Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to Skill;
Why in the News?
Gamified and simulation-based learning can enhance workforce training by integrating game elements and virtual environments, enabling learners to practice and apply skills safely, improving both training quality and outcomes.
What are the present skilling challenges in India?
- Limited Access to Vocational Training: According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2022-23, only 21% of Indian youth aged 15-29 years received vocational or technical training, with a mere 4.4% having received formal training. This highlights a significant gap in the reach and effectiveness of existing skilling programs, raising concerns about the preparedness of the workforce for available job opportunities.
- Low Employability Among Graduates: The Chief Economic Advisor, V. Anantha Nageswaran, reported that only 51% of India’s graduates are considered employable. This statistic underscores the mismatch between the skills imparted through education and the actual requirements of the job market, contributing to high unemployment rates among educated youth.
- Skills Gap for Industry 4.0: A substantial portion of the workforce lacks the necessary skills for new-age jobs associated with Industry 4.0, which integrates advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data. Estimates suggest that only 1.5% of Indian engineers possess these skills, and 60% of the MSME workforce lacks essential digital competencies.
What is gamified and simulation-based learning?
- Gamified learning integrates game elements like rewards, challenges, and leaderboards into education to boost engagement and motivation.
- Simulation-based learning uses virtual environments to replicate real-world scenarios, allowing learners to practice skills in a safe, controlled space. Both methods enhance interaction, retention, and practical skill development.
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How the gamified and simulation-based learning can enhance the training modules?
- Increased Engagement and Retention: Gamified learning incorporates game elements into skill training, making it interactive and enjoyable. This approach can lead to higher participant engagement and better knowledge retention compared to traditional methods. Features like points, badges, and leaderboards can motivate learners to complete training tasks and strive for excellence.
- Practical Experience Through Simulations: Simulation-based learning allows trainees to practice skills in a controlled environment that mimics real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience helps learners understand complex systems, develop critical thinking, and improve problem-solving skills without the risk of real-world consequences.
- Customization and Progress Tracking: The gamified training modules can be tailored to address specific skill gaps identified in the workforce. Trainees can be presented with challenges that adapt based on their progress, ensuring a personalized learning experience that meets their individual needs.
- Real-World Application: By simulating actual professional circumstances, trainees can apply their knowledge practically, enhancing their readiness for employment. This approach also allows for assessment of decision-making abilities and understanding the outcomes of those decisions.
- Integration with Existing Platforms: Initiatives like SWAYAM and Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) can host these gamified and simulation-based training modules, leveraging their existing infrastructure and user base to enhance skill development across various sectors.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Vocational Training Infrastructure: Expand access to formal and informal vocational training programs, ensuring alignment with Industry 4.0 requirements. Encourage partnerships between educational institutions and industries to offer skill-based certifications.
- Leverage Technology for Skilling: Integrate gamified and simulation-based learning into existing platforms like SWAYAM and SIDH to create interactive, hands-on training modules that address skill gaps and improve employability across sectors.
Mains PYQ:
Q Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable? (UPSC IAS/2016)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Sustainable Development; Green Economy;
Why in the News?
The Economic Survey (2023-24) claims that India has managed to grow its economy without significantly increasing its greenhouse gas emissions. This claim has sparked the debate about actual sustainable growth in India.
What does the Economic Survey (2023-24) say about GHG emissions?
- Relative Decoupling Achieved: Between 2005 and 2019, India’s GDP grew at a 7% CAGR, while GHG emissions increased by 4%.
- Emission Intensity Reduction: India reduced emission intensity by 33% from 2005 levels, achieving its 2030 NDC target 11 years early.
- Carbon Sink Expansion: India aims to add a 2.5–3 billion tonne carbon sink by 2030, building on the 1.97 billion tonnes achieved (2005–2019).
- Investment Needs: Achieving NDC targets requires $2.5 trillion by 2030, with a focus on domestic resources, affordable finance, and technology access.
Has India decoupled its economic growth from GHG emissions?
- Arguments against decoupling:
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- The Economic Survey does not clarify whether the observed decoupling is absolute (declining emissions with GDP growth) or relative (emissions rising slower than GDP).
- India has achieved economy-wide relative decoupling since 1990, with GDP growing six-fold while GHG emissions have only tripled. However, absolute decoupling has not been achieved, as emissions continue to rise.
- Agriculture and manufacturing, major contributors to India’s GHG emissions, require detailed sectoral analysis.
- Argument in favour of decoupling:
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- The Economic Survey indicates that between 2005 and 2019, India’s GDP grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7%, while GHG emissions grew at a CAGR of only 4%.
- India has successfully reduced its emission intensity by 33% from 2005 levels, achieving its initial Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target for 2030 eleven years ahead of schedule. This reduction indicates that India is managing to grow economically while lowering the emissions per unit of GDP.
- India is on track to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes (installed electricity generation capacity reaching 45.4% by May 2024) through tree and forest cover by 2030, building on a carbon sink of 1.97 billion tonnes established from 2005 to 2019.
What are the steps taken by the Government?
The Economic Survey 2023-24 outlines several key steps taken by the Indian government to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promote sustainable development:
- Reduction of Emission Intensity: India has successfully reduced its emission intensity by 33% from 2005 levels, achieving its initial Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target for 2030 eleven years ahead of schedule.
- This significant reduction demonstrates the effectiveness of various climate action strategies implemented by the government.
- Investment in Renewable Energy: The government has made substantial progress in expanding renewable energy capacity.
- As of May 31, 2024, non-fossil sources accounted for 45.4% of the total installed electricity generation capacity in India, up from 32% in 2014.
- Additionally, India added 15.03 GW of solar power capacity in 2023-24, bringing the cumulative total to 82.64 GW.
- Creation of Carbon Sinks: The survey highlights that India is on track to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3.0 billion tonnes through tree and forest cover by 2030, building upon the 1.97 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent already achieved from 2005 to 2019.
- Sovereign Green Bonds: The government has raised funds through sovereign green bonds, amounting to ₹36,000 crore in 2023, to finance public sector projects aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices.
- Framework for Green Finance: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has implemented a framework for accepting green deposits and promoting renewable energy through its Priority Sector Lending (PSL) rules, fostering a green finance ecosystem in the country.
- Adaptation Expenditure: India’s climate adaptation expenditure has increased from 3.7% of GDP in 2015-16 to 5.6% in 2021-22, indicating a greater integration of climate resilience into development plans.
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What efforts must be continued by India? (Way forward)
- Pursuit of Absolute Decoupling: To achieve long-term climate commitments and sustainability goals, India must strive toward absolute decoupling, where economic growth continues alongside a reduction in emissions.
- This requires comprehensive policies focused on renewable energy adoption, emission mitigation strategies, and sustainable development initiatives.
- Investment in Renewable Energy and Climate Resilience: Continued efforts are necessary to enhance investments in renewable energy sources and technologies, alongside measures to improve energy efficiency and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Mains PYQ:
Q Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC IAS/2021)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Mines and Mineral; Challenges faced by states;
Why in the News?
Environmental activists protested outside the Madurai District Collector’s office (Tamil Nadu), voicing their opposition to Vedanta’s auction win for Tungsten Mining Rights in Melur, following the Ministry of Mines‘ announcement
Why have there been protests over mining Rights?
- Environmental Concerns: Activists and residents are vehemently opposing the tungsten mining project due to its potential impact on biodiversity. Because of the fears that mining activities could irreparably damage these sites and disrupt local ecosystems, including vital water sources like the Periyar canal.
- Community Impact: Locals fear that mining will threaten their livelihoods, as many depend on agriculture and local resources. The protests have seen significant participation from various villages in the region, highlighting widespread community opposition to the project.
- Political Response: The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has called for the cancellation of the mining rights and plans to introduce a resolution in the Tamil Nadu Assembly to formally reject the mining project. He emphasizes that any mining activity in these areas would be unacceptable without state consent.
What does the Ministry of Mines say about Mining?
- Auction of Mineral Blocks: The Nayakkarpatti Tungsten Block covering an area of over 20.16 sq. km. was proposed for auction in February 2024. Inputs were taken from the state government of Tamil Nadu before the block was put up for auction.
- The Ministry cited the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 as the legal framework enabling this auction process.
- Mineral Richness: The Ministry also noted that the area designated for tungsten mining was found to be rich in scheelite (a crucial ore for tungsten extraction), thus justifying its selection for mining activities.
About the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957:
- The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, provides a framework for the regulation of mining activities in India, governing the exploration, licensing, and development of minerals except for petroleum and natural gas.
- It empowers the central government to specify major minerals and the state governments to regulate minor minerals, ensuring a structured division of responsibilities in mineral resource management.
- Major minerals are high-value minerals that include coal, lignite, iron ore, bauxite, gold, silver, zinc, copper, manganese, and other ores critical for industrial and strategic purposes.
- Minor minerals are low-value, non-metallic minerals primarily used in construction and local industries, such as sand, gravel, clay, building stones, marble, and slate.
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Is there a Centre-State rift?
Yes, a notable rift exists between the Tamil Nadu government and the Union government regarding this issue.
- Lack of State Consent: The Tamil Nadu government claims it did not provide consent for the auction and had previously communicated concerns regarding environmental implications. In contrast, the Union government contends that there was no formal opposition from Tamil Nadu during the auction process.
- Political Tensions: This situation has led to heightened tensions between the state and central governments, with accusations from Tamil Nadu officials that their concerns were ignored by the Union government when granting mining rights to Hindustan Zinc Limited.
Can the state government supersede the authority of the central government in this matter?
In the context of mining rights and environmental matters, the state government cannot directly override the power of the central government. However, there are several ways available to the state government to influence or challenge the decision made by the Union government.
- Constitutional Framework: The Indian Constitution divides powers between the Union and states; mining regulation is under the Union List, while environmental protection is in the Concurrent List, granting states authority over local environmental issues.
- Biodiversity & Environmental Protection: States can challenge mining projects through laws like the Environmental Protection Act (1986) and Biological Diversity Act (2002), or by passing laws to protect ecologically sensitive areas.
- State Assembly’s Role: The state legislature can pass resolutions expressing opposition to federal actions, and applying political pressure on the Union government, especially with public protests.
- Judicial Review & Coordination: States can seek judicial review if Union actions violate constitutional or environmental laws. While states cannot override central mining rights, cooperative federalism emphasizes consultation between the Union and states.
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Way forward:
- Enhanced State-Central Coordination: Establish a more transparent and binding consultation process between the state and central governments before granting mining rights, ensuring that local concerns and state consent are prioritized, especially for ecologically sensitive areas.
- Thorough Environmental Review: Implement a mandatory, independent Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for mining projects in biodiversity hotspots, incorporating input from local communities, environmental experts, and authorities to address potential ecological and socio-economic impacts.
Mains PYQ:
Q Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2019)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Emissions Gap Report 2024; Important Highlights
Mains level: Climate change; Pollution; Global Climate Goals;
Why in the News?
According to the recently released ‘Emission Gap Report 2024’ presented by UNEP, Global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions have reached a new high of 57.1 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2023, a 1.3% rise compared to 2022.
What are the key points of Emissions Gap Report 2024?
- Urgent Emission Reduction Targets: To align with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement, global greenhouse gas emissions must decrease by 42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035 compared to 2019 levels.
- For a 2°C target, reductions of 28% by 2030 and 37% by 2035 are necessary. Current commitments and policies are insufficient, putting the world on track for a temperature rise of 2.6-3.1°C, which would lead to severe climate impacts.
- Potential for Significant Reductions: The report highlights that it is still technically feasible to achieve the 1.5°C pathway through aggressive action, including increased deployment of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which could contribute 27% of the necessary reductions by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
- Additionally, actions related to forests could provide around 20% of the potential reductions in both years. A comprehensive approach involving government action, investment in mitigation strategies, and international cooperation is essential to realize these opportunities.
What are the Global Emission trends?
- Global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have continued to rise, reaching a record high of 57.1 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2023. This marks an increase from previous years, with fossil fuel CO₂ emissions projected at 37.4 billion tonnes, up 0.8% from 2023, and total CO₂ emissions—including land-use changes—projected to be 41.6 billion tonnes in 2024.
- The increase is attributed primarily to rising emissions from major economies such as China and India, with India experiencing the largest relative increase at 6.1% and China contributing the most in absolute terms.
- The overall trend indicates that despite some positive developments in renewable energy adoption, there is no sign that global fossil fuel emissions have peaked, necessitating immediate and substantial reductions to meet climate targets.
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What is the progress of G20 countries towards NDCs?
- Mixed Progress on NDCs: Among G20 countries, six members (China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, and Turkey) are projected to meet their unconditional Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets with current policies.
- However, eight members (Argentina, Australia, Canada, the EU, South Korea, South Africa, and the United States) require further action to achieve their targets.
- This indicates a significant disparity in progress across different G20 nations, with many needing to be on track to meet their commitments under the Paris Agreement.
- Need for Enhanced Ambition: The G20 must significantly ramp up its climate ambitions in the next round of NDCs to align with the goals of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. This includes committing to substantial emissions reductions—42% by 2030 and 57% by 2035.
What is the NCD target?
- Collective Emission Reduction Goals: G20 countries have pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), targeting a 42% reduction by 2030 and 57% by 2035, aligned with the Paris Agreement to limit warming below 2°C.
- Diverse Member Targets and Progress: G20 members have varied NDC targets, such as China aiming to peak CO2 emissions by 2030 with a 60-65% reduction in carbon intensity, while Argentina caps net emissions at 483 million tons of CO2 equivalent.
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What is needed to bridge the gap between 2030 and 2035 goals? (Way forward)
- Significant Annual Emission Reductions: A reduction of 7.5% per year until 2035 is necessary to align with the 1.5°C pathway, while a 4% annual reduction is needed for the 2°C target.
- Investment in Renewable Energy: The increased deployment of solar and wind technologies could deliver approximately 27% of the total emission reduction potential by 2030 and 38% by 2035.
- Action on Forests: Protecting and restoring forests could provide around 20% of the required reductions in both years.
- Comprehensive Policy Measures: A whole-of-government approach is essential, maximizing socioeconomic and environmental co-benefits while minimizing trade-offs.
- Increased Mitigation Investment: A minimum six-fold increase in investments for climate mitigation is critical, necessitating reforms in global financial systems and strong private sector involvement.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases that cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Good Governance Week
Why in the News?
“Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore” a nationwide campaign is launched by the Government of India, from December 19–24, 2024, as part of the 4th Good Governance Week.
About the Nationwide Campaign ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore’
- It is a nationwide campaign to address public grievances and improve service delivery across rural and urban areas.
- It aims to strengthen governance at the grassroots level and bring effective solutions to the common people.
- It will be conducted in all districts, states, and union territories of India, with a focus on delivering timely solutions and improving the quality of services provided to citizens.
- Key objectives of the campaign include:
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- Redressing Public Grievances: Ensuring that citizens’ complaints related to government services are resolved swiftly.
- Improving Service Delivery: Enhancing the efficiency of government services at the local level.
- Creating Awareness: Spreading knowledge about good governance practices and encouraging citizens to be proactive in using available services.
Key Observations from the Good Governance Index (GGI) 2022
- The GGI, 2022 evaluates 58 indicators across 10 governance sectors, such as agriculture and allied sectors, human resource development, public health, and law and order, among others. The key observations are as follows:
- Top Performers: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra ranked highest for good governance, excelling in public health, human resources, and economic governance.
- Service Delivery: States like Tamil Nadu and Kerala were praised for transparency, accountability, and citizen-focused policies, leading in service delivery.
- Agriculture & Rural Development: Uttar Pradesh and Bihar showed improvements in agriculture and rural development, aligning with the goals of Prashasan Gaon Ki Ore.
- Health & Education: Kerala and Tamil Nadu excelled in healthcare and education, with significant investments in infrastructure and public schemes.
- Sustainable Development: States like Sikkim emphasized environmental governance and sustainable development practices.
PYQ:
[2016] What do you understand by the terms ‘governance’, ‘good governance’ and ‘ethical governance’? (150 words) |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Eurasian Little Gull
Why in the News?
For the first time, the Eurasian Little Gull was spotted in the National Capital Region (NCR) near Sultanpur National Park at Chandu.
About the Eurasian Little Gull:
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Details |
| Overview and Physical Characteristics |
- Scientific Name: Larus minutus
- Common Name: Eurasian Little Gull
- Size: 30-33 cm in length, wingspan 75-85 cm; Weight: 70–150 grams
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| Habitat and Features |
- Breeding Habitat: Marshy wetlands, shallow freshwater lakes, and estuaries in Northern Eurasia (Russia, Eastern Europe).
- Winter Migration: Offshore waters, coastal areas, and estuaries around the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and Caspian Sea.
- Migratory Pattern: Migrations from northern breeding grounds to warmer regions in winter.
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| Conservation Status |
- Conservation Status: Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
- Rare sightings of the species in India, particularly inland regions like NCR.
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PYQ:
[2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are-
(a) Birds
(b) Primates
(c) Reptiles
(d) Amphibians |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Meditation Day
Why in the News?
India has played a leading role in co-sponsoring and guiding the unanimous adoption of a UN General Assembly draft resolution to declare December 21 as World Meditation Day.
- The theme for 2024 is- “Inner Peace, Global Harmony”.
About the World Meditation Day
- It is a global observance that was officially recognized following the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution on December 6, 2024. However, the 21st of December has been designated as the date for this annual observance.
- It is also symbolic, of falling on the Winter Solstice (December 21), which is associated with new beginnings, reflection, and spiritual growth in Indian tradition.
- The date is also exactly six months after the International Day of Yoga on June 21, which marks the Summer Solstice.
The objective behind this Decision
- Promote Well-Being: To globally encourage meditation for enhancing mental health and overall wellness.
- Encourage Inner Reflection: Recognizing December 21 as a time for self-reflection and meditation, especially during Uttarayana in Indian tradition.
- India’s Global Leadership: Reinforces India’s commitment to global wellness, following its leadership in declaring International Day of Yoga.
PYQ:
[2012] With reference to the religious history of medieval India, the Sufi mystics were known to pursue which of the following practices?
1. Meditation and control of breath
2. Severe ascetic exercises in a lonely place
3. Recitation of holy songs to arouse a state of ecstasy in their audience
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Turner Prize
Why in the News?
- Jasleen Kaur, an Indian-origin artist, was awarded the Turner Prize for her exhibit that pays tribute to her family’s history of migration to Scotland.
What is the Turner Prize?
| About |
- Named after JMW Turner (1775-1851), known for his dramatic seascapes and innovative use of color and light, it was first awarded in 1984 by Patrons of New Art.
- It aims to promote interest in contemporary art and assist the Tate Gallery in acquiring new works.
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| What makes it special? |
- One of the most prestigious awards in contemporary art, awarded annually by the Tate Gallery to an outstanding British artist.
- Spotlights new talent and helps lesser-known artists gain international recognition.
- The winner receives £25,000, and shortlisted artists receive £10,000 each.
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| Significance in British Culture |
- A major cultural event in the UK, attracting wide media coverage and public attention.
- Its controversial nature fuels discussions about the definition of art and the role of contemporary artists.
- Winning the Prize often defines an artist’s place in British culture, establishing them as a significant figure in the art world.
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