Due to high October temperatures and shortages of di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser, the planting of key Rabi (winter-spring) crops such as wheat, mustard, and chana (chickpea) has been slower than usual.
LowRabi Sowing this Year
The Rabi (winter-spring) season is key for crops like wheat, mustard, and chana.
Sowing began in October and continues through November-December.
As of November 8, 2024, sowing progress includes:
Wheat: 41.30 lakh hectares (down from 48.87 lakh hectares last year)
Mustard: 49.90 lakh hectares (down from 50.73 lakh hectares last year)
Chana: 24.57 lakh hectares (down from 27.42 lakh hectares last year)
Reasons Behind:
High October Temperatures: 0.68°C above normal temperatures delayed sowing and caused poor germination, especially in jeera and other spices.
Fertiliser Shortage: A shortage of DAP fertiliser hindered the timely planting of crops.
Delayed Start of Sowing: Farmers, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, began sowing later than usual (from October 20-22 instead of mid-October).
About Rabi Cropping Season in India:
Rabi crops are generally sown in mid-November, once the monsoon rainshave receded.
These crops grow using the rainwater that has percolated into the soil or with the help of irrigation systems.
The harvesting of Rabi crops generally occurs from April to May.
Major Rabi Crops:
Wheat: The largest and most important Rabi crop in India.
Barley: Grown mainly in North and Central India.
Mustard: An essential oilseed crop grown across various regions.
Sesame: Grown in many states but harvested early.
Peas: Harvested early, with a market peak from January to March (especially in February).
Agronomic Features:
Rabi crops rely heavily onirrigation and residual moisture from the previous monsoon season.
Excessivewinter rainfall can harm Rabi crops but benefits the kharif crops grown later.
The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) has appealed to Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeking permission for tea producers to sell their products through both private sales and public auction systems.
A gazette notification issued on February 26, 2024 has mandated that 100% of dust teas must be sold through public auctions.
AboutNorth Eastern Tea Association (NETA)
Details
• NETA is an association of tea producers headquartered in Golaghat, Upper Assam.
• Established in 1981.
• A key constituent of the Joint Forum and the Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), Assam Valley branch.
• Focuses on promoting the interests of its members and enhancing the tea industry in Assam.
Structural Mandate
• Presence: Strong presence in Golaghat, Assam.
• Role: Represents tea producers and plays a pivotal role in the development of Assam’s tea industry.
• Mandate: Advocates for improvements in the tea industry, assists with policy suggestions, and provides guidance on the development of the tea sector.
Powers and Functions
• Advisory Role: Provides expert opinions and advice to the government of Assam and its members on issues related to the tea industry.
• Policy Advocacy: Urges for changes in government policies to improve the tea industry, e.g., suggesting the relocation of the Tea Board of India’s headquarters to Guwahati.
• Industry Growth: Encourages high-quality tea production and advises growers to enhance the quality of tea to attract international buyers.
• Small Tea Grower Representation: Advocates for amendments to the definition of Small Tea Growers, proposing that those holding up to 50.6 hectares of land be recognized as small growers.
• Government Relations: Provides suggestions to the government for improving and scaling up the tea industry in Assam.
PYQ:
[2022] Consider the following States:
Andhra Pradesh
Kerala
Himachal Pradesh
Tripura
How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?
Q) National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (UPSC CSE 2020)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on the ‘Primary Education System’ (in 2016), ‘Quality of technical and higher education’ (in 2015), and ‘Education system in India’ (2021).
Reports indicate that while the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for higher education is projected to reach 50% by 2035, significant gaps still exist in terms of quality and inclusivity. While India is making strides in liberal education, challenges still exist with the issues of inequality and elitism.
Today’s editorial highlights the often-overlooked value of liberal arts education in today’s job market and society. This content can be used to present the key arguments emphasizing liberal arts education for its long-term benefits, career adaptability, and essential skills development.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
There is an ongoing debate regarding the value of liberal arts education in the context of rising tuition costs, changing job market demands, and shifting perceptions about higher education.
What are the long-term benefits of a liberal arts education in today’s job market?
Versatile Skill Set: Liberal arts programs equip students with a broad range of transferable skills, including critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities.
According to the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U), 93% of employers prioritize these skills over specific majors when hiring.
Career Flexibility and Adaptability: The nature of the job market is changing rapidly, where liberal arts education fosters adaptability, allowing graduates to pivot into different fields as needed.
This flexibility is crucial as new job roles emerge and traditional ones evolve, ensuring that liberal arts graduates remain relevant and employable.
Long-Term Economic Benefits: While liberal arts graduates may start with lower salaries but many studies show that by mid-career, liberal arts majors can earn comparable or even higher salaries than those in professional STEM fields.
Cultural Awareness and Ethical Reasoning: Graduates develop nuanced diverse cultures and ethical perspectives that enable them to engage thoughtfully with international issues and contribute meaningfully to discussions on complex societal challenges.
Lifelong Learning and Research Skills: The curriculum of liberal arts education encourages graduates to learn to gather, analyze, and interpret information effectively, which is invaluable in any professional setting. This commitment to lifelong learning helps them stay competitive and relevant throughout their careers.
How does this education prepare students for an unpredictable future?
Embracing Uncertainty: A liberal arts education instills a mindset that views uncertainties like the 2008 recession period as an opportunity for growth and exploration.
Graduates are equipped to thrive in environments characterized by change and ambiguity, making them well-suited for careers that require continuous learning and adaptation.
Social Responsibility and Ethical Awareness: Finally, a liberal arts education fosters a sense of social responsibility. Students are encouraged to engage with their communities and consider the ethical implications of their decisions.
This awareness is critical as society faces complex global challenges that require thoughtful leaders who can navigate moral dilemmas while advocating for social justice and sustainability.
What misconceptions exist about employability in India?
Liberal Arts Graduates are Unemployable: Many believe a liberal arts degree leads to guaranteed unemployment. Despite a reported 47.1% employability rate among arts graduates in 2024, this statistic often overlooks the diverse career paths available to them, such as roles in marketing, journalism, and education.
For example, Graduates from institutions like Ashoka University have secured placements in prestigious companies such as McKinsey and American Express, demonstrating that liberal arts degrees can lead to successful careers.
Liberal Arts Education is only for Wealthy Students: There is a misconception that liberal arts education is an exclusive privilege for affluent students. However, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to make higher education more inclusive, promoting interdisciplinary studies across various socio-economic backgrounds.
Liberal Arts Degrees Lack Marketable Skills: Another common belief is that liberal arts graduates lack marketable skills. However, a report by the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) indicates that these graduates are often better prepared for roles requiring critical thinking and adaptability, which are essential in today’s job market.
For instance, business analysts with a liberal arts background leverage their critical thinking abilities to improve organizational processes, earning competitive salaries
Way Forward: India’s education system is increasingly fruitful in delivering liberal and globalized knowledge through initiatives like the NEP 2020 and the growth of private liberal arts institutions. However, it faces challenges related to access and equity compared to more established systems in countries like the United States. Continued efforts are needed to ensure that all students can benefit from this evolving educational landscape.
According to NFHS-5, 97% of women and 97.5% of men are aware of modern contraceptives, yet the burden primarily falls on women, with female sterilisation being the most prevalent.
What are the current trends in contraceptive decision-making among Indian couples?
Dominance of Female Sterilization: As of the latest reports, female sterilisation accounts for 37.9% of total sterilizations, while male sterilisation through vasectomies remains critically low at just 0.3%.
Decline in Male Sterilization: The use of male sterilization has been steadily decreasing over the past three decades.
Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) show that the percentage of vasectomies has remained stagnant at around 0.3% in both NFHS-4 (2015-16) and NFHS-5 (2019-20), reflecting a broader trend of declining male participation in family planning.
Government Targets Not Met: The National Health Policy 2017 aimed to increase male sterilization to at least 30%, a target that remains unmet, indicating systemic issues within the family planning framework.
How does societal perception impact men’s involvement in family planning?
Perception of Burden: Many men view vasectomy as an undue burden, fearing loss of wages and questioning their masculinity. Women often echo this sentiment, believing that men should not be “burdened” by sterilization responsibilities due to their economic roles.
Lack of Awareness: There is a widespread lack of awareness regarding the benefits and safety of vasectomies, compounded by misconceptions about their effects on libido and masculinity. This misinformation contributes to low acceptance rates among men.
Cultural Norms: Traditional gender roles reinforce the notion that women should handle family planning, leading to a lack of male engagement in reproductive health discussions.
What strategies can be implemented to promote shared responsibility in contraceptive use? (Way forward)
Education and Awareness Campaigns: Initiatives should focus on educating both genders about reproductive health and shared responsibilities through school programs and community workshops. Early sensitization can help normalize discussions around male sterilization.
Conditional Cash Incentives: Increasing financial incentives for men who opt for vasectomies can encourage participation. Evidence from Maharashtra suggests that cash incentives have led to higher rates of vasectomy acceptance among rural men.
Training Healthcare Providers: Enhancing training for healthcare workers on no-scalpel vasectomies can improve service delivery, particularly in rural areas with limited access to skilled practitioners.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Drawing lessons from countries like South Korea and Brazil, India can implement mass media campaigns to reshape societal attitudes towards male contraceptive responsibility, emphasising the safety and simplicity of vasectomies compared to female sterilization procedures.
Policy Implementation with Concrete Steps: The government should ensure that policies are actionable, with clear steps outlined to achieve targets related to male participation in family planning efforts.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (UPSC IAS/2021)
A study published in The Lancet revealed that pollution from landscape fires, including agricultural burning in northern India during winters, may have caused over 1.2 lakh deaths annually in India between 2000 and 2019.
What is Wildfire and Its Types?
Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that burn in natural landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and savannas. They can occur due to natural causes, such as lightning strikes, or human activities, including agricultural burning and land clearing.
Types of Wildfires
Forest Fires: These occur in wooded areas and can spread rapidly due to dry conditions and strong winds.
Grassland Fires: Also known as prairie fires, these occur in grasslands and can be beneficial for ecosystem regeneration but are destructive if uncontrolled.
Vegetation Fires: These include fires that burn through shrublands and other types of vegetation, often exacerbated by drought conditions.
Agricultural Burning: A common practice in many regions, particularly in northern India during winters, where farmers burn crop stubble to clear fields for new planting. This practice significantly contributes to air pollution.
What are the Global and Local Impacts of Landscape Fire Pollution?
Global Impact:
Death Toll: A recent study published in The Lancet estimates that globally, landscape fires are responsible for over 1.53 million deaths annually due to air pollution, with the majority occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
Health Risks: The study highlights that approximately 450,000 deaths each year are linked to cardiovascular diseases and 220,000 to respiratory diseases caused by fine particulate matter (PM2.5) released from these fires.
Geographical Disparities: The highest mortality rates from fire-related air pollution are found in countries like China, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Indonesia, and Nigeria.
Local Impact (India):
Annual Deaths: In India alone, it is estimated that landscape fires contributed to about 2.55 million deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases between 2000 and 2019, averaging over 120,000 deaths per year.
Seasonal Pollution: During winter months (October to December), northern India experiences severe air quality issues due to agricultural burning combined with cooler temperatures that trap pollutants close to the ground.
Socio-Economic Factors: The study indicates that deaths caused by wildfires are four times higher in low-income countries compared to high-income nations. Lower socio-economic regions face greater health risks from fire-related air pollution.
What are the steps taken by the Government to the wildfire?
Forest Protection Division: Headed by the DIG of Forests, this division oversees forest fire management at the central level.
Community Involvement: The government encourages active participation in forest fire management through mechanisms like Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and Eco-Development Committees (EDCs).
National Action Plan for Forest Fires (NAPFF): Introduced in 2018, the plan focuses on reducing forest fires by fostering collaboration between forest communities and state forest departments.
Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme (FPM): A government-sponsored initiative aimed at assisting states in effectively managing and preventing forest fires.
Way forward:
Strengthen Community-Based Management: Enhance capacity building, training, and incentivization for local communities through Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) and Eco-Development Committees (EDCs) to actively prevent and manage wildfires.
Leverage Technology and Research: Implement advanced monitoring systems like satellite-based fire detection and promote research on fire-resistant vegetation to mitigate the impact of wildfires and associated air pollution.
The Tamil Nadu CM has requested the Prime Minister to cancel the tungsten mining rights in Madurai, citing concerns for the Arittapatti biodiversity heritage site.
AboutArittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site:
Details
• First BHS in Tamil Nadu.
• Notified for its ecological and historical significance.
Geological Features
• Surrounded by a chain of seven hillocks (inselbergs) which act as a watershed.
• Watershed feeds 72 lakes, 200 natural springs, and 3 check dams.
• Historic Anaikondan tank built during the Pandiyan kings in the 16th century.
Flora and Fauna
• Home to 250 species of birds, including Laggar Falcon, Shaheen Falcon, and Bonelli’s Eagle.
• Hosts species like Indian Pangolin, Slender Loris, and pythons.
Cultural Significance
• Presence of megalithic structures, rock-cut temples, Tamil Brahmi inscriptions, and Jain beds.
• These features highlight the site’s historical and cultural heritage.
Back2Basics:Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS)
A BHS is a well-defined, ecologically sensitive area that is recognized for its high biological diversity.
Key Features:
High Biodiversity: These sites host a variety of wild and domesticated species, including rare, threatened, and keystone species.
Ecological Fragility: BHS areas are considered ecologically fragile and are crucial for maintaining local ecosystems.
Community Involvement: BHS areas are managed by local communities and society to conserve biodiversity.
BHS are declared under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and the State Government can notify such areas in consultation with local bodies.
The Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru, Karnataka, was the first Biodiversity Heritage Site in India, declared in 2007.
Protection Measures:
The creation of a BHS does not necessarily restrict activities but aims to conserve and manage the biodiversity within these areas for long-term sustainability.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet and White-throated redstart are:
The government has a Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme to regulate the subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, based on international prices of raw materials and fluctuations in the global market.
Note: Unlike P&K fertilizers, urea is provided to farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP), irrespective of its cost of production.
About the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme:
Details
About
• Introduced to provide subsidies on Phosphatic (P) and Potassic (K) fertilizers, based on nutrient content, excluding Urea.
• Aims to promote balanced fertilization by encouraging use of multiple fertilizers for optimal plant nutrition.
Structure and Functioning
• Launched: 2010, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Implemented by the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Scope: Applies to Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers (excluding Urea).
• Governance: Subsidy rates are decided annually or bi-annually, based on market prices of fertilizers and raw materials.
Aims and Objectives
• Promote Balanced Fertilization: Encourages the use of Phosphorus and Potassium to complement Nitrogen and improve soil health.
• Enhance Nutrient Efficiency: Aims to reduce over-reliance on Urea and improve use of other essential nutrients.
• Support Farmers’ Affordability: Makes P&K fertilizers more affordable and accessible to farmers.
About New Investment Policy (NIP) on Urea
The NIP for Urea was announced by the Government of India in 2012 to increase domestic urea production capacity and reduce dependence on urea imports.
The policy aims to revive old urea plants and promote investment in new plants to meet the growing demand for urea.
The NIP focuses on improving fertilizer availability, and ensuring self-sufficiency in urea production.
Urea Pricing after NIP
The pricing of urea is controlled by the government, and the subsidy mechanism ensures affordable pricing for farmers.
The government provides subsidies to urea manufacturers to bridge the gap between the cost of production and the retail price, which is kept constant at ₹5,360 per ton (as of 2023) for farmers.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements:
1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government.
2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas.
3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $98 million loan to support the Building India’s Clean Plant Programme.
Aims and Objectives
The $98 million loan focuses on improving horticulture crop farmers’ access to certified disease-free planting materials.
The primary aim is to boost the yield, quality, and resilience of crops, particularly in response to the impacts of climate change.
About the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP):
Details
• Announced in Union Budget 2023-24 to enhance plant health management in India.
• Aimed at providing farmers access to clean, disease-free planting materials.
• Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB), which will set up Clean Plant Centers across the country.
• Ensures global competitiveness of the Indian horticulture sector.
• Key Objectives:
– Strengthen the regulatory framework for plant health management.
– Establish Clean Plant Centres for disease-free horticultural crops.
– Collaborate with private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations for success.
• Funding: ADB loan to establish advanced laboratories and diagnostic testing facilities at Clean Plant Centres.
• Will include a certification scheme for private nurseries to produce disease-free planting materials.
Where does India stand in its Horticulture Sector?
• In 2022-23, India’s horticulture production reached 351.92 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain production.
• Second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world; Contributes about 33% to the agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA). • Ranks first in the production of crops like Bananas, Lime, Papaya, and Okra.
• Steady increase in horticulture production driven by proactive government policies.
PYQ:
[2021] What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification?
[2018] Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the production, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing the income of farmers?
The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) is an important Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at promoting and developing the AYUSH systems of medicine across the country.
In addition to NAM, Central Sector Schemes like the AYURSWASTHYA Yojana and the AYURGYAN Scheme play a crucial role in advancing the mission’s objectives
About AYURGYAN and AYURSWATHYA Scheme
Details
AYURSWASTHYA Yojana
• Under the Ministry of AYUSH to promote AYUSH healthcare and education.
• Has two key components:
AYUSH and Public Health: Promotes AYUSH interventions for community health care.
Upgradation of Facilities to Centre of Excellence: Improves standards of AYUSH medical units and establishes advanced centers in AYUSH and Allopathic institutions (both Govt. and Private).
• Funding: Maximum assistance of ₹10 crore for Centre of Excellence upgrades for 3 years.
AYURGYAN Scheme
• Created by merging two schemes under one umbrella.
• Focuses on promoting AYUSH education and research.
• Aims to develop quality standards and expand AYUSH education and healthcare services across India.
• Training of healthcare professionals in AYUSH and supporting research initiatives to improve efficacy and standards of traditional medicine.
Back2Basics: National AYUSH Mission (NAM)
Category
Details
Overview
• Launched in September 2014 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during the 12th Five Year Plan.
• Aimed at promoting and strengthening traditional systems of medicine: AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy).
• Focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas, enhancing access to AYUSH services and promoting holistic health across India.
Implementation and Structure
• Initially implemented by the Department of AYUSH, now under the Ministry of AYUSH for nationwide execution.
• Works in partnership with States and UTs to address healthcare gaps in underserved areas.
Provisions under NAM
• Promotion of AYUSH Systems: Integrates AYUSH into the mainstream healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas.
• Support to State/UTs: Provides financial support for establishing AYUSH dispensaries, clinics, colleges and hospitals.
• Strengthening AYUSH Health Services: Financial assistance for expanding AYUSH services, especially in remote areas.
• Research & Development (R&D): Supports research for developing better treatments and standardizing practices in AYUSH.
PYQ:
[2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?
