From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-JANMAN Scheme
Mains level: Government initiatives and Programs; Technical Challenges in the implementation; PM JANMAN Housing Scheme;
Why in the News?
The PM JANMAN presents a new opportunity to transform the lives of India’s Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
About PVTGs:
India has numerous Adivasi groups, with 75 identified as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). These comprise around 14.6 lakh households and live in scattered, remote, and often inaccessible areas. Their livelihoods rely on methods and tools that predate agriculture. PVTGs have low literacy rates, economic backwardness, and stagnant populations.
In 1960-61, the Dhebar Commission identified disparities among Scheduled Tribes, leading to the creation of the “Primitive Tribal Groups” (PTG) category. In 2006, this category was renamed Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
Government Initiatives:
Pradhan Mantri PVTG Development Mission. Announced for the fiscal year 2023-24 to improve socio-economic conditions of PVTGs.
Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) launched in November 2023.
Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana, Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) and Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP).
PM JANMAN Objectives:
Provide essential services to PVTGs, including safe housing, clean drinking water, and sanitation.
The largest Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme in the initiative.
Aims to reach 4.90 lakh PVTG households by 2026.
Households to receive ₹2.39 lakh each in three instalments.
Technical Challenges in the PM JANMAN Housing Scheme
App Functionality and Data Gathering:
Data Collection Areas: The ‘Awaas+’ app records geographical locations, household profiles with geo-tagging, and bank account details for cash transfers.
Mandatory Jobcard: Registration requires a jobcard, but many have been deleted, affecting PVTGs’ eligibility.
Jobcard Issues:
Deletion of Jobcards: Widespread deletion of over eight crore MGNREGA jobcards in the past two years has led to many PVTGs being ineligible for the scheme.
Jobcard Misuse: Cases of fraudulent registrations with someone else’s job cards further complicate the registration process.
Village List Discrepancies:
Inconsistent Data: The pre-populated list of villages in the app does not match the MGNREGA Management Information System (MIS). For example, the app lists 22 villages while the MIS lists 31 villages for ‘Vanjari’ Panchayat in Andhra Pradesh, causing confusion.
Aadhaar-related Issues:
Name Matching: The app requires names as per Aadhaar records but does not guide what to do if Aadhaar is absent.
PVTG Identification: The app does not explicitly identify PVTGs, using a default ‘ST’ option, leading to non-PVTG registrations.
Certification Issues:
Local Certification: Ineligible registrations prompt local officials to ask PVTGs for certification from sarpanches/mukhiyas.
Conflict of Interest: Non-PVTG sarpanches/mukhiyas in mixed communities may act against the interests of PVTGs, complicating the certification process.
Geo-tagging Problems:
Network Issues: Geo-tagging required for planned construction locations faces chaos due to poor network connectivity, hindering accurate data capture.
Bank Selection Complexity:
Overwhelming Options: The app’s dropdown lists for banks are excessively long. For example, selecting ‘Commercial Bank’ shows over 300 options, and choosing ‘State Bank of India’ in Andhra Pradesh presents over 500 branches, adding unnecessary complexity for both PVTGs and officials.
Opportunity/Way Forward for PM JANMAN Housing Scheme
Simplify App Interface: Update the ‘Awaas+’ app to have a more user-friendly interface and reduce unnecessary complexities, such as the long dropdown lists for banks.
Clear Guidelines for Aadhaar: Provide explicit instructions on what names to use in the absence of Aadhaar, ensuring all eligible PVTGs can register.
Verify Jobcard Authenticity: Introduce robust mechanisms to prevent fraudulent registrations using others’ jobcards.
Improve Network Infrastructure: Invest in better network infrastructure in remote areas to support the geo-tagging feature.
Mains PYQ:
Q Given the diversities among tribal communities in India, in which specific contexts should they be considered as a single category? (UPSC IAS/2022)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: WHO; Healthcare Initiatives;
Mains level: Health Care; Convention on Tobacco Control; Global Health Rules;
Why in the News?
Health officials of the World Health Organization (WHO) aim to finalize over two years of negotiations on new pandemic response rules when they convene in Geneva next week.
About the ‘Pandemic Treaty’
The pandemic treaty is a new legally binding agreement being negotiated to improve the global pandemic response. The treaty aims to address the shortcomings revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as inequitable vaccine distribution.
Article 12, a critical and contentious part of the treaty, proposes reserving around 20% of tests, treatments, and vaccines for WHO distribution to poorer countries during emergencies.
The treaty would be the second major health accord after the 2003 Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Convention n Tobacco Control
Govt. of India ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in 2004, the first-ever international public health treaty focusing on the global public health issue of tobacco control.
The FCTC is a legally binding treaty that requires countries bound by the treaty — or Parties to implement evidence-based measures to reduce tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke.
How will Global Health Rules Change?
Updates to the existing International Health Regulations (IHR) include a new alert system for different risk assessments of outbreaks, replacing the current single-level emergency declaration.
A new “early action alert” stage will be introduced, along with a potential “pandemic emergency” category for the most severe health threats.
Obligations for countries: Strengthened obligations for countries to inform the WHO about public health events, changing the language from “may” to “should”.
How do the countries view this pact?
Developed Countries
Wealthy countries are often cautious about sharing resources such as drugs and vaccines.
There is significant political pressure, especially from right-wing groups, fearing that the treaty could infringe on national sovereignty.
These countries are concerned about the financial implications, debating whether to set up a new fund or use existing resources like the World Bank’s $1 billion pandemic fund.
Underdeveloped Countries
Poorer countries emphasize the need for equitable access to treatments and vaccines, reflecting experiences of “vaccine apartheid” during the COVID-19 pandemic.
They advocate for stronger commitments from wealthier nations to support global health infrastructure and emergency response capabilities.
Future Scope of the New IHR Rules and the Pandemic Accord (Treaty):
More robust framework: The IHR updates and the pandemic treaty has designed to complement each other, creating a more robust framework for global health emergencies.
Promotes cooperation: The new rules aim to ensure faster, more transparent information sharing, and better co-operation during health crises.
Next steps for treaty negotiations: Next week’s World Health Assembly will focus on planning the next steps for the Treaty Negotiations, with a full agreement unlikely to be reached immediately.
Defenses against future pandemics: The successful implementation of both the IHR updates and the pandemic treaty could significantly strengthen the world’s defenses against future pandemics, addressing gaps exposed by COVID-19.
Conclusion: While there is a shared understanding of the treaty’s importance, countries’ views are shaped by their National interests, Financial concerns, and Political pressures, leading to complex and protracted negotiations.
Mains PYQ:
Q Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Europe’s AI convention;
Mains level: What is Europe’s AI convention?
Why in the News?
Global AI governance is becoming increasingly intricate, with countries employing diverse approaches. This shows that the Global treaties may face significant challenges despite widespread support.
About the Council of Europe (COE)
The COE is an intergovernmental organization established in 1949. It currently has 46 member states, including the Holy See, Japan, and the U.S., alongside EU countries.
Aim: To uphold human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in Europe.
What is Europe’s AI convention?
Europe’s AI convention, officially known as the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law, represents a significant milestone in AI governance.
Adopted by the Council of Europe (COE) on May 17, this convention addresses the pressing need for comprehensive regulation of AI, particularly concerning its impact on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
The scope of the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law encompasses:
It ensures that activities throughout the lifecycle of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems align fully with Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law.
Consistent with the EU AI Act and the OECD’s definition, an AI system is defined as a machine-based system that generates outputs based on input to influence physical or virtual environments.
Coverage:
Application by Parties: The convention applies to activities involving AI systems conducted by both public authorities and private actors acting on their behalf.
Addressing Risks: Parties are required to address risks and impacts from AI systems activities by private actors that are not covered under (a) in a manner consistent with the convention’s objectives.
Difference Between a Framework Convention and a Protocol
Framework Convention: A legally binding treaty specifying broad commitments and objectives.Allows parties discretion in achieving objectives, adapting to their capacities and priorities.Example: Convention on Biological Diversity.
Protocol: Specific agreements are negotiated under a framework convention. Sets specific targets or detailed measures to achieve the broader objectives of the framework convention.Example: Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Addressing National Security in the AI Convention
Exemptions for National Security: Articles 3.2, 3.3, and 3.4 provide broad exemptions for national security interests, research, development, testing, and national defense, excluding military AI applications from the convention’s scope.
Balancing Flexibility and Regulation: Article 3(b) allows parties some flexibility in applying the convention to the private sector, preventing total exemption but accommodating national security needs.
General Obligations: Articles 4 and 5 ensure the protection of human rights, democratic integrity, and the rule of law, requiring parties to address disinformation and deep fakes as part of their national security measures.
Scope for Further Action: Article 22 allows parties to exceed specified commitments, enabling additional measures to address national security concerns related to AI.
Conclusion: The AI convention is essential because it reinforces existing human and fundamental rights within the context of AI applications, rather than creating new rights. It emphasizes the need for governments to uphold these rights and implement effective remedies and procedural safeguards.
Mains PYQ:
Q “The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss.(UPSC IAS/2020)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cost Inflation Index (CII); Long Term Capital Gains
Why in the News?
The Income Tax Department has notified the cost inflation index (CII) for the current fiscal to calculate long-term capital gains arising from the sale of immovable property, securities and jewellery.
The CII is used by a taxpayer to compute gains arising out of the sale of capital assets after adjusting for inflation.
CII Values:
For FY 2024-25, the CII is set at 363.
Previous years’ CII values were 348 for FY 2023-24 and 331 for FY 2022-23.
What isCost Inflation Index (CII)?
CII is a measure used by the Income Tax Department of India to account for inflation when calculating the capital gains on the sale of long-term capital assets.
It helps to adjust the purchase price of assets to reflect the effect of inflation.
CII adjusts the cost of acquisition of assets to the price level inflation at the time of sale.
This ensures that taxpayers pay taxeson the real gains rather than on the inflationary component of the price rise.
It is defined under Section 48 of the Income-tax Act, 1961.
The index is revised annually to keep up with inflation, with the base year being periodically reset (currently the base year is 2001-02 in India).
Application of CII
CII is used to compute the indexed cost of acquisition of a capital asset that has been held for more than36 months (considered as long-term capital assets).
Different holding periods apply for certain types of assets like immovable property and listed securities.
Tax Calculation:
The formula used is:
This formula helps determine the adjusted cost basis from which any sale proceeds are subtracted to calculate capital gains.
Back2Basics: Long Term Capital Gains
In India, long-term capital gains (LTCG) refer to the profit earned from the sale of a capital asset held for a specific period, qualifying it as “long-term” based on the duration of holding.
The tax implications and treatment of these gains are distinct from those of short-term capital gains.
Definition of Long-Term Capital Assets
Equity or Preference Shares, Listed Securities, Units of UTI, etc.: These are considered long-term if held for more than 12 months before sale.
Immovable Property (e.g., Land, Building): Considered long-term if held for more than 24 months.
Other Assets (e.g., Jewellery, Debt-oriented Mutual Funds, etc.): These need to be held for more than 36 months to be considered long-term.
Taxation of Long-Term Capital Gains
Equity Investments:
LTCG from the sale of listed shares or equity-oriented mutual funds over ₹1 lakh is taxed at 10% without the benefit of indexation, provided the securities transaction tax (STT) was paid at the time of sale.
Non-Equity Investments:
LTCG from assets like debt mutual funds, real estate, gold, etc., is taxed at 20% with the benefit of indexation.
Indexation Benefit:
For non-equity assets, the Cost Inflation Index (CII) is used to adjust the purchase price of the asset to reflect inflation. This reduces the taxable gain by increasing the acquisition cost.
Calculation of Long-Term Capital Gains
The general formula for calculating LTCG is:
Where:
Full Value of Consideration is the sale price of the asset.
Indexed Cost of Acquisition is the purchase price adjusted by the CII.
Indexed Cost of Improvement refers to the cost of any improvements made to the asset, adjusted by the CII.
Cost of Transfer includes expenses directly related to the sale or transfer of the asset.
Exemptions and Deductions
Section 54: Exemption on LTCG from the sale of a residential property if the proceeds are reinvested in another residential property in India.
Section 54EC: Exemption by investing LTCG in bonds issued by NHAI or REC within 6 months of the asset sale, subject to a cap of ₹50 lakhs.
PYQ:
[2015] Which reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct?
(a) Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only
(b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation
(c) Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
(d) Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fatty Acids and their health implications
Why in the News?
Fish oil supplements, highly regarded for their high omega-3 fatty acid content, have long been associated with heart health benefits.
A recent study has caused controversy by raising the possibility that these supplements may be as harmful as previously thought.
What are Fatty Acids?
Fatty acids are crucial lipids (fats and oils) essential for various biological functions (Fatty Acid + Glycerol = Fats). They are carboxylic acids with a long aliphatic chain, either saturated or unsaturated.
Basic Structure: Consists of a hydrocarbon chain with a terminal carboxyl group (-COOH). The length and degree of saturation of the hydrocarbon chain can vary.
Roles in the Body: Serve as energy sources, components of cell membranes, and precursors for bioactive lipids.
Types of Fatty Acids
Fatty acids are classified based on the presence and number of double bonds in their hydrocarbon chain:
Saturated Fatty Acids (SFA)
Structure: Contain no double bonds between carbon atoms; the hydrocarbon chain is saturated with hydrogen atoms.
Formation: Produced by the industrial process of hydrogenation of unsaturated fats, or naturally in the guts of some animals.
Properties: Similar to saturated fats, solid at room temperature.
Health Impact: Associated with negative cardiovascular effects.
Sources: Margarine, partially hydrogenated oils, and some baked goods.
What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) are polyunsaturated fats that perform important functions in the human body.
There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids:
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). EPA is a “marine omega-3” because it’s found in fish.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). DHA is also a marine omega-3 found in fish.
ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). ALA is the form of omega-3 found in plants.
When we get ALA from food, the human body can turn some of the ALA into EPA and subsequently to DHA. However, this process provides just a small amount of EPA and DHA. So, dietary sources of EPA and DHA (like fish) are essential.
Functions of Omega-s fatty acids:
They help to provide structure and supporting interactions between cells.
Omega-3s are concentrated in high levels in cells in human eyes and brain.
They provide the human body with energy (calories) and support the health of many body systems. These include the human cardiovascular system and endocrine system.
Significance of Omega-3 fatty acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids have many potential benefits for human cardiovascular health.
One key benefit is that they help lower human triglyceride levels.
Too many triglycerides in human blood (hypertriglyceridemia) raise human risk of atherosclerosis, and through this, can increase human risk of heart disease and stroke. So, it’s important to keep triglyceride levels under control.
Omega-3s may help us by raising human HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering human blood pressure.
Some studies show omega-3s may lower human risk for Cardiovascular disease (CVD), and hence lowering the sudden death caused by an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), and blood clots.
Beyond heart health, omega-3s may help lower the human risk of developing some forms of cancer, including breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), research continues to investigate these and other possible benefits.
PYQ:
[2011] A company marketing food products advertises that its items do not contain trans-fats. What does this campaign signify to the customers?
The food products are not made out of hydrogenated oils.
The food products are not made out of animal fats/ oils.
The oils used are not likely to damage the cardiovascular health of the consumers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
The temple’s pavilion or the Saalu Mantap of the historic Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Karnataka collapsed following Torrential rains.
About Virupaksha Temple
Traced back to the 7th century AD.
Built by early rulers of the Chalukya dynasty.
The temple was significantly expanded by Lakkan Dandesha, a chieftain under the rule of Deva Raya II (Prauda Deva Raya) of the Vijayanagara Empire.
However, the most significant expansions and contributions were made during the reign of King Krishnadevaraya in the early 16th century.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known locally as Virupaksha or Pampa Pathi, and is associated with the local deity Pampadevi.
Hampi, including the Virupaksha Temple, was declared aUNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its rich architectural heritage and historical significance.
Main Gopuram: The eastern entrance of the temple features a monumental nine-story gopuram (tower) that is approximately 50 meters high. This tower is intricately decorated with sculptures depicting Hindu myths and deities.
Smaller Gopurams: Other entrances of the temple are also marked by smaller but similarly elaborate gopurams.
Mandapas (Pavilions):
Ranga Mandapa: Added in 1510 by King Krishnadevaraya, this is one of the most elaborately carved areas. The Ranga Mandapa is used for temple ceremonies and performances, featuring pillars with intricate carvings of mythical creatures and deities.
Open Pillar Hall: A large hall with rows of intricately carved pillars that depict various mythological scenes and form an important part of the temple structure.
Kalyana Mandapa: This area is used for celebrating the annual marriage festival of the deities, reflecting both architectural grandeur and cultural significance.
Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha):
Main Shrine: The innermost sanctum houses the sacred Linga of Lord Virupaksha (Shiva). This area is considered the most sacred and is elaborately decorated.
Lesser Sanctums: Surrounding the main sanctum, there are smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, which are typical in South Indian temple complexes.
Pillars and Sculptures:
Carved Pillars: The temple’s pillars are renowned for their detailed carvings, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including episodes from the epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
Artistic Themes: The sculptures include a mix of divine figures, mythological animals, and scenes from daily life, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the era.
Water Structures:
Sacred Tank: A sacred water tank within the complex is used for religious rituals and ceremonies.
About Vijayanagara Empire
It was established in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, who were brothers and possibly former officers in the Hoysala Empire.
Dynastic Rule: Governed by four main dynasties: Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu.
Capital: The capital was Hampi, in the modern state of Karnataka, India, recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Geographical Span: At its peak, the empire covered not only Karnataka but also extended into parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Krishnadevaraya: Considered the greatest ruler of the empire, known for his administrative genius and patronage of arts and literature.
Decline: The Empire suffered a major military defeat against a coalition of Deccan Sultanates in the Battle of Talikota (1565), which led to a significant decline in power.
PYQ:
[2019] Building ‘Kalyana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of-
Chalukya
Chandela
Rashtrakuta
Vijayanagara
[2016] Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was a also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Periyar River and important places in its catchment
Why in the News?
A mass fish kill struck the Periyar River, the ‘Lifeline of Kerala’.
The incident, believed to be caused by industrial pollution from the Edayar Industrial Area, has caused immense loss to fish farmers and disrupted the local ecosystem.
About Periyar River
Details
Length
Approximately 244 kilometers (151 miles)
Source of the river
Originates in the Sivagiri hills of Sundaramala, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu
Mouth of the River
Empties into the Arabian Sea at Aluva, near Kochi, Kerala
Flow Through
Flows through Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur districts in Kerala
Major Tributaries
Muthirapuzha, Cheruthoni, Edamalayar
Key Hydroelectric Projects
Idukki Dam (one of Asia’s highest arch dams), other significant dams include Mullaperiyar Dam
Ecological Conservation
Supports diverse ecosystems, passes through Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (notable for elephants and tigers)
Cultural Significance
The ancient port of Muziris, is believed to have been located near the mouth of the Periyar.
Environmental Challenges
Faces pollution from industrial discharge and urban waste; water management disputes, especially related to the Mullaperiyar Dam’s safety and water sharing between Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Threats to Periyar River
The lower reaches of the Periyar are heavily polluted. Industries in the Eloor industrial zone discharge waste into the river.
Greenpeace India describes the lower Periyar as “a cesspool of toxins, which have alarming levels of deadly poisons like DDT, endosulfan, hexa and trivalent chromium, lead, cyanide, BHC”.
Illegal sand mining from the Periyar is another major environmental issue.
PYQ:
[2011] With reference to the Indus river system, of the following four rivers, three of them pour into one of them which joins the Indus direct. Among the following, which one is such river that joins the Indus direct?
