Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Magnetofossils, Magnetotactic bacteria
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
Scientists from the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa have found in the Bay of Bengal a 50,000-year-old sediment containing giant magnetofossils, shedding light on ancient geological conditions.
What are Magnetofossils?
- Magnetofossils are fossilized magnetic particles created by magnetotactic bacteria, aiding scientists in understanding past environmental conditions.
- Described initially in the 1960s and 1970s, magnetotactic bacteria utilize iron-rich minerals to navigate the Earth’s magnetic field, leaving behind distinctive fossil remnants.
- These unique creatures were first described in 1963, by Salvatore Bellini, an Italian doctor and then again in 1975 by Richard Blakemore of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts.
- These organisms were believed to follow the magnetic field to reach places that had optimal oxygen concentration.
- Using an electron microscope, Blakemore found the bacteria contained “novel structured particles, rich in iron” in small sacs that essentially worked as a compass.
- These magnetotactic bacteria create tiny crystals made of the iron-rich minerals magnetite or greigite, aiding them in navigating changing oxygen levels in the water body they reside in.
Special Attributes of Bay of Bengal Sediment
- Previous studies on magnetofossils often ascertained their origins to be hyperthermal vents, comet impacts, changes in oceanic ventilation, weathering or the presence of oxygen-poor regions.
- Sediments deposited at the core site originate from the Godavari, Krishna, and Penner Rivers, highlighted on the map.
Findings of the Study
- Scientific Approach: In the study, combined magnetic analyses and electron microscopy to study the sediment sample.
- Sediment Characteristics: The three-metre-long sediment core from the southwestern Bay of Bengal consisted mainly of “pale green silty clays,” they wrote in their paper. They also reported finding abundant benthic and planktic foraminifera — single-celled organisms with shells found near the sea bed and free-floating in water.
- Microscopic Revelations: High-resolution transmission electron microscopy revealed the fossil to be in the shape of needles, spindles, bullets, and spearheads.
- Environmental Insights: Earlier, studies of sediments suggested that nearly 29,000 to 11,700 years ago, during the last Glacial Maximum-Holocene period, the northeast and southwest monsoon strengthened and resulted in significant weathering and sedimentation.
PYQ:
Consider the following kinds of organisms:
- Copepods
- Cyanobacteria
- Diatoms
- Foraminifera
Which of the above are primary producers in the food chains of oceans?
- 1 and 2
- 2 and 3
- 3 and 4
- 1 and 4
Practice MCQ:
Which of the following statements is correct about the ‘Magnetofossils’?
- They are fossilized magnetic particles created by magnetotactic bacteria.
- They follow the magnetic field to reach places that have optimal oxygen concentration.
- They are tiny crystals made of the iron-rich minerals magnetite or greigite.
- All of these.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ILO, India Employment Report 2024
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
According to the India Employment Report 2024 released by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Institute of Human Development (IHD), India’s youth account for almost 83% of the unemployed workforce.
About the International Labour Organization (ILO)
- The ILO is a UN agency whose mandate is to advance social and economic justice through setting international labour standards.
- Founded in 1919 under the League of Nations (under Treaty of Versailles) it is the first and oldest specialised agency of the UN.
- India was one of the founding members of the ILO, joining the organization in 1919.
- The ILO has 187 member states: 186 out of 193 UN member states plus the Cook Islands.
- Its international labour standards are broadly aimed at ensuring accessible, productive, and sustainable work worldwide in conditions of freedom, equity, security and dignity.
- The Governing body is the apex executive body of the ILO which decides policies, programmes, agenda, budget and elects the Director-General.
- It meets 3 times a year, in March, June and November.
- ILO has received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969.
Major Conventions of the ILO:
- Forced Labour Convention (No. 29)
- Abolition of Forced Labour Convention (No.105)
- Equal Remuneration Convention (No.100)
- Discrimination (Employment Occupation) Convention (No.111)
- Minimum Age Convention (No.138)
- Worst forms of Child Labour Convention (No.182)
- Freedom of Association and Protection of Right to Organised Convention (No.87)
- Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention (No.98)
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Highlights of the India Employment Report 2024:
- Labour Market Dynamics
- Long-Term Deterioration: The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), and the Unemployment Rate (UR) showed a long-term deterioration between 2000 and 2018, but witnessed an improvement after 2019.
- Education Impact: The share of youngsters with secondary or higher education in the total unemployed youth has almost doubled from 35.2% in 2000 to 65.7% in 2022, indicating a significant shift in educational qualifications among job seekers.
- Challenges and Insecurities
- Informal Workforce: Almost 90% of workers remain engaged in informal work, while the share of regular work declined after 2018, leading to widespread livelihood insecurities.
- Contractualisation: There has been a rise in contractualisation, with only a small percentage of regular workers covered by long-term contracts, exacerbating job insecurities.
- Skills Gap and Gender Disparities
- Skills Deficiency: Despite being a demographic dividend, the report notes a skills gap among India’s young workforce, with a significant percentage unable to perform basic digital tasks or mathematical operations.
- Gender Gap: India faces substantial gender disparities in the labour market, with low rates of female labour force participation and high levels of unemployment among highly educated young women.
PYQ:
2018: International Labour Organization’s Conventions 138 and 182 are related to:
- Child labour
- Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
- Regulation of food prices and food security
- Gender parity in the workplace
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Monuments of National Importance (MNI)
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to remove 18 “centrally protected monuments” from its list of Monuments of National Importance (MNI), citing a lack of national significance.
- ASI currently has 3,693 monuments under its purview, which will fall to 3,675 once the current delisting exercise is completed in the next few weeks.
What are Monuments of National Importance (MNI)?
- MNI in India are legally protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958.
- This act empowers the Centre to declare certain monuments as MNIs through official notifications published in the Gazette of India.
- It mandates the protection, preservation, and maintenance of MNIs to ensure their integrity and authenticity for future generations.
- The Act empowers the central government to appoint authorities, such as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), to oversee the protection and management of MNIs.
Key Features of MNI Protection
- Prohibited Activities: The Act prohibits certain activities within the precincts of MNIs, such as construction, excavation, and removal of artifacts, without prior permission from the relevant authorities.
- Designated Zones: Within a 100-meter radius of the monument, construction activities are prohibited to prevent encroachment and damage. An additional 200-meter radius (100 + 200 meters) constitutes a regulated area where construction is subject to specific regulations to maintain the monument’s integrity and surroundings.
- Maintenance of Records: The Act requires the maintenance of records and registers documenting the history, conservation, and management of MNIs.
Understanding Monument Delisting
- Once delisted, monuments are no longer subject to ASI conservation efforts, allowing for regular construction activities in the vicinity.
- Section 35 of the AMASR Act allows for the delisting of monuments deemed to have lost national importance.
- The delisting process involves official notifications, with a two-month public feedback period to address objections or suggestions.
PYQ:
2015: With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?
- Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
- Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
- Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram
- Varaha Image at Udayagiri
Practice MCQ:
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to remove 18 “centrally protected monuments”. This essentially implies:
- The site will no longer be conserved, protected, and maintained by the ASI.
- Activities related to construction and urbanisation in the area can be carried out in a regular manner.
Which of the given statements is/are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hambantota Port, String of Pearls
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
Sri Lanka’s PM said that China has pledged to develop the island nation’s strategic Hambantota Seaport and the capital’s airport after talks with his counterpart in Beijing.
About Hambantota Seaport
- The Hambantota Seaport, also known as the Magampura Mahinda Rajapaksa Port, is a deep-sea port.
- It is situated on the southern coast of Sri Lanka and lies strategically along major international shipping routes, particularly connecting Asia with Africa and Europe.
- The construction of the Hambantota Seaport began in 2007 and was completed in multiple phases in November 2010.
- Sri Lanka in a controversial move signed an agreement in 2017 wherein a Chinese state-owned enterprise, acquired a 70% stake in the port on a 99-year lease.
How does this port benefit China?
- The port is anticipated to assume a crucial role within China’s Belt and Road initiative (BRI), aiming to connect ports and roadways spanning from China to Europe.
- BRI’s foundation lies in a network of harbors worldwide, positioning China to challenge the United States as the foremost maritime superpower.
- The port forms part of China’s ‘string of pearls’ strategy, potentially encircling India and accommodating its military vessels.
PYQ:
2022: Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news?
- It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea.
- China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea.
- A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities.
- Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries claim them.
Practice MCQ:
Which of the following statements regarding important seaports in Asia are correct?
- Port of Singapore is the world’s busiest transshipment port and a major hub for global shipping.
- Port of Shanghai, located in China, is the busiest container port in the world.
- Port of Colombo in Sri Lanka serves as a major transshipment hub in the Indian Ocean region.
- Port of Yokohama, situated in Japan, is the largest port in terms of cargo tonnage handled annually.
Select the correct option:
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2, and 3 only
- All of the above
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Role of Media in civil society
Why in the news?
Due to the loss of credibility, many institutional news media struggle to establish a factual foundation or maintain control over diverse social narratives, affecting society, media principles, and the Political milieu in India.
The Present Scenario of Discourse in News Media:
- Institutional Crises: Loss of credibility in institutional news media leads to a lack of establishment of factual baseline and narrative control. Without credibility, news media struggles to maintain authority and trust, hindering its role in shaping public discourse.
- Impact on Public Discourse: The rise of social media has decentralized content creation and dissemination. Virality, rather than substance, becomes the primary measure of content value. Prioritization of engagement over quality and veracity distorts public discourse.
- Hyper-partisanship in Media: Loss of credibility in mainstream media contributes to hyper-partisanship. News and content are utilized as tools to promote factional interests rather than fostering dialogue and deliberation. Lack of interest in genuine discourse further exacerbates divisions within society.
- Fragmentation of Attention: The proliferation of media channels leads to the fragmentation of collective attention. A constant stream of transient content makes issues appear less significant. Gaining visibility and capturing attention becomes paramount, overshadowing the importance of substantive dialogue.
- Individual Battles and Tribal Affiliation: Public discourse becomes a battleground for individual interests seeking attention and reinforcing tribal affiliations. Lack of genuine dialogue hampers the evolution of consensus, further polarizing society.
Present Scenario of Discourse in Civil Society:
- Increase in Dependency: Liberal civil society increasingly directs its efforts towards engaging with the state and its institutions. Dependency on the state for functioning compromises civil society’s autonomy and independence.
- Legitimacy Issues: Civil society’s legitimacy is now derived more from normative purity than representativeness. This shift undermines civil society’s ability to truly represent diverse viewpoints and reconcile conflicting interests.
- Undermining Societal issues: Civil society becomes more inclined towards single-issue campaigns rather than engaging in broader negotiation and consensus-building. This narrow focus limits its effectiveness in addressing complex societal issues.
- Bypassing Political Processes: Civil society groups tend to bypass political processes and opt for institutional interventions, such as judicial or bureaucratic avenues, to advance their agendas. This strategy may sideline democratic processes and undermine the role of elected representatives in decision-making.
The Present Scenario of Discourse in Political Parties:
- Internal Focus of Political Parties: Political parties often prioritize internal issues over broader deliberations and policy formulation. This internal focus detracts from the party’s ability to engage in constructive dialogue and address pressing societal issues.
- Unable to play a role: Elected representatives are expected to translate constituency issues into a policy agenda. However, within the party setup, they often lack the power and inclination to do so effectively.
- Uncertain Electoral Payoff: Elected representatives may prioritize direct interventions for constituent services over influencing the policy agenda due to uncertain electoral benefits.
- Complex Electoral Dynamics: Elections involve a mix of constituency, state, and national issues, making it challenging for representatives to effectively represent their constituents’ interests. Candidates often rely heavily on party symbols for electoral success, diminishing the significance of individual policy agendas.
- Power Dynamics within Parties: Decision-makers for party tickets hold significant power within political parties, influencing candidate selection and party direction. Limited institutional positions of power lead to internal power struggles and sycophancy among aspirants.
Way Forward:
- Rebuilding Credibility: Implement measures to enhance transparency and accountability within news organizations. Encourage fact-checking and adherence to journalistic standards. Promote diversity of perspectives in news reporting to rebuild trust with diverse audiences.
- Regulation for Social Media Platforms: Implement regulations to combat misinformation and promote responsible content sharing. Foster partnerships between social media companies and fact-checking organizations to verify information.
- Promote Digital Literacy: Invest in education and public awareness campaigns to enhance media literacy among citizens. Equip individuals with critical thinking skills to discern credible sources from misinformation. Foster a culture of skepticism and verification when consuming news and information online.
- Encouraging Civil Society Engagement: Provide support for civil society initiatives that promote inclusivity and dialogue among diverse stakeholders. Enhance funding and resources for civil society organizations to reduce dependency on the state and encourage autonomy.
- Facilitate Political Dialogue and Reform: Encourage political parties to prioritize policy formulation and public deliberation over internal politics. Reform electoral systems to reduce the influence of party symbols and empower individual candidates with policy agendas.
Conclusion: The broken democratic process is exacerbated by media credibility loss, civil society’s state dependency, and internal party issues. Rebuilding media trust, regulating social media, promoting dialogue, and empowering civil society is crucial for restoration.
Mains PYQ-
Q- How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years? ( UPSC IAS/2017 )
Q- Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organisations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.(UPSC IAS/2021)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Elections; Urban Local bodies;
Mains level: Elections; Challenges to Munciple elections;
Why in the news?
Recently, the SC’s judgment on the Chandigarh Mayoral election gives us a good occasion to think more broadly about elections in municipalities.
Context:
- Elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies are exemplary democratic processes known for their punctuality, well-organized procedures, and seamless transitions of power.
- However, when it comes to elections for grassroots governments like panchayats and municipalities, the scenario is entirely different.
Reports from Janaagraha’s Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems 2023:
- According to the study, over 1,400 municipalities in India did not have elected councils in place as of September 2021. This indicates a significant and widespread issue across the country.
- Delayed elections can have serious implications for local governance and democracy. It can lead to a lack of representation for citizens, hindering their ability to participate in decision-making processes that directly affect their communities.
- Timely elections are crucial for ensuring effective and accountable municipal governance.
Judicial stand:
The delay in holding municipal elections is stated to violate the Constitution of India. As highlighted in the ‘Suresh Mahajan’ judgment by the Supreme Court of India, the constitution unequivocally states that elections to municipalities should not be delayed under any circumstances, emphasizing the obligation of state governments and State Election Commissions to ensure the timely election of local bodies. |
CAG’s performance audit report on unelected Urban Local government councils:
- On delayed Elections: The CAG audit reports of 17 states highlight that over 1,500 municipalities did not have elected councils in place during the audit period of 2015-2021. This indicates a widespread problem across states in conducting timely municipal elections as mandated by the 74th CAA.
- On Council Formation: Even in cases where elections were held, there were delays in constituting councils and electing mayors, deputy mayors, and standing committees. In Karnataka, there was a significant delay of 12-24 months in forming elected councils across 11 city corporations.
- On Long Delays in Council Formation: In Karnataka, reports indicate a 26-month delay in forming councils and electing chairpersons and standing committees for the first 2.5-year term, following the announcement of election results in September 2018.
- Moreover, after the expiry of the first term in May 2023, some urban local governments did not hold elections for chairpersons and standing committees for more than eight months.
- On Regional Disparities: The report highlights regional differences in the extent of delays, with Chandigarh experiencing a relatively shorter delay of 12 days compared to other regions.
- On Data Accessibility Issues: The report mentions difficulties in accessing summary data on the making of councils and the election of mayors, deputy mayors, and standing committees, indicating potential challenges in transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
What are the challenges to Municipal elections?
- Enforcement for Timely Elections: The first challenge identified is the need for determined enforcement to ensure timely elections for urban local governments. Article 243U of the 74th Constitution Amendment Act specifies that the duration of urban local governments is five years, and elections should be completed before the expiry of this duration.
- Non-Compliance by State Governments: Despite the Supreme Court’s clear stance regarding timely elections, state governments are non-compliant.
- Discretion of Government Officials: One aspect of the challenge involves the discretion of government officials in scheduling elections on time. There is a concern that officials may have the discretion to delay elections, which could undermine the democratic process.
- Possibility of Undue Influence: There is a concern about the possibility of state governments exerting undue influence on officials to delay elections for various reasons, which could compromise the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.
- Issue with Manual Ballot Paper-Based Process: The use of a manual ballot paper-based process for elections is also mentioned as a challenge. Such a process may be prone to errors and manipulation, highlighting the need for modernization and digitization of the electoral process.
- Issues with Short Terms: The terms being less than five years exacerbate the challenge of conducting frequent elections. This is particularly relevant as 17% of cities in India, including five of the eight largest ones, have mayoral terms of less than five years.
Suggestive measures:
- Empowering SECs: To deal with the challenges effectively, SECs need to play a more significant role in overseeing the electoral process. Articles 243K and 243ZA of the Constitution mandate that SECs have the superintendence, direction, and control over the preparation of electoral rolls and the conduct of elections to panchayats and urban local governments.
- Empowerment for Ward Delimitation: Only 11 out of 35 states and union territories have empowered SECs to conduct ward delimitation. Ward delimitation is crucial for ensuring fair and equitable representation in municipal elections. SECs should be granted greater authority, including the power to conduct ward delimitation
- SECc Vs. ECI: The courts have emphasized that SECs enjoy the same status as the Election Commission of India in the domain of elections to panchayats and urban local governments under Part IX and Part IXA of the Constitution. This underscores the significance of SECs and their authority in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections at the local level.
- Role in Electoral Oversight: SECs should actively oversee the electoral process, including the preparation of electoral rolls, conduct of elections, and enforcement of election laws. This proactive role is essential for maintaining the integrity and credibility of municipal elections.
Conclusion: Comprehensive reforms are needed for Municipal Elections in India, addressing delays, enforcing constitutional mandates, empowering State Election Commissions, and modernizing electoral processes to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Natural language processing (NLP)
Mains level: Significance of NLP
Context
- We live in a world where therapy is a text away. Natural language processing (NLP), a branch of Artificial Intelligence (AI), enables computers to understand and interpret human language that mirrors human comprehension.
- In mental healthcare, we are already seeing a rapid evolution of use cases for AI with affordable access to therapy and better support for clinicians.
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a field of artificial intelligence (AI) and computational linguistics that focuses on the interaction between computers and humans through natural language.
- The goal of NLP is to enable computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language in a way that is both meaningful and useful.
How does it help patients?
- Privacy and Anonymity: These platforms offer privacy and anonymity, which can encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment or stigma.
- Support and Validation: Chatbots can support users by helping them reframe negative thoughts, validate their emotions, and provide personalized care tailored to their needs.
- Accessibility: Especially when human support is unavailable or inaccessible, these virtual assistants offer immediate support, potentially bridging the gap between patients and mental health services.
- Improved Health Outcomes: Studies suggest that digital therapy tools can be as effective as in-person care in improving patient health outcomes, indicating that chatbots can contribute positively to mental health treatment.
- Continuity of Care: By offering continuous support and resources, these tools help patients maintain a holistic approach to their mental health treatment, potentially reducing instances of relapse.
- Resource Pointers: Chatbots can direct users to resources for coping with various mental health challenges, such as distress, grief, and anxiety, thereby empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward their well-being.
- Scalability and Cost-effectiveness: Being scalable and cost-effective, chatbots can reach a wide audience at any time, making mental health support more accessible to those who may not have access to traditional in-person services.
- Integration into Health Programs: By integrating chatbots into existing health programs, organizations can extend mental health support beyond traditional avenues, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.
How does it help clinicians?
- Comprehensive Patient History: AI tools can analyze vast datasets, including clinical notes, patient conversations, neuroimages, and genetic information, to provide clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s history. This saves time during sessions and ensures that clinicians have access to all relevant information.
- Predictive Capabilities: Recent advancements in NLP programs enable the forecasting of responses to antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs by analyzing various data sources such as brain electrical activity, neuroimages, and clinical surveys. This predictive capability helps clinicians make more informed treatment decisions, reducing the risk of ineffective interventions.
- Streamlined Treatment Decisions: By providing insights into potential treatment outcomes, AI tools streamline treatment decisions, allowing clinicians to tailor interventions more effectively to each patient’s needs.
- E-triaging Systems: Some chatbots are creating e-triaging systems that can significantly reduce wait times for patients and free up valuable clinical person-hours. These systems prioritize patients based on urgency, ensuring that those in need of immediate care receive prompt attention.
- Specialized Care for Severe Mental Illnesses: With improving bandwidth and the assistance of AI tools, mental health providers can devote a higher proportion of time to severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, where specialized care is crucial. This ensures that patients with complex needs receive the attention and support they require.
What’s next?
- Diverse Population-wide Datasets: Companies need to refine their applications by utilizing more diverse population-wide datasets to minimize biases. This ensures that the technology is effective and equitable for all users, regardless of demographic background or characteristics.
- Incorporating Comprehensive Health Indicators: AI programs can incorporate a wider set of health indicators to provide a more comprehensive patient care experience. This includes integrating data from various sources such as wearable devices, lifestyle factors, and social determinants of health.
- Guided by Conceptual Frameworks: It’s essential for the development and refinement of these applications to be guided by conceptual frameworks aimed at improving health outcomes. These frameworks can help ensure that the technology is aligned with the goals of promoting mental well-being and providing effective care.
- Rigorous Testing and Evaluation: Continuous testing and evaluation are crucial to the success of these programs. Companies must rigorously test their applications to ensure effectiveness, safety, and adherence to global compliance standards.
- Prioritizing User Safety and Well-being: Governments and institutions need to prioritize user safety and well-being by enforcing adherence to global compliance standards. This includes regulations related to data privacy, security, and ethical use of AI in healthcare.
- Updating Laws and Regulations: As AI applications in mental health continue to evolve, it’s essential to update governing laws and regulations to keep pace with technological advancements and protect the interests of users.
- Demanding Better Standards of Care: Stakeholders, including patients, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups, should advocate for better standards of care in mental health. This includes advocating for the integration of AI-powered tools into healthcare systems in ways that prioritize patient well-being and improve health outcomes.
Conclusion
AI, particularly NLP, aids mental health by providing privacy, personalized support, and streamlined care for patients. Enhanced by diverse datasets and adherence to safety standards, it empowers clinicians to deliver effective, data-driven treatment.
PYQ Mains
Q- Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC IAS/2015)
Q-Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance? (UPSC IAS/2016)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: COP26 , PMUY
Mains level: Why is black carbon relevant?, Significance of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
Why in the News?
According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India had installed a renewable energy capacity of over 180 GW by 2023 and is expected to meet its target of 500 GW by 2030.
Context
At the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow in November 2021, India pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, positioning itself as a frontrunner in the race to carbon neutrality.
Why is black carbon relevant?
- Cause of global warming : lack carbon is the dark, sooty material emitted alongside other pollutants when biomass and fossil fuels are not fully combusted. It contributes to global warming
- Poses severe risks: Studies have found a direct link between exposure to black carbon and a higher risk of heart disease, birth complications, and premature death. Most black carbon emissions in India arise from burning biomass, such as cow dung or straw, in traditional cookstoves.
Status of Black Carbon
- According to a 2016 study, the residential sector contributes 47% of India’s total black carbon emissions. Industries contribute a further 22%, diesel vehicles 17%, open burning 12%, and other sources 2%.
- Decarbonisation efforts in the industry and transport sectors in the past decade have yielded reductions in black carbon emissions, but the residential sector remains a challenge.
Has PMUY helped?
- Objective of PMUY: The primary objective of PMUY, launched by the Government of India in May 2016, is to provide free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections to households below the poverty line. This aims to offer a cleaner cooking fuel alternative to traditional biomass fuels, particularly in rural and poor households, thereby reducing their dependence on such polluting fuels.
- Infrastructure Establishment: PMUY has established necessary infrastructure to support LPG connections, including provision of free gas stoves, deposits for LPG cylinders, and a distribution network. This infrastructure is crucial for enabling the adoption of clean cooking practices.
- Role in Reducing Black Carbon Emissions: By providing cleaner LPG alternatives to traditional biomass fuels, PMUY has played a vital role in reducing black carbon emissions. This initiative contributes to mitigating environmental pollution and improving air quality, particularly in households previously reliant on polluting cooking fuels.
Challenges and Shortcomings:
Despite its objectives and infrastructure, challenges persist in fully transitioning beneficiaries to LPG usage.
- High gap between LPG connections and actual adoption: In 2022-2023, a significant portion of PMUY beneficiaries, representing 25%, continued to rely entirely on traditional biomass fuels for cooking. This indicates a gap between the provision of LPG connections and actual adoption of clean cooking practices.
- Low Refill Rates and Energy Consumption: RTI data revealed that a substantial number of PMUY beneficiaries availed either zero or only one LPG refill, indicating low usage of LPG cylinders. Additionally, the average PMUY beneficiary household consumes significantly fewer LPG cylinders per year compared to non-PMUY households. This suggests that traditional fuels still meet a significant portion of energy needs in PMUY beneficiary households.
- Health Impacts: The continued reliance on traditional fuels has detrimental health effects, particularly on women and children who are disproportionately affected by indoor air pollution. This leads to various health issues and premature deaths, highlighting the urgent need for increased adoption of clean cooking practices.
- Affordability: Despite subsidies and recent increases(subsidy to ₹300 from ₹200. ), the cost of LPG cylinders remains high for many PMUY beneficiaries. This affordability challenge discourages households from consistently purchasing and using LPG cylinders, especially when traditional biomass alternatives are perceived as “free.”
- Temporary Subsidies: While the government has announced temporary price reductions to address affordability concerns, the sustainability of such subsidies remains uncertain. Temporary measures may not provide long-term solutions to ensure consistent access to clean cooking fuel for beneficiaries.
- Low Refill Rates: Low refill rates persist among PMUY beneficiaries, indicating a gap between initial LPG connections provided and sustained usage. This issue stems from both affordability concerns and challenges in availability and distribution of LPG cylinders.
- Last-Mile Connectivity: Remote rural areas face challenges in accessing LPG due to inadequate last-mile connectivity in the distribution network. This results in continued reliance on traditional biomass fuels, perpetuating indoor air pollution and health risks.
- Alternative Fuel Solutions: Local production of coal-bed methane (CBM) gas presents a potential solution to address the lack of last-mile connectivity and provide cleaner cooking fuel alternatives. Composting biomass to produce CBM gas could offer a sustainable and accessible solution at the village level, reducing dependence on traditional biomass fuels.
- Investment and Infrastructure: Implementing alternative fuel solutions such as CBM gas production requires investment and infrastructure development. Panchayats and local authorities may need support and resources to establish and maintain CBM gas production facilities effectively.
- Rural Empowerment: Empowering local communities, such as Panchayats, to take initiatives in clean cooking fuel production and distribution can promote self-sufficiency and sustainability while addressing rural energy needs.
To resolve the challenges associated with the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) and ensure effective adoption of clean cooking practices, several measures can be implemented:
- Awareness and Education Campaigns: Launch comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate PMUY beneficiaries about the health and environmental benefits of using LPG over traditional biomass fuels. Emphasize the importance of consistent LPG usage and the risks associated with indoor air pollution.
- Subsidy Reforms: Implement sustainable subsidy structures that ensure long-term affordability of LPG cylinders for PMUY beneficiaries. Explore innovative subsidy mechanisms, such as targeted subsidies based on income levels or usage patterns, to address affordability concerns effectively.
- Incentives for Refills: Introduce incentives or rewards for PMUY beneficiaries who consistently use and refill their LPG cylinders. This could include discounts on future refills or loyalty programs to encourage regular usage and reduce the gap between LPG connections and actual adoption.
- Improved Distribution Networks: Invest in improving last-mile connectivity and distribution networks in remote rural areas to ensure seamless access to LPG cylinders for all PMUY beneficiaries. This could involve expanding the reach of LPG distribution centers and leveraging technology for efficient logistics management.
- Promotion of Alternative Fuel Solutions: Encourage the adoption of alternative fuel solutions such as Bio gas production through community-based initiatives. Provide support and incentives for the establishment of Bio gas production facilities at the village level, empowering local communities to produce and access clean cooking fuel.
- Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster partnerships between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and non-profit organizations to address the multifaceted challenges associated with clean cooking fuel adoption. Collaborative efforts can leverage expertise, resources, and networks to achieve sustainable solutions.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress of PMUY implementation and measure the impact of interventions. Regular assessment of refill rates, usage patterns, and health outcomes can inform evidence-based policy decisions and program adjustments.
Conclusion
To curb black carbon emissions, India must address gaps in LPG adoption by PMUY beneficiaries through subsidy reforms, awareness campaigns, improved distribution networks, and promotion of alternative fuel solutions, fostering partnerships for sustainable impact.
Mains PYQ
Q-Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022)
Q- Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth.(UPSC IAS/2014)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- The Union Environment Ministry has notified a set of rules called the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024.
- Elephants, classified as Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972 enjoy special protection, but certain provisions allow for their translocation under specific circumstances.
Existing Regulations on Elephant Transfer
- Legal Framework: The Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972 prohibits the capture or trade of elephants, whether wild or captive, without appropriate authorization.
- Special Provisions: While strict regulations govern elephant transfer, exceptions exist for educational, scientific, or religious purposes, subject to approval from wildlife authorities.
- Amendment: The Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2022 expanded the scope of elephant transfers, raising concerns among activists about potential exploitation and illegal trafficking.
Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024: Key Highlights
- Circumstances for the Transfer of Captive Elephants:
Transfer may be warranted under the following circumstances:
- Incapability of the owner: When the owner is incapable of adequately ensuring the elephant’s welfare.
- Superior Care: If it is determined that the elephant will receive superior care in the new environment compared to its current situation.
- Improvised maintenance: The Chief Wildlife Warden may find it necessary to transfer the elephant for its improved maintenance based on the specific circumstances of the case.
- Transfer Within the State:
- Veterinarian Check: Prior to any transfer within the state, a veterinarian must confirm the elephant’s health status.
- New habitat verification: The suitability of both the current and prospective habitats must be assessed by the Deputy Conservator of Forests.
- Chief Wildlife Warden’s Role: He/She holds the authority to approve or reject the transfer based on these evaluations.
- Transfer Outside the State:
Similar conditions apply for transferring elephants beyond state boundaries in addition to-
- Genetic Profile Registration: Additionally, the elephant’s genetic profile must be registered with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) before the transfer.
- Requirements for Elephant Transfer:
- Accompanying the Master: The elephant must be accompanied by a mahout and an elephant assistant. Adequate provisions for feeding and watering must be arranged during transport.
- Fitness Certificate: A health certificate issued by a veterinary practitioner confirming fitness for transport is obligatory.
- Quarantine Mandate: Transport should commence after the completion of any required quarantine period for contagious diseases.
- Refreshment: Tranquillisers or sedatives: This may be administered to manage nervous or temperamental elephants as prescribed by the veterinary practitioner.
PYQ:
2020: With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:
- The leader of an elephant group is a female.
- The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
- An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
- Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 4 only
- 3 only
- 1, 3 and 4 only
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the Captive Elephant Transfer Rules, 2024 recently notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India (MoEFCC), consider the following statements:
- For transferring outside of a state, an elephant’s genetic profile must be registered with the Environment Ministry before the transfer.
- The authority to approve or reject the transfer vests with the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.
Which of the given statements is/are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kalyana Chalukya, their administration, arts, architecture etc.
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
A 900-year-old Kannada inscription from the Kalyana Chalukya dynasty has been discovered in a state of neglect at Gangapuram, a temple town in Jadcherla mandal, Mahabubnagar, Telangana.
- The inscription dates back to June 8, 1134 CE (Friday) and was issued by the Customs Officers of Tailapa-III, son of Kalyana Chalukya Emperor ‘Bhulokamalla’ Someswara-III.
- It records the remission of toll taxes for the perpetual lamp and incense of God Somanatha.
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Who were the Chalukyas?
Origin and Expansion:
- The Chalukyas emerged as a prominent dynasty in the 6th century CE, with their capital at Badami in present-day Karnataka.
- Pulakeshin I, the founder of the dynasty, ascended to the throne around 543 CE and expanded the empire by defeating the Kadambas, Mauryas, and other neighboring kingdoms.
- Pulakeshin II, one of the most illustrious rulers of the Chalukyan Empire, ascended the throne in 610 CE and significantly expanded its territory through military conquests and diplomatic alliances.
- The empire reached its zenith under Pulakeshin II, extending its influence over large parts of Southern and Central India, including present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh.
Dynastic Divisions:
- The Chalukyan Empire witnessed the emergence of multiple dynastic branches, including the Badami Chalukyas, Western Chalukyas (also known as the Later Chalukyas), and Eastern Chalukyas (also known as the Chalukyas of Vengi).
- Badami Chalukyas ruled from their capital at Badami and were known for their contributions to art, architecture, and literature.
- Western Chalukyas, based in Kalyani (present-day Basavakalyan), continued the legacy of their predecessors and established their dominance over parts of present-day Karnataka and Maharashtra.
- Eastern Chalukyas, based in Vengi (present-day Andhra Pradesh), carved out their own kingdom and played a crucial role in the political dynamics of South India.
Religion and Faith:
- The Chalukyas were patrons of art, literature, and architecture, fostering a rich cultural environment within their empire.
- They promoted Hinduism as the dominant religion and contributed to the construction of numerous temples dedicated to Hindu deities, including the famous Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal.
- The Chalukyas also patronized Jainism and Buddhism, leading to the construction of Jain caves and monasteries in regions under their control.
Decline and Legacy:
- The Chalukyan Empire faced internal conflicts, dynastic rivalries, and external invasions, leading to its gradual decline from the 12th century onwards.
- The defeat of Vikramaditya VI by the Cholas in the 12th century marked the end of the Western Chalukya dynasty, while the Eastern Chalukyas continued to rule in Vengi until the 13th century.
Administration:
- The empire was divided into administrative units known as ‘Rashtras or Mandalas’, each governed by a local administrative officer known as a ‘Mandaleshwara’.
- At the higher levels of administration, provincial governors known as ‘Rashtrakutas’ were appointed to oversee multiple mandalas and report directly to the king.
- Revenue administration played a crucial role in sustaining the empire, with land revenue being the primary source of income. The empire maintained a sophisticated system of land measurement and taxation to ensure a steady flow of revenue.
Arts and Culture:
- Sculpture flourished under the patronage of the Chalukya rulers, with exquisite examples of stone carvings adorning temple complexes and royal monuments.
- The famous Nataraja sculpture at Pattadakal, depicting Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance pose, is a masterpiece of Chalukyan art.
- Pampa, a court poet of the Chalukyas, composed the epic poem “Vikramarjuna Vijaya” (also known as “Pampa Bharata” or “Pampa Ramayana”) in Kannada, narrating the story of the Mahabharata from the perspective of Arjuna.
- The Chalukyan era witnessed the development of classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, as evidenced by sculptures found in temples such as the Mallikarjuna Temple at Pattadakal.
- Ranna, a prominent Kannada poet of the Chalukyan period, composed the “Ajita Tirthankara Purana,” an epic poem celebrating the lives of the Jain Tirthankaras.
Architecture:
- Chalukyan temples are architectural marvels, characterized by their distinctive Dravidian and Nagara styles collectively called the ‘Gadag Style’ .
- The Virupaksha Temple at Pattadakal, built by the Chalukyan king Vikramaditya II in the 8th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate carvings and towering gopurams (entrance gateways).
- Similarly, the Durga Temple at Aihole, dating back to the 7th century, showcases exemplary Chalukyan architecture with its ornate pillars and sculpted panels depicting Hindu deities and mythological scenes.
PYQ:
2019: Building ‘Kalyaana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of
- Chalukya
- Chandela
- Rashtrakuta
- Vijayanagara
Practice MCQ:
The ‘Gadag Style’ of Temple Architecture is associated with which of the following dynasties?
- Chalukya
- Kakatiya
- Rashtrakuta
- Kadamba
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Laws governing Loans/Lending in India
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has undertaken rigorous regulatory actions to address lenders’ over-exuberance, enhance compliance culture, and protect customers.
RBI’s Regulatory Actions: An Overview
- Recent Examples: Recent regulatory moves by the RBI, such as restraining lending by IIFL Finance and JM Financial Products, and implementing restrictions on customer onboarding at Paytm Payments Bank, mark a departure from historically nominal financial penalties.
- Implications: S&P Global Ratings predicts that these actions will escalate the cost of capital and moderate loan growth in the fiscal year 2024-25, projecting a decrease from 16% to 14%.
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How RBI regulates Lenders in India?
- Licensing and Regulation:
- The Banking Regulation Act, 1949 empowers RBI to grant licenses to banks and regulate their operations.
- Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) are regulated under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934 and governed by guidelines issued by RBI under Section 45-IA of the RBI Act.
- Prudential Regulations:
- RBI issues prudential regulations under various Acts, including the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and the RBI Act, 1934.
- These regulations include guidelines on capital adequacy (Basel III norms), asset classification, provisioning norms, liquidity management, exposure limits, and risk management practices.
- Non-compliance with these regulations may attract penalties or other enforcement actions under the relevant Acts.
- Supervision and Monitoring:
- RBI conducts supervision and monitoring of banks and NBFCs under Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and Section 45L of the RBI Act, 1934.
- It has the authority to conduct on-site inspections, off-site surveillance, and review financial reports to assess compliance with regulatory requirements.
- RBI may issue directives, guidelines, or corrective actions under Section 35A and Section 45L to address deficiencies identified during supervision.
- Policy Framework:
- Monetary policy frameworks are governed by the RBI Act, 1934 and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, which empower RBI to formulate and implement monetary policies.
- RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) sets key policy rates such as the repo rate, reverse repo rate, and statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) to regulate credit flow, inflation, and overall economic conditions.
- Consumer Protection:
- RBI issues guidelines under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and the RBI Act, 1934 to ensure fair practices and consumer protection in banking and NBFC operations.
- The Banking Ombudsman Scheme, 2006 provides a mechanism for redressal of customer grievances against banks.
- Violations of consumer protection norms may result in penalties or enforcement actions under the relevant Acts.
- Financial Stability:
- RBI’s mandate to maintain financial stability is enshrined in the RBI Act, 1934.
- It monitors systemic risks, including interconnectedness among lenders, under Section 45J of the RBI Act, 1934, and takes measures to mitigate risks to financial stability.
- RBI may intervene in the interest of financial stability under Section 45W of the RBI Act, 1934, to prevent disruptions to the functioning of the financial system.
PYQ:
2012: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) acts as a bankers’ bank. This would imply which of the following?
- Banks retain their deposits with the RBI.
- The RBI lends funds to the commercial banks in times of need.
- The RBI advises the commercial banks on monetary matters.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements regarding ‘Payment Banks’ in India:
- Payment Banks have the authority to accept demand deposits but are prohibited from issuing credit cards, disbursing loans, offering mutual funds units, and providing insurance products.
- Unlike scheduled commercial banks, Payment Banks are exempted from the obligation to maintain a cash reserve ratio with the Reserve Bank.
- Payment Banks are mandated to invest a minimum of 75% of their demand deposit balances in Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) eligible Government securities/treasury bills.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and its management
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- The Karnataka government has approached the Supreme Court against the Union government, seeking the release of drought relief funds from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
- This disagreement marks the second major dispute after alleged ‘injustice’ in tax devolution and other allocations.
Extent of Drought and Water Scarcity in Karnataka
- Rainfall Deficit: During the last monsoon season, Karnataka experienced significant rainfall deficits, exacerbating the drought situation and affecting agricultural productivity.
- Drought conditions: Karnataka faces extensive drought conditions, with 223 out of 236 taluks (mandals) declared as drought-hit areas, resulting in substantial crop loss.
- Compensation Sought: The state has sought substantial financial assistance from the Centre, amounting to Rs 18,171 crores, to address the damages caused by drought.
Karnataka’s Writ Petition to the Supreme Court
- Legal Action: Karnataka’s petition under Article 32 of the Constitution seeks relief against the Union government’s alleged inaction in providing financial assistance for drought management.
- Basis of Petition: The petition argues that the delay in releasing funds violates fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, pertaining to equality before the law and protection of life and personal liberty.
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What is National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)?
- The NDRF is a statutory body constituted under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
- It supplements State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) of a State, in case of a disaster of severe nature, provided adequate funds are not available in SDRF.
- The July 2015 guidelines states that natural calamities of cyclone, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslide, avalanche, cloud burst, pest attack and cold wave and frost will qualify for immediate relief assistance from NDRF.
- NDRF is managed in the “Public Accounts” under “Reserve Funds not bearing interest”.
- The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) audits the accounts of NDRF.
Disaster Relief for Indian states
- Under the 2005 Disaster Management Act, there is no definition of disasters.
- It can include any event arising from natural or man-made causes that can severely disrupt life for people, going beyond their coping capacity.
- The 15th Finance Commission introduced a new methodology for state-wise allocations, considering factors like past expenditure, risk exposure, hazard, and vulnerability.
Institutional Mechanism
- States have the State Disaster Relief Funds (SDRF).
- The Centre contributes 75% of the funds (and 90% for Himalayan and NE states) and states contribute the remainder.
- The total amount is decided as part of the budgetary allocations and released periodically by the Centre.
In case a state needs the Centre’s assistance, it must follow a procedure:
- It should detail the extent of the damage in a memorandum and submit it
- If this is acknowledged by Centre, an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) conducts on-ground inspections to survey the damage
- A National Executive Team analyses the IMCT report
- Based on its recommendations, a High Level Committee shall approve the release of immediate relief from NDRF.
Additionally, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs oversees the utilisation of NDRF releases.
PYQ:
2014: Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements about National Disaster response fund (NDRF):
- NDRF is a part of consolidated fund of India.
- Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) audits the accounts of NDRF.
Which among the above statements is/are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Krishi ICCC
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
Agriculture Minister has recently inaugurated the Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi.
What is Krishi ICCC?
- The ICCC incorporates multiple IT applications and platforms to provide actionable insights and aid informed decision-making.
- 8 large LED screens display crucial information such as crop yields, production, drought situation, cropping patterns, and relevant trends in graphical format.
- The dashboard offers insights, alerts, and feedback on agriculture schemes, programs, projects, and initiatives, empowering stakeholders with comprehensive information.
Data used by Krishi ICCC
The ICCC will enable comprehensive monitoring of the farm sector by making available at one place geospatial information received from multiple sources such as:
- Plot-level data received through Soil Survey;
- Weather data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD);
- Sowing data from Digital Crop Survey;
- Farmer- and farm-related data from Krishi MApper, an application for geo-fencing and geo-tagging of land;
- Market intelligence information from the Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics (UPAg); and
- Yield estimation data from the General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES).
Objectives and Functionality
- Comprehensive Monitoring: The ICCC aims to enable comprehensive monitoring of the farm sector by consolidating geospatial information from various sources, including remote sensing, weather data, soil surveys, and market intelligence.
- Decision Support: Integrated visualization facilitates quick and efficient decision-making by policymakers and stakeholders, supported by real-time data and analysis.
Farmer-Specific Advisories and Practical Applications
- Individual Farmer Advisories: The ICCC has the potential to generate individual farmer-specific advisories through apps like Kisan e-Mitra (a chatbot developed for PM-Kisan beneficiaries), leveraging AI and machine learning to customize recommendations based on farmer data.
Practical Applications:
-
- Farmer’s Advisory: Visualizations of GIS-based soil mapping, soil health card data, and weather-related information enable customized advisories on crop selection and agricultural practices.
- Drought Actions: Correlation of yield data with weather patterns allows proactive measures to mitigate the impact of droughts.
- Crop Diversification: Analysis of crop diversification maps helps identify regions suitable for diversified cropping, optimizing agricultural productivity.
- Farm Data Repository: The Krishi Decision Support System (K-DSS) acts as an agriculture data repository, facilitating evidence-based decision-making and the preparation of customized advisories for farmers.
- Validation of Yield: The ICCC enables the validation of yield data captured through different applications, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
PYQ:
2018: With reference to the ‘Global Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CACSA)’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- GACSA is an outcome of the Climate Summit held in Paris in 2015.
- Membership of GACSA does not create any binding obligations.
- India was instrumental in the creation of GACSA.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
What is the primary objective of the Krishi ICCC (Integrated Command and Control Centre)?
- To provide real-time market prices of agricultural products.
- To consolidate geospatial information from various sources for comprehensive monitoring of the farm sector.
- To offer financial support to farmers through direct benefit transfer schemes.
- To facilitate the construction of irrigation projects in rural areas.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What are semiconductors?
Mains level: Current state of semiconductor fabrication and Semiconductor manufacturing process
Why in the news?
The binary revolution (0s and 1s) constantly shape the way we interact with technology and with each other daily and the beating heart of this binary revolution is the semiconductor device.
What are semiconductors?
Semiconductors are materials that possess properties intermediate between those of conductors and insulators. They can conduct electricity under certain conditions but not as effectively as conductors, nor do they block it entirely like insulators.
How are semiconductors made?
- Silicon Wafer Selection: Engineers begin by selecting a silicon wafer as the foundation for the semiconductor.
- Purification of Silicon: Silicon, sourced from sand, undergoes meticulous purification to achieve ultra-pure levels with impurity levels as low as a few parts per billion.
- Photolithography Process: A crucial step where the circuit pattern is carved on the wafer using photolithography. The wafer is coated with a light-sensitive material (photoresist), and a mask with small gaps in the circuit pattern shape is used to shine light onto the wafer, eroding parts of the photoresist to acquire the pattern.
- Chemical and Physical Techniques: After photolithography, engineers use chemical and/or physical techniques to remove uncarved parts of the photoresist, leaving behind the circuit’s structure on the silicon substrate.
- Doping of Semiconductor: Impurities are deliberately added to specific parts of the semiconductor to alter its electrical properties.
- Deposition of Thin Layers: Thin layers of materials such as metals or insulators are deposited onto the wafer’s surface to form electrical connections or insulate components.
- Packaging and Testing: The resulting product undergoes packaging, where individual chips are separated, encapsulated, and tested to ensure functionality and reliability.Finally, the semiconductor chips are integrated into electronic devices.
Need Expertise
-
- Need high precision and diverse scientific principle-Each step in semiconductor fabrication demands ultra-high precision and harnesses a blend of diverse scientific principles. For example, to make the most advanced transistors, the photolithography process requires a light source emitting electromagnetic radiation at a wavelength of 13.5 nm.
- Specializing in specific domains-The semiconductor manufacturing process is characterised by specialisation, leading to an oligopoly controlled by companies specializing in specific domains. For example ASML, a spin-off of Philips, is in fact the sole provider of photolithography machines for cutting-edge semiconductor technology worldwide
Status of India in fabrication –
-
- Bengaluru serves as a hub for chip design, showcasing India’s leading role in this field.Despite its prowess in chip design, India lacks ownership of the intellectual property rights (IPR) necessary to execute these designs.
- Most IPR for chip designs is retained by parent companies or Arm, limiting India’s autonomy to being a mere user of their products.The situation resembles the McDonald’s business model, where India hosts outlets but lacks ownership of the recipe and supply chain, controlled by a parent company elsewhere.
Significance of semiconductors:
- Ubiquitous Influence: Semiconductors power various technologies beyond smartphones and computers, including smart air-conditioners, space telescopes, and more.
- Critical Solutions for Crises: Semiconductors are crucial for addressing 21st-century challenges like artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, space exploration, and personalized healthcare, highlighting their significance for human survival and progress.
- Innovation and Job Creation: Semiconductor technology facilities foster innovation, create high-paying jobs, and nurture deep-tech start-ups, contributing to advancements in various fields like materials science, computer engineering, and chip design.
- Geopolitical Significance: Semiconductors have become a focal point of geopolitical interest, with nations competing to establish fabrication facilities and imposing sanctions on others to control access to advanced technology, driving efforts to bolster domestic semiconductor production capabilities.
Challenges related to semiconductor manufacturing in India:
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): India faces limitations due to a lack of ownership of IPR necessary for chip fabrication.
- Technology Transfer: Despite advancements in chip design, India struggles with technology transfer issues.
- Infrastructure: Developing semiconductor manufacturing facilities requires significant investment in infrastructure
- Skilled Workforce: The semiconductor industry demands highly skilled professionals proficient in various aspects of chip design, fabrication, and testing.
- Regulatory Environment: India’s regulatory environment, including policies related to intellectual property, taxation, and investment, may not be conducive to attracting semiconductor manufacturing investments.
Measures to address challenges related to semiconductor manufacturing in India:
- Education and training programs: Offer specialized courses and certifications to equip individuals with the necessary skills for the industry.
- Policy reforms: Implement policy reforms to create a conducive regulatory environment for semiconductor manufacturing sector.
- Diversification of suppliers: Encourage diversification of semiconductor supply chains by supporting domestic suppliers and fostering partnerships with global manufacturers
- Government grants and incentives: Provide financial support and incentives for semiconductor R&D projects
- Strategic partnerships: Forge strategic partnerships with leading semiconductor-producing countries and organizations to leverage their expertise, share best practices, and facilitate technology transfer and knowledge exchange.
Conclusion: Addressing challenges in semiconductor manufacturing in India requires collaborative efforts, investment in infrastructure and education, regulatory reforms, and strategic partnerships. These measures are vital for India to strengthen its position in the global semiconductor industry.
Mains PYQ-
Q- Account for the present location of iron and steel industries away from the source of raw material, by giving examples. ( 2020 )
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Provisions of RPA
Mains level: Implication of Section 123(3) of RPA and Suprem court judgement related to it
Why in the news?
Recently, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Rahul Gandhi for hurting the sentiments of Hindus through his remark on ‘Shakti’.
What does the law say?
- Section 123(3): Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) provides that appeals by a candidate, or any other person with the consent of a candidate, to vote or refrain from voting on the grounds of his religion, race, caste, community or language is a corrupt electoral practice.
- Section 123(3A): It denounces any attempt by a candidate to promote feelings of enmity or hatred among citizens on these grounds during elections.
- Punishment: The RP Act further provides that anyone found guilty of corrupt electoral practice can be debarred from contesting elections for a maximum period of up to six years.
What does the MCC provide?
- The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India to regulate the conduct of political parties and their candidates in the run-up to elections. They have consented to abide by the principles embodied in the said code.
- Candidates cannot promote hatred or difference: It provides that no party or candidate shall indulge in any activity that may aggravate existing differences create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes, religious or linguistic communities. It also provides that there shall be no appeal to caste or communal feelings for securing votes
- Candidate cannot use worship place: Mosques, churches, temples, or other places of worship shall not be used as a forum for election propaganda. Though the MCC does not have any statutory backing, it has come to acquire strength in the past three decades because of its strict enforcement by the ECI.
Historical Background:
- Amendment in 1961: Section 123(3) of the Representation of the People Act (RP Act) was amended to remove the term “systemic” regarding appeals based on religion, race, caste, or community. This broadened the scope of what constitutes corrupt electoral practice.
- Purpose of the Amendment: The amendment aimed to curb communal, fissiparous, and separatist tendencies in electoral politics by disfavoring even isolated appeals based on religion or narrow communal affiliations.
- Instances of Appeals Based on Religion: Despite legal provisions, there have been numerous instances where political parties and leaders have openly appealed for votes in the name of religion.Bal Thackeray of Shiv Sena was the only notable leader convicted by the Supreme Court for this corrupt electoral practice in 1995.
- Election Commission’s Response: The Election Commission of India (ECI) typically imposes short bans on campaigning for leaders found in violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), usually lasting two to three days.
What has the Supreme Court ruled?
- Abhiram Singh versus C. D. Commachen (2017): A seven-judge Bench by a majority of 4:3 held that candidates shall not appeal for votes on the basis of not just his/her religion but also that of the voters.
- Purposive interpretation’ to Section 123(3): The majority view provided a ‘purposive interpretation’ to Section 123(3) rather than just a literal one thereby rendering any appeal in the name of religion of even the voters as a corrupt electoral practice.
- Elections are secular exercise: The elections to Parliament or State legislatures are a secular exercise; constitutional ethos forbids the mixing of religious considerations with the secular functions of the State. Religion should remain a matter of personal faith.
Measures Needed:
- Raise legitimate concerns: Political parties and candidates are likely to raise legitimate concerns of citizens faced by them based on traits having origin in religion, caste, community or language in a democratic election process.
- Addressing Grievances: These concerns should be addressed through appropriate policies without compromising the secular fabric and fraternity of the country.
- Use of Places of Worship: Places of worship have always been used overtly and covertly as a forum for canvass. Religious leaders have thrown their weight behind candidates of various parties. These practices should ideally be avoided to ensure that politics and religion are not mixed up
- Responsibility of Political Leaders: The primary responsibility for avoiding appeals based on religion lies with political party leaders and candidates because campaigning based on religion not only disrupts the secular nature of Indian politics but also constitutes a clear violation of the law.
- Role of Election Commission and Courts: Mechanisms should be devised by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and courts for swift action against those who violate laws regarding appeals based on religion in electoral campaigns.
Conclusion: The legal framework prohibits appeals based on religion in electoral campaigns to maintain the secular nature of elections. The Election Commission enforces the Model Code of Conduct, with penalties for violators, ensuring fair and unbiased electoral practices.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is DEMP and its elements
Mains level: Role of its elements in ensuring transparent and efficient electoral processes
Why in the news?
The conduct of elections has become increasingly complex and multifaceted, requiring meticulous planning and execution to ensure a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process
- A cornerstone of this planning process is the District Election Management Plan (DEMP), a comprehensive document that uses statistics and analysis to ensure the smooth conduct of elections.
Context:
- What goes into a smooth and efficient electoral process?
- How are electoral booths prepared before polling?
When is the DEMP prepared?
- Preparation of DEMP: As per the Election Commission of India, the DEMP is to be prepared at least six months before the tentative poll day. However, many things become clearer as the election is notified, so it becomes necessary to revise/update the plan occasionally.
- Execution of DEMP: Executing the DEMP requires a collaborative effort involving election officials, administrative authorities, law enforcement agencies etc. Regular interactions with political parties and media are also planned to brief them on electoral rules.
What are the elements of DEMP?
- The foundation of the electoral strategy: The plan starts with a district profile that serves as the foundation of the electoral strategy which includes a political map outlining constituencies, key demographic and infrastructure statistics, and a brief on the district’s administrative setup and socio-economic features.
- Accessibility of polling stations: The plan encompasses detailed strategies for improving the availability and accessibility of polling stations, ensuring that all stations have essential facilities like ramps, electricity, lighting, drinking water, toilets, and internet connectivity.
- Voting for essential service personnel: Special attention is given to voters with disabilities (PwD) and senior citizens through help desks, 24/7 control rooms, home voting options, and advanced postal ballot voting for essential service personnel.
Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) plan:
- The Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) plan, focuses on increasing electoral participation which involves analyzing voter turnout data to identify polling stations with below-average or significantly low turnout and tailoring activities to address these issues.
- It includes the use of social media, engagement with various community and youth organizations, and organizing events leading up to the poll day to increase awareness and participation.
- Comprehensive Strategy: DEMP outlines a comprehensive strategy for planning, training, welfare, and deployment of election personnel.
- Poll Personnel Database: Emphasizes the importance of creating a database of poll personnel, categorizing them by cadre and group, and assessing their requirements.
- Addressing Personnel Gaps: Strategies are devised to address gaps in personnel needs across various election roles.
- Force Deployment Plan: Detailed planning for force deployment involves coordination with district police. This includes vulnerability mapping of polling stations based on past disturbances and voter turnout.
- Training Programs: Training programs are provided for district-level teams to enforce the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and for all election personnel to ensure they possess necessary skills and knowledge.
What about EVMs?
Material management in the Detailed Election Management Plan (DEMP):
- Crucial Component: Material management is identified as a critical aspect of DEMP. It involves procuring 61 essential items, including indelible ink, seals, stamps, stationary, and statutory forms.
- Categorization: Items are categorized based on the level at which they are to be procured, either at the State/U.T. level or the district level.
- Procurement Timelines: Timelines for procurement vary, ranging from two-to-three weeks to four months before the election.Emphasizes the importance of timely acquisition to ensure preparedness for the electoral process.
Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) management in the Detailed Election Management Plan (DEMP)
- Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) management is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, with plans necessary for secure storage and availability of EVMs and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs), including plans for their transportation and maintenance.
Significance of the Detailed Election Management Plan (DEMP):
- Enhanced Voting Experience: DEMP enhances the voting experience by ensuring that the electoral process is organized, accessible, and efficient for all voters, promoting democratic participation and inclusivity.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Using statistics and analysis, the DEMP enables data-driven decisions, highlighting the significance of evidence-based policymaking and strategic planning in effectively addressing challenges.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: The collaborative effort involved in executing the DEMP underscores the importance of engaging stakeholders from various sectors, fostering cooperation and synergy to achieve common goals.
- Transparency and Accountability: The emphasis on transparency in the DEMP promotes accountability in electoral processes, setting a precedent for openness and integrity in governance practices.
- Adaptability and Resilience: The DEMP’s adaptability to changing circumstances and occasional revisions underscores the importance of resilience and flexibility in governance frameworks to address evolving needs and circumstances.
Conclusion: The District Election Management Plan (DEMP) ensures organized, inclusive elections. Challenges include timely preparation, accurate electoral strategy foundation, polling station accessibility, and effective voter education. Overcoming these ensures transparent and efficient electoral processes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Robusta, Arabica Variety
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- Robusta Coffee farmers in South India are celebrating as their produce fetches an all-time high price.
- The farmgate price of raw Robusta coffee berries reached ₹172 per kilogram (kg) in the Wayanad market, a significant increase from ₹115 per kg last year.
Coffee Cultivation in India
- The coffee cultivation in India began with the planting of 7 seeds of coffee during 1600 AD by saint Baba Budan, in the courtyard of his hermitage in Chikmagalur, Karnataka.
- Commercial plantations of coffee started in the 18th century under British entrepreneurship.
- Today, India is among the top 10 coffee-producing countries, with about 3% of the global output.
Major Varieties Cultivated
|
Characteristics |
Altitude Range |
Flavor Profile |
Popular Varieties |
Regions |
| Arabica Coffee |
Known for mild flavor, aromatic profile, and smooth taste. |
800 – 1600 meters above sea level |
Mild, slightly sweeter, softer taste |
Kents, S.795, Cauvery, Chandragiri |
Coorg (Karnataka), Wayanad (Kerala), Nilgiris (Tamil Nadu), Chikmagalur (Karnataka) |
| Robusta Coffee |
Characterized by strong and bold flavor, higher caffeine content, and somewhat bitter taste. |
Sea level to about 800 meters |
Strong, bold, somewhat bitter |
S.274, CxR hybrids |
Chikmagalur (Karnataka), Coorg (Karnataka), Wayanad (Kerala), Araku Valley (Andhra Pradesh) |
| Liberica and Excelsa |
Less common varieties, with limited plantings in specific regions. |
Variable |
Variable |
Variable |
Limited plantings; sporadic regions |
Agro-climatic conditions needed for Coffee:
- Indian coffee has a unique position as it is shade-grown and grown at elevations, while other major producing countries grow coffee in flat lands.
- It is a tropical plant which is also grown in semi-tropical climate.
- 16° – 28°C temperature, 150-250cm rainfall and well-drained slopes are essential for its growth.
- Low temperature, frost, dry weather for a long time and harsh sunshine are harmful for its plant.
- Coffee plants grow better in the laterite soils of Karnataka in India.
Market Dynamics
- Karnataka is the largest producer accounting for about 70% of the total coffee production in India.
- It is followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Orissa and the North-eastern areas have a smaller proportion of production.
- Arabica has high market value than Robusta coffee due to its mild aromatic flavor.
- The country exports over 70% of its production. According to The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India is the eighth largest exporter of coffee by volume.
- Indian coffee exports display a seasonality, with exports peaking from March to June.
Coffee Board of India
- The Coffee Board of India is an organization managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and was established in 1942.
- It is headquartered in Bangalore.
- The activities of the Board are broadly aimed at:
- Enhancement of production, productivity & quality;
- Export promotion for achieving higher value returns for Indian Coffee and
- Supporting development of Domestic market.
- Until 1995 the Coffee Board marketed the coffee of a pooled supply.
- Later, coffee marketing became a private-sector activity due to the economic liberalisation in India.
- The Board comprises 33 members including the Chairman, who is the Chief Executive and appointed by the Government of India.
|
PYQ:
2010: Though coffee and tea both are cultivated on hill slopes, there is some difference between them regarding their cultivation. In this context, consider the following statements:
- Coffee plant requires a hot and humid climate of tropical areas whereas tea can be cultivated in both tropical and subtropical areas.
- Coffee is propagated by seeds but tea is propagated by stem cuttings only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Practice MCQ:
With reference to the Coffee Cultivation in India, consider the following statements:
- Kerala is the largest producer accounting for about 70% of the total coffee production in India.
- Robusta coffee has high market value than Arabica due to its mild aromatic flavor.
- Indian coffee exports display a perennial nature.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Corals, Coral bleaching, Gulf of Mannar
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
- Rising sea temperatures have triggered severe bleaching events, leading to significant coral mortality in Gulf of Mannar.
- Annual surveys show a decline in live coral cover from 37% in 2005 to 27.3% in 2021.
Corals in Gulf of Mannar
- The Gulf of Mannar is a large shallow bay forming part of the Laccadive Sea in the Indian Ocean with an average depth of 5.8 m.
- It lies between the southeastern tip of India and the west coast of Sri Lanka, in the Coromandel Coast region.
- A significant portion of the Gulf of Mannar is designated as the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, established to protect its marine ecosystems, including coral reefs.
- The park covers approximately 560 square kilometers and encompasses 21 islands and coral reefs.
- Around 117 hard coral species have been recorded in the Gulf of Mannar.
- Many islands, like Shingle, Krusadai, and Pullivasal, have witnessed substantial losses in coral cover.
- For instance, Shingle Island suffered the most with the loss of 72% of its coral cover.
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About Corals
- Coral are made up of genetically identical organisms called polyps.
- These polyps have microscopic algae called zooxanthellae living within their tissues in a mutualistic relationship.
- The coral provides the zooxanthellae with the compounds necessary for photosynthesis.
- In return, the zooxanthellae supply the coral with organic products of photosynthesis, like carbohydrates, which are utilized by the coral polyps for synthesis of their calcium carbonate skeletons.
- Corals are marine invertebrates or animals which do not possess a spine.
- They are the largest living structures on the planet.
- Each coral is called a polyp and thousands of such polyps live together to form a colony, which grow when polyps multiply to make copies of themselves.
- Coral reefs are also called the “rainforests of the seas”.
Types of Coral
Corals are of two types — hard corals and soft corals:
- Hard corals extract calcium carbonate from seawater to build hard, white coral exoskeletons. Hard corals are in a way the engineers of reef ecosystems and measuring the extent of hard coral is a widely-accepted metric for measuring the condition of coral reefs.
- Soft corals attach themselves to such skeletons and older skeletons built by their ancestors. Soft corals also add their own skeletons to the hard structure over the years. These growing multiplying structures gradually form coral reefs.
Conditions needed for Corals to Flourish
- Extensive submarine platforms for the formation of colonies by the coral polyps (not more than 90m below sea level).
- High mean annual temperature ranging 20-21 degree Celsius.
- Clean sediment-free water because muddy water or turbid water clogs the mouths of coral polyps resulting into their death.
- Oceanic salinity ranging between 27-30 ppt.
- Ocean currents and waves, as they bring food supply for the polyps.
How do corals bleach?
- When exposed to conditions like heat stress, pollution, or high levels of ocean acidity, the zooxanthellae start producing reactive oxygen species not beneficial to the corals.
- So, the corals kick out the colour-giving algae from their polyps, exposing their pale white exoskeleton and leading to coral starvation as corals cannot produce their own food.
- Severe bleaching and prolonged stress in the external environment can lead to coral death.
Reasons for the Decline
- Climatic Vagaries: Predicted coral bleaching events pose a dire threat to the already fragile ecosystem of the Gulf of Mannar. The IPCC predicts a decline of 70-90% in global coral reefs with a warming of 1.5°C.
- Ocean Acidification: Increased acidity levels in the ocean due to carbon dioxide absorption exacerbate coral stress and hinder their ability to calcify.
PYQ:
2014: Which of the following have coral reefs?
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Gulf of Kachchh
- Gulf of Mannar
- Sunderbans
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2 and 4 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
2018: Consider the following statements
- Most of the world’s coral reefs are in tropical waters.
- More than one-third of the world’s coral reefs are located in the territories of Australia, Indonesia and Philippines.
- Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla than those hosted by tropical rainforests.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 3 only
- 1and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Krutrim AI Model
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
Krutrim AI is Ola’s homegrown AI assistant, designed to cater to the diverse needs and nuances of Indian consumers, bridging the gap between conventional AI and specific cultural contexts.
Krutrim’s Capabilities
- Multilingual Support: Krutrim boasts the ability to converse in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Marathi, Kannada, Bengali, Gujarati, and Hinglish, catering to the linguistic diversity of India.
- Multi-Functionality: Users can leverage Krutrim for a range of tasks, including writing emails, seeking information, learning new skills, planning travel, discovering recipes, and more.
Technology behind Krutrim AI
- Sophisticated AI Model: Krutrim operates on a sophisticated AI model trained on vast datasets encompassing Indian languages, social contexts, and cultural references.
- Natural Language Processing (NLP): Utilizes NLP to comprehend human language nuances, including colloquialisms and cultural contexts, enhancing user interactions.
- Machine Learning (ML): ML algorithms enable Krutrim to learn from datasets, continuously improving responses and understanding user intent.
- Deep Learning: Leverages Deep Learning to recognize patterns and analyze complex data, crucial for contextual responses and performance enhancement.
Applications and Benefits for Users
- Enhanced User Experience: Krutrim AI enhances user experiences across various sectors by offering culturally sensitive interactions, personalized learning in education, and automating administrative tasks.
- Support for Content Creators: Content creators can leverage Krutrim for ideation and localization, making content more relatable and engaging.
- Automating Repetitive Tasks: Krutrim’s capabilities extend to automating repetitive administrative tasks across industries, boosting efficiency and productivity.
PYQ:
2018: When the alarm of your smartphone rings in the morning, you wake up and tap it to stop the alarm which causes your geyser to be switched on automatically. The smart minor in your bathroom shows the day’s weather and also indicates the level of water in your overhead tank. After you take some groceries from your refrigerator for making breakfast, it recognises the shortage of stock in it and places an order for the supply of fresh grocery items. When you step out of your house and lock the door, all lights, fans, geysers and AC machines get switched off automatically. On your way to office, your car warns you about traffic congestion ahead and suggests an alternative route, and if you are late for a meeting, it sends a- message to your office accordingly.
In the context of emerging communication technologies, which one of the following term” best applies to the above scenario?
- Border Gateway Protocol
- Internet of Things
- Internet Protocol
- Virtual Private Network
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements about the ‘Krutrim AI’:
- It is a homegrown AI assistant developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DACs).
- It can converse in regional languages of India.
Which of the given statements are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: North Atlantic Right Whales
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- North Atlantic right whales face a grave threat due to entanglement in fishing gear, contributing to their critically endangered status.
- Entanglement not only leads to physical harm but also affects reproductive success, exacerbating the species’ decline.
Impact of Entanglement
- Lethal and Sublethal Effects: Entanglement in fishing gear leads to energy expenditure, reduced feeding efficiency, and physical injuries, ultimately impacting whales’ ability to reproduce and survive. Even minor entanglements have devastating consequences on female right whales.
- Reproductive Implications: Females experiencing entanglement events, even classified as “minor,” exhibit reduced breeding rates, with potential long-term consequences for population recovery. Poor health and physical condition further impede breeding success.
About Right Whales
- Right whales are a group of large baleen whales belonging to the family Balaenidae.
- There are three species of right whales:
- North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis),
- North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica), and
- Southern right whale (Eubalaena australis).
- They are distinguished by their geographic distribution and slight differences in physical characteristics.
- Right whales inhabit temperate and subpolar waters of the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and Southern Hemisphere.
- They are often found in coastal areas during their feeding and breeding seasons but may migrate over long distances.
- All three species of right whales are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
North Atlantic Right Whales
- It is listed as Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List.
- Only around 360 individuals remain, with almost 90% having experienced entanglement at least once.
|
PYQ:
2015: With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?
- IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments
- IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.
- CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
The North Atlantic Right Whales were recently seen in news for a peculiar behaviour. Identify the correct statement about the North Atlantic Right Whales:
- Entanglement in fishing net has led to permanent loss of breeding capability.
- Extinct due to commercial hunting.
- Generates large amounts of Aspergis, an aromatic substance.
- In-situ breeding was successful.
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