Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Quo Warranto, Writ Jurisdiction
Mains level: Read the attached story
In the news
- In a noteworthy observation, Justice Anita Sumanth of the Madras High Court delved into the complex interplay between caste, societal benefits, and historical contexts while addressing quo warranto pleas against three lawmakers.
- Her remarks shed light on the multifaceted nature of caste dynamics in contemporary Tamil Nadu.
Quo Warranto: A Writ Jurisdiction
- Definition: This legal remedy allows the court to investigate the legality of an individual’s claim to a public office, preventing unauthorized individuals from unlawfully occupying such positions.
- Scope: It applies to substantive public offices of a permanent nature established by statute or the Constitution, excluding ministerial or private roles.
- Applicability: Unlike other writs, Quo Warranto can be sought by any interested party, not limited to the aggrieved party.
Constitutional Provisions
- Authority: The power to issue writs, including Quo Warranto, was bestowed upon the Supreme Court (Article 32) and High Courts (Article 226) by the Constitution.
- Objective: Quo Warranto aims to halt usurpers from wrongfully holding public office and exercising its privileges without lawful authority.
Conditions for Issuing Quo Warranto
- Public Office: The office in question must be public, established by law or the Constitution.
- Permanent Tenure: It should entail permanent tenure not subject to arbitrary termination.
- Actual Possession: The individual against whom the writ is sought must have the office and actively utilizing its powers.
- Disqualification: Quo Warranto can also be issued if a disqualified individual continues to hold the office illegally.
Circumstances for Refusal
- Ineffectiveness: The court may refuse to grant Quo Warranto if its intervention would not alter the outcome or if the situation is deemed inconsequential.
- Non-public Office: If the office in question is private, the writ cannot be issued.
Landmark Judgments
- Jamalpur Arya Samaj Sabha vs. Dr. D Rama (1954): The court declined to issue the writ against a private entity, emphasizing its inapplicability to non-public offices.
- Niranjan Kumar Goenka vs. The University of Bihar, Muzzfarpur (1971): Established that Quo Warranto cannot be invoked against individuals not holding a public office.
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Judicial Insights on Castes
- Caste and State Benefits: Justice Sumanth highlighted the nexus between caste-based divisions and state-provided benefits, suggesting that the fervour surrounding caste issues is fueled by socio-economic advantages conferred by the state on different caste groups.
- Historical Perspective: While acknowledging the prevalence of caste divisions in society, the judge emphasized that the present-day caste system is relatively recent, tracing its origins to less than a century ago, rather than being solely rooted in ancient Varna Dharma principles.
- Varna Dharma vs. Caste System: Drawing a distinction, Justice Sumanth elucidated that Varna Dharma, historically, delineated societal roles based on occupation rather than birth, contrasting it with the entrenched birth-based caste system prevalent today.
Societal Realities
- Cacophony of Castes: Tamil Nadu, with its 370 registered castes, witnesses a cacophony of societal pressures and pulls from various caste groups, reflecting the complexities of caste dynamics in the state.
- Benefits and Ferocity: The judge noted that the ferocity among different caste groups partly stems from the benefits accorded to them by the state, raising questions about the fairness and equity of resource distribution.
Key Recommendations
- Acknowledgment of Past Injustices: While refraining from detailing past atrocities, the judge emphasized the need for acknowledging and deprecating historical injustices, calling for ongoing efforts towards repair and damage control.
- Forward-looking Approach: Justice Sumanth advocated for sincere introspection among lawmakers to evolve methods for correcting injustices and fostering equality in the present and future.
Conclusion
- In her nuanced reflections, Justice Sumanth highlighted the need for a holistic approach towards addressing caste-related issues.
- She emphasized the importance of societal introspection, equitable resource distribution, and leadership accountability in fostering a more inclusive and just society.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Geological Time Scale, Anthropocene Epoch
Mains level: Human Determinism and Geological Time Scale
In the news
- The proposal to declare the start of the Anthropocene Epoch, signifying the impact of human activity on Earth’s geological history, has sparked debate among scientists.
- Despite mounting evidence of human-induced changes to the planet, a recent vote by a scientific committee has rejected the notion.
Understanding Geological Time
- Geologic Time Scale: Geoscientists use the Geologic Time Scale (GTS) to measure Earth’s history, categorizing it into aeons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages.
- Chronostratigraphic Classification: The GTS is based on chronostratigraphic units, marked by significant geological events, shaping the planet’s conditions.
The Proposed ‘Human Epoch’
- Holocene Epoch: The Holocene began approximately 11,700 years ago, following the Last Glacial Period, coinciding with the rise of human civilization.
- Anthropocene Proposal: The Anthropocene concept suggests that human activities have altered Earth significantly, warranting recognition as a distinct geological epoch.
Understanding the Anthropocene Epoch
- Coined Term: The Anthropocene epoch was first coined by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Paul Crutzen and biology professor Eugene Stoermer in 2000.
- Human Impact: The Anthropocene represents the geological time interval characterized by radical changes in the Earth’s ecosystem due to human impact, particularly since the onset of the Industrial Revolution.
- Environmental Changes: Numerous phenomena associated with the Anthropocene include global warming, sea-level rise, ocean acidification, mass-scale soil erosion, deadly heat waves, and environmental deterioration.
- Geological Strata: The AWG’s website states that these changes are reflected in a distinctive body of geological strata, with the potential to be preserved into the far future.
Rejection of the Proposal
- Scientific Deliberations: Despite the Anthropocene Working Group’s proposal, the Subcommission on Quaternary Stratigraphy voted against declaring the Anthropocene epoch.
- Criticism and Concerns: Critics argue against defining the Anthropocene based on recent events, questioning the significance of the proposed start date and the boundary between epochs.
Geological Implications
- Definition of Epochs: The rejection highlights the challenge of defining geological epochs based on human-induced changes, given the traditional criteria for epoch delineation.
- Permanence and Recognition: While the vote does not negate human impact on the planet, it raises questions about the formal recognition of the Anthropocene as a distinct epoch.
Future of the Anthropocene Concept
- Beyond Epochs: Some scientists propose viewing the Anthropocene as an “event” rather than a formal epoch, acknowledging its transformative nature without conforming to traditional geological classifications.
- Relevance and Recognition: Regardless of formal classification, the concept of the Anthropocene underscores the profound impact of human activity on Earth’s systems, shaping discussions on environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Back2Basics: Geological Time Scale
- The Geological Time Scale is a system used by geologists and palaeontologists to divide Earth’s history into distinct time intervals based on significant geological and biological events.
- It provides a framework for organizing and understanding the vast expanse of time since the formation of the Earth, approximately 4.6 billion years ago, up to the present day.
- The Scale is divided into several hierarchical units, including eons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages.
Here is a simplified overview of the major divisions:
(1) Eon: The largest division of time on the Geological Time Scale. The history of Earth is typically divided into four eons:
- Hadean Eon: Represents the earliest stage of Earth’s history, from its formation to around 4 billion years ago.
- Archean Eon: Covers the period from around 4 billion to 2.5 billion years ago. It includes the formation of the Earth’s crust, the emergence of life, and the development of the first continents.
- Proterozoic Eon: Encompasses the time between 2.5 billion and 541 million years ago. It includes significant evolutionary developments, such as the emergence of complex multicellular life.
- Phanerozoic Eon: The current eon, spanning from 541 million years ago to the present. It is further divided into eras.
(2) Era: The second-largest division of time, encompassing longer periods of geological history within an eon. The Phanerozoic Eon is divided into three eras:
- Paleozoic Era: Covers the time from 541 million to 252 million years ago. It is known for the diversification of life, including the appearance of complex marine organisms, fish, insects, and the first terrestrial plants.
- Mesozoic Era: Spans from 252 million to 66 million years ago. It is often referred to as the “Age of Reptiles” and includes the dominance of dinosaurs, as well as the rise of mammals and birds.
- Cenozoic Era: Extends from 66 million years ago to the present. It is sometimes called the “Age of Mammals” and includes the diversification and proliferation of mammals, the appearance of humans, and the development of modern ecosystems.
(3) Period: A subdivision of an era, representing a distinct interval of time characterized by specific geological and biological events. For example:
- The Paleozoic Era is divided into periods such as the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian.
- The Mesozoic Era is divided into periods including the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous.
- The Cenozoic Era is divided into periods such as the Paleogene, Neogene, and Quaternary.
(4) Epoch: A smaller subdivision of a period, representing a shorter interval of time. Epochs are defined by more localized geological and biological changes.
(5) Age: The smallest division of time on the Geological Time Scale. Ages represent relatively brief periods, often defined by specific fossil or rock layers.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nikshay Poshan Yojana , Nikshay Mitra
Mains level: Gendered Lens on TB Care
In the news: Case Study
- The intersection of gender norms, economic instability, and homelessness presents unique challenges in accessing tuberculosis (TB) care for women like Reshma.
- Amidst systemic inequities and societal biases, their journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery is often fraught with obstacles.
- A recent study sheds light on the nuanced experiences of homeless women grappling with TB, urging a reevaluation of existing healthcare frameworks.
Gendered Lens on TB Care
- Reshma’s Story: Reshma, a homeless woman from Jaipur, embodies the complex narratives surrounding TB care. Her journey, marked by societal abandonment and inadequate healthcare, epitomizes the challenges faced by homeless women battling TB.
- Gender Norms and Diagnosis: Patriarchal norms influence the accuracy and timeliness of TB diagnosis for women, impacting their access to healthcare facilities and adherence to treatment regimens.
- Impact of Economic Precarity: Economic instability exacerbates the vulnerability of homeless women, hindering their ability to navigate TB care pathways effectively.
Data Insights and Inequities
- Study Findings: A recent survey in Jaipur highlighted the prevalence of TB among the homeless population, underscoring the dire conditions that facilitate TB transmission.
- Gender Disparities: Homeless women, like Reshma, bear a disproportionate burden of TB infections, revealing systemic gender inequities within TB care systems.
Barriers to Access and Treatment
- Documentation Challenges: Lack of identity proof and access to banking services impedes homeless women’s eligibility for government-sponsored TB care Initiatives, such as the Nikshay Poshan Yojana and Nikshay Mitra.
- Stigma and Social Dynamics: Societal stigma surrounding TB, coupled with patriarchal control over finances, further marginalizes homeless women, hindering their access to nutritional support and treatment adherence.
Navigating Diagnosis and Care
- Diagnostic Delays: Vague symptoms and logistical barriers contribute to delayed TB diagnosis among homeless women, prolonging their suffering and increasing the risk of disease progression.
- Treatment Adherence: Mobility constraints and medication shortages undermine treatment adherence among homeless women, necessitating tailored interventions to address their unique needs.
Way Forward
- Inclusive Healthcare Policies: Recognizing the intersectionality of homelessness and gender within TB care, policymakers must prioritize the rights and well-being of homeless women in national TB eradication initiatives.
- Investment in Care Ecosystems: A comprehensive approach to TB care for homeless women requires increased investment in counselling, tracking, and support services, acknowledging the heightened challenges they face in accessing and adhering to treatment protocols.
Conclusion
- Addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by homeless women in accessing TB care demands a concerted effort to dismantle gender biases, mitigate economic disparities, and foster inclusive healthcare ecosystems.
- By prioritizing equity and empowerment, policymakers can pave the way for a more just and effective TB care paradigm for all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status or gender identity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Health hazards of Skincare Products
In the news
- With the increasing trend of children’s interest in skincare products, concerns have been raised regarding their safety and long-term impact on children’s health.
- Influenced by social media and marketing, parents are seeking skincare routines for their children, often overlooking potential risks.
In this article, we explore the implications of early skincare practices on children and the necessity for regulatory measures to ensure their well-being.
Risks Associated with Children’s Skincare Products
- Vulnerability to Harm: Children’s skin is thinner, more delicate, and less developed than adults, making them more susceptible to adverse reactions from skincare products.
- Exposure to Toxicants: Behavioral patterns like hand-to-mouth activity increase the risk of ingesting harmful chemicals present in skincare products, posing health hazards.
- Biological Susceptibility: Rapid growth rate, developing tissues, and immature immune systems make children biologically more vulnerable to the toxicants present in skincare products.
Insights from Research
- Usage Patterns: Research indicates that up to 70% of children in the U.S. have used children’s makeup and body products, highlighting the widespread exposure to skincare products among children.
- Health Risks: Studies suggest that children’s prolonged exposure to makeup and body products may lead to adverse health effects due to their developing physiology and behavioural tendencies.
Toxins in skincare products can pose risks to health due to their potential adverse effects. Some common toxic ingredients found in cosmetics include:
- Polyacrylamide: Possible acrylamide contamination.
- PTFE: Possible PFOA contamination.
- Petrolatum: Possible PAH contamination.
- Formaldehyde: A known carcinogen.
- Paraformaldehyde: A type of formaldehyde.
- Methylene glycol: A form of formaldehyde
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Regulatory Imperatives
- Medical Concerns: Dermatologists express concern over the unsupervised use of cosmeceuticals by children, emphasizing the potential harm caused by substances like steroids and hydroquinone present in skincare products.
- Need for Regulation: Regulatory measures are deemed essential to restrict the sale of skincare products containing harmful ingredients and protect children from inappropriate products.
Psychological Impact
- Unrealistic Standards: The promotion of flawless complexion as an ideal standard perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards among children, impacting their self-esteem and body image.
- Ethical Considerations: The ethical implications of targeting young consumers with skincare products, without adequate consideration of their long-term effects, warrant scrutiny and regulation.
Way Forward
- Prioritizing Safety: Parents are advised to prioritize safety, simplicity, and skin health when selecting skincare products for their children.
- Return to Basics: Dermatologists advocate for a return to basic skincare practices, including a healthy diet, proper cleansing, and moisturizing, to maintain children’s skin health.
- Functional Necessity: For child performers and those exposed to heavy makeup, gentle cleansing and hydration are recommended to counteract the effects of makeup and protect the skin’s integrity.
Conclusion
- As the children’s cosmetics market continues to grow, it is imperative to address the risks associated with early skincare practices and implement regulatory measures to safeguard children’s health and well-being.
- By prioritizing safety, simplicity, and skin health, parents can navigate the skincare maze for their children and foster a healthy relationship with skincare that values function over appearance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Dalai Lama, Tibetan sects of Buddhism
Mains level: NA
In the news
- The question of reincarnation, typically seen as an esoteric concept, has significant political ramifications concerning the search for a successor to Tibet’s Dalai Lama.
- As the 88-year-old spiritual leader, Tenzin Gyatso, remains in good health, the anticipation surrounding his succession intensifies, particularly against the backdrop of historical and geopolitical tensions.
Who is the Dalai Lama?
- The Dalai Lama (a title) is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism.
- He is believed to be the reincarnation of the previous Dalai Lama and is regarded as an important figure not only in Tibet but also around the world.
- The Dalai Lama is traditionally both the political and spiritual leader of Tibet, but after China’s occupation of Tibet in 1950, he went into exile in India and since then has been primarily a spiritual leader.
- The current and 14th Dalai Lama is Tenzin Gyatso, who was born in Tibet in 1935 and has been in exile in India since 1959.
Brief Outline of Tibetan Buddhism
- Tibetan Buddhism became the predominant religion in Tibet by the 9th century AD, evolving from the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions of Buddhism and incorporating many tantric and shamanic practices.
- It has four major schools: Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug, with the Janang School being one of the smaller schools that grew as an offshoot of the Sakya School.
- Since 1640, the Gelug School has been the predominant school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the Dalai Lama belongs to this school.
Hierarchy and Reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism
- The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth is one of Buddhism’s key beliefs.
- Tibet’s hierarchical system seemingly emerged in the 13th century, and it was around this time that the first instances of “formally recognizing the reincarnations of lamas” can be found.
- The Gelug School developed a strong hierarchy and instituted the tradition of succession through reincarnation, with the fifth Grand Lama of the school being conferred the title of Dalai Lama.
- Several procedures/tests are followed to recognize Tulkus (recognized reincarnations).
Key Issue: Chinese Interference
- Political Intrigue: The announcement of the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation sparks concerns about Chinese interference, as China seeks to control the succession process to assert dominance over Tibetan culture and politics.
- International Ramifications: The Dalai Lama’s reincarnation is not only a spiritual matter but also a geopolitical issue, with international stakeholders closely monitoring developments to safeguard Tibetan autonomy and cultural heritage.
Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:
Q.With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
- The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
- Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment
- Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CBTC-Enabled Driverless Metro Train
Mains level: NA
In the news
- The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is embarking on a significant milestone with the introduction of driverless trains equipped with cutting-edge technology.
- As the first of its kind in Bengaluru, these trains represent a leap forward in urban transportation infrastructure.
About CBTC-Enabled Driverless Metro Train
- Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC): The driverless metro trains are equipped with CBTC technology, enabling seamless communication between trains and control systems.
- Unattended Train Operations (UTO): The trains boast full automation, including tasks such as door operations and train movement, under Enhanced Supervision Capability from the Operations Control Centre (OCC).
- Enhanced Safety Measures: In addition to automation, the trains feature advanced safety protocols to ensure passenger well-being and operational efficiency.
Manufacturing and Design
- Manufacturers: The train coaches are manufactured by CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co Ltd, in collaboration with Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd., as part of the Make In India Initiative.
- Technological Integration: These trains mark the first integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology for track monitoring and safety enhancement.
- Customization for Bengaluru’s Needs: The design and manufacturing process have been tailored to address the specific requirements and challenges of Bengaluru’s urban environment.
Special Features
- AI-Powered Track Monitoring: AI algorithms analyze sensor data to detect anomalies and ensure track safety.
- Advanced Surveillance Systems: Front and rear-view cameras enable real-time monitoring of passenger activities and enhance security measures.
- Emergency Egress Device (EED): Equipped with a user-friendly emergency system to ensure passenger safety during unforeseen circumstances.
- Enhanced Passenger Comfort: The trains are designed with features aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and convenience during travel.
Safety Parameters
- Testing Protocol: The prototype trains undergo a series of static and dynamic tests, including signalling, collision detection, and obstacle avoidance.
- Statutory Approvals: Trials conducted by regulatory bodies such as the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Stringent Quality Assurance: The safety testing process includes comprehensive checks and balances to verify the reliability and performance of the trains under various operating conditions.
Operational Considerations
- Transition Period: Initially, the trains will operate with a human train operator for a transitional period of at least six months.
- Gradual Rollout: Revenue operations will commence with a limited number of trains, gradually transitioning to full-scale driverless operations.
- Training and Skill Development: The transition to driverless operations will involve training programs and skill development initiatives for metro staff to ensure a smooth transition and operational efficiency.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ujjwala Scheme
Mains level: NA
In the news
- In pretext of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Union Cabinet approved the extension of the subsidy under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) for LPG cylinders, offering a subsidy of ₹300 (earlier ₹200) per cylinder for up to 12 refills per year.
About Ujjwala Scheme
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Details |
| Launch |
1 May 2016 |
| Introduced By |
Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas |
| Aim |
Provide clean cooking fuel (LPG) to rural and disadvantaged households, reducing reliance on traditional fuels like firewood, coal, and cow dung cakes. |
| Phases |
- Phase I: Launched on May 1, 2016, aimed to release 8 Crore LPG connections by March 2020.
- Ujjwala 2.0: Aimed to release an additional 1 crore LPG connections, achieved in January 2022, subsequently expanded to release an additional 60 lakh LPG connections.
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| Financial Support |
₹1600 financial assistance provided for each LPG connection to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households. |
| Deposit-Free Connections |
Beneficiaries receive deposit-free LPG connections, including the first refill and a free hotplate. |
| Benefits |
- Eligible beneficiaries receive a free LPG connection.
- Subsidy on the first six refills of 14.2 kg cylinders or eight refills of 5 kg cylinders.
- Option to use EMI facility for stove and first refill costs.
- Opportunity to join the PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh) scheme for direct subsidy transfers to bank accounts.
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Try a similar PYQ from CSE Prelims 2018:
With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements:
- It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
- It, among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, financial and digital literacy.
- It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Skill Qualification Framework.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
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