PYQ Relevance:
Q Discuss the consequences of climate change on food security in tropical countries. (UPAC 2023)
Reason: This question directly addresses the impact of climate change on food security. |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the strategy of consequences of climate change on the food security (2023) and the ‘Climate Change’ is a global problem (2017).
Heat waves lead to health crises, crop losses, water shortages, and increased energy demand. In 2023, severe heat in India caused record-breaking temperatures, affecting wheat production in Punjab and Haryana. For example, The Indian state of Bihar had the highest number of heat wave days in 2023, with a total of 18 days. This was followed by the states of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, both having experienced a total of 15 days of heat waves that year.
Today’s editorial discusses the impact of Extreme heat in India, providing valuable insights for GS Paper 3 in UPSC Mains answer writing.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
This year, India experienced its hottest February in 124 years. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that March will also be hotter than usual, with more days of extreme heat.
What are the major wheat-producing states in India?
- Uttar Pradesh is the largest wheat producer, contributing approximately 31.77% to India’s total wheat output. In the crop year 2023-24, it produced around 35.34 million tonnes of wheat from an area of 9.53 million hectares. Example: Districts like Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Agra are significant contributors, utilizing both traditional and modern agricultural practices to achieve high yields.
- Madhya Pradesh ranks second, accounting for about 20.98% of the national production. The state produced approximately 22.58 million tonnes in the same crop year. Example: The Malwa plateau region, particularly districts like Indore and Ujjain, benefits from black soil and moderate temperatures, which are conducive to wheat cultivation.
- Punjab Known as the “Granary of India,” contributes around 13.87% to India’s wheat output, with a production of about 17.74 million tonnes. Example: Major districts such as Amritsar and Ludhiana utilize advanced farming techniques and well-developed irrigation systems to maintain high productivity levels.
Why is wheat primarily grown in these regions?
- Agro-Climatic Conditions – These states have a cool winter and warm summer, which is ideal for wheat cultivation. The Rabi season (sown in November-December, harvested in March-April) aligns perfectly with the climate. Example: The Malwa plateau in Madhya Pradesh benefits from moderate temperatures that support high wheat yields.
- Fertile Soil – These regions have alluvial and black soil, which retain moisture and provide essential nutrients for wheat growth. The soil is well-suited for irrigated farming. Example: The Indo-Gangetic plains of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab have deep, fertile alluvial soil, which supports extensive wheat cultivation.
- Irrigation Facilities – These states have well-developed canal and groundwater irrigation systems, ensuring a stable water supply for wheat crops, which require controlled irrigation. Example: Punjab’s extensive canal network, supported by the Bhakra Nangal Dam, ensures year-round irrigation, enabling high wheat productivity.
Why is extreme heat during the wheat harvest season a serious concern for India’s food security and economy?
- Reduced Wheat Yield: Extreme heat accelerates wheat ripening, leading to shorter grain-filling periods and lighter grains. This results in lower overall production, affecting food availability. Example: In 2022, a sudden heatwave in March reduced India’s wheat output from the projected 111 million tonnes to ~107 million tonnes.
- Lower Grain Quality: High temperatures increase protein content but reduce starch accumulation, making wheat harder and affecting its milling quality. Example: Farmers in Punjab and Haryana reported lower market prices in 2023 due to poor grain quality caused by excessive heat.
- Impact on Food Security: Wheat is a staple for a significant portion of India’s population. Production shortfalls can lead to food shortages, disproportionately affecting low-income communities. The 2025 heatwave poses a serious threat to wheat and rice production, potentially leading to a 6-10% decline, thereby jeopardizing food security for millions.
- Economic Losses for Farmers: Heat stress forces farmers to spend more on irrigation, fertilizers, and pest control, increasing costs while reducing yields, leading to financial distress. Example: Farmers in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan faced heavy losses in 2023 due to unexpected temperature spikes during the grain-filling stage.
- Disruptions in Procurement & Trade: Lower production impacts government wheat procurement, affecting stock availability for schemes like the Public Distribution System (PDS) and exports. Example: India had to ban wheat exports in 2022 to ensure domestic supply, disrupting global markets and trade agreements.
What steps have been taken by the Indian government?
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) – The government announces a minimum support price for wheat every year to ensure farmers get a fair price and are encouraged to produce more. Example: In 2023-24, the MSP for wheat was ₹2,275 per quintal, benefiting farmers in states like Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
- Subsidized Inputs – The government provides subsidies on seeds, fertilizers, and electricity to make wheat farming more affordable and increase productivity. Example: Under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM), high-yield variety (HYV) seeds and soil nutrients are distributed to farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh.
- Irrigation Development – Investment in major irrigation projects has improved water availability, reducing dependence on erratic rainfall. Example: The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) has helped expand irrigation in wheat-producing states like Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
- Research & Development (R&D) – The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and agricultural universities develop climate-resilient, high-yield wheat varieties to enhance productivity. Example: The DBW-187 wheat variety, developed by ICAR, has helped increase yields in states like Haryana and Madhya Pradesh.
- Procurement & Storage Infrastructure – The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state agencies procure large quantities of wheat to ensure food security and stabilize market prices. Example: In 2023, FCI procured over 26 million tonnes of wheat, mainly from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, ensuring buffer stock availability.
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What adaptation and mitigation strategies can policymakers implement to protect wheat crops from rising temperatures? (Way forward)
- Development of Heat-Resistant Wheat Varieties: Traditional wheat varieties are vulnerable to heat stress, reducing yield and quality. Example: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed HD 3385, a climate-resilient wheat variety with better heat tolerance, which is expected to perform well in rising temperatures.
- Shifting Sowing Dates and Crop Calendars: Adjusting the sowing period can help wheat plants escape extreme heat during critical growth phases. Example: The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has recommended advancing wheat sowing to mid-October instead of November to allow crops to mature before peak heat in March-April.
- Improved Irrigation and Water Management: Heat stress increases water loss from soil and plants, requiring efficient irrigation. Example: The “Per Drop More Crop” scheme under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) promotes micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler systems) to optimize water use in wheat-growing states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.
- Promoting Conservation Agriculture Practices: Practices like zero tillage and residue mulching help retain soil moisture and lower soil temperature. Example: Zero tillage wheat in Haryana and Punjab has shown 5-10% higher yields and reduced water usage compared to conventional plowing methods.
- Climate Forecasting and Early Warning Systems: Advanced weather predictions help farmers plan for extreme heat events. Example: The Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva (GKMS) provides real-time agro-advisories, warning farmers about heatwaves and recommending protective measures like additional irrigation and mulching.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India-Afghanistan Relations;
Why in the News?
The Prime Minister of India may allow the Taliban regime to appoint a new envoy for its embassy in New Delhi.
What are the key reasons behind India’s increasing engagement with the Taliban despite international concerns?
- Strategic Influence in Afghanistan: India aims to maintain a presence in Afghanistan to safeguard its long-term geopolitical interests.Example: India reopened its embassy in Kabul in June 2022, ensuring diplomatic engagement.
- Countering Pakistan’s Diminishing Influence: As Taliban-Pakistan relations sour, India sees an opportunity to reduce Islamabad’s sway over Kabul. Example: The Taliban’s refusal to act against Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has strained ties with Pakistan, creating space for India.
- Competing with China’s Expanding Role: China has accepted a Taliban envoy and is integrating Afghanistan into the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Example: China became the first country to accept a Taliban-appointed ambassador in 2023, prompting India to reconsider its approach.
- Ensuring Regional Security and Counterterrorism: A stable Afghanistan is crucial to preventing it from becoming a hub for anti-India terror groups. Example: India seeks Taliban cooperation in curbing ISIS-K and groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) that threaten Indian interests.
- Economic and Humanitarian Interests: Engaging with the Taliban allows India to continue developmental projects and provide humanitarian aid. Example: India has sent multiple consignments of wheat and medical supplies to Afghanistan under humanitarian assistance programs.
Why is the recognition of a Taliban envoy in India considered a significant shift in diplomatic policy?
- De Facto Recognition of the Taliban Regime: Accepting a Taliban-appointed envoy would signal India’s indirect recognition of the regime, despite its lack of international legitimacy. Example: Most countries, including the U.S. and EU members, have refused to recognize the Taliban due to human rights violations.
- Departure from India’s Traditional Stand on Terrorism: India has consistently opposed regimes that support terrorism. Engaging with the Taliban contradicts its long-standing stance. Example: India had previously refused to engage with the Taliban, citing its ties to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
- Contradiction with India’s Human Rights Advocacy: The Taliban’s treatment of women and minorities has been widely condemned, and recognizing its envoy could weaken India’s credibility as a human rights advocate. Example: The UN has termed the Taliban’s policies as “gender apartheid,” which contradicts India’s global image as a democratic and inclusive nation.
- Impact on Relations with Western Allies: Closer engagement with the Taliban may strain India’s relations with countries that have imposed sanctions on the Taliban. Example: The U.S. and European nations continue to restrict diplomatic ties and financial transactions with Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
- Risk of Setting a Precedent for Other Unrecognized Regimes: Accepting a Taliban envoy might encourage other unrecognized regimes to seek similar diplomatic treatment, complicating India’s foreign policy. Example: It could open debates on whether India should engage similarly with other disputed governments, such as Myanmar’s military junta.
What are the major risks for India in engaging with the Taliban?
- Security Threats and Terrorism: The Taliban’s ties with terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) pose a direct threat to India’s national security. Example: The 2001 Indian Parliament attack was linked to JeM, which has operated from Taliban-controlled areas in the past.
- Growing Influence of the Islamic State (IS): The Islamic State-Khorasan Province (IS-K) has been expanding in Afghanistan, carrying out attacks even against the Taliban and its allies. Example: IS-K’s attack on the Moscow Crocus City Hall in 2024 and the bombing of a Kabul hotel housing Chinese nationals show Afghanistan’s instability.
- Potential Diplomatic Backlash: Engaging with the Taliban could harm India’s relations with key allies like the U.S. and the EU, which refuse to recognize the Taliban due to human rights violations. Example: The U.S. and European nations maintain economic sanctions on Afghanistan, and aligning too closely with the Taliban could attract criticism.
- Destabilization of India’s Western Borders: The Taliban’s alleged support for Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has worsened Pakistan’s security situation, and any spillover could affect India. Example: TTP claimed 147 attacks in Pakistan in February 2024 alone, and instability in the region could have consequences for India’s border security.
- Economic and Infrastructure Investment Risks: Any investments India makes in Afghanistan may not be secure due to the Taliban’s unstable governance and lack of financial transparency. Example: India’s $3 billion investments in Afghan infrastructure, including the Salma Dam and the Afghan Parliament, remain uncertain under Taliban rule.
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Way forward:
- Strategic, Conditional Engagement: India should engage with the Taliban on a case-by-case basis, ensuring its security interests are safeguarded while avoiding full diplomatic recognition. Example: Continuing humanitarian aid and infrastructure projects without legitimizing Taliban rule.
- Regional and Multilateral Cooperation: India should collaborate with regional partners like Iran, Russia, and Central Asian states to ensure stability in Afghanistan while maintaining ties with Western allies. Example: Strengthening mechanisms like the Moscow Format Talks and UN-led initiatives to balance engagement and counter-terrorism efforts.
Mains PYQ:
Q Critically analyse India’s evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) highlighting their increasing significance in regional and global geopolitics.(UPSC IAS/2024)
Reason: India’s engagement with CARs is influenced by the situation in Afghanistan and the wider regional security scenario involving the Taliban.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Electoral reform;
Why in the News?
Recently, the Election Commission (EC) has invited political parties for discussions on enhancing the electoral process.
What are the key legal provisions governing the electoral process in India?
- Article 324 of the Constitution – Grants the Election Commission (EC) the power of superintendence, direction, and control over elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice President.
- Representation of the People Act, 1950 – Governs the preparation of electoral rolls and the allocation of seats in Parliament and State Legislatures.
- Representation of the People Act, 1951 – Regulates the actual conduct of elections, including provisions on qualifications, disqualifications, election offenses, and corrupt practices.
- Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 – Provides rules for the registration of voters, corrections in electoral rolls, and the issuance of Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC).
- Model Code of Conduct (MCC) – A set of guidelines issued by the EC to regulate political parties and candidates, ensuring free and fair elections, even though it lacks statutory backing.
How has the voting process evolved in India since the first general elections in 1952?
- Ballot Box System (1952-1957) – In the first two general elections (1952, 1957), separate ballot boxes were used for each candidate, where voters dropped blank ballot papers into the box of their chosen candidate.
- Printed Ballot Papers (1962 Onwards) – From the third general election (1962), a single ballot paper was introduced with the names and symbols of all candidates, simplifying the voting process. Example: Instead of multiple boxes, voters marked their choice on a single sheet and dropped it in a common ballot box.
- Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) (2004 Onwards) – Since the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, EVMs replaced paper ballots in all constituencies, improving efficiency and reducing errors.
- Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) (2019 Onwards) – From the 2019 general elections, EVMs were backed by 100% VVPAT slips, allowing voters to verify their vote on a printed slip for a few seconds before it was stored in a sealed box. Example: A voter pressing a button on the EVM saw a printed slip confirming their vote for Candidate X before it was automatically stored.
- Remote Voting and Digital Advancements (Proposed) – The Election Commission is exploring remote voting options for migrant workers and overseas Indians, along with blockchain-based voting mechanisms. Example: The EC has proposed a multi-constituency remote voting machine (RVM) to allow migrant workers to vote from different locations.
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Why are electoral reforms necessary?
- Addressing Electoral Roll Discrepancies: The ECI aims to improve the accuracy and transparency of electoral rolls, especially amid allegations of tampering in recent elections. For example, opposition parties have raised concerns over duplicate Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers, demanding discussions in Parliament regarding discrepancies in voters’ lists.
- Enhancing Gender Representation: The ECI seeks feedback on measures to encourage greater representation of women in political parties and candidate selection processes. This aligns with international practices and aims to make elections more inclusive.
- Regulating Election Expenditure: Discussions will focus on expenditure ceilings for elections and ensuring timely submission of audited financial reports by political parties. These measures are intended to enhance transparency and accountability in campaign financing.
- Improving Voting Accessibility: The ECI plans to explore alternative voting methods for domestic migrants, absentee voters, and persons with disabilities. This includes feedback on schemes like the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) to ensure inclusive participation.
- Strengthening Legal Frameworks for Campaign Silence Periods: To regulate election campaigns, the ECI will discuss extending restrictions to print media and online canvassing during the 48-hour silence period before polling ends, addressing concerns about social media misuse.
What is the importance of “One Nation, One Election” in the context of electoral reforms?
- Enhanced Governance and Policy Continuity – Simultaneous elections reduce the frequent imposition of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), allowing governments to focus on long-term policy implementation without periodic electoral disruptions. Example: If Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections are held together, policymaking won’t be interrupted multiple times due to MCC restrictions.
- Cost and Resource Efficiency – Conducting elections at different times leads to repeated expenditure on logistics, security, and manpower. A unified election cycle reduces financial and administrative burdens. Example: The 2019 Lok Sabha elections cost around ₹60,000 crore; merging state and local elections could significantly cut costs.
- Increased Voter Turnout and Engagement – Holding elections simultaneously can improve voter participation by reducing election fatigue and mobilization efforts. Example: Countries like Sweden and South Africa conduct national and regional elections together, leading to streamlined voter engagement and participation.
Way forward:
- Comprehensive Electoral Reforms – Strengthen legal provisions for campaign financing, voting accessibility, and electoral roll management, ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and fair representation in elections.
- Leveraging Technology for Electoral Integrity – Implement secure digital voting mechanisms like blockchain-based voting and remote voting for migrant workers while enhancing VVPAT verification to boost voter confidence.
Mains PYQ:
Q Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation-one election” principle. (UPSC IAS/2024)
Reason: This question directly asks about the necessity of electoral reforms which highlights several areas needing reform, such as allegations of manipulation of electoral rolls, issues with duplicate EPIC numbers, concerns about EVM and VVPAT processes, misuse of “Star Campaigner” status, exceeding election expenditure limits, and criminalization of politics.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-YUVA Scheme
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education, launched the PM-YUVA 3.0 (Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors) on 11th March 2025.
About the PM-YUVA Scheme
- PM-YUVA 3.0 was launched on 11th March 2025, building upon the success of the first two editions, which focused on themes like national movement and democracy.
- It is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education, aimed at mentoring young authors below the age of 30.
- The scheme’s objectives include fostering a new generation of writers who can explore topics such as:
- Contribution of the Indian Diaspora in Nation Building
- Indian Knowledge System
- Makers of Modern India (1950-2025)
- Background:
- PM-YUVA 1.0 (2021): Focused on India’s National Movement & unsung heroes.
- PM-YUVA 2.0 (2022): Focused on Democracy and Constitutional Values.
- The scheme was designed to promote reading, writing, and book culture in India while showcasing Indian literature and heritage globally.
- The National Book Trust (NBT), India, is the implementing agency responsible for executing the scheme.
- The scheme aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to empower youth, develop creative leaders, and encourage capacity building in India’s younger generation.
Important Features of PM-YUVA 3.0
- An All-India Contest will be held through MyGov from 11 March 2025 to 10 April 2025.
- 50 authors will be selected across three themes.
- Evaluation of proposals will be completed by April 2025, and the final list of selected authors will be announced between May-June 2025.
- Each selected author will receive a ₹50,000 monthly scholarship for six months, totaling ₹3 lakh per author.
- Authors will also receive a 10% royalty on successful publications of their books.
- Books created under the scheme will be published by the National Book Trust and translated into other Indian languages, promoting literary exchange and supporting the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.
- Applicants who have qualified for PM-YUVA 1.0 and PM-YUVA 2.0 are not eligible for this edition.
PYQ:
[2018] With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements :
1. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
2. It, among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, financial and digital literacy.
3. It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Skill Qualification Framework.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Five Eyes Alliance (FVEY)
Why in the News?
Recently a White House official has proposed expelling Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. This comes as Donald Trump pressures Canada, even suggesting it could be transformed into the 51st U.S. state.
About the Five Eyes Alliance (FVEY):
- The FVEY is a global intelligence-sharing network comprising 5 Anglosphere countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States.
- Established in 1946 following the UKUSA Agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom, it is one of the most secretive and influential alliances in global intelligence and security.
- The alliance primarily focuses on sharing intelligence, especially signals intelligence (SIGINT), and collaborates on security matters like counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and geopolitical monitoring.
- It plays a pivotal role in global surveillance programs, such as ECHELON, and is a key player in shaping international intelligence policy.
- Members of the FVEY:
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- Australia: Plays a key role in monitoring the Asia-Pacific region and contributes to SIGINT and cybersecurity efforts.
- Canada: Contributes significantly to global communications intelligence, focusing on networks and signals intelligence.
- New Zealand: Has a relatively reserved role but provides valuable intelligence, particularly in the Pacific region.
- United Kingdom: Works closely with the United States and is instrumental in intelligence gathering across Europe and the Middle East.
- United States: The largest contributor of intelligence, particularly in global SIGINT, and leads the alliance in intelligence operations.
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- The Five Eyes primarily focuses on intelligence sharing, especially signals intelligence (intercepted communications, satellite data, etc.), but has expanded to include human intelligence (HUMINT), geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), and cybersecurity.
- The alliance works on global surveillance programs, collecting data on adversarial governments, counterterrorism efforts, and counterintelligence operations.
- A key principle of the alliance is the “no third-party rule,” meaning intelligence shared among member countries is not passed on to non-member states without permission.
PYQ:
[2020] “Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss.” |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Economic Impact of Trade Deficit
Why in the News?
India’s goods trade deficit has dropped to a 42-month low of $14.05 billion in February 2025, driven by reduced imports of gold, silver, and crude oil, according to the latest data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Key Insights from February 2025 Trade Data
- Exports: Goods exports amounted to $36.9 billion in February 2025.
- Imports: Merchandise imports fell to a 22-month low of $50.9 billion, primarily due to lower demand for gold, silver, and crude oil.
- Gold and Silver Imports: The value stood at $2.7 billion, the lowest since June 2024.
- Crude and Petroleum Imports: Reduced to $11.89 billion, marking the lowest level since July 2023.
- On a year-on-year basis, exports dipped by 10.84% in February 2025, partially due to the base year effect of a leap month.
- However, imports shrank by 16.3% compared to February 2024.
Impact of Lower Trade Deficit on India’s Economy
- Stronger Currency: A lower trade deficit reduces demand for foreign currencies, leading to an appreciation of the Indian Rupee. This makes imports cheaper, benefiting consumers and businesses.
- Improved Current Account Balance: The lower trade deficit positively impacts India’s balance of payments, reducing dependence on external borrowing or foreign investments, and contributing to financial stability.
- Boost to Domestic Production: A decrease in imports encourages local manufacturing and reduces reliance on foreign products, stimulating economic growth and creating jobs.
- Growth in Exports: The reduced deficit reflects a higher level of exports, improving India’s foreign exchange reserves and supporting industrial output.
- Reduced Inflation: With fewer imports, particularly of essential goods like crude oil and gold, prices of imported goods stabilize, helping reduce inflationary pressures in the economy.
- Better Fiscal Health: A lower trade deficit leads to less reliance on external financing, helping the government maintain fiscal stability and potentially improve credit ratings.
- Positive Investor Sentiment: A smaller trade deficit enhances investor confidence, attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI), boosting economic development.
- Focus on Self-Reliance: Reduced imports drive self-reliance, encouraging domestic production, and decreasing dependency on imports for essential goods and services.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to the international trade of India at present, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. India’s merchandise exports are less than its merchandise imports.
2. India’s imports of iron and steel, chemicals, fertilisers and machinery have decreased in recent years.
3. India’s exports of services are more than its imports of services.
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 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Supersolid
Why in the News?
In a groundbreaking achievement, Italian researchers have successfully transformed light into a supersolid for the first time in history.
About Supersolid
- A supersolid is a rare state of matter that behaves like both a solid and a liquid at the same time.
- While it maintains a rigid structure, similar to a solid, it can also flow like a liquid without any internal friction.
- How was a supersolid created?
- Researchers made a supersolid by combining light and matter.
- They used polaritons (a mix of light and particle pairs called excitons) to create this new state of matter.
- When these polaritons reach their lowest energy, they form the supersolid that behaves like both a solid and a liquid.
- Features of a Supersolid:
- Dual Nature: A supersolid is solid in structure but can also flow like a liquid.
- Quantum Coherence: The particles inside a supersolid work together in a special way because of quantum mechanics, creating unique behaviors.
- Zero Viscosity: It moves without any resistance, just like a superfluid, meaning it can flow freely even though it’s solid.
- Temperature Dependency: Supersolids only form at extremely low temperatures (close to absolute zero, or -273.15°C).
Applications of Supersolids
- Quantum Computing: Supersolids could help improve the performance of quantum computers, making them more stable.
- Superconductors: They might be used to create materials that allow zero-resistance electricity, improving energy transmission.
- Frictionless Lubricants: Supersolids could lead to frictionless lubricants, making machinery work more efficiently and last longer.
- Fundamental Physics: Studying supersolids helps us understand quantum physics and how particles behave under extreme conditions.
- Material Science: Supersolids could help create new materials for advanced technology, including computers, sensors, and energy storage.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: UNESCO World Heritage List.
Why in the News?
The Union Minister of Culture and Tourism has announced the addition of six sites to India’s tentative UNESCO World Heritage List.
About the Sites
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Details |
| Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs (Telangana)
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- Located in Mudumal region, Nalgonda district, Telangana.
- Dates back to 1000 BCE to 500 BCE, associated with Iron Age.
- Famous for menhirs, large upright stones used for burial or ceremonial purposes.
- Provides insight into ancient South Indian megalithic cultures.
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| Palace-Fortresses of the Bundelas (Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh)
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- Located in Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Built by Bundela Rajputs from 16th to 18th centuries.
- Known for a mix of Rajput, Mughal, and Hindu architectural styles.
- Key sites include Orchha Fort, Datia Palace, and Chanderi Fort.
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| Kanger Valley National Park (Chhattisgarh) |
- Located in Bastar district, Chhattisgarh.
- Covers 200 km², known for dense forests, caves, and waterfalls.
- Home to species like tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and bison.
- Famous for Kanger Dhara waterfall and Bailadila Range of hills.
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| Ashokan Edict Sites (Multiple States) |
- Spread across India: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Karnataka.
- Created by Emperor Ashoka during 3rd century BCE.
- Focuses on moral conduct, non-violence, and promoting Buddhism.
- Key sites include Sanchi, Lumbini, Kalinga, and Kandahar.
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| Chausath Yogini Temples (Multiple States)
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- Found in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Orissa.
- Built during the 8th to 12th centuries CE, associated with Tantric Hinduism.
- Temples dedicated to 64 Yoginis, with notable sites in Khajuraho and Bhilsa.
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| Gupta Temples in North India (Multiple States)
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- Located in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana.
- Built during 4th to 6th centuries CE during the Gupta Empire.
- Characterized by Nagara-style architecture.
- Notable examples: Deogarh Temple, Dasavatara Temple, etc.
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PYQ:
[2024] Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:
1. Shantiniketan
2. Rani-ki-Vav
3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas
4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya
How many of the above properties were included in 2023?
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four |
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