From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gharial and its conservation, Kaziranga NP
Why in the News?
In Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, a lone female gharial has emerged as a significant presence, marking a potential revival for the species in the Brahmaputra River.
About Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve:
Located in the state of Assam, Kaziranga is renowned for its biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Established in 1905 as a reserve forest and declared a national park in 1974.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 for its unique natural environment and successful conservation of the Great One-Horned Rhinoceros.
Kaziranga is home to the highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world.
It hosts two-thirds of the world’s Great One-Horned Rhinoceros population, a significant conservation success story.
The park spans approximately 430 square kilometers (166 square miles) of grasslands, wetlands, and forests.
One-Horned Rhinoceros:
One–Horned Rhinos: IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable; CITES: Appendix I ; WPA, 1972: Schedule I.
Mainly found in Assam, West Bengal.
Assam hosts about 2,640 rhinos across Pobitora WLS, Rajiv Gandhi Orang NP, Kaziranga NP, and Manas NP.
About Gharial
The Gharial is a fish-eating crocodile native to the Indian subcontinent.
They are a crucial indicator of clean river water.
It is also found in the rainforest biome of Mahanadi in Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary, Odisha.
Gharials are ‘Critically Endangered’in the IUCN Red List of Species.
The species is also listed under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
National Chambal Sanctuary along the river Chambal in Madhya Pradesh is the biggest protected area of the species.
Recent findings of Gharial in Kaziranga
Gharials, distinguished by their long, narrow snouts, were believed to have disappeared from the Brahmaputra by the 1950s.
The female gharial, initially spotted in 2021, has grown to nearly adult size, providing hope for their reintroduction into the ecosystem.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cauvery River and its Catchment, Cauvery Dispute
Why in the News?
The Karnataka government has formed an expert committee, headed by Niranjan, Chief Environment Officer of Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, to study the pollution level in the Cauvery.
About Niranjan Panel
The panel will review and submit a report within 10 days to ascertain whether the Cauvery River water is polluted due to the inflow of sewage water, solid waste, industrial waste, and other types of pollutants.
The Cauvery water has lost its natural quality due to the pollutants and the health of citizens and aquatic animals are being adversely affected.
About Cauvery River
The Cauvery River, also spelled as ‘Kaveri’ and known as ‘Ponni’ in Tamil, originates from Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri range located in Karnataka’s Kodagu district.
It spans approximately 800 km, traversing through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, until it eventually reaches the Bay of Bengal.
The river’s catchment area covers regions in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and the Union Territory of Pondicherry.
Key tributaries that join the Cauvery include Harangi, Hemavati, Kabini, Suvarnavathi, and Bhavani.
It remains perennial due to its dual reliance on both advancing and retreating monsoons for rainfall.
Protected areas in its basin: Cauvery WLS, Biligirirangan Hills WLS, Pushpagiri WLS, Muthathi WLS, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Bhimeshwari WLS, Nagarhole NP; Bandipur NP.
Challenges associated with the Cauvery River:
Direct discharge of untreated sewage and domestic waste from towns and cities along the Cauvery contaminates the water, leading to high bacterial loads and nutrient pollution.
Industries along the Cauvery, including textiles, dyeing, pharmaceuticals, and others, discharge effluents directly into the river.
Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers used in agricultural fields adjacent to the river are washed into the Cauvery during rain and irrigation.
Unregulated sand miningand dredging activities disrupt riverbeds and banks, altering natural flow patterns and habitat structures.
Introduction of non-native species like tilapia and African catfish, initially for aquaculture, has led to their proliferation in the Cauvery.
Cauvery Water Dispute:
Since 1892, tensions existed between British-ruled Madras and Mysore.
1924 Agreement aimed to resolve but set the stage for future conflicts. Post-Independence, dam constructions sparked TN appeal.
Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) was established.
Interim orders by the Cauvery River Authority (CRA) in 1998.
CWDT’s 2013 award allocated water quantities among states.
Monthly and annual watershares by Karnataka to Tamil Nadu.
Normal Year, Karnataka must give 177.25 TMC to Tamil Nadu.
Challenges arise during monsoons due to varying rainfall.
Article 262 empowers Parliament for inter-state river disputes. The Seventh Schedule defines legislative authority over water resources.
2018: Cauvery was termed a “national asset” by SC with river water equality upheld.
The Cauvery Management Board (CMB) was established by the Court for implementation.
CWMA and CWRC were established for water regulation and data collection.
PYQ:
[2020] Which of the following Protected Areas are located in the Cauvery basin?
Nagarhole National Park
Papikonda National Park
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SCO and its expansion
Why in the News?
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Kazakhstan’s capital Astana on behalf of Prime Minister Modi.
About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
Details
Introduction
Established in 2001 by China and Russia, the SCO is a Eurasian political, economic, and security organization.
It spans about 80% of Eurasia and encompasses 40% of the world’s population, with a GDP of around 20% of global GDP as of 2021.
Origins
Successor to the Shanghai Five, formed in 1996 by China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan.
It evolved into the SCO in 2001 with the inclusion of Uzbekistan.
Expansion
India and Pakistan joined in June 2017, followed by Iran in July 2023, and Belarus in July 2024.
Several other countries participate as observers and dialogue partners.
Governance
Governed by the Heads of State Council (HSC), the supreme decision-making body that meets annually.
Includes the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) as a key component for security coordination.
Key Structures
Heads of State Council: Supreme decision-making body.
Heads of Government Council: Discusses multilateral cooperation and approves budgets.
Council of Foreign Ministers: Regular meetings on international affairs.
Council of National Coordinators: Coordinates multilateral efforts.
Secretariat
Headquartered in Beijing, China, the Secretariat executes organizational decisions, drafts documents, and promotes SCO activities.
Secretary-General serves a 3-year term.
RATS Executive Committee
Based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, RATS fosters cooperation against terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
The director serves a three-year term overseeing these efforts.
Official Languages
Chinese and Russian are the SCO’s official languages.
Key Agreements
Treaty on Deepening Military Trust in Border Regions (1996)
Treaty on Reduction of Military Forces in Border Regions (1997)
Declaration on a “multipolar world” (1997)
Major Activities
Annual summits and meetings across member states;
Initiatives in transportation, energy, and telecommunications;
Regular gatherings of security, defence, economic, and cultural officials.
International Relations
Established partnerships with various global bodies including the UN, ASEAN, CIS, CSTO, ECO, and CICA, reflecting its broad engagement in regional and international affairs.
Strategic Significance of SCO for India
Open-door for bilateral: Membership facilitates India’s engagement with Central Asian nations and major regional powers like China and Russia on shared security challenges.
China-Russia Dynamics: SCO serves as a platform for China and Russia to assert influence and counter Western dominance in international forums.
Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Dispute: India’s stance against endorsing BRI projects through SCO reflects its concerns over sovereignty, particularly regarding CPEC passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
About Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest country by land area, spanning an area of 2.7 million square kilometres.
It borders Russia to the north and west, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the southwest
PYQ:
[2022] Consider the following:
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
Missile Technology Control Regime
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
India is a member of which of the above?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2021] Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Delhi Ridge, Aravalli
Why in the News?
The Delhi High Court is set to physically inspect the Central and Southern parts of Delhi Ridge to assess the extent of afforestation and cutting of trees in the area.
Deforestation in Delhi Ridge:
Over 308 hectares of the ecologically sensitive Delhi Ridge area has been encroached and another 183 hectares “diverted” for “non-forestry purposes”. ( Data by Central Empowered Committee (CEC) report to the Supreme Court, 2023.)
About Delhi Ridge
Delhi Ridge is located in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, extending as a northern extension of the ancient Aravalli Range.
Composed primarily of quartzite rocks, it spans approximately 35 kilometres from Tughlaqabad in the southeast to Wazirabad in the north along the Yamuna River.
Ecological Significance:
It acts as the “green lungs” of Delhi, providing crucial ecological services such as carbon sequestration and habitat for wildlife.
It protects Delhi from the hot desert winds originating from Rajasthan to the west.
It supports diverse flora and fauna, making Delhi one of the world’s most bird-rich capital cities.
Efforts are ongoing to maintain biodiversity through biodiversity parks and wildlife sanctuaries like the Northern Ridge Biodiversity Park and Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.
Geographical Features
The ridge is believed to be over 1.5 billion years old, making it an ancient geological formation compared to the Himalayas (50 million years old).
It functions as a watershed, dividing the Indus Plain to the west from the Gangetic Plain to the east within the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
Administrative Divisions:
Divided into four main zones: Northern, Central, South-Central, and Southern Ridge.
Each zone has distinct characteristics and faces varying degrees of urban encroachment and conservation efforts.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, AB-NHPM
Why in the News?
Following Mizoram and Nagaland, Meghalaya has also refused to rename its health and wellness centres as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs as per the Centre’s directive.
Context: Demographic composition of NE and its implications on policy decisions
Christian Majority: About 75% of Meghalaya’s population practices Christianity, similar to the demographics of Mizoram (90%) and Nagaland (90%).
State Asserts Autonomy: Meghalaya’s Health Minister emphasized that health being a State subject grants them the right to decide independently of the Centre’s advisory.
About Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs)
AB-HWCs were launched to move away from selective health care to a more comprehensive range of services spanning preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative care for all ages.
There are 1.6 lakh such centres across India under this initiative.
The National Health Policy of 2017 envisioned these centres as the foundation of India’s health system.
The Union Health Ministry renamed AB-HWCs as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAM) with the tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
States and Union Territories were urged to complete the rebranding by the end of 2023.
Back2Basics: Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)
Details
Details
World’s largest fully government-funded health insurance scheme.
Launched in 2018.
Provides Rs 5 lakh per family for secondary and tertiary care.
Health Benefit Package
Covers the cost of surgery, medical and daycare treatments, medications, and diagnostics.
3 days of pre-hospitalisation and 15 days of post-hospitalisation, including diagnostic care and expenses on medicines.
No restriction on family size, age or gender.
All pre-existing conditions are covered from day one.
Beneficiaries
An entitlement-based scheme targeting beneficiaries identified by the latest Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data.
Flexibility for States/UTs to use non-SECC data with a similar socio-economic profile to identify remaining SECC families.
Financing
Jointly funded scheme: 60:40 between Centre and legislature for all States and UTs.
90:10 for North-Eastern States, J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
100% central funding for Union Territories without legislature.
Nucleus Agency
The National Health Authority (NHA) is an autonomous body under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, responsible for the effective implementation of PM-JAY.
State Health Agency (SHA) is the apex body of the State Government responsible for implementing AB-PMJAY in the State.
PYQ:
[2022] With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:
Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
It has seamless portability across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is a Stampede and cases related to Stampede
Mains level: Preventive Measures to avoid stampedes
Why in the news?
On Tuesday, July 2, a stampede during a religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 121 individuals, predominantly women.
What is a Stampede?
A stampede is an impulsive mass movement of a crowd that often results in injuries and deaths.It disrupts the orderly movement of crowds, leading to injuries and fatalities, often triggered by panic, perceived danger, or the pursuit of something gratifying.
Why do Stampedes Kill?
Primary Cause: Most stampede casualties result from traumatic asphyxia, where external compression of the chest or abdomen restricts breathing.
Other Causes: Include myocardial infarction (heart attacks), direct crushing injuries, head injuries, and neck compression.
How Does Human Psychology Lead to Stampedes?
Panic and lacking in Cooperation: In panic-inducing situations, cooperative behavior is initially beneficial, but if disrupted, can lead to chaotic actions like pushing and shoving.
Positive Wish-Fulfillment Beliefs: A collective belief, rational or irrational, can mobilize large groups into actions that may compromise individual safety.
How Does the Physical Organization of Spaces Contribute to Stampedes?
Factors Contributing to Stampede Risks: Lack of light, poor crowd flow management, structural collapses, blocked exits, and inadequate design of hardware (like doors and barriers) increase stampede risks.
Crowd Density: High density can lead to prolonged evacuation times and increased panic.
How to Better Prevent or Mitigate Stampedes?
Planning and Design: Ensure adequate exit points relative to crowd size, improve crowd flow management, and use technologies for real-time crowd monitoring.
Communication and Coordination: Effective communication between organizers and attendees is crucial for issuing warnings and managing crowd movements.
Notable Deadly Stampedes and Their Causes:
Moscow, Russia (1896): Rumors of souvenir shortages led to a deadly surge.
Allahabad, India (1954): Lack of crowd control and barriers led to a surge at the Kumbh Mela.
Lima, Peru (1963): Tear gas used during a football match triggered panic in enclosed spaces.
Wai, India (2005): Slippery steps during a pilgrimage resulted in a tragic stampede.
Way forward:
Crowd Monitoring Systems: Implement technologies such as CCTV cameras, crowd density sensors, and real-time monitoring software to detect and respond to overcrowding or sudden surges in crowd movement.
Communication Systems: Establish robust communication networks between event organizers, security personnel, and attendees. Use public address systems and mobile alerts to convey emergency instructions and warnings promptly.
Emergency Response Plans: Develop and rehearse comprehensive emergency response plans that include rapid evacuation procedures, medical assistance points, and coordination with local emergency services.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Government steps taken to deal with fatal industrial accidents
Mains level: Causes of the fatal industrial accidents
Why in the news?
In May 2024, an explosion at a reactor in a chemical factory within the Dombivli Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) area caused fatalities and injuries among workers and local residents.
Present Scenario in India
India continues to witness frequent fatal industrial accidents, often due to non-compliance with safety regulations, inadequate inspections, and compromised safety practices.
Recent incidents, such as the Dombivli MIDC chemical factory explosion, highlight the recurring nature of these accidents and their devastating impact on lives and infrastructure.
There is a significant disparity between the number of registered factories and the inspection rates across states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu.
Causes of fatal industrial accidents
Non-compliance with Safety Regulations: Many industrial accidents occur due to the failure of companies to adhere to mandated safety regulations and standards. Examples include improper maintenance of machinery, lack of safety equipment, and inadequate training of personnel in handling hazardous materials.
Inadequate Maintenance and Inspection Practices: Poor maintenance of industrial equipment and facilities can lead to malfunctions and accidents. Insufficient or irregular inspection practices contribute to undetected hazards and safety violations that increase the risk of accidents.
Human Error and Unsafe Practices: Accidents often result from human errors such as negligence, fatigue, or lack of training. Unsafe work practices, including shortcuts taken to save time or reduce costs, can compromise safety standards and escalate the likelihood of accidents.
Need for the right reforms
Strengthening Regulatory Framework: Reforms should focus on updating and strengthening safety regulations to align with international standards and best practices. There is a need to close loopholes and ambiguities in existing laws to enhance clarity and enforceability.
Improving Inspection and Enforcement: Enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of regulatory bodies responsible for inspecting industrial facilities. Increasing the number of qualified inspectors, improving their training, and implementing advanced inspection techniques like digital monitoring and real-time compliance checks.
Promoting Transparency and Accountability: Establishing transparent mechanisms for reporting and investigating industrial accidents to identify root causes and prevent recurrence.
What can be the solution? (Way forward)
Enhanced Regulatory Oversight: Strengthening and strictly enforcing safety regulations and standards across all industries. Regular updates to ensure regulations are comprehensive, up-to-date with technological advancements, and aligned with international best practices.
Improving Inspection and Compliance: Increasing the number of qualified inspectors and improving their training and capabilities.Implementing regular and surprise inspections using modern technologies such as digital monitoring and remote sensing to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Promoting Safety Culture: Encouraging a proactive safety culture within industries through training, awareness programs, and incentives for compliance.
Mains PYQ:
Q What is the significance of Industrial Corridors in India? Identifying industrial corridors, explain their main characteristics. (UPSC IAS/2018)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Election of French President
Mains level: Impact of French on India
Why in the news?
On June 30, during the first phase of the French elections called after President Emmanuel Macron unexpectedly dissolved parliament, the far-right National Rally (RN) and its allies emerged as frontrunners with a 33% vote share.
Why did French President Emmanuel Macron decide to dissolve parliament and call for snap elections?
Strategic Decision: Macron dissolved parliament three years early to seek a clear majority for governance. His centrist bloc suffered a major defeat in the European Parliament elections against the RN. The decision aimed to consolidate votes against the rising far-right influence.
Low Approval Ratings: Macron’s approval ratings plummeted to 36%. The snap election was seen as a gamble to prevent the RN from gaining more power.
How did the far-right National Rally become so popular?
Rebranding and Policy Changes: Under Marine Le Pen, the RN rebranded from the National Front (FN). The party softened its stance on extreme policies, like leaving the EU.
Response to Societal Issues: Capitalized on fears of cultural clashes, cost-of-living crises, and dissatisfaction with Macron’s policies. Opposed immigration and advocated for ‘national priority’ policies favoring French citizens in social services.
Political Strategy: Increased its presence in provincial towns and among blue-collar workers. Rose from 7 seats to 89 in the French parliament in 2022, aiming for 240-300 seats now.
How are the two rounds of elections conducted in France?
First Phase: Equivalent to a qualifying round where candidates need at least 12.5% of locally registered votes.Candidates who get more than half the votes win outright.
Second Phase: Candidates meeting the qualifying criteria move to the second round. Common practice of ‘horse-trading’ where parties form alliances to avoid splitting votes.
Overall Structure:577 seats in the French parliament. A party needs 289 seats for an absolute majority.
Why have left-wing parties also formed a bloc?
Republican Front Strategy: Centrist and left-wing parties team up to prevent right-wing parties from gaining power.Formation of the New Popular Front is a reference to the 1936 alliance against far-right rioters.
Electoral Tactics: Over 200 candidates from centre and left alliances have dropped out to consolidate votes against the RN. Aimed at countering the RN’s rise and preventing fragmentation of the anti-RN vote.
Challenges and Unity: Presence of controversial leftist figures like Jean-Luc Mélenchon has made the unity fragile.Despite internal differences, the bloc aims to present a united front against the far-right surge.
Conclusion: The rise of the far-right National Rally in France may lead to stricter immigration policies, affecting Indian students, workers, and diaspora. Economic relations could face uncertainties, impacting trade and bilateral cooperation. So,India’s diplomatic strategies may need adjustments to navigate the changing political landscape in France.
Mains PYQ:
Q Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected. (UPSC IAS/2022)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SEBI Function and Power
Mains level: Challenges related to the Capital Market
Why in the news?
Hindenburg Research received a SEBI show cause notice for short-selling Adani Enterprises Ltd stock before and after their report accusing Adani of fraud.
What is the Hindenburg Report on Adani?
On January 24, 2023, the New York-based Hindenburg Research accused the Adani Group of “brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades.”
The report led to a significant drop in the shares of Adani companies and the calling off of Adani Enterprises Ltd’s Rs 20,000-crore follow-on Public Offer (FPO). Adani Group denied all allegations, claiming the report was a “calculated attack on India.”
What is SEBI’s show cause notice about?
Hindenburg received a show-cause notice from SEBI on June 27, 2024.SEBI alleged that Hindenburg colluded with certain entities to use non-public information to short-sell Adani Enterprises Ltd (AEL) stock before and after the release of its report, making profits.
The notice named Hindenburg, its founder Nathan Anderson, investor Mark Kingdon, and related entities, accusing them of sharing the report draft and building short positions in AEL futures.
How has Hindenburg responded to the show cause notice?
Hindenburg dismissed the notice as an attempt to silence those exposing corruption. They stated their investment stance was legal and disclosed, and criticized SEBI for targeting them instead of investigating the Adani Group’s alleged malpractices.
Accusations: Hindenburg accused SEBI of pressuring brokers to close short positions in Adani stocks to protect the stock prices.
Where does Kotak come into this picture?
Involvement of Kotak: SEBI’s notice did not name Kotak Bank, which Hindenburg claims created the offshore fund structure used for shorting Adani stocks.
Response: Kotak Mahindra Bank stated that Hindenburg has never been a client and that their KYC procedures were followed with regard to clients, with investments made by Kingdon as a principal.
How much profit did Hindenburg earn by short selling Adani stocks?
Revenue: Hindenburg earned approximately $4.1 million in gross revenue through gains related to Adani shorts from its investor relationship.
Own Short Position: Hindenburg made about $31,000 from their short of Adani US bonds.After legal and research expenses, Hindenburg indicated they might only slightly come out ahead of break-even on their Adani short.
Way forward:
Conduct Investigation: SEBI should initiate an independent, comprehensive investigation into the allegations against both Adani Group and Hindenburg Research. This investigation should be conducted by a neutral third party to ensure impartiality and transparency.
Policy Review: SEBI could review and possibly update its regulations on short-selling and market manipulation to prevent similar incidents in the future. This could include stricter disclosure requirements for short sellers and enhanced monitoring of market activities.
Mains PYQ:
Q The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies, resulting in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify.(UPSC IAS/2013)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Diseases spread by Mosquitoes; Factors driving mosquito evolution.
Why in the News?
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) 1 has suggested that a pair of hormones work together to activate or suppress mosquitoes’ blood cravings.
Mosquito Species and Behavior
There are around 3500 mosquito species globally, found on every continent except Antarctica.
Female mosquitoes consume blood to aid in egg development.
After feeding, female mosquitoes lose their appetite for blood until they lay their eggs.
Research by Michael Strand and Team
Strand observed that levels of the mosquito gut hormone F (NPF) spiked when mosquitoes were seeking a host and dropped after feeding.
Their study analyzed mosquito enteroendocrine cells responsible for gut hormone production.
Hormonal Mechanisms:
NPF levels increasedbefore blood meals and decreased six hours after feeding.
Another gut hormone, RYamide, was found to influence mosquitoes’ blood lust. As NPF levels decreased after a blood meal, RYamide levels increased, and vice versa.
The researchers concluded that NPF and RYamide work together to regulate mosquitoes’ attraction to humans and other hosts.
Implications of the Study
Controlling the Deadliest Animal: Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on the planet, acting as vectors for diseases such as malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, yellow fever, Zika, chikungunya, and lymphatic filariasis, which collectively kill more people than any other creature.
Pesticide Development: The discovery could lead to new pesticide targets for preventing mosquito reproduction and disease transmission.
Note: Mosquitoes are responsible for over 1 million human deaths per year worldwide. They transmit deadly diseases like malaria, yellow fever, dengue, and Zika virus
PYQ:
[2023] ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?
(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Formation of Universe; Spiral Galaxy.
Why in the News?
A new study has revealed more spiral galaxies in the universe’s youth than astronomers had previously expected.
Universe’s Age and Galaxy Types
The universe is about 13.8 billion years old and hosts various kinds of galaxies, from spiral to elliptical.
Astronomers believed spiral galaxies formed about 6 billion years ago, but the new study calls this into question.
Younger galaxies tend to spiral, while older ones have a variety of shapes, making the study of older galaxies more challenging due to fainter light.
Back2Basics: Spiral Galaxy
Spiral galaxies are a type of galaxy characterized by their spiral structure.
They are among the most common types of galaxies in the universe.
Our own Milky Way is a classic example of a spiral galaxy.
Key Characteristics:
Central Bulge: A dense, spherical structure at the centre composed mainly of older stars.
Disk: Surrounding the bulge is a flat, rotating disk of stars, gas, and dust. The disk contains younger stars and spiral arms.
Spiral Arms: These are the defining features, winding outward from the central bulge. The arms are sites of active star formation and appear brighter due to the presence of young, hot stars.
Halo: A roughly spherical region surrounding the disk, containing old stars and globular clusters.
Formation and Evolution:
Spiral galaxies are thought to form from the gravitational collapse of gas and dust in the early universe.
They maintain their structure through the rotation of the disk and the gravitational influence of the central bulge and halo.
Interactions and mergers with other galaxies can distort or destroy their spiral structure, potentially transforming them into elliptical galaxies.
Formation of Galaxies
As the universe cooled from a dense plasma state, hot gas formed clumps that became galaxies.
These early galaxies had irregular shapes and lacked disks.
Spiral Formation Theory:
The traditional theory suggested that it took billions of years for hot, thick disks to become thinner and form spiral arms.
The new study suggests that cooling and spiral formation occur around the same cosmic time.
How is this verified?
Astronomers observe star formation in real time but study galaxy evolution through “astronomical archaeology.”
Understanding the fraction of spiral galaxies helps astronomers trace the biography of galaxies.
Infrared and optical wavelengths are used to detect early galaxies, requiring powerful telescopes due to the faint light of older galaxies.
The University of Missouri team used the JWST to study 873 galaxies and identified at least 216 spiral galaxies, some dating to 1.5 billion years after the universe’s birth.
Each of the six authors classified the images as spiral or non-spiral, ensuring the result is free of human bias.
Findings and Implications
The fraction of spiral galaxies increased from about 8% to 48%between 3 billion and 7 billion years after the Big Bang, higher than previously observed.
The study challenges existing models and suggests that galaxy formation theories need to be more complex.
PYQ:
[2022] Launched on 25th December, 2021, James Webb Space Telescope has been much in the news since then. What are its unique features which make it superior to its predecessor Space Telescopes? What are the key goals of this mission? What potential benefits does it hold for the human race?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Great Indian Bustard and its recovery
Why in the News?
The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) approved Rs 56 crore for the next phase of the conservation program for the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) and the Lesser Florican for the 2024-2029 period.
Note: Both the Bustard and Lesser Florican are critically endangered, with only 140 Bustards and less than 1,000 Lesser Floricans surviving.
Back2Basics:Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA)
Details
Establishment
Established by the MoEFCC.
Legal Basis: Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.
Objective
Ensure effective utilization of funds for compensatory afforestation, catchment area treatment, wildlife management, and forest resource development.
Background
Created due to the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes; aimed at mitigating the loss of forest cover through compensatory afforestation.
Structure
National CAMPA Advisory Council: Provides policy advice and ensures inter-ministerial coordination.
State CAMPAs: Manage funds and oversee implementation at the state level.
Fund Utilization
Funds are used for afforestation, forest ecosystem regeneration, wildlife protection, forest infrastructure, and conservation activities.
Key Activities
Afforestation and reforestation
Wildlife management
Forest management
Soil and moisture conservation
Financial Management
Managed by CAMPA at national and state levels;
Funds are non-lapsable and specifically allocated for forestry and wildlife activities.
Monitoring and Reporting
Includes regular audits and progress reports to ensure transparency and accountability in fund utilization and project implementation.
Legal Framework
Governed by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016
CAMPA Guidelines.
Impact and Significance
Crucial for mitigating deforestation impacts, supporting ecological balance, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable forest management.
About Great Indian Bustards
GIBs are the largest among the four bustard species found in India, the other three being MacQueen’s bustard, the lesser florican, and the Bengal florican.
GIBs’ historic range included much of the Indian sub-continent but it has now shrunken to just 10 percent of it.
Among the heaviest birds with flight, GIBs prefer grasslands as their habitats.
GIBs are mainly found in Desert National Park, Rajasthan.
Bustards face major threats, including habitat changes and collisions with power lines.
Protection accorded:
Birdlife International: uplisted from Endangered to Critically Endangered (2011)
Protection under CITES: Appendix I
IUCN status: Critically Endangered
Protection under Wildlife (Protection) Act: Schedule I
What is the GIB Recovery Plan?
The proposal was prepared by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
The proposal includes:
Rewilding Bustards bred in ex-situ conservation centres,
Conducting detailed population studies, and
Developing artificial insemination techniques.
Back2Basics: Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
WII is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
It was established in 1982.
It is based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
Functions: It offers training programs, academic courses, and advisory in wildlife research and management.
Why such a move?
Indicator Species: The GIB is a key indicator species of grassland habitat, signalling the health of these environments.
Population Decline: The population has declined from around 700 individuals to less than 150 due to habitat loss, predation, and death by overhead power lines.
Supreme Court Order: The Supreme Court recognized the threat from power lines and constituted an expert committee to assess the feasibility of overhead and underground electric lines in the bustard’s habitats.
Conservation Efforts and Achievements
Recovery Plan: Initial efforts began between 2012-2013 with a long-term recovery project, which firmed up in 2016 with a Rs 33.85 crore funding outlay.
Funding and Agreements: The project was funded by the Compensatory Afforestation Fund, with a tripartite agreement in 2018 involving the Environment Ministry, Rajasthan Forest Department, and WII.
In-Situ Breeding: Conservation breeding began in 2019, resulting in a founder population of 40 GIBs at the Ramdevra centre.
Achievements at Breeding Centres
Successful Breeding: Eggs collected from the wild were incubated and chicks were hand-reared. The breeding centres now have a founder population of 40 GIBs.
Scientific Reasoning: Creating a founder population prevents extirpation and captures genetic variability. The goal is to have at least 20 adult birds including 15 females.
Future Plans
Next Phase (2024-2033): The immediate next phase will run until 2029, targeting the upgradation of the CBC at Ramdevra and the development of the Lesser Florican CBC at Sorsan.
Population Surveys: Surveys will be conducted in Rajasthan and other range states to monitor population status.
Release into the Wild: The most important target is releasing captive-bred GIBs into the wild, preceded by soft release in enclosures.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to India’s Desert National Park, which of the following statements are correct?
1. It is spread over two districts.
2. There is no human habitation inside the Park.
3. It is one of the natural habitats of the Great Indian Bustard.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[2019] Consider the following statements:
As per law, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority exists at both National and State levels.
People’s participation is mandatory in the compensatory afforestation programmes carried out under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act, 2016.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various mudras of Buddha
Why in the News?
The Leader of Opposition invoked the Abhaya Mudra in his inaugural address as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha.
What is AbhayMudra?
Abhaya mudra, the motif of an open palm (gesturing to stop), is prevalent across many South Asian religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
Known as the ‘fearlessness gesture’, ‘abhaya’ in Sanskrit means fearlessness. The gesture symbolizes protection and peace.
In yoga circles, the abhaya mudra is believed to promote courage and reduce fear and anxiety.
While common across many religions, the abhaya mudra is most prominently featured in Buddhism, especially in Thailand and Laos, where it is associated with images of the walking Buddha.
Origins of the Gesture
According to Stanford University, the gesture of an open palm pointed outwards appears to be a natural gesture used since prehistoric times as a sign of good intentions and peace.
The gesture also asserted power in antiquity, similar to the magna manusof the Roman Emperors who legislated and gave peace simultaneously.
The motif likely originated from a universal gesture associated with human communication, eventually integrating into major South Asian religions.
Evolution of Mudras in Buddhism
For about 500 years after the Buddha, he was not depicted in physical form.
Early representations appeared around the first millennium, influenced by Gandhara and Gupta art.
With the evolution of these Buddhist traditions, hundreds of mudras entered Buddhist iconography.
In tantric Buddhist traditions, mudras symbolized material offerings, enacted forms of worship, or relationships with visualized deities. (as shown in the above diagram)
Significance of ‘Abhaya Mudra’ in Buddhism:
In Buddhism, the abhaya mudra is linked to a legendinvolving Devadatta, a cousin of the Buddha, who tried to murder the Buddha by losing a rampaging elephant into his path.
The Buddha calmed the elephant by displaying the abhaya mudra, indicating appeasement of the senses and the absence of fear.
The gesture is popularly pronounced in Buddhist cultures, symbolizing fearlessness and peace.
Significance of ‘Abhaya Mudra’ in Hindu Religion:
The Buddha was absorbed into the Hindu pantheon as the 9th incarnation of Vishnu.
Hindus regarded the Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu between AD 450 and the sixth century, with the first mention in the Vishnu Purana (400-500 CE).
The abhaya mudra appears in depictions of Hindu deities, commonly seen in images of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Ganesha.
PYQ:
[2014] Lord Buddha’s image is sometimes shown with a hand gesture called ‘Bhumisparsha Mudra’. It symbolizes:
(a) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation
(b) Buddha’s calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara
(c) Buddha’s reminder to his followers that they all arise from the Earth and finally dissolve into the Earth and thus this life is transitory
(d) Both the statements ‘a’ and ‘b’ are correct in this context
[2014] Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain.
[2016] Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives, successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.
Q. In the context of the neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost-effective and remove many implementation blockages.” Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)
Q. ‘Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine.
(UPSC IAS/2018)
Note4Students:
Prelims: Definition of Liberalism;
Mains: Challenges to liberalism;
Mentor comment: Politics, like philosophy, aims to reconcile diversity, where contradictions converge in a multicultural society. Understanding this harmony reflects an idealistic state that prioritizes coexistence and universal welfare. However, global democratic history reveals ongoing challenges to liberalism, which safeguards against authoritarianism and protects civil rights. Amid rising sectarianism, the fundamental question persists: Who deserves basic rights? This issue underscores civil discrimination, racial politics, and xenophobia, exacerbated by the rise of right-wing nationalism and global migration dynamics.
Let’s learn.
–
Why in the News?
There remains a glimmer of hope in the resilience of democratic forces, which can effectively counteract and uproot any divisive political aberration when the time is ripe.
What is Liberalism?
Liberalism is a political and philosophical ideology that emphasizes individual rights, liberty, equality under the law, and limited government intervention in personal and economic affairs. It advocates for freedoms such as freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly, and supports democratic processes, rule of law, and protection of civil liberties. Liberalism typically promotes social progress through tolerance, pluralism, and a commitment to human rights and justice.
Electoral outcomes
Shift in Public Opinion: There is a noticeable shift towards conservative and right-wing ideologies, marked by sentiments such as climate scepticism, anti-migration views, and nationalism. This trend was reflected in recent elections both in Europe and India.
Voter Response: Despite expectations favouring right-wing outcomes, the electorate, particularly in India, was surprised with a strong rejection of what was perceived as authoritarianism and communalism. This indicates a robust defense of democratic values and fundamental rights.
Impact on Minority Communities: The election results have been seen as a reassurance to minority communities, particularly Muslims, who felt marginalized and insecure due to perceived policies of exclusion and communal tension.
Democratic Fortitude: The outcome is portrayed as a reaffirmation of democracy’s strength in allowing for checks and balances against oppressive regimes and divisive politics.
Hope for Robust Opposition: There is optimism about the emergence of a strong opposition capable of holding the government accountable, promoting debate, and safeguarding diverse civil society interests.
Challenges and Aspirations: The electorate expects rational governance, justice, and responsiveness to marginalized groups’ issues such as poverty, unemployment, and hunger.
Ethical Governance: Emphasis is placed on governance that respects human rights universally, avoiding discrimination or exclusion based on ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.
Verdict and the Advent of Hope
Challenge to Democracy: The passage highlights a global erosion of democratic values, with right-wing governments accused of manipulating truth and resorting to oppressive tactics to maintain power.
Call for Tempered Liberalism: There’s a plea for ruling dispensations to embrace a more moderate form of liberalism, abandoning illiberal practices that undermine democratic norms and freedoms.
Role of Opposition: Expectations are set on opposition alliances to uphold principles of humility, pluralism, and modesty, providing a counterbalance to dominant political forces.
Philosophical Reflection: The outcome of elections prompts reflection on political astuteness and statesmanship, essential for navigating the trajectory of democracy amidst global challenges.
Natural vs Civil Order: Drawing from Spinoza, the clash between natural self-interest and civil responsibility underscores the necessity of societal order governed by law and morality to prevent chaos and uphold rights.
Hope and Scepticism: The Indian electoral outcome reflects a dual sentiment of hope and scepticism, shaping the future direction of democracy and fostering philosophical introspection.
Challenges to liberalism:
Rise of Right-Wing Sentiment: There is a global trend towards right-wing ideologies, marked by climate scepticism, anti-migration sentiment, and nationalist fervour, posing challenges to liberal values and policies.
Authoritarianism and Communalism: The resurgence of authoritarianism and communal politics threatens democratic principles and societal harmony, particularly impacting marginalized communities like Muslims.
Hope and Despair: The electorate’s response reflects a mix of hope and despair, with optimism placed in a robust opposition and democratic institutions to safeguard fundamental rights and uphold civil society diversity.
Balancing Public and Private: The need for a nuanced approach in reconciling private religious beliefs with public, politicized lifestyles without diminishing individual rights is crucial for fostering a tolerant society.
Way forward:
Policy Reforms: Implement inclusive policies that address economic disparities, social inequalities, and regional disparities effectively. This includes measures to tackle poverty, unemployment, and hunger through targeted welfare programs.
Social Integration: Foster initiatives that promote social cohesion and integration across diverse communities. Encourage dialogue and understanding among different cultural and religious groups to mitigate communal tensions.
Democratic Checks and Balances: Enhance the autonomy and effectiveness of democratic institutions such as the judiciary, election commissions, and anti-corruption bodies. Ensure they operate independently and transparently to uphold democratic principles.
Dialogue and Consensus-Building: Foster inclusive decision-making processes that involve stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. Encourage political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and seek consensus on key policy issues.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bordering countries of North Korea
Mains level: Geopolitical Implications on the Indo-Pacific Region
Why in the news?
North Korea has announced that it has successfully tested a new tactical ballistic missile designed to carry a “super-large warhead”.
About the Recent Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 Test
North Korea announced the successful test of a new tactical ballistic missile, Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5, capable of carrying a “super-large warhead.”The test was conducted with a simulated heavy warhead to verify flight stability and accuracy.
The test violates UN prohibitions on North Korea testing ballistic projectiles and is part of their ongoing efforts to advance nuclear capabilities. North Korea’s military plans another launch of the same missile type in July to test the “explosion power” of the super-large warhead.
South Korea’s Reaction
Dismissal as Deception: South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, Colonel Lee Sung-jun, dismissed the test as likely “deception,” questioning the success of the inland test-fire.
Artillery Drills: South Korea’s military conducted artillery drills near the Military Demarcation Line in response.
Military Pact Suspension: These drills resumed following North Korea’s launch of balloons carrying garbage into South Korea, which led to the suspension of a military pact with Pyongyang.
Concerns Over Russia Ties: South Korea is increasingly worried about North Korea’s warming relations with Russia, suspecting North Korea of supplying ballistic missiles and artillery shells to Russia, despite both countries denying these allegations.
Geopolitical Implications on the Indo-Pacific Region
Increased Tensions: North Korea’s missile tests exacerbate tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, raising security concerns among neighbouring countries and global powers.
Regional Arms Race: The tests could prompt an arms race, with countries like South Korea and Japan potentially enhancing their military capabilities in response.
US and Allies’ Response: The United States and its allies in the region may increase military presence and conduct joint exercises to counter North Korea’s missile advancements.
Impact on Diplomacy: The tests complicate diplomatic efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and might lead to further sanctions and isolation of North Korea.
China’s Role: China’s influence in the region and its relationship with North Korea could be pivotal in addressing the security challenges posed by these missile tests.
Way forward ( What can India do?)
Strengthen Regional Alliances and Diplomatic Engagements: India should enhance its collaboration with key regional players like Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN countries to ensure collective security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Enhance National Defense Capabilities: India should focus on bolstering its own defense infrastructure and capabilities to prepare for any potential threats arising from the increased militarization in the region.
Mains PYQ:
Q The new tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (UPSC IAS/2021)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Reason behind the heavy rain
Mains level: Principal Reasons Behind Chronic Urban Flooding in Delhi
Why in the news?
Heavy rain brought Delhi and NCR to a standstill, causing severe water-logging, traffic snarls, power cuts, property damage, and 11 deaths from structural collapses and electrocution.
Climate change and rising temperatures have intensified the overflow of rivers and lakes, snowmelt, storm surges (such as hurricanes and cyclones), and abnormally heavy rains. This, coupled with locational vulnerabilities, has resulted in increased instances of urban flooding.
Principal Reasons Behind Chronic Urban Flooding in Delhi
Unchecked Urban Expansion: Rapid, ill-planned urban growth without considering natural topography and drainage patterns.
Inadequate Drainage Systems: Existing drainage systems are unable to handle high-intensity rainfall, leading to significant runoff.
Concrete Overdevelopment: Excessive construction on low-lying areas and flood plains, leaving little room for water absorption.
Destruction of Water Bodies: Reduction of water bodies that could manage floodwaters, with many converted into real estate.
Neglect of Water in Urban Planning: Lack of a comprehensive water masterplan that integrates water management into urban development.
Present Scenario of Rapid Urbanization in Delhi NCR
Fastest Urban Expansion: Delhi is one of the fastest-growing cities globally, with its geographic size almost doubling between 1991 and 2011.
Population Growth: Predicted to overtake Tokyo as the world’s most populous city by 2030, with an estimated population of 39 million.
Urban Sprawl: Expansion primarily on the peripheries, converting rural areas into urban zones, and rapid urbanization in NCR cities like Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida, and Gurugram.
Challenges and Limitations
Topographical Neglect: Building in low-lying areas and on flood plains, disrupting natural drainage and increasing flood risks.
Inadequate Infrastructure: Insufficient desilting of drains, inadequate stormwater management systems, and improper solid waste management.
Lack of a Water Masterplan: Absence of comprehensive planning for clean and wastewater flows, leading to issues like the flooding of new infrastructures like the Pragati Maidan Tunnel.
Reduction of green space and water bodies: Conversion of green spaces and water bodies into concrete developments, further aggravating flood situations.
Inconsistent Urban Planning: No systematic approach to integrating natural water flows and gradients into urban development plans.
Recommendations (Way Forward)
Integrated Urban Planning: Develop a water masterplan that prioritizes water management in urban development.
Protection of Water Bodies: Preserve and restore existing water bodies to manage floodwaters effectively.
Sustainable Development: Implement policies to prevent construction in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Infrastructure Improvement: Enhance drainage systems, desilting processes, and solid waste management to reduce water logging.
Public Awareness: Increase awareness about the importance of sustainable urban planning and the risks of unchecked urbanization.
Case study: Copenhagen, Denmark has an excellent “Five Finger Plan” that integrates urban infrastructure, transport, and green spaces. The city emphasizes sustainability, public life, and sensitive development. Indian Government can consider this plane.
Mains PYQ:
Q Account for the huge flooding of million cities in India including the smart ones like Hyderabad and Pune. Suggest lasting remedial measures. (UPSC IAS/2020)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bordering countries of France
Mains level: How France is India’s steadfast partner in achieving its sustainability goals?
Why in the news?
On July 14, 2023, in Paris, President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi elevated the ‘Partnership for the Planet’ to one of the three central pillars of the Indo-French Horizon 2047 Roadmap.
Indo-French Horizon 2047 Roadmap are:
Strategic Partnership: Enhancing defense, security, and geopolitical ties.
Economic Partnership: Promoting trade, investments, and sustainable development.
Partnership for the Planet: Focusing on environmental sustainability and green technologies.
India- France Bilateral Ties
Strategic Partnership: India and France established a strategic partnership in 1998, which covers cooperation in defense, civil nuclear energy, space, and security. This partnership is considered a cornerstone of their bilateral ties.
High-Level Exchanges: There have been frequent high-level exchanges between the leaders of both countries, including state visits and participation in each other’s national events like the Republic Day parade. This demonstrates the close political ties.
Defense Cooperation: Defense is a major pillar of the India-France partnership. The two countries conduct joint military exercises, collaborate on defense equipment manufacturing, and have an “intelligence and information exchange” mechanism.
Space Cooperation: India and France have robust space cooperation, including co-development and launch of satellites, research on new launch technologies, and connecting startups. They recently launched a Strategic Space Dialogue to guide their space partnership.
Convergence on Indo-Pacific: Both countries share concerns over China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. They have agreed to intensify cooperation in the strategically important Southwest Indian Ocean and work with other like-minded countries to address regional security challenges.
How France is India’s steadfast partner to achieve its sustainability goals?
Financial Support: France, through the French Development Agency (AFD) and Proparco, has committed substantial financial resources to India. This includes over €4 billion since 2008 for nearly 100 projects, with a significant focus on climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Strategic Focus Areas: Cooperation spans key sectors like energy transition, sustainable urban development, biodiversity conservation, resilience of territories, and reduction of inequalities. These efforts contribute directly to India’s sustainable development agenda.
Project Implementation: AFD’s involvement in projects such as metro systems in Pune and Nagpur, forest conservation in Rajasthan, and urban water management across 20 cities demonstrates tangible contributions to India’s environmental and social sustainability.
Partnership in Innovation: Collaborative initiatives underpinning innovation, including the Indo-French Year of Innovation in 2026, aimed at fostering solutions that integrate social inclusion with environmental sustainability.
Indo-Pacific Engagement: Strengthening bilateral ties with an Indo-Pacific dimension, focusing on initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Parks Partnership and joint funds for scaling up green technologies, showcasing France’s commitment to regional sustainability efforts.
Private sector-led projects
Investment in Agriculture: Proparco’s €11.2 million investment in Sahyadri, supports farmer-led initiatives to reduce farm losses, pesticide and fertilizer use, and enhance yields and produce quality.
Healthcare Investments: Proparco’s €33 million equity investment in Quadria, aimed at improving access to affordable quality healthcare in underserved regions of India and Southeast Asia.
Innovation and Sustainability: Emphasis on innovative solutions blending social inclusion with sustainability, such as through the Indo-French Year of Innovation in 2026 and joint efforts to scale up green technologies in the Indo-Pacific region.
Way forward:
Strengthen bilateral agreements to facilitate smoother cooperation and ensure compliance with international sustainability standards.
Foster deeper public-private partnerships to leverage expertise, funding, and innovation for sustainable development projects.
Promote continuous high-level dialogues and joint initiatives to address global challenges, enhance regional security, and drive economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Mains PYQ:
Q What were the events that led to the Suez Crisis in 1956? How did it deal a final blow to Britain’s self-image as a world power? (UPSC IAS/2014)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is Generative AI?
Mains level: Persistent and Contentious Issues in Internet Governance
Why in the news?
Generative AI’s transformative potential challenges existing legal frameworks and judicial precedents, which are inadequate for effectively governing this rapidly-evolving technology designed for a pre-AI world.
What is Generative AI?
Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence models that can generate original content like text, images, videos, and audio in response to prompts or requests.
These models learn patterns from large datasets and use that knowledge to create new content that resembles the training data.
Persistent and Contentious Issues in Internet Governance
Safe Harbour and Liability Fixation:
The Shreya Singhal judgment upholds Section 79 of the IT Act, granting intermediaries ‘safe harbour’ protection against liability for hosted content, contingent upon meeting due diligence requirements.
Challenges arise in applying these provisions to GAI tools, with debates on whether they should be classified as intermediaries, conduits, or active creators.
The Delhi High Court’s ruling in the Christian Louboutin Sas vs Nakul Bajaj and Ors (2018) case limited safe harbour protection to “passive” intermediaries.
The classification of GAI tools complicates the assignment of liability, especially in cases of user reposts.
Generative AI and Legal Conflicts:
GAI outputs have led to legal conflicts, such as a lawsuit in the U.S. against OpenAI for defamation by ChatGPT.
Ambiguities in classifying GAI tools complicate legal decisions regarding liability.
What Does the Indian Copyright Act 1957 Say?
Section 16 specifies that copyright protection is granted only under the provisions of the Act, with reluctance globally to extend protection to AI-generated works.
Critical questions include whether existing copyright laws should be revised for AI, the need for co-authorship with humans, and the responsibility for copyright infringement by AI tools.
The 161st Parliamentary Standing Committee Report highlights the inadequacy of the Copyright Act to facilitate AI authorship and ownership.
Current Indian law allows copyright owners to take legal action against infringement, but liability for AI-generated content remains unclear.
Steps to Pursue (Way forward)
Learning by Doing: Implement a sandbox approach, granting temporary immunity from liability to GAI platforms for responsible development and data gathering to inform future regulations.
Data Rights and Responsibilities: Overhaul the data acquisition process for GAI training, ensuring legal compliance, proper licensing, and compensation for intellectual property used in training models. Potential solutions include revenue-sharing or licensing agreements with data owners.
Simplify the Licensing: Licensing data for GAI is complex due to the lack of a centralized licensing body for web data. The creation of centralized platforms, similar to stock photo websites, can simplify licensing, streamline access to data, and ensure data integrity against bias and discrimination.
Government and Judicial Approach to maximize the benefits of GAI: A comprehensive re-evaluation of existing digital jurisprudence is needed, requiring a holistic, government-wide approach and judicious interpretations by constitutional courts. The aim is to maximize the benefits of GAI while safeguarding individual rights and protecting against unwelcome harm.
Mains PYQ:
Q The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) hasinitiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: What is a middle-mile network?
Mains level: What impedes rural connectivity?
Why in the news?
On June 6, IEEE endorsed a wireless network structure aimed at providing economical broadband access in rural areas, formulated at IIT Bombay.
About the latest Telecom Subscription Data
Urban Tele-density: Urban tele-density in India is 127%, indicating that on average, each urban user has more than one mobile connection.
Rural Tele-density: Rural tele-density is significantly lower at 58%, meaning only about one in two rural residents has a mobile connection.
Urban-Rural Digital Divide: The data highlights a stark contrast between urban and rural areas, with urban areas having much higher mobile connectivity compared to rural regions, reflecting a significant digital divide.
What are access and core networks?
Access Network (AN): The AN consists of base stations that provide wireless connectivity to mobile devices within a limited geographical area. It interfaces directly with mobile devices, facilitating communication and data transfer between devices and the wider network.
Core Network (CN): The CN comprises centralized network equipment that manages and directs data traffic between the access network, other networks (like the Internet), and service providers. It handles tasks such as routing, switching, and managing connectivity across the broader network infrastructure.
What impedes rural connectivity?
Affordability: Lower income levels in rural areas make mobile services relatively expensive, limiting access for many rural residents.
Cost of Infrastructure: Installing and maintaining network infrastructure like fibre optics in remote rural areas is costly and may not be economically viable for service providers.
Low Population Density: Rural areas often have sparse populations spread over large geographic areas, making it less profitable for network operators to invest in infrastructure deployment.
Geographical Barriers: Difficult terrains and remote locations further complicate the installation of base stations and backhaul infrastructure necessary for robust network coverage.
Urban Bias in Technology: Most advancements in cellular networks, such as 5G, prioritize high data rates and low latency suitable for urban environments, neglecting the unique challenges of rural areas.
Limited Research: There has been insufficient research focused on developing cost-effective solutions that can efficiently cover large rural areas with adequate connectivity.
What is the IEEE 2061-2024 standard? (Its working and architecture)
IEEE 2061-2024 aims to establish a standardized wireless network architecture for affordable broadband access in rural areas.
It defines a heterogeneous Access Network (AN) comprising macro base stations (Macro-BS) and Wi-Fi base stations, integrated with a flexible Core Network (CN) bypass capability.
Architecture:
Heterogeneous AN: Includes Macro-BS covering large areas with potentially lower data rates, complemented by Wi-Fi base stations deployed within villages for high-speed connectivity.
CN Bypass: Allows direct Internet access from the AN, bypassing the centralized Core Network for certain communications. This enhances efficiency and reduces latency, catering to stationary users common in rural settings.
Middle-Mile Connectivity: Utilizes multi-hop wireless networks (e.g., satellites, long-range Wi-Fi) to extend connectivity over long distances where optical fibre deployment is impractical or costly.
What is a middle-mile network?
A middle-mile network refers to the infrastructure that connects core network hubs to local access points, spanning intermediate distances. It uses technologies like fibre optics, microwave links, or satellites to transport data between central and regional locations, facilitating efficient connectivity over longer distances without the need for direct local access networks.
Conclude: To bridge the urban-rural digital divide in telecom, measures should focus on affordability through subsidized services, incentivizing infrastructure investment in rural areas, promoting research on rural-specific technologies, and ensuring equitable access to advanced wireless standards like IEEE 2061-2024.
Mains PYQ:
Q Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with a lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification. (UPSC IAS/2021)
Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ICEA and its mandate
Why in the News?
The Indian Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA), representing domestic electronics manufacturers, called for a reduction of import duties in the upcoming Union budget.
ICEA highlighted that the growth of the mobile phone sector now depends on demand in the global market rather than domestic demand, facilitated by supportive policies like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
AboutIndia Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA)
The ICEA is the apex industry body representing the interests of the mobile and electronics sector in India.
It was established in 2017.
It plays a crucial role in shaping policies and promoting the growth of the industry through advocacy, policy formulation, and strategic initiatives.
Membership:
ICEA comprises leading mobile handset manufacturers, electronics companies, and industry stakeholders.
This includes bothIndian and global companies operating in the electronics sector.
Collaborations:
ICEA works closely with government bodies, regulatory authorities, and other industry associations to align its initiatives with national economic goals.
ICEA’s Key Demands
Reduction of Import Duties: ICEA is calling for a reduction in import duties on manufacturing inputs for electronics, particularly in the mobile phone sector.
Current high tariffs are increasing manufacturing costs in India by 7-7.5% on the bill of materials.
Alignment with Global Standards: The demand includes aligning tariffs with those of countries like China and Vietnam, which have lower tariffs on fewer components.
Improvement of Customs Procedures: ICEA is urging for streamlined customs procedures to prevent delays in the shipment of key components.
Significance of ICEA’s Demands
Reducing import duties enhances competitiveness, boosts exports, stimulates investment and job creation, reduces trade deficit, and fosters long-term growth in India’s electronics and mobile phone manufacturing sectors.
Key Initiatives and Programs by ICEA
Electronics Manufacturing Clusters: ICEA promotes the development of electronics manufacturing clusters to create a robust supply chain and manufacturing base in India.
Skill Development: The association emphasizes the need for skill development in the electronics sector to ensure a skilled workforce capable of supporting industry growth.
R&D and Innovation: ICEA encourages research and development (R&D) and innovation within the sector to maintain competitiveness and technological advancement.
Boost in Mobile Phone Exports from India
ICEA Report: According to ICEA, mobile phone exports from India have doubled to surpass Rs 90,000 crore (about USD 11.12 billion) in FY 2022-23 from Rs 45,000 crore in FY22.
Government Targets: The government has set a target of USD 10 billion worth of mobile phone exports, with an ambitious goal of achieving USD 300 billion worth of electronics manufacturing by 2025-26, of which USD 120 billion is expected from exports.
Major Contributors to Export Growth:
Apple’s Contribution: Apple is estimated to have a 50% share of mobile phone exports from India, contributing USD 5.5 billion (about Rs 45,000 crore).
Samsung’s Contribution: Samsung accounts for approximately 40% of exports, worth Rs 36,000 crore.
Third-Party Exports: Third-party exports contributed around USD 1.1 billion to the total export, comprising phones of various brands made in India.
Future Projections:
Export Contribution: Mobile phones are anticipated to contribute more than USD 50 billion worth of exports by 2025-26.
Overall Contribution: Mobile phone exports now account for 46% of the overall electronic goods exports, according to ICEA.
PYQ:
[2016] Recently, India’s first ‘National Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was proposed to be set up in:
