Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Employment/Wages Issues in India
Why in the news?
Recently, a report by Bahutva Karnataka shows that the share of self-employed workers increased, while the share of those in formal employment remained low
What does the Report say?
- The stagnation in economic growth in India is evident in the share of households earning less than the proposed National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW) of ₹375 a day, with approximately 34% falling below this threshold.
- Additionally, wage inequality has exacerbated the gap between the rich and the poor.
- In 2022, the top 1% and 10% of the population held 22% and 57% of the national income, respectively, while the bottom 50% held a significantly lower share at 12.7%, as per data from the World Inequality Database.
Key Highlights:
The Report compares the share of Employment across various employment categories in 2011-12 and 2022-23 for men and women-
- Low Formal Employment: The share of formal sector employment remained below 25%. Majority of employment (above 50%) was in the self-employed category.
- Increase in Self-Employment: Self-employment remained predominant, with over 50% of the workforce engaged in this sector. Self-employment saw a notable increase in the share of women, rising by 8% points from 56.5% in 2011-12 to 64.3% in 2022-23.
- Rise in Women’s Self-Employment: Women constituted the highest share of self-employed individuals. The share of self-employed women saw significant growth, indicating a rising trend of women engaging in entrepreneurial activities.
- Unpaid Labor: The report highlights an increase in the number of women engaged in unpaid labor within family businesses or farming. This rise reflects the lack of other remunerative employment opportunities and stagnant household earnings.
- Gender Disparities Persist: Despite increased participation in self-employment, gender disparities persist, with women often engaging in unpaid labor or informal work due to limited opportunities in the formal sector.
- Economic Stagnation Impact: economic stagnation has led to limited growth in formal sector employment, pushing more individuals, especially women, towards self-employment and unpaid labor as alternative sources of livelihood.
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The major observation in India: Many households still earn less than the NFLMW:
- Stagnant Income Growth: There has been no significant growth in income over the past five years across different employment categories.
- Low Earnings Below NFLMW: Many households still earn less than the proposed National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW). In 2019, an expert committee recommended the NFLMW to be at least ₹375 per day and ₹3,050 per week.
- Regional Disparities: Analysis of 34 States and Union Territories (UTs) revealed that in about 19 of them, more than 20% of households earned less than ₹375 a day or ₹3,050 a week in 2022-23.
- In states like Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh, over 50% of households earned less than the recommended minimum wage.
- Large Number of Low-Income Workers: The report highlights that nearly 30 crore workers earn less than the minimum wage, indicating a significant portion of the workforce struggling with low earnings.
The year-wise wealth share of the top 10% and the bottom 50% of the population-
- Stagnant Income Growth vs. GDP Per Capita: Despite an increase in GDP per capita over the last decade, income growth among the majority of the population has remained stagnant.
- GDP Per Capita Increase: Over the past 10 years, GDP per capita in India has risen by 60%, indicating overall economic growth and prosperity.
- Low Earnings Below NFLMW: Despite GDP growth, close to 35% of total households still earn less than the proposed National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW).
- Increase in Wealth Disparity: The share of national wealth held by the wealthiest 10% of the population has increased from 63% in 2012 to 64.5% in 2022. Conversely, the share of wealth held by the poorest 50% of the population has decreased from 6.1% in 2012 to 5.6% in 2022.
What are the measures to resolve these issues?
- Promote Formal Employment: Encourage policies and initiatives to boost formal sector employment, providing stable income and social security benefits. Offer incentives to businesses to create more formal job opportunities.
- Focus on promoting vocational training and entrepreneurship among women to enhance their participation in formal sectors.
- Ensure Equal Pay and Opportunities: Enforce laws to ensure equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender. Implement policies to eliminate gender discrimination in hiring practices and promotion opportunities.
- Improve Minimum Wage Standards: Review and revise minimum wage standards regularly to ensure they are in line with the cost of living and provide a decent standard of living.
- Invest in Rural Development: Promote rural development initiatives to create alternative sources of livelihood and reduce dependency on agriculture, especially for women engaged in unpaid labor.
- Address Regional Disparities: Implement targeted interventions to address rural-urban disparities in income and employment opportunities. Focus on infrastructure development, skill enhancement, and investment promotion in economically backward regions.
- Enhance Social Safety Nets: Strengthen social safety net programs such as Universal Basic Income (UBI), healthcare, and education to provide a buffer against income volatility and support vulnerable households.
Conclusion:
Stagnant income growth and rising self-employment underscore economic challenges, with many households earning below the proposed minimum wage. Resolving issues requires promoting formal employment, equal pay, rural development, and progressive taxation.
PYQ Mains-
Q- Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Powers and Functions of the President of India;
Mains level: Judicial Review; Powers and Functions of the President of India;
Why in the news?
The unusual move of the Kerala Government will open doors for a Constitutional debate on the scope of a Judicial Review of the decisions of the President of India.
Context-
- The President had withheld assent to Kerala University Laws (Amendment No. 2) Bill 2022, University Law Amendment Bill, 2022, and the University Law Amendment Bill, 2021 from the seven Bills that were referred to her in November 2023.
Key issues as per this situation-
- Legal Challenge by Kerala: Kerala plans to challenge the legality of President Droupadi Murmu withholding her assent for certain Bills passed by the Kerala Legislature.
- Scope of Judicial Review: Kerala’s move will open doors for a Constitutional debate on the scope of judicial review of the decisions of the President of India. The state argues that the legality of the President’s decisions and the factors influencing them can be judicially reviewed.
The power of the President to withhold assent to a state bill is derived from the Constitution of India:
- Constitutional Authority: The power of the President to withhold assent to a state bill is outlined in Article 201 of the Constitution of India.
- Procedure: According to Article 200, when a bill is passed by the state legislature, it is presented to the Governor for assent. The Governor then forwards the bill to the President for consideration.
- Discretionary Power: The President has discretionary authority to either give assent to the bill or withhold it. This means the President can refuse to approve the bill if deemed necessary.
- Reasons for Withholding Assent: The President may choose to withhold assent for various reasons, such as if the bill violates constitutional provisions, conflicts with central legislation, or is against public interest.
- Constitutional Morality: The President’s decision to withhold assent should be guided by constitutional principles and morality. This ensures that the exercise of this power is in line with the spirit of the Constitution.
What are the Implications of the President withholding assent to a state bill?
- Legislative Stalemate: Withholding assent to a state bill effectively prevents it from becoming law. This can lead to a legislative stalemate, especially if the bill is crucial for the functioning of the state government or addresses pressing issues.
- Impact on State Governance: The inability to enact a state bill due to the President’s refusal to give assent can hinder the governance and administration of the state. It may delay or impede the implementation of policies and measures intended to address local challenges or meet the needs of the state’s residents.
- Constitutional Conflict: The withholding of assent by the President may lead to constitutional conflicts between the state government and the Union government. It raises questions about the division of powers between the Centre and the states and the extent of the President’s authority to state legislation.
- Political Implications: The President’s decision to withhold assent to a state bill can have political repercussions. It may strain the relationship between the state government and the central government, especially if there are underlying political tensions or differences in ideology.
- Legal Challenges: The state government may choose to challenge the President’s decision to withhold assent through legal means. This could involve seeking judicial review to determine the legality and constitutionality of the President’s action, especially if it is perceived as arbitrary or mala fide.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Discretionary Powers of Governor;
Mains level: State Legislation; Discretionary Powers of Governor;
Why in the news?
TN Governor R.N. Ravi has declined to re-induct senior DMK leader and former Higher Education Minister K. Ponmudy into the Cabinet, citing concerns about Constitutional Morality.
Context-
- Despite the SC’s suspension of Ponmudy’s conviction, the Governor believes his involvement in serious corruption as a public servant renders his re-induction inappropriate.
- The Governor’s stance emphasizes the need to uphold ethical standards in governance, especially regarding convicted individuals.
What are the key questions raised concerning the re-induct of the MLA’s in the Cabinet:
- Constitutional Morality: Governor R.N. Ravi is concerned about upholding constitutional morality. He questions whether it would be appropriate to re-induct K. Ponmudy into the Cabinet, considering the seriousness of the corruption charges against him and the fact that his conviction was not set aside by the Supreme Court, but only temporarily suspended.
- Legal Validity: Governor Ravi seeks the opinion of legal experts on the legality of re-inducting Ponmudy into the Cabinet without the conviction being overturned by the Supreme Court. This raises the question of whether such an action would adhere to legal principles and norms.
- Political Implications: The differing opinions between both raise questions about the political ramifications of the decision. While the Law Minister sees no issues in Ponmudy’s swearing-in, the Governor emphasizes the need for ethical governance.
- Timing and Elections: The timing of Ponmudy’s potential re-induction, particularly concerning the announcement of Lok Sabha elections, adds complexity to the situation. It raises questions about whether political considerations are influencing the decision-making process.
- Disqualification and Supreme Court Stay: Ponmudy’s disqualification as an MLA due to a conviction by the Madras High Court, followed by the Supreme Court’s stay on the conviction, raises questions about the legal status of his eligibility for public office and the implications for his potential re-induction into the Cabinet.
Discretionary power of the Governor in the appointment of ministers-
- Outlined in Article 163: There shall be a Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister at the head to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions, except insofar as he is by or under this Constitution required to exercise his functions or any of them in his discretion.
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In the context of the appointment of ministers, the Governor’s discretionary power may be exercised in various situations, such as:
- Selection of Ministers: Although the Chief Minister typically recommends individuals for ministerial positions, the final decision regarding their appointment rests with the Governor. The Governor may exercise discretion in approving or rejecting the Chief Minister’s recommendations based on factors such as competence, integrity, and political considerations.
- Dismissal of Ministers: In cases where the Governor has reasons to believe that a minister is unfit to hold office or has lost the confidence of the legislature, they may use their discretionary power to dismiss the minister, even if the Chief Minister advises otherwise.
- Interests of the state: In exercising discretionary powers, the Governor must uphold constitutional morality and act in the best interests of the state. This includes considering the integrity, qualifications, and public trust in the individuals being appointed as ministers.
- Consultation: While the Governor is not required to consult anyone other than the Chief Minister in the appointment of ministers, they may seek advice or input from legal experts, constitutional authorities, or other relevant stakeholders to ensure a fair and transparent appointment process.
Conclusion:
Governor stalls former minister’s return, citing constitutional morality and corruption concerns. His discretion underscores ethical governance and legal validity in ministerial appointments, raising questions about political implications and timing.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Free Trade Agreements
Mains level: Issues with FTAs
Why in the News?
- Recently, the discussion acknowledged free trade’s nuanced and multifaceted nature, highlighting its potential benefits for peace and economic development while recognizing historical and contemporary challenges in promoting equitable outcomes.
Evolution of Free Trade ideology:
- 19th Century Political Reformers and Free Trade: Free trade was the rallying cry of 19th-century political reformers (Particularly Adam Smith who was inspired by Thomas Hobbes), who saw it as a vehicle for defeating despotism, ending wars, and reducing crushing inequalities in wealth.
- The era’s economic cosmopolitanism encapsulated progressive causes such as anti-militarism, anti-slavery, and anti-imperialism.
- US Populists and Opposition to Tariffs: US populists in the late 19th century staunchly opposed the gold standard but were also against import tariffs, which they thought benefited big business and harmed ordinary people.
- They pushed to replace tariffs with a more equitable progressive income tax.
- Socialists’ View on Free Trade in the Early 20th Century: Then, during the early part of the 20th century, many socialists viewed free trade, supported by supranational regulation, as the antidote to militarism, wealth gaps and monopolies.
- Liberal Reformers’ Perspective on Protectionism: The 19th-century liberals and reformers were free traders because they thought protectionism served retrograde interests, including landed aristocrats, business monopolies and warmongers.
- They believed economic nationalism went hand in hand with imperialism and aggression.
- Historian Marc-William Palen cites a 1919 essay by the economist Joseph Schumpeter, who depicted imperialism as a “monopolistic symptom of atavistic militarism and protectionism—an ailment that only democratic free-trade forces could cure.”
Perception and misconceptions of Free trade:
- Controversial Term-Free trade has been controversial in economics, with many people arguing that it contributes to rising inequality.
- However, there is a grain of truth in the anti-trade stance, as growing trade did contribute to rising inequality and the erosion of the middle class in the US and other advanced economies in recent decades.
- Blind Spot of Globalization – If free trade got a bad name, globalisation’s boosters ignored its downsides or acted as if nothing could be done about them.
- This blind spot empowered political leaders like Donald Trump to weaponize trade and demonize racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, and economic rivals.
- Diverse Opposition: Antipathy to trade is not limited to right-wing populists but also includes radical leftists, climate activists, food safety advocates, human-rights campaigners, labor unions, consumer advocates, and anti-corporate groups.
- US President Joe Biden has distanced himself from free trade, believing that building a secure, green, equitable, and resilient US economy must take precedence over hyper-globalization.
- Obstacle to Social Justice: All progressives believe that free trade stands in the way of social justice.
Instrumentalisation of Trade:
1) Instrumentalized for Authoritarian end:
- Under American Revolution: A particularly egregious example is Antebellum America, where free trade entrenched slavery.
- During the drafting of the US Constitution in 1787, America’s slave-owning southerners ensured that the text would prohibit the taxation of exports. They understood that free trade would ensure that plantation agriculture remained profitable and safeguard the slavery system on which it was based.
- When the North defeated the South in the US Civil War, slavery was abolished, and free trade was replaced with protectionism, which suited Northern business interests better.
- Under British imperialism: After the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846, the British government nominally abandoned protectionism and led Europe to sign free-trade agreements.
2) Instrumentalized for militaristic ends:
- In Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, free trade was imposed through the barrel of a gun whenever the British encountered weak potentates ruling over valuable commodities and markets.
- The British fought the infamous Opium Wars of the mid-19th century to force Chinese rulers to open their markets to British and other Western goods so that Western countries, in turn, could buy China’s tea, silk, and porcelain without draining their gold.
- The opium was grown in India; a British monopoly forced farmers to work under horrendous conditions that left long-term scars.
- Free trade served repression and war, and vice versa.
Post-World War II trade regime:
- The American architects of the International Trade Organization followed in the footsteps of Cordell Hull—President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s secretary of state—believing they were pursuing world peace through free trade.
- Hull was an economic cosmopolitan and a supporter of the 19th-century radical free-trade advocate Richard Cobden.
- The post-war order was meant to be a system of global rules that eliminated bilateralism and imperial privileges.
- While the US Congress ultimately failed to ratify the ITO, some of its key principles—including multilateralism and non-discrimination—survived in the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), the precursor to the World Trade Organization (WTO) of today.
- Under GATT, commercial diplomacy replaced wars, and many non-Western countries—like Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and China—expanded their economies rapidly by leveraging global markets.
What are the present challenges to the Trade regime?
- Rise of Corporate Influence: Big corporations and multinational companies gained substantial power during this period, influencing trade negotiations to serve their interests.
- Neglect of Important Issues: Environmental concerns, public health, human rights, economic security, and domestic equity were overlooked as trade negotiations prioritized corporate interests.
- Departure from Original Vision: Trade deviated from the original vision of figures like Cobden and Hull, who likely envisioned it as a force for peace and prosperity, instead becoming a source of conflict.
- Shift in Trade Dynamics: The dominance of corporate influence shifted the focus of international trade away from broader societal welfare towards maximizing profits and corporate interests
Conclusion:
The lesson of history is that turning trade into a positive force requires democratizing it. This means that trade should work for the benefit of the broader public interest, not just for a select few. This is an important lesson to remember as the reconstruction of the world trade regime would occur in the years ahead.
Mains PYQ:
Q. What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of the ‘Trade War’, especially keeping in mind the interest of India? (UPSC 2018)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Neutrinos, IceCube Observatory, Indian Neutrino Observatory (INO), Trident
Mains level: NA
Why in the news
- Researchers at the IceCube Observatory, buried beneath the Antarctic ice, have identified seven potential instances of elusive “Ghost Particles” or astrophysical Tau Neutrinos as they penetrated through Earth.
- These neutrinos are pivotal for understanding the cosmic exchanges between Earth and the vast universe.
What are Neutrinos?
- Neutrinos, often referred to as “ghost particles,” are subatomic particles characterized by their nearly zero mass and lack of electric charge.
- They traverse through matter with minimal interaction, making their detection extremely challenging.
- Previously believed to be massless, evidence has emerged indicating that neutrinos possess a very small mass.
- Neutrinos rank among the most abundant particles in the universe.
- While neutrinos and electrons behave similarly in terms of nuclear forces, neither of them engages in strong nuclear interactions.
- However, both participate in weak nuclear interactions.
- Neutrinos are produced during events such as nuclear fusion in stars like the Sun or nuclear fission in reactors.
Properties of Neutrinos
| Electric Charge |
Electrically Neutral |
| Mass |
Extremely Low (Exact Masses Not Known) |
| Types |
Electron Neutrino, Muon Neutrino, Tau Neutrino |
| Interaction |
Weak Interaction |
| Speed |
Close to the Speed of Light |
| Spin |
Fermion, Half-Integer Spin |
| Neutrino Oscillations |
Neutrinos Change Flavor during Travel |
| Interactions |
Very Weak Interaction with Matter |
| Abundance |
Among the Most Abundant Particles in the Universe |
| Cosmic Messengers |
Can Carry Information from Distant Cosmic Sources |
Why Neutrinos are termed “Ghost Particles”?
- The weak charge and almost imperceptible mass of neutrinos render them exceedingly difficult for scientists’ to detect directly.
- Due to their rare interactions with other particles, tracking neutrinos proves nearly impossible.
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Significance of Neutrino Detection
- The origins of the abundant neutrino particles remain largely unknown to scientists.
- There’s a hypothesis suggesting their potential role in the early universe shortly after the Big Bang, yet concrete evidence remains elusive.
- Understanding neutrinos better holds the promise of unraveling numerous scientific phenomena, including the mysterious origins of cosmic rays, which neutrinos are known to carry.
- Researchers anticipate that pinpointing the source of neutrinos will aid in explaining the origins of cosmic rays, a puzzle that has perplexed scientists for centuries.
About IceCube Observatory
- Location: The IceCube Neutrino Observatory is situated near the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station in Antarctica.
- Components:
- IceCube: The primary detector consists of 5,160 digital optical modules (DOMs) attached to vertical strings frozen into the ice.
- IceTop: Located on top of IceCube strings, it serves as a veto and calibration detector for cosmic rays.
- DeepCore: A denser subdetector within IceCube that lowers the neutrino energy threshold for studying neutrino oscillations.
- Completed in December 2010 with 86 strings deployed over seven austral summers.
- Involved melting holes in the ice to depths of 2,450 meters and deploying sensors connected to cables.
- Observing neutrinos from various astrophysical sources to study cosmic phenomena like exploding stars, gamma-ray bursts, and black holes.
- Studying cosmic rays interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere to reveal structures not fully understood.
- Advancing neutrino astronomy and exploring high-energy processes in the Universe.
Recent Neutrino Observatories in news:
[1] Indian Neutrino Observatory (INO)
- INO approved in 2015, is a proposed particle physics research mega project.
- Its objective is to study neutrinos in a 1,200 meter deep cave.
- The primary objective of the INO Project is to study neutrinos, one of the most abundant fundamental particles, coming from various sources and using an underground Iron calorimeter (ICAL) detector.
- Its location is decided to be at the Bodi West Hills (BWH) region near Pottipuram village in Theni district of Tamil Nadu (110 km from the temple town of Madurai).
[2] China’s TRIDENT
- Scheduled for completion in 2030, TRIDENT, aptly nicknamed “Ocean Bell” or “Hai ling” in Chinese.
- It will be positioned 11,500 feet (3,500 meters) beneath the ocean’s surface in the Western Pacific.
- It seeks to explore the realm of neutrinos, transient particles that momentarily interact with the deep ocean, emitting faint flashes of light.
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PYQs:
(1) In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at the South Pole, which was recently in the news: (2015)
- It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
- It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
- It is buried deep in the ice.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
(2) India-based Neutrino Observatory is included by the planning commission as a mega-science project under the 11th Five-year plan. In this context, consider the following statements: (2010)
- Neutrinos are chargeless elementary particles that travel close to the speed of light.
- Neutrinos are created in nuclear reactions of beta decay.
- Neutrinos have a negligible, but non-zero mass.
- Trillions of Neutrinos pass through the human body every second.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2, 3 and 4
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: HbA1C Test, Diabetes (Type-1 and 2)
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
- India faces a significant burden of diabetes, with an estimated 10.13 crore people affected and an additional 13.6 crore individuals classified as pre-diabetic.
- One of the most commonly-used tests to diagnose pre-diabetes and diabetes (both type 1 and type 2) and to help manage diabetes, is the haemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test.
What is the HbA1C Test?
- The HbA1C test, or glycated haemoglobin test, serves as a vital tool for diagnosing pre-diabetes and diabetes, offering insights into long-term blood glucose control.
- It measures the percentage of red blood cells coated with sugar.
- It provides a comprehensive view of average blood glucose levels over the preceding two to three months.
- It is recommended for individuals over 30 years and those with specific risk factors, with retests scheduled based on initial findings and individual health profiles.
Evolution and Acceptance
- Initially inconsistent, the test gained recognition for its correlation with blood glucose values and its role in monitoring glycemia, leading to improved standardization and accuracy.
- It is endorsed by medical bodies like World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Diabetes Association and.
- This underscores the test’s diagnostic utility, subject to stringent quality assurance measures.
Interpretation of Results
- Results are typically presented as percentages.
- Normal: Values below 5.7% are considered
- Pre-diabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
- Alternatively, results may be expressed in mmol/mol, providing a comparable metric for assessment.
Limitations of the Test
- While informative, the HbA1C test may be supplemented by other tests, particularly in populations with conditions affecting assay accuracy.
- In India, factors like thalassemia prevalence and iron-deficiency anemia may impact test reliability, necessitating caution and additional indices for glycemic assessment.
PYQ:
‘Aerial metagenomics’ best refers to which one of the following situations?
- Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go
- Understanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat
- Using air-borne devices to collect blood samples from moving animals
- Sending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements about the HbA1C test:
- It is used in the diagnosis of Sickle Cell Disease.
- It measures the percentage of red blood cells coated with sugar.
- It is recommended for individuals over 30 years.
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: Geo-Heritage Sites in India
Mains level: NA
Why in the news
- Pandavula Gutta, an ancient geological marvel predating the Himalayan hills, has been officially designated as Telangana’s sole Geo-heritage site.
- Also the 165 million-year-old meteor Ramgarh Crater in Rajasthan was declared geo-heritage site.
[A] Pandavula Gutta
- Pandavula Gutta is located in Jayashankar Bhupalpally District in Telangana.
- It is known for its rock art and geological heritage.
- The site features Paleolithic cave paintings depicting wildlife and symbols.
- Discovered in 1990, it showcases habitation from the mesolithic to medieval times.
- Recognized as the sole Geo-heritage site in Telangana, older than the Himalayan hills.
[B] Ramgarh Crater
- The Ramgarh Crater, also known as Ramgarh structure, Ramgarh Dome, and Ramgarh astrobleme, is a meteor impact crater located near the town of Ramgarh in Baran district of Rajasthan.
- It is established as an asteroid impact crater in India, excavated within sandstone, shale, and limestone horizons of the Lower Bhander Group of the Vindhyan Region.
- It was formed by a meteorite impact, with a diameter of 3.2 kilometers and an elevation of over 200 meters above the surrounding terrain.
- It is declared Conservation Reserve, namely Ramgarh Conservation Reserve, under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and a notified wetland under Wetland (Conservation & Management) Rules, 2017.
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What are Geo-Heritage Sites?
- Geo-Heritage Sites in India are geological features of significant importance, either culturally or inherently, that provide insights into the Earth’s evolution or serve educational purposes.
- These sites are recognized and protected by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the respective State governments.
- India presently has 34 National Geological Heritage Monument Sites.
- Examples:
-
- Mawmluh Cave in Meghalaya
- Majuli Island in Assam
- Chabimura in Tripura
-
- Promote geotourism
- Preserve unique geological formations
- Enhance geological literacy among the public
Tap this link to read more about all Geo-Heritage Parks in India:
https://vikaspedia.in/education/childrens-corner/geological-heritage-sites-of-india
PYQ:
Q.Which one of the following statements is correct? (2021)
- Ajanta Caves lie in the gorge of Waghora River.
- Sanchi Stupa lies in the gorge of Chambal River.
- Pandu-Lena Cave Shrines lie in the gorge of Narmada River.
- Amaravati Stupa lies in the gorge of Godavari River.
Practice MCQ:
Which of the given statements about the Ramgarh Structure is NOT correct?
- It is an asteroid impact crater.
- It is located in the Deccan Plateau.
- It is a notified wetland under Wetland (Conservation & Management) Rules, 2017.
- It is under Conservation Reserve under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ULLAS Initiative, FLNAT Exam
Mains level: Adult Literacy
Why in the news
- The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education recently conducted the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT), under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram Initiative.
Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT)
- FLNAT is a nationwide assessment test conducted as part of the ULLAS initiative.
- It aims to evaluate the foundational literacy and numeracy skills of registered non-literate learners aged 15 and above.
- The assessment covers three aspects – Reading, Writing, and Numeracy – and is conducted in all districts of participating states/UTs.
- The test plays a crucial role in assessing the impact of teaching-learning sessions conducted under the ULLAS program and promoting literacy and numeracy skills among citizens.
- It is conducted in the regional language of the learners, aligning with the NEP 2020’s emphasis on multilingualism
- Qualifying learners receive a certificate from the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
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What is ULLAS Initiative?
- ULLAS stands for Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society.
- It seeks to advance lifelong learning and bridge literacy gaps among individuals aged 15 and above.
- The program aims to equip citizens with fundamental knowledge and skills essential for personal and national development.
- The ULLAS User-Friendly Mobile Application serves as a digital platform providing access to a wide range of learning resources via the DIKSHA portal.
Key Features of ULLAS
- Emphasizes continuous learning across all stages of life.
- Cultivates a culture of knowledge-sharing and individual growth.
- Provides participants with digital literacy skills.
- Promotes awareness and empowerment in financial matters.
- Imparts vital life skills such as legal literacy and digital competence.
- Enhances citizenship awareness and empowerment.
- Grants school/university credits to student volunteers.
- Offers recognition through certificates, letters of appreciation, and felicitation ceremonies.
PYQ:
Consider the following statements:
- As per the Right to Education (RTE) Act, to be eligible for appointment as a teacher in a State, a person would be required to possess the minimum qualification laid down by the concerned State Council of Teacher Education.
- As per the RTE Act, for teaching primary classes, a candidate is required to pass a Teacher Eligibility Test conducted in accordance with the National Council of Teacher Education guidelines.
- In India, more than 90% of teacher -5 education institutions are directly under the State Governments.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (2018)
- 1 and 2
- 2 only
- 1 and 3
- 3 only
Practice MCQ:
- Consider the following statements about the ULLAS Initiative:
- It focuses on Foundational Literacy.
- Individuals aged 15 and above are eligible under this initiative.
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: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), Anemia
Mains level: NA
What is the news-
- Based in Delhi, Akmus Drugs and Pharmaceutical Limited unveiled a groundbreaking drug for sickle cell disease on March 16.
- This drug marks India’s first indigenous, room-temperature stable solution for sickle cell disease, available at a mere 1% of the global price.
What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?
- Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetically inherited red blood cell disorder.
- It causes red blood cells to become hard, sticky, and sickle-shaped due to abnormal hemoglobin.
- This abnormality leads to complications such as pain, infections, acute chest syndrome, and stroke.
- Different types of SCD include HbSS, HbSC, and HbS beta thalassemia, each varying in severity.
- SCD is diagnosed through a simple blood test, often identified at birth through new-born screening.
- Treatment focuses on managing complications with options like bone marrow or stem cell transplantation, gene therapies, and medications like hydroxyurea to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
- The recent approval of Casgevy, a groundbreaking gene therapy utilizing Crispr-Cas9 technology, represents a monumental achievement SCD Treatment.
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About Akmus Sickle Cell Drug
- The oral suspension of Hydroxyurea is the basic component of the drug.
- Priced at less than ₹600, the drug is poised to revolutionize access to treatment for sickle cell disease patients nationwide.
- It is tailored for patients across all age groups.
- It offers convenience and precision in dosage administration through provided oral syringes.
What makes it a revolutionary drug?
- Room Temperature Stability: Unlike imported hydroxyurea solutions requiring storage at 2-8 degrees Celsius, Akmus Pharmaceuticals’ formulation ensures accessibility without stringent storage conditions.
- Cost-Efficiency: With the global brand priced at approximately ₹77,000, Akmus’ solution underscores a paradigm shift towards affordable medication.
Sickle Cell Disease Menace in India
- Prevalence among STs: Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder mostly prevalent in districts with high tribal populations. About one in 86 births among STs have sickle cell disease that affects haemoglobin in red blood cells, resulting in morbidity and mortality (as per WHO).
- Health Priority: Recognizing sickle cell disease as a significant health challenge, India has identified it among the top 10 issues disproportionately affecting tribal communities.
- National Mission: The National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission launched in 2023, aims to eliminate sickle cell anemia from India by 2047.
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PYQ:
Q. Consider the following statements in the context interventions being undertaken under Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy: (2023)
- It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women.
- It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of child-birth.
- It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents.
- It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- Only three
- All four
Practice MCQ:
Q. Regarding the prevalence of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in India, consider the following statements:
- Sickle cell disease is a hereditary disorder affecting affects haemoglobin in red blood cells.
- About one in 86 births among STs have sickle cell disease.
- India has identified it among the top 10 issues disproportionately affecting tribal communities.
- The National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission, aims to eliminate sickle cell anemia from India by 2030.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
- One
- Two
- Three
- Four
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UNGA, Non-members, Resolutions
Mains level: NA
Why in the news
- India abstained from voting on a UN General Assembly draft resolution on Islamophobia introduced by Pakistan and co-sponsored by China.
- India asserted that while condemning all acts of religious discrimination, it’s crucial to recognize religiophobia against various faiths rather than singling out one religion.
India’s Position on Islamophobia:
- Prevalence of Religiophobia: India emphasized that religiophobia extends beyond Abrahamic religions and affects followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.
- Opposition to Precedence: India expressed concerns that adopting the resolution could set a precedent for numerous resolutions centered on specific religious phobias, potentially dividing the United Nations along religious lines.
- Religious Autocracy: India urged member states to consider the broader scope of religious discrimination globally in non-secular theocracies, highlighting the need to address challenges faced by all faiths.
- Contemporary Forms: India cited examples of attacks on religious places of worship and the spreading of hatred against non-Abrahamic religions as evidence of contemporary religiophobia.
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What is UN General Assembly?
- The UNGA is the main policy-making organ of the United Nations, founded in 1945.
- It serves as a forum for all Member States to discuss and make recommendations on a wide range of international issues covered by the UN Charter.
- The UNGA is the only universally representative body of the UN, focusing on topics like international peace and security, development, disarmament, human rights, and international law.
Members/Observers
- The UNGA comprises all Member States, with each having an equal vote in the assembly. It elects non-permanent members of the Security Council, appoints the Secretary-General, and approves the UN budget.
- It has granted observer status to international organizations, entities, and non-member states, allowing them to participate in its work with certain limitations.
- Notable observers include the European Union, the Holy See, and the State of Palestine.
Functions
- The UNGA discusses, debates, and makes recommendations on various international issues within its competence, including political, economic, humanitarian, social, and legal matters.
- It plays a central role in standard-setting, codification of international law, and making recommendations to promote international political cooperation.
- It has the power to
- Consider and approve the UN budget,
- Elect non-permanent members of the Security Council, and
- Make recommendations on maintaining international peace and security, disarmament, and other matters outlined in the UN Charter.
What are UNGA Resolutions?
- A UNGA resolution is a formal expression of the General Assembly’s opinion, will, or intention on various matters of global significance.
- UNGA resolutions are adopted through a voting process during plenary sessions of the General Assembly.
- Each member state has one vote, and decisions are typically made by a two-thirds majority of those present and voting.
- While UNGA resolutions are not legally binding on their own, they can influence the development of customary international law and provide guidance for the interpretation of treaties and conventions.
- Types of Resolutions:
-
- Binding Resolutions: Some resolutions are legally binding on member states, requiring them to take specific actions or comply with certain obligations.
- Non-binding Resolutions: Many resolutions are non-binding, serving as recommendations, expressions of concern, or statements of principle. While non-binding, these resolutions carry significant political weight and influence.
PYQ:
With reference to the United Nations General Assembly, consider the following statements:
- The UN General Assembly can grant observer status to the non-member States.
- Inter-governmental organisations can seek observer status in the UN General Assembly.
- Permanent Observers in the UN General Assembly can maintain missions at the UN headquarters.
Which of the statements given above are correct? (2022)
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lakhpati Didi Scheme
Mains level: Modernization of Agriculture and Role of Women
Why in the news?
Efforts of fertilizer companies in supporting a Central government program aimed at training women to operate drones for spraying pesticides.
Context-
- This initiative represents a broader trend of encouraging women’s entrepreneurship in India and empowering them to participate in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as agriculture and technology.
- The involvement of fertilizer companies in funding and facilitating this program underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in driving social and economic development initiatives.
Scheme Details-
Under the Namo Drone Didi scheme, 15,000 women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will receive agricultural drones to assist in crucial tasks such as crop monitoring, fertiliser spraying, and seed sowing.
Costs to companies-
- Financial Commitment by Fertilizer Companies: Fertilizer companies such as Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) and Coromandel International Limited (CIL) are shouldering significant costs for the “drone didi” program.
- IFFCO is investing ₹42 crore to support the training and equipment for 300 drone didis, while CIL is backing another 200.
- Expense Breakdown: The approximate cost per woman participating in the program is ₹14 lakh. This covers expenses like the drone, four battery sets, a generator, and an electric autorickshaw for transportation.
- IFFCO has categorized this expenditure as “benefits to farmers” in its financial records.
- Contribution of Other Companies: Several additional fertilizer companies, including Krishak Bharati Cooperative (KRIBHCO), Indian Potash Limited (IPL), Matix, Indorama India Private Limited, Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited, and National Fertilizers Limited, are collectively providing an extra 500 drones.
- Funding Arrangement: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has agreed to provide financial assistance of up to ₹8 lakh for each set of equipment. The remaining ₹2 lakh is to be sourced by the participating Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Farmer trials-
- Online Portal Enrollment: Haryana’s Agriculture Department, along with fertilizer companies, introduced online enrollment via the Meri Fasal Mera Byora portal to encourage farmers to apply for crop spraying through drones.
- Subsidized Nano Urea Bottle: Farmers are offered a 1-litre nano urea bottle at ₹100, discounted from the market price of ₹225. This nano urea, when mixed with water, serves one acre.
- Manual vs. Drone Spraying: Farmers weigh the costs of the manual application, which include subsidized granular urea and labor costs, against the higher charges of drone didis.
- Viability for Small Landholders: Small landholders express concerns about the affordability and practicality of drone services due to limited financial resources and smaller land holdings.
- Usefulness of Drones: Drones are seen as more cost-effective for larger plantations like coffee, tea, or sugarcane, rather than smaller-scale agricultural operations.
- Financial Constraints: Farmers highlight financial constraints, including the inability to afford necessities like housing, education, and farm equipment, which diminishes the feasibility of investing in drone technology.
The women’s challenges-
- Fuel Costs: significant daily expenses (₹500 to ₹600) on fuel to run the generator required to charge the battery sets for the drone, raising concerns about the economic feasibility of the job in the long run.
- Battery Set Limitations: Each day, exhausts one charged battery set after covering three acres with the drone. This necessitates simultaneous charging of another set in her electric vehicle (EV) to continue her work, resulting in additional time and fuel costs.
- Economic Viability: Despite the potential earnings mentioned on paper, there are doubts about the economic viability of the job due to high fuel costs, the need for additional assistance, and uncertainties regarding the longevity of the scheme’s benefits
- Safety Concerns and Need for Assistance: There is safety concerns while operating the drone and the necessity of having an assistant to drive the electric autorickshaw and assist with unloading and handling the heavy drone equipment.
- Lack of Provision for Helpers: There is no provision for hiring assistants or helpers in the scheme, leading to additional expenses
Limitation of this scheme-
- Current Urea Usage and Subsidy: India uses 3.5 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of granular urea annually, with a significant portion subsidized by the government to make it affordable for farmers. Liquid nano urea, an alternative, is produced in limited quantities.
- Government’s Vision for Nano Urea Production: The government aims to increase the production capacity of liquid nano urea to reduce dependence on expensive imported granular urea. The goal is to produce 48.5 crore bottles annually by 2026-27.
- Limitations of Nano Urea: While liquid nano urea can supplement traditional granular urea, it cannot entirely replace it due to specific requirements in different stages of crop growth.
- Ownership and Earnings Concerns: There are uncertainties regarding the ownership of drones and the distribution of earnings from drone operations among individuals, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), village organizations (VOs), or cluster-level federations (CLFs).
- Need for Clarity and Coordination: Questions are raised about the lack of clarity on ownership, earnings distribution, and coordination among stakeholders involved in drone operations.
- Challenges with Previous Proposals: Issues regarding the implementation of previous drone-related schemes, such as the procurement of drones under Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and concerns about competition from individual farmers purchasing their drones are highlighted.
To overcome the challenges outlined regarding drone operations and nano urea production, several measures can be considered:
- Clarity in Ownership and Earnings Distribution: Establish clear guidelines and agreements on drone ownership and revenue sharing among individuals, SHGs, VOs, and CLFs. Ensure transparency in decision-making processes and consult all stakeholders involved.
- Enhanced Coordination: Facilitate better coordination among government agencies, agricultural organizations, and drone operators to streamline operations, address concerns, and ensure effective implementation of schemes. Regular meetings, feedback mechanisms, and communication channels can aid in coordination efforts.
- Capacity Building: Provide training and capacity-building programs for drone operators, farmers, and other stakeholders to enhance their skills in drone operation, maintenance, and data interpretation. This can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of drone-based agricultural activities.
- Promotion of Nano Urea: Invest in research and development to improve the efficacy and availability of liquid nano urea. Conduct awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the benefits and proper usage of nano urea, emphasizing its role as a supplement to traditional fertilizers.
- Policy Reforms: Review existing policies related to drone operations, urea subsidy, and agricultural initiatives to address loopholes and inconsistencies. Introduce new policies or amendments to support the expansion of nano urea production and drone technology adoption in agriculture.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Foster partnerships between government agencies, private companies, research institutions, and farmer groups to leverage expertise, resources, and innovation in addressing challenges related to drone operations and urea production.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess the impact of drone-based agricultural initiatives and nano urea production efforts. Collect data on key performance indicators and stakeholders’ feedback to identify areas for improvement and make informed decisions.
Conclusion-
The initiative to train women as “drone didis” for agricultural tasks faces challenges of economic viability, ownership clarity, and coordination. Solutions include clear guidelines, capacity building, policy reforms, and collaborative partnerships to ensure sustainable implementation and overcome limitations in nano urea production.
Mains PYQ-
Q- The Self Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Program (SBLP), which is India’s own innovation , has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and women empowerment programme. Elucidate.(UPSC IAS/2015)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Multi-Modal Transport Hubs
Why in the news?
- The Indian Railways will create mega railway terminals with multi-modal connectivity in aspirational cities with a population of more than 10 lakh across the country.
About the ‘Viksit Bharat’ Initiative –
- The program is part of the infrastructure being developed for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative
- Viksit Bharat 2047 is the vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047, the 100th year of independence.
- This vision encompasses various facets of development, such as economic growth, environmental sustainability, social progress, and good governance, to make India a developed nation by 2047.
Key Provisions as per Railways Plans-
- Inclusivity and Expansion: The initiative aims to be inclusive by considering inputs from stakeholders and has a vision for expansion beyond its initial parameters to cater to the needs of densely populated areas.
- The Railway Ministry is actively working on improving the passenger experience in a mission mode, indicating a focused and accelerated effort in this regard.
- Efforts are being made to improve the cleanliness of coaches and maintain proper amenities on railway premises to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.
- Zero Tolerance Policy: The Ministry has issued a warning that any laxity on the part of senior officers will not be tolerated, emphasizing the importance of accountability and responsibility in ensuring passenger satisfaction.
- Quality check and Monitoring: Principal Chief Mechanical Engineers (PCMEs) of Zonal Railways have been instructed to closely monitor and ensure sustained housekeeping and maintenance activities, indicating a hands-on approach to implementing these improvements.
Implementing the initiatives outlined could face several challenges:
- Resource Constraints: Adequate funding, manpower, and infrastructure might be lacking, especially for initiatives that require significant investment in upgrading facilities and maintaining cleanliness.
- Resistance to Change: Resistance from existing systems, bureaucracy, and resistance to change among stakeholders could impede the implementation of new initiatives.
- Coordination Issues: Effective coordination among various departments and agencies involved in railway operations may be challenging, leading to delays or inefficiencies in implementation.
- Technical Challenges: Addressing technical issues related to rolling stock maintenance, cleanliness, and passenger amenities may require specialized expertise and resources.
- Operational challenges: The vast scale of railway operations across the country presents logistical challenges in ensuring uniform implementation of initiatives and maintaining standards consistently.
- Training and Capacity Building: Providing adequate training and capacity building for staff involved in implementing and maintaining the initiatives may be necessary but could also be challenging to execute effectively.
To address the challenges mentioned, several measures can be taken:
- Resource Mobilization: Explore alternative sources of funding such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), seek investment from international organizations, and allocate budgetary resources efficiently.
- Capacity Building: Invest in training programs, workshops, and skill development initiatives to enhance the capabilities of staff involved in implementing and maintaining the initiatives.
- Technology Adoption: Embrace technological solutions such as automated maintenance systems, real-time monitoring tools, and digital platforms to improve efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in operations.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Communication: Conduct extensive stakeholder consultations to garner support for initiatives, communicate the benefits clearly, and create awareness about the need for change.
- Simplify bureaucratic procedures, delegate decision-making authority where appropriate, and establish clear accountability mechanisms to facilitate faster implementation.
Conclusion
- Indian Railways’ mega terminals aim to transform connectivity in aspirational cities. Challenges like resource constraints and resistance necessitate measures like stakeholder engagement, technology adoption, and streamlined processes for successful implementation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: HDI
Mains level: India's Status as Developing Country
Why in the news?
Recently, India’s progress in the global Human Development Index (HDI), as reported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Context-
- India’s ranking on the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) improved by one position in 2022 to 134 out of 193 countries compared to 135 out of 191 countries in 2021. Switzerland has been ranked number one.
The Human Development Index (HDI)-
About
The Human Development Index (HDI), initially introduced by the UNDP in 1990, is a statistical composite index. It measures a country’s average achievement across three fundamental dimensions:
- Health: This dimension is represented by life expectancy at birth. It reflects the overall health and well-being of the population and their access to healthcare services.
- Education: This dimension includes indicators such as expected years of schooling for children entering school and mean years of schooling for adults. It assesses the level of educational attainment and the availability of educational opportunities within a country.
- Standard of Living: This dimension is measured by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP). It reflects the economic prosperity and living standards of the population, including income levels and access to basic necessities.
Background
- The Human Development Index (HDI) was developed by Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq and Indian economist Amartya Sen. It is used by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to assess a country’s development as part of the Human Development Report.
- Alongside the Human Development Index (HDI), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) also presents the Human Development Report (HDR) which present-
- Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI),
- Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI),
- Gender Inequality Index(GII) since 2010 and
- Gender Development Index (GDI) since 2014
Key Points as per Report-
- India’s Rank on the HDI: India moved up one rank on the Human Development Index (HDI) from 135 in 2021 to 134 in 2022, with slight improvements in life expectancy and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita.
- Comparison with Neighbors: India ranks below its southern neighbour Sri Lanka (ranked 78) and China (ranked 75) in the High Human Development category, and below Bhutan (ranked 125) and Bangladesh (ranked 129) in the Medium Human Development category.
- Reducing inequalities: The report highlights a reverse trend in reducing inequalities between wealthy and poor nations. Despite interconnected global societies, collective action on climate change, digitalization, poverty, and inequality is lacking, leading to a widening human development gap.
- Challenges in Democracy: While nine in 10 people worldwide endorse democracy, over half express support for leaders who may undermine it. Political polarization and limited control over government decisions are prevalent, leading to protectionist or inward-turning policy approaches.
Action Plans as per report-
- Multilateral Cooperation: Strengthen international cooperation and collaboration among governments, NGOs, businesses, and other stakeholders to address global challenges collectively. This could involve fostering dialogue, partnerships, and agreements that promote shared goals and responsibilities.
- Policy Coordination: Enhance coordination and coherence in policymaking at national and international levels to ensure that policies address interconnected challenges comprehensively. This may involve integrating diverse perspectives, aligning strategies across sectors, and leveraging resources efficiently.
- Investment in Sustainable Development: Increase investments in sustainable development initiatives that prioritize environmental conservation, social equity, and economic prosperity. This could include funding for renewable energy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation programs.
- Empowering Communities: Empower local communities and grassroots organizations to participate in decision-making processes and contribute to problem-solving efforts. This could involve providing resources, capacity-building support, and platforms for civic engagement.
- Promotion of Dialogue and Understanding: Foster dialogue, empathy, and mutual understanding among diverse communities to mitigate polarization and build social cohesion. This could involve promoting education, cultural exchange programs, media literacy, and initiatives that promote tolerance and respect for human rights.
- Transparency and Accountability: Enhance transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance structures and institutions to rebuild trust and confidence among citizens. This could involve strengthening anti-corruption measures, promoting open government initiatives, and ensuring inclusive and participatory decision-making processes.
- Investment in Education and Awareness: Invest in education, public awareness campaigns, and media literacy programs to increase awareness of global challenges, their interconnections, and the importance of collective action. This could help foster a sense of shared responsibility and mobilize public support for collaborative solutions.
- Promotion of Inclusive Economic Growth: Promote inclusive economic growth that benefits all segments of society, reduces inequality, and creates opportunities for marginalized populations. This could involve implementing policies that support job creation, entrepreneurship, social protection, and access to essential services.
- Resilience Building: Build resilience to global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic crises by investing in preparedness, adaptation, and mitigation strategies. This could involve strengthening healthcare systems, disaster risk reduction measures, and social safety nets.
- Advocacy and Leadership: Advocate for political leadership and commitment at all levels to prioritize collective action and address shared challenges effectively. This could involve mobilizing political will, engaging with policymakers, and holding leaders accountable for their actions.
Conclusion-
Strengthening multilateral cooperation, policy coordination, sustainable development investment, empowering communities, promoting dialogue, transparency, education, inclusive economic growth, resilience building, and advocating for leadership are vital for addressing global challenges collectively and fostering a sustainable future.
Mains PYQ-
Q- Despite the consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.(UPSC IAS/2019)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Food Inflation and Control Measures
Why in the news?
- India’s retail inflation remained virtually unchanged at 5.09% in February, even as food prices paid by consumers resurged from 8.3% in January to 8.66% in February.
Context-
- Most economists expect inflation to stay in the 5.1%-5.2% range in March as well, which would lift average inflation in the last quarter of this year over the 5% average projected by the RBI
The primary reason behind the food inflation in February-
- Vegetable Prices Surge: Vegetables experienced a significant price surge, with a seven-month high pace of 30.25% in February. This spike in vegetable prices contributed significantly to the overall food inflation.
- Rise in Egg and Meat Prices: Prices of eggs and meat/fish also rose at a faster pace in February compared to January. Eggs witnessed a notable increase from 5.6% to 10.7%, while meat and fish prices rose from 1.2% to 5.2%.
- Deceleration in Pulses and Spices Prices: While there was a slight deceleration in the inflation rate of pulses and spices compared to the previous year, these items still experienced steep price increases. Pulses inflation stood at 18.5%, and spices recorded a 13.5% increase.
- Regional Disparities: Food inflation varied across different states, with some states experiencing inflation rates above the RBI’s upper tolerance threshold of 6%. States like Odisha, Telangana, Haryana, and Assam recorded high inflation rates, while others like Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal had relatively lower inflation rates.
- Seasonal Factors and Supply Chain Issues: Seasonal factors, along with supply chain disruptions, could have contributed to the rise in food prices. Factors such as adverse weather conditions, transportation constraints, and supply-demand imbalances may have affected the availability and prices of food items in the market.
To address inflation-related issues in the short term and long term, several measures can be considered:
[A] Short-Term Measures:
Supply-Side Interventions:
- Increase the supply of essential commodities by releasing buffer stocks, if available.
- Facilitate faster transportation of perishable goods through streamlined logistics and distribution channels.
- Establish temporary market outlets to directly connect farmers with consumers, reducing intermediary costs and price hikes.
Import Policies:
- Relax import restrictions on essential food items to augment domestic supply and stabilize prices.
- Expedite customs clearance procedures to ensure timely availability of imported goods in the market.
Price Monitoring and Control:
- Implement strict price monitoring mechanisms to prevent hoarding and profiteering.
- Set up special task forces or committees to monitor price movements and take swift action against price manipulation.
Demand Management:
- Promote alternative dietary choices to alleviate pressure on high-priced items.
- Encourage conservation and rational utilization of essential commodities through public awareness campaigns.
[B] Long-Term Measures:
Investment in Agriculture Infrastructure:
- Enhance investment in agricultural infrastructure, including irrigation systems, cold storage facilities, and transportation networks, to improve productivity and reduce post-harvest losses.
Crop Diversification and Technology Adoption:
- Encourage farmers to diversify their crops to mitigate the impact of price volatility.
- Promote the adoption of modern agricultural practices, including mechanization, precision farming, and biotechnology, to enhance crop yields and resilience to climate change.
Market Reforms:
- Implement market reforms to create a more efficient and transparent agricultural marketing system.
- Facilitate the establishment of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and agricultural cooperatives to empower farmers and strengthen their bargaining power in the market.
Food Processing and Value Addition:
- Promote investment in food processing industries to add value to agricultural produce and reduce post-harvest losses.
- Establish food processing clusters and agro-industrial parks to encourage entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities in rural areas.
Risk Management and Insurance:
- Introduce crop insurance schemes and risk management tools to protect farmers from income volatility caused by price fluctuations and natural disasters.
- Provide training and technical assistance to farmers to improve their risk assessment and management capabilities.
Sustainable Agriculture Practices:
- Encourage the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices, including organic farming, agroforestry, and soil conservation, to ensure long-term environmental sustainability and food security.
Conclusion-
To mitigate food inflation, short-term measures such as supply-side interventions and price monitoring are essential, while long-term solutions like investment in agriculture infrastructure and market reforms are crucial for sustainable food security.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nana Jagannath Shankarseth and his contributions
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
- The Maharashtra cabinet has resolved to request the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth, a revered social reformer, educationist, and philanthropist often hailed as the “architect” of Mumbai.
About Nana Jagannath Shankarseth (1803-1865)
- Born on February 10, 1803, in Murbad, Thane, into the affluent Murkute family.
- His father, Shankar Murkute, earned the nickname “Shankar Sheth” due to his success in the jewellery and diamond trade.
- He contributed in terms of both ideas and money to multiple sectors, to lay a strong foundation for the Bombay City.
- He was greatly inspired by the legendary merchant and philanthropist Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.
Contribution of Nana Jagannath Shankarseth
- Founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse.
- Played a pivotal role as one of the founding members of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway in 1853, contributing to India’s infrastructural development.
- Recognized the importance of education in societal progress and opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform.
- Co-founded the School Society and the Native School of Bombay, laying the foundation for educational institutions that nurtured future leaders such as Dadabhai Naoroji and Gopal Krishna Gokhale.
- Established the Bombay Native Education Society in 1822, the first of its kind in Western India, to promote education among the masses.
- Collaborated with Sir George Birdwood and Dr Bhau Daji in major reconstruction efforts in Mumbai starting in 1857, transforming the city’s urban landscape.
- Became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.
- Honored with a marble statue at the Asiatic Society of Mumbai a year after his death in 1865, commemorating his contributions to society.
Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2012:
Q.The most effective contribution made by Dadabhai Naoroji to the cause of Indian National Movement was that he-
- exposed the economic exploitation of India by the British
- interpreted the ancient Indian texts and restored the self-confidence of Indians
- stressed the need for eradication of all the social evils before anything else
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Practice MCQ:
Q. Consider the following events:
He founded the Bombay Association in 1852, the first political organization in Mumbai, fostering a platform for civic engagement and political discourse. Recognizing the importance of education in societal progress, he opened the first school for girls in Mumbai in 1849, pioneering educational reform. He became the first Indian to be nominated to the Bombay Legislative Council in 1861, advocating for policies that improved public welfare and urban amenities.
The above description is mentioned about which of the following personality?
a) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
b) Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde
c) Nana Jagannath Shankarseth
d) Dhondo Keshav Karve
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
What is the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)?
- It is a US-led initiative that aims to strengthen economic partnerships among participating countries to enhance resilience, sustainability, inclusiveness, economic growth, fairness, and competitiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The IPEF was launched in 2021 with 12 initial partners who together represent 40% of the world GDP.
- The IPEF is NOT a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) but allows members to negotiate the parts they want to.
Four main “Pillars” of IPEF
- Trade that will include digital economy and emerging technology, labor commitments, the environment, trade facilitation, transparency and good regulatory practices, and corporate accountability, standards on cross-border data flow and data localisations;
- Supply chain resilience to develop “a first-of-its-kind supply chain agreement” that would anticipate and prevent disruptions;
- Clean energy and decarbonization that will include agreements on “high-ambition commitments” such as renewable energy targets, carbon removal purchasing commitments, energy efficiency standards, and new measures to combat methane emissions; and
- Fair Economy Agreement, with commitments to enact and enforce “effective tax, anti-money laundering, anti-bribery schemes in line with [American] values”.
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Members Countries include:
- Currently, India and 13 countries other located in the Pacific Ocean are its members: Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, United States, and Vietnam.
How is IPEF different from other trade deals?
- No market access or tariff reductions have been outlined in the IPEF, although experts say it can pave the way to trade deals.
- It’s not a take-it-or-leave-it arrangement, like most multilateral trade deals are.
- Since the IPEF is not a regular trade pact, the members so far are not obligated by all four pillars despite being signatories.
Practice MCQ:
Regarding the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), consider the following statements:
- It is a US-led initiative launched in 2021.
- It is basically a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
- India is not a member of IPEF.
How many of the given statements is/are correct?
(a) One
(b) Two
(c) Three
(d) None
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mission Palm Oil, Key stats on India's Edible Oil Imports
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
- The Prime Minister highlighted the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) during his visit to Arunachal Pradesh, inaugurating the first oil mill under this mission.
Why discuss this?
- This results in a substantial outflow of $20.56 billion in foreign exchange, the need for self-reliance in edible oil production has become paramount.
Edible Oil Consumption in India: Key Facts
- India, the world’s biggest importer of vegetable oils, is likely to buy 15.6 million metric tons of cooking oils in the 2023-24 oil year, down from 16.6 million in the current year to Oct.
- With India imports 57% of its vegetable oil demand.
- These imports have shown a declining trend in recent months.
- This decline is attributed to various factors such as reduced availability of palm oil for edible oil requirements due to producers diverting it for biodiesel production.
- Additionally, the import of soyabean oil from Argentina increased sharply in February 2024, while imports from Brazil declined.
- The top three vegetable oil imports – palm, soybean, and sunflower seed oil.
- India’s vegetable oil sector accounts for 13% of the Gross Cropped Area, 3% of the Gross National Product, and 10% of the value of all agricultural commodities.
- A substantial portion of India’s edible oil requirement is fulfilled through palm oil imports from Indonesia and Malaysia.
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Mission Palm Oil: A Catalyst for Self-Reliance
- It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched in 2021 targeting a substantial increase in oil palm cultivation and crude palm oil production.
- It has been introduced with a particular emphasis on the Northeast region and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Objectives:
- Expand oil palm acreage by an additional 6.5 lakh hectares by 2025-26
- Increase crude palm oil production to 11.2 lakh tonnes by 2025-26, reaching up to 28 lakh tonnes by 2029-30.
- Increase consumer awareness to maintain a consumption level of 19.00 kg/person/annum till 2025-26.
Focus Areas
(1) Fixing of Viability Price
- Oil palm farmers currently produce Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFBs), from which the industry extracts oil.
- Presently, FFB prices fluctuate with international Crude Palm Oil (CPO) prices.
- The Government of India will now assure price stability for FFBs, known as Viability Price (VP), shielding farmers from international CPO price fluctuations.
- A Formula Price (FP), set at 14.3% of CPO and adjusted monthly, will be established. Viability gap funding will be the difference between VP and FP, directly disbursed to farmers’ accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) when necessary.
(2) Input Assistance
- The scheme’s second major focus is to significantly enhance input assistance/interventions, including:
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- Increasing assistance for oil palm planting material from Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 29,000 per hectare.
- Boosting support for maintenance and intercropping interventions.
- Providing special assistance of Rs. 250 per plant for replanting old gardens to rejuvenate them.
- Offering special assistance tailored for the North-East and Andaman regions, including provisions for half-moon terrace cultivation, bio-fencing, land clearance, and integrated farming.
Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2019:
Among the following, which one is the largest exporter of rice in the world in the last five years?
(a) China
(b) India
(c) Myanmar
(d) Vietnam
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements:
- India is the world’s biggest importer of vegetable oils.
- The top three vegetable oil imports include – soybean, palm and groundnut oil.
Which of the given statements is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various policies mentioned in the newscard
Mains level: E-V Promotion: Policy Initiatives
Why in the news-
- The Union Government has approved a scheme aimed at promoting India as a manufacturing destination for e-vehicles (EVs) with the latest technology.
- The policy aims to attract investments from reputed global EV manufacturers to bolster the EV ecosystem in the country.
About E- Vehicle Manufacturing Policy
- Access to Latest Technology: Indian consumers will gain access to the latest technology in EVs, aligning with the Make in India initiative.
- Strengthening the EV Ecosystem: The policy aims to strengthen the EV ecosystem by fostering healthy competition among EV players, leading to high-volume production and economies of scale.
- Reducing Import Dependency: By promoting domestic production, the policy aims to reduce imports of crude oil, lower the trade deficit, and curb air pollution, particularly in cities.
- Key provisions of the Policy include:
- Minimum Investment Requirement: A minimum investment of Rs 4150 crore (∼USD 500 million) is required to qualify for the scheme.
- Timeline for Manufacturing: Manufacturers must set up manufacturing facilities in India within 3 years, start commercial production of e-vehicles, and achieve 50% domestic value addition (DVA) within 5 years.
- Domestic Value Addition (DVA): Localization levels of 25% by the 3rd year and 50% by the 5th year must be achieved during manufacturing.
- Customs Duty Incentives: A customs duty of 15% applies to vehicles with a minimum CIF value of USD 35,000 and above, subject to certain conditions.
Additional Provisions and Requirements
- Limit on Duty Forgone: The duty foregone on imported EVs is limited to the investment made or ₹6484 crore, whichever is lower.
- Annual Import Limits: A maximum of 40,000 EVs can be imported annually, subject to investment thresholds.
- Bank Guarantee Requirement: Investment commitments must be backed by a bank guarantee, which will be invoked in case of non-achievement of DVA and minimum investment criteria.
- Bank Guarantee Invocation: The bank guarantee will be invoked if companies fail to meet the DVA and minimum investment criteria outlined in the scheme guidelines.
Various Policy Moves for Promoting E-Vehicles
- FAME scheme II (2019): Offers incentives such as subsidies, tax rebates, and preferential financing for EV manufacturers and buyers.
- National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (2013): Aims to achieve annual sales targets of 6-7 million hybrid and electric vehicles by 2020 through fiscal incentives.
- Amendments to the Model Building Bye-laws (2016): It requires 20% of parking spaces in residential and commercial buildings to be allocated for EV charging facilities.
- National Mission on Transformative Mobility and Battery Storage (2019): Aims to create an ecosystem for EV adoption and support the establishment of large-scale battery manufacturing plants.
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme (2021): It incentivises EV and component manufacturing.
- Vehicle Scrappage Policy (2021): It incentivizes the scrapping of old vehicles and the purchase of new EVs.
- Ministry of Power’s guidelines: It mandates charging stations every 3 km along grids and every 25 km on highways.
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Try this PYQ from CSE Mains 2019:
Q. How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) Scheme, JanSamarth Portal
Mains level: NA
Why in the news-
- The Department of Fisheries inaugurated the integration of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Fisheries scheme onto the JanSamarth Portal, marking a revolutionary step in providing credit facilities to fishers and fish farmers nationwide.
JanSamarth Portal
- It is a first-of-its-kind online platform for directly connecting lenders with beneficiaries. Citizens can avail loans under 13 Central government schemes under 4 loan categories.
- The one-stop portal allows citizens to check eligibility, apply online and get digital approval.
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About KCC Fisheries Scheme
- The GoI, in the year 2018-19, extended KCC facility to fisheries and animal husbandry farmers to help them to meet their working capital requirements.
- Bank authorities have been instructed to issue KCC within 14 days of receipt of the completed application from the fish farmers.
- Benefits Include:
- For the existing KCC holders the benefits of interest subvention and prompt repayment incentive will be admissible up to the credit limit of Rs. 3 lakhs including fisheries activities.
- In the case of new card holders, the credit limit is Rs. 2 lakhs to meet their working capital requirements for fisheries activities.
- In the KCC scheme @7% is the lending rate to farmers including @2% interest subvention per annum by GoI. Also, another @3% per annum is provided in case of prompt repayment as an additional incentive as per the existing guidelines.
- This implies that the farmers repaying promptly as above would get a loan @ 4% per annum effectively for loan amount upto Rs 2 lakhs.
Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) Scheme
- The KCC scheme was introduced on the recommendation of R.V. Gupta of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development.
- The scheme was launched in 1998 to provide adequate and timely credit support from the banking system to the farmers.
- It provides a single window with flexible and simplified procedures to the farmers for their cultivation and other needs like purchasing agriculture inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides etc. and drawing cash for their production needs.
- The scheme was further extended for the investment credit requirement of farmers viz. allied and non-farm activities in the year 2004.
- In 2018-19, it was extended to fisheries and animal husbandry farmers.
Objectives include:
- To meet the short-term credit requirement for cultivation
- To manage post-harvest expenses
- To meet the consumption requirement of farmer’s household
- Working capital for maintaining the farm assets and activities allied to agriculture
- Investment credit requirement for agriculture-allied activities
KCC scheme is implemented by:
- Commercial banks
- Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
- Small Financial Banks, and
- Cooperative banks
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Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2020:
Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?
- Working capital for maintenance of farm assets
- Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks
- Consumption requirements of farm households
- Post-harvest expenses
- Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 4 and 5
Practice MCQ:
The JanSamarth Portal often seen in the news is related to:
(a) Lending Facility
(b) E-KYC
(c) Consumer Grievances
(d) Right to Information
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters
Mains level: Read the attached story
Why in the news-
- The Indian Army Aviation Corps inaugurated its first unit of AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters into its fleet at Jodhpur Air Base.
AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters
- The AH-64E Apache also known as ‘Apache Guardian’ is widely recognized as the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter.
- It originates from the United States and is manufactured by Boeing.
- In February 2020, India sealed a deal with Boeing for the acquisition of six AH-64E for the Army, with an additional six helicopters contracted subsequently.
- Several countries have acquired the AH-64E, including India, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UAE, and the UK.
Indigenous Push
- Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL), was established in 2016 to manufacture fuselages for the AH-64 Apache.
- TBAL’s Hyderabad facility has been delivering AH-64 Apache fuselages since 2018.
- The advanced manufacturing facility will eventually become the sole producer of AH-64 fuselages in the world, with 90% of parts sourced from Indian suppliers.
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Combat Features
- Engineered with an open systems architecture to integrate cutting-edge communications, navigation, sensor, and weapon systems.
- Boasts enhanced thrust and lift capabilities, joint digital interoperability, improved survivability, and cognitive decision aiding.
- Incorporates a new integrated infrared laser for simplified target designation and upgraded infrared imagery blending infrared with night vision capabilities.
Strategic Significance of the Induction
- Enhancing Combat Capability: The induction of Apache helicopters marks a significant advancement for the Army Aviation Corps, providing formidable firepower and maneuverability in combat scenarios.
- Complementing Indigenous Capabilities: The Apaches will complement the indigenous Light Combat helicopter (LCH), strengthening the Army’s aerial combat capabilities.
- Replacing the ageing arsenal: The Apache fleet is set to will replace the Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters in service.
Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2018:
Q.What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?
(a) An Israeli radar system
(b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme
(c) An American anti-missile system
(d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea
Practice MCQ:
What is “AH-64E Apache Guardian “, sometimes seen in the news?
(a) Multi-role Helicopter
(b) Radar
(c) Anti-Tank Missile
(d) Air-Defence System
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