, India’s renewable energy capacity exceeded 180 GW, with solar contributing 40%. Despite missing the initial targets due to the pandemic, India achieved 60 GW of large-scale solar projects a year later.
- Future Targets: India aims to achieve a renewable energy target of nearly 600 GW by 2032, with solar accounting for 365 GW. To meet this target, 30 GW of fresh solar capacity must be added annually for the next 8 years.
Various Policy Initiatives
- Solar Park Scheme (2014): Initiated in, the Solar Park Scheme aims to develop a series of solar parks, each with a capacity of around 500 MW, across various states.
- Rooftop Solar Scheme (2016): The Rooftop Solar Scheme endeavours to harness solar power by installing solar panels on residential rooftops.
- National Solar Mission (2010): The National Solar Mission stands as a crucial endeavor by both the Indian government and state authorities to foster sustainable development and tackle energy security challenges.
- SRISTI Scheme (2018): The SRISTI Scheme is formulated to encourage the implementation of rooftop solar power projects in India, promoting sustainability.
- International Solar Alliance (2015): Formed in 2015, the International Solar Alliance serves as a collaborative platform promoting the adoption of solar energy technologies through member-driven initiatives.
- Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (2019): Launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2019, the PM-KUSUM scheme aims to facilitate the deployment of off-grid solar pumps in rural areas and reduce reliance on the grid in connected regions.
Conclusion
- Despite the temporary slowdown, India remains committed to expanding its solar capacity to meet its ambitious renewable energy targets and contribute to global sustainability efforts.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Digital Markets Act , Gatekeepers
Mains level: Regulation of global tech giants
In the news
- The Digital Markets Act (DMA) marks a significant milestone for the European Union (EU) as it reinforces its role as a global trendsetter in regulating the tech industry.
- With its implementation, six tech giants designated as “gatekeepers” – Amazon, Apple, Google parent Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft, and TikTok owner ByteDance – are required to adhere to new regulations.
EU’s Leadership in Tech Regulation
- Pioneering Regulations: The EU has a history of imposing significant fines on tech giants, enforcing strict antitrust rules, and pioneering norms to regulate social media and artificial intelligence.
- Global Impact: The DMA sets a precedent for tech regulation worldwide, with countries like Japan, Britain, Mexico, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, and India drafting similar rules to prevent tech dominance in digital markets.
Key Provisions of the DMA
- Regulated Services: The DMA targets 22 services, including operating systems, messenger apps, social media platforms, and search engines, offered by the designated tech gatekeepers.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Tech companies face hefty fines of up to 20% of their annual global revenue for repeated violations or potential breakup for systematic infringements.
Implications for Tech Giants
- Shift in Business Practices: Tech giants are compelled to adapt their business models to comply with the DMA, such as Apple’s decision to allow iPhone users to download apps from sources outside its App Store.
- Reduced Monopolistic Practices: The DMA aims to curtail monopolistic practices by providing users with choices for default browsers, search engines, and app sources.
Challenges and Criticisms
- Security Risks: While Apple’s decision to allow app downloads outside its App Store offers more freedom to users, it also raises concerns about potential security risks associated with third-party sources.
- Market Fragmentation: Critics argue that additional fees imposed by tech giants for alternative app sources may deter developers, leading to market fragmentation and hindering competition.
- Consumer Awareness: Despite offering choice screens for default services, smaller players like Ecosia raise concerns that users may stick with familiar options due to lack of awareness about alternatives.
EU’s Vigilance and Future Outlook
- Regulatory Oversight: EU competition Chief Margrethe Vestager emphasizes close scrutiny to ensure tech firms comply with DMA regulations and prevent circumvention of rules.
- Consumer Choice: The DMA prioritizes consumer choice by allowing users to select default services and promoting competition among tech companies.
- Continuous Evaluation: The effectiveness of DMA regulations will be continuously evaluated to address emerging challenges and ensure a fair and competitive digital ecosystem.
Application in India: Unique Considerations
- Market Dynamics: India’s digital market differs significantly from the EU, with distinct internet penetration levels, consumer preferences, and regulatory challenges.
- Debate on Ex-Ante Regulation: The EU’s adoption of ex-ante regulations raises questions about its applicability in India and the need for tailored approaches to address local market dynamics.
- Ground Realities: Legal experts emphasize the importance of aligning regulatory frameworks with ground realities and testing laws in local contexts to ensure effective implementation.
Way Forward: Tailored Solutions for India
- Customized Regulation: India’s DMA should be crafted in consultation with businesses and consumers to address the country’s unique market dynamics and regulatory challenges.
- Pragmatic Approach: Regulatory frameworks must be flexible and responsive to ground realities, ensuring that laws effectively address local needs and promote competition and innovation.
Conclusion
- The DMA represents a significant step towards promoting fair competition and consumer empowerment in the digital landscape.
- As the EU leads the way in tech regulation, the DMA’s implementation will have far-reaching implications globally, shaping the behavior of tech giants and safeguarding consumer interests in an increasingly digitized world.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jim Corbett National Park
Mains level: Issues with Eco-Tourism
In the news
- The recent Supreme Court ruling on tiger safaris in Uttarakhand’s Jim Corbett National Park has ignited discussions on wildlife conservation and tourism development.
- The Court has condemned the unlawful felling of over 6,000 trees for constructing buildings under the guise of eco-tourism.
About Jim Corbett National Park
|
Details |
| Establishment |
Established on August 8th, 1936 (originally as Hailey National Park) |
| Location |
Uttarakhand State, Nainital region |
| Renaming |
Renamed as Ramganga National Park (1954–1955),
Later reverted to Corbett National Park |
| Total Area |
1,318.54 square kilometers (509.09 square miles) |
| Ecological Zones |
Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Sonanadi, Durgadevi, Dhela |
| Conservation Programs |
Included in Project Tiger (1973);
Part of World Wide Fund for Nature’s Terai Arc Landscape Program |
| Flagship Species |
Focus on Bengal tiger, Asiatic elephant, Great One-horned rhino |
| Geographical Features |
Ridges, streams, plateaus, ravines, grasslands, deciduous woods, pine forests |
| Importance |
Designated as Important Bird Area by Birdlife International;
Key role in wildlife conservation efforts |
Court’s Decision on Jim Corbett NP
- Petition against Captive Animal Holding: The Supreme Court addressed a petition opposing captive animal holding in the national park.
- Permitted Tiger Safaris: The Court allowed the establishment of tiger safaris in peripheral and buffer zones with specified conditions.
- Balancing Tourism and Ecosystem Preservation: The Court aimed to maintain a delicate balance between promoting tourism and preserving sensitive ecosystems within Jim Corbett National Park.
Impact of Tourism on Locals & Wildlife
- Tourism as a Livelihood: Locals rely on tourism for income, with transportation, tourist safaris, food centers, and accommodation facilities contributing significantly.
- Infrastructure and Conservation: Tourism infrastructure obstructs wildlife corridors, impacting conservation efforts. The phasing out of Dhikala tourism complex is deemed necessary to comply with legal requirements.
- Animal-Centric Approach: The Supreme Court emphasizes an animal-centric approach over tourist-centric policies to ensure conservation in national parks.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sabari K-Rice, Bharat Rice, Atta
Mains level: Food security, affordability
In the news
- The Kerala government’s decision to introduce ‘Sabari K-Rice’ is seen as a response to the Union government’s distribution of ‘Bharat Rice.’
Bharat Rice and Other Commodities
- ‘Bharat’ Rice refers to the retail sale of rice by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to the general public at a subsidized price.
- Its primary objective is to stabilize markets and ensure affordability for consumers.
- This rice is available in 5kg and 10kg packs priced at ₹29/kg.
- It is distributed through cooperatives such as Kendriya Bhandar, National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF).
- Additionally, it can be purchased from mobile vans and physical outlets of these cooperative agencies.
- Moreover, these agencies also offer ‘Bharat Atta’ (wheat flour) at Rs. 27.50 per kg in 5kg and 10kg packs.
- Similarly, ‘Bharat Dal’ (chana dal / Chickpea) is available at Rs. 60 per kg for a 1kg pack and Rs. 55 per kg for a 30kg pack, along with onions priced at Rs. 25 per kg.
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Sabari K-Rice
- Objective: It aims to provide good quality rice at affordable rates, presenting an alternative to the existing subsidized rice scheme.
- Distribution: K-Rice will be made available through Supplyco outlets, alongside the existing subsidized rice supply of 10 kg per card.
- Quality and Pricing: K-Rice offers high-quality varieties at subsidized rates, contrasting with Bharat Rice sold by NAFED and NCCF at different prices.
- Price Discrepancy: While Bharat Rice sells at ₹29 per kg, K-Rice aims to provide affordable rates, with the state government incurring additional costs to distribute it.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kolkata Underwater Metro Tunnel
Mains level: NA
In the news
- Prime Minister inaugurated India’s first underwater metro tunnel in Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in infrastructure development.
Kolkata Underwater Metro Tunnel
- Kolkata- Howrah Link: Part of the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section of Kolkata Metro’s East-West corridor.
- Distance and Speed: Covers a distance of 8 km under the Hooghly River, with a rapid travel time of just 45 seconds across a 520-metre stretch.
- Station Configuration: Three out of six stations will be underground, enhancing connectivity and convenience.
- Submerged Train Operation: Trains will traverse 26 meters below the river’s surface and operate 16 meters beneath the riverbed.
About Kolkata Metro: India’s First Rapid Transit System
- Overview: Kolkata Metro is India’s first operational rapid transit system, established in 1984, serving Kolkata and its metropolitan region.
- Network Length: It boasts four operational lines, totalling 59.38 km and comprising 48 stations, with three additional lines under construction.
- Infrastructure Mix: Utilizes a combination of underground, at-grade, and elevated stations with broad-gauge and standard-gauge tracks.
- Operation and Ownership: Managed by Metro Railway, Kolkata, and Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation.
- Project Financing: Funded for Rs 4,965 crore through a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
About Hooghly River
- The Hooghly River, also known as the Bhagirathi-Hooghly, is a distributary of the Ganges River in West Bengal, India.
- The river originates at Tribeni, where it splits from the main channel of the Ganges.
- The Hooghly River stretches for approximately 260 km (162 miles), making it a significant water body in the region.
- It served as a crucial trade route during the colonial era, fostering commerce and cultural exchange.
- It hosts iconic structures along its banks, including Howrah Bridge and Victoria Memorial, enrich Kolkata’s cultural landscape.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ayya Vaikundar and his teachings
Mains level: NA
In the news
- Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi sparked controversy with his recent remarks about Ayya Vaikundar, the 19th-century social reformer.
- At an event commemorating birth anniversary, the Governor portrayed him as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, tasked with protecting Sanatan Dharma from the influence of the British government.
About Ayya Vaikundar (1809-1851)
- Born in 1809, Vaikundar is revered as a pioneer of social reform in southern Tamil Nadu.
- His teachings emphasized equality, fraternity, and the abolition of caste-based discrimination, challenging entrenched social hierarchies.
- Vaikundar’s initiatives, such as organizing community eateries for people of all backgrounds and advocating for shared water resources, aimed to dismantle caste barriers and promote inclusivity.
Contributions to Social Equality
- Community Initiatives: Vaikundar introduced revolutionary practices like Samapanthi-bhojana and Muthirikinarus to foster social cohesion and challenge caste-based segregation.
- Teachings: He believed in the concept of “pure love” (in Tamil, “piranthu”) as the ultimate goal of life. According to him, true love is selfless, unconditional, and pure, and it is the key to achieving inner peace and happiness.
- Scriptural References: His teachings are often rooted in Tamil scriptures such as the Tirukkural and the Nalayira Divya Prabandham. He interpreted these texts in a way that emphasized love, devotion, and spiritual growth.
- Community Practices: His followers engage in communal practices such as congregational worship, singing devotional songs (Nadai), and participating in spiritual gatherings known as “Ayyavazhi festivals.”
- Religious Reforms: He advocated for inclusive religious practices, such as Thottu Namam, which symbolized equality before divinity, regardless of caste.
- Educational Empowerment: He promoted education for lower castes, established community worship spaces, and simplified marriage customs to empower marginalized communities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MH 60R Seahawk
In the news
- The Indian Navy describes the commissioning of the MH-60R Seahawk squadron as a pivotal moment in India’s defense modernization journey.
About MH 60R Seahawk
- Maritime Variant: The MH-60R Seahawk is the maritime variant of the Black Hawk helicopter, procured through a 24-aircraft foreign military sales contract with the US government in February 2020.
- Operational Capabilities: It is designed for various operations including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.
- Arsenal: These helicopters offer advanced weapons, sensors, and avionics suite tailored to India’s maritime security needs.
- Armament: Armed with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, MK 54 torpedoes, and advanced precision weapons, the helicopters provide formidable firepower.
Significance
- Enhanced Blue-Water Capabilities: The commissioning enhances India’s blue-water capabilities, extending operational reach across vast maritime domains.
- Maritime Security: It aligns with the PM’s vision of ensuring security and growth for all in the region (SAGAR), reinforcing the Indian Navy’s dedication to fortifying maritime security.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kulasekarapattinam, SHAR
Mains level: NA
In the news
- Prime Minister recently laid the foundation stone of ISRO’s second rocket launchport at Kulasekarapattinam.
- Costing Rs 986 crore, this facility, strategically located in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district, will primarily serve commercial, on-demand, and small satellite launches in the future.
About Kulasekarapattinam
- It will be second after Satish Dhawan Space Centre (Sriharikota Range (SHAR)), founded in Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota in 1971, with two launch pads.
- It will focus on the launch of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) on a commercial basis.
- It would have the capacity to launch 24 satellites per year using a mobile launch structure.
- It strategic location helps save fuel for small rocket launches as the port can launch rockets directly south over the Indian Ocean without requiring crossing landmasses.
Need for such Facility
- Fuel Saving: This is unlike the existing launch site at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, which adds more fuel requirements for launching into a polar orbit as rockets need to follow a curved path to the south to avoid Sri Lanka’s landmass.
- Unburdening SHAR: The opening of the space sector to private players necessitates a rise in commercial launches, prompting ISRO to build a second launchport to alleviate the burden on the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.
- Dedicated Launch for Small Payloads: While SHAR handles larger missions, Kulasekarapattinam launchport will cater exclusively to smaller payloads, including those for commercial purposes and on-demand launches.
Geographical Advantages
- Strategic Location: Kulasekarapattinam provides a natural advantage for ISRO’s future launches, especially for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), due to its geographical, scientific, and strategic positioning.
- Optimized Trajectory: The launch trajectory from Kulasekarapattinam enables a direct southward path for SSLVs, minimizing fuel consumption compared to launches from SHAR, which currently follow longer trajectories.
SSLVs: Purpose and Development
- Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): SSLV is designed to launch small satellites weighing between 10 to 500kg into Low Earth Orbit, catering to commercial and on-demand launches.
- Mission Successes: SSLV-D1’s launch in August 2022 failed to achieve the intended orbit, but SSLV-D2’s success in February 2023 marked a significant milestone for ISRO’s SSLV program.
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