Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site
Why in the News?
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.
About Arittapatti 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:
(a) Birds
(b) Primates
(c) Reptiles
(d) Amphibians |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: About the Monuments
Why in the News?
Conservation and maintenance work are being carried out at following places in Karnataka by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):
|
Key Facts |
| Hoyasaleshwara Temple
|
• Located in Halebidu, Karnataka.
• Built in the 12th century during the Hoysala dynasty under King Vishnuvardhana.
• Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Famous for its detailed sculptures, depicting mythological stories, deities, and animals.
• Hoysala style architecture with a star-shaped platform and intricate stone carvings.
• Temple is a masterpiece of the Hoysala architectural style, with complex stonework and frieze detailing.
• UNESCO tentative list for World Heritage status. |
| Amrutheshwara Temple
|
• Located in Amruthapura, Karnataka, near Tarikere.
• Built in the 14th century by King Harihara II of the Vijayanagara Empire.
• Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Architectural style reflects Vijayanagara influence with a prominent pillared hall.
• Famous for its stone carvings, particularly those on the Shiva Linga.
• Notable for its tank and the beautiful courtyard surrounding the temple.
• Temple follows the tradition of Chola and Hoysala architecture, with distinct Vijayanagara elements. |
| Gol Gumbaz
|
• Located in Vijayapura, Karnataka.
• Built in the 17th century by Sultan Muhammad Adil Shah of the Bijapur Sultanate as his tomb.
• Second-largest dome in the world after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
• Acoustic marvel: The dome has a whispering gallery, where sounds can be heard clearly from great distances.
• The central dome spans 44 meters in diameter and is flanked by four towers.
• The structure is made of lime mortar and stone.
• Reflects Deccan Sultanate architectural brilliance, combining Persian, Ottoman, and Indian elements. |
| Gomatesvara Temple
|
• Located in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
• Features the 57-feet monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomatesvara), carved from a single block of granite in 981 AD.
• The statue is the largest monolithic statue in India.
• A major pilgrimage site for Jains; it commemorates the spiritual enlightenment of Bahubali.
• The temple complex includes tall steps leading up to the statue, with pilgrims performing a ritual of climbing the steps.
• Maha Mastakabhisheka: Every 12 years, the statue is anointed with milk, water, and saffron in a grand ritual.
• The temple and statue are considered an architectural marvel in Jain art and sculpture. |
| PYQ:
[2015] With reference to art and archaeological history of India, which one among the following was made earliest?
(a) Lingaraja Temple at Bhubaneswar
(b) Rock-cut Elephant at Dhauli
(c) Rock-cut Monuments at Mahabalipuram
(d) Varaha Image at Udayagiri |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)
Why in the News?
The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) was honored with the prestigious Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), The Hague Award during the 29th Session of the Conference of the States Parties.
Significance of the OPCW-The Hague Award
- Purpose: The award recognizes contributions to advancing the goals of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), focusing on chemical safety, disarmament, and global security.
- This year, the award was given to the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), the first chemical industry body to receive it, for its role in promoting chemical safety and CWC compliance.
- Global Impact: The award emphasizes ICC’s work in collaboration with international bodies and advocacy for sustainable practices in chemical security.
- Legacy: The OPCW, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, continues to honor impactful organizations and individuals contributing to the global disarmament agenda.
|
What is the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)?
|
Details |
| What is it? |
• CWC bans the development, use, and stockpiling of chemical weapons and mandates their destruction.
• Genesis: Negotiations began in 1980.
• Established: Opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and entered into force on April 29, 1997.
• More comprehensive than the 1925 Geneva Protocol, which only banned the use of chemical weapons. |
| Structure and Functions |
• Conference of States Parties (CSP): The main decision-making body, meeting annually.
• Executive Council: 41-member body overseeing CWC implementation.
• Technical Secretariat: Provides support for verification and compliance.
• Verification: Inspects facilities and ensures compliance with the treaty. |
| Membership criteria and members |
• Open to all nations: Any state can join if it meets requirements.
• 193 States-Parties: Includes most nations.
• Non-Signatories: Egypt, North Korea, and South Sudan have neither signed nor ratified the CWC. |
| Functioning Arm |
• Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) implements the CWC, headquartered in The Hague.
• Role: Oversees the destruction of chemical weapons and ensures treaty compliance.
• Inspection: Conducts inspections of chemical facilities worldwide.
• Awards: The OPCW won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in chemical weapons elimination. |
PYQ:
[2016] With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements:
- It is an organization of the European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
- It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
- It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 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: Cyclone Fengal
Why in the News?
- A depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and is likely to further intensify into Cyclone Fengal.
- The system is currently close to an area with higher sea surface temperatures (SST), contributing to its potential intensification into a cyclonic storm.
Origin of the Name ‘Fengal’
- The name ‘Fengal’ was proposed by Saudi Arabia and is rooted in Arabic.
- It reflects a combination of linguistic tradition and cultural identity.
Cyclone Naming Process:
- Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean are named by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) panel.
- This panel includes 13 member countries, such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, among others.
- Each member country submits a list of potential cyclone names, and these names are used sequentially as cyclones form in the region.
- This system, in place since 2004, ensures easy identification and effective communication of storms to the public.
|
PYQ:
[2015] In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the main reason behind this?
(a) Sea Surface temperature are low
(b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs
(c) Coriolis force is too weak
(d) Absence of land in those regions |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Notable Women in the Constituent Assembly
Why in the News?
On Constitution Day (November 26), President Murmu acknowledged the significant role of women members in the Constituent Assembly of India.
5 Notable Women in the Constituent Assembly
| Name |
Their Contributions |
| Ammu Swaminathan (1894-1978) |
• Co-founded the Women’s India Association in 1917 with leaders like Annie Besant.
• Advocated for women’s education and rights.
• Spoke on the Hindu Code Bill and gender equality in the Constituent Assembly.
• Became the first woman elected to the Madras legislature.
• After independence, served as India’s goodwill ambassador to countries like Russia, China, and the US. |
| Annie Mascarene (1902-1963) |
• Born in Travancore to a Latin Christian family considered at the bottom of the caste system.
• Advocated for universal adult franchise and against caste-based voting rights.
• Joined the Travancore State Congress and fought for political representation of marginalized communities.
• As a member of the Constituent Assembly, called for a strong Centre and autonomy for local governments.
• Elected as an independent candidate in 1952 from Thiruvananthapuram. |
| Begum Qudsia Aizaz Rasul (1909-2001) |
• Hailing from a prominent family in Punjab, she faced resistance for her education, with a fatwa issued against her convent schooling.
• Fought for women’s rights and opposed separate electorates based on religion.
• Stayed in India post-partition and joined the Indian National Congress.
• Elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1952.
• Helped promote women’s hockey in India. |
| Dakshayani Velayudhan (1912-1978) |
• First Dalit woman to graduate in science and the first Dalit woman in the Cochin Legislative Council.
• Advocated for nationalism and opposed separate electorates for Dalits.
• Strongly committed to social justice despite facing discrimination.
• After independence, remained involved in the Dalit movement and continued advocating for social justice. |
| Renuka Ray (1904-1997) |
• Came from an affluent family with a civil servant father and a progressive mother.
• Joined the freedom struggle after meeting Mahatma Gandhi in 1920.
• Advocated for women’s rights, particularly on divorce and inheritance.
• Represented women’s organizations in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1943.
• Opposed women’s reservation in legislatures, seeing it as a hindrance to women’s growth.
• After losing the 1952 elections, returned to politics and worked on women’s empowerment. |
| PYQ:
[2011] With reference to Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for:
(a) Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement
(b) Participating in the Second Round Table Conference
(c) Leading a contingent of Indian National Army
(d) Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Milk Day
Why in the News?
National Milk Day on November 26 commemorates the birth anniversary of ‘The Milkman of India’, Dr Verghese Kurien, who was credited with making India self-reliant in milk production.
About National Milk Day:
| Details |
• Observed on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien’s contributions to India’s dairy industry and the White Revolution.
• Celebrates India’s transformation into the world’s largest milk producer. |
| Contributions made by Varghese Kurien |
• Born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
• Played a key role in establishing Amul (1949) and transforming it into a global dairy brand.
• Inaugural chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
• Led Operation Flood, which revolutionized India’s dairy industry and made it self-sufficient in milk production.
• Received numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963). |
| About the White Revolution and Milk Production in India |
• Initiated in 1970 through Operation Flood to increase milk production and reduce dependence on milk powder imports.
• Empowered dairy farmers by promoting a cooperative-based model for milk production.
• By the late 1990s, India became the world’s largest milk producer, surpassing the US.
• Milk production grew threefold, from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55 million tonnes by 1991-92.
• Helped build the infrastructure for milk supply chains, processing plants, and storage facilities, making milk more accessible.
• Significantly improved the income and livelihood of rural farmers, boosting employment and economic development.
| India is ranked 1st in milk production, contributing 24% of global milk production, reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23. |
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pennaiyar River
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to submit the report on the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka Pennaiyar River Water Dispute.
About Pennaiyar River
| Origin and Geological Composition |
• Also known as Thenpennai, originates on the eastern slope of Nandi Hills in Karnataka and flows through Tamil Nadu into the Bay of Bengal.
• Length: 497 km (2nd longest in TN); Catchment area: 3,690 km².
• 77% of the drainage basin lies in Tamil Nadu.
• Bounded by the Velikonda, Nagari, Javadu, Shevaroy, Chitteri, and Kalrayan hills of the Eastern Ghats.
• Lies in the tropical monsoon zone with monsoon (June–December) and non-monsoon (January–May) periods. |
| Tributaries |
• Tributaries include Markandanadhi, Kambainallur, Pambar, Vaniyar, Kallar, Valayar Odai, Pambanar, Aliyar, Musukundanadhi, and Thurinjalar.
• Supported by monsoonal rains and reservoirs like Kelavarapalli, Krishnagiri, and Sathanur Dams. |
| Important Sites along its Basin |
• Mentioned in Sangam literature for its lush vegetation.
• Important temples include Penneswaraar Temple, Dakshina Tirupati, Veerateshwarar Temple, and Kabilar Kundru.
• Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is a key protected area near the river.
• Used for irrigation in districts such as Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Viluppuram, and Cuddalore. |
PYQ:
[2004] Assertion (A): West- flowing rivers of Peninsular India have no deltas:
Reason (R): These Rivers do not carry any alluvial sediments.
- Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
- Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
- A is true but R is false
- A is false but R is true
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Green Tribunal
Why in the News?
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognizance of the alarming rise in the number of Himalayan glacial lakes due to rising temperatures, highlighting the growing risk of natural disasters like floods and landslides.
Central Water Commission’s (CWC) report on Glacial Lakes
- Glacial lakes in the Himalayas have expanded by 10.81% in 13 years due to glacier melting caused by rising temperatures.
- Between 2011 and 2024, India’s glacial lakes grew by 33.7%, highlighting the escalating threat.
- The NGT noted that 67 lakes in India saw a surface area increase of over 40%, marking them as high-risk for GLOFs.
- Key areas of expansion include Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
|
About National Green Tribunal (NGT):
| About |
Establishment:
• Formed in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act as a statutory body.
• Aimed at addressing environmental issues and ensuring speedy implementation of decisions.
• Known for making significant decisions, including addressing air pollution in Delhi and cancelling coal block clearances.
Composition:
• Headquartered in Delhi.
• Chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge.
• Includes Judicial Members and Expert Panel.
Benches:
• Principal bench in Delhi.
• Additional benches in Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, and Chennai. |
| Powers and Functions of NGT |
• Empowered to decide on cases related to various environmental laws and hear civil cases concerning environmental issues.
• Responsible for enforcement of:
– The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
– The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
– The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and more.Exceptions:
• Not authorized to hear cases under:
– The Indian Forest Act, 1927
– The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
– State laws related to the protection of trees, forests, etc.
Governing Principles:
• Governed by principles of natural justice, not bound by the Indian Evidence Act.
• Applies the principles of sustainable development, precautionary approach, and the polluter pays principle.
Review and Challenge:
• NGT orders can be reviewed under Rule 22 of NGT Rules.
• Orders can be challenged before the Supreme Court within ninety days. |
| PYQ:
[2018] How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?
1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.
2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.
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 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)
Why in the News?
The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information about the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) in Lok Sabha.
About Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs):
| About |
• Set up by the Ministry of Culture to promote and preserve cultural heritage.
• Established in 1985, with operations beginning in 1986-87.
• Seven ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur. |
| Aims and Objectives |
• Preserving and promoting regional folk, tribal, and traditional arts.
• Enhancing and celebrating India’s cultural diversity.
• Encouraging folk & tribal arts and promoting cultural education.
• Involving youth in creative cultural programs.
• Strengthening linkages between different regions of India to showcase their contribution to Indian culture. |
| Implementation and Structural Mandate |
• Government allocated Rs. 10 crore to each ZCC during the 7th and 10th Plans.
• Free land provided by state governments for ZCC headquarters.
• Organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) and regional festivals to promote cultural engagement.
• 42 regional festivals organized annually, 14 RSMs since 2015. |
| Significance |
• Strengthens cultural unity across India and preserves regional cultures.
• Provides platforms for youth to engage in cultural activities.
• Promotes national integration through events bringing together artists from different regions.
• Contributes to economic development through tourism and employment. |
PYQ:
[2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?
1. National Development Council
2. Planning Commission
3. Zonal Councils
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 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: MACE Telescope
Why in the News?
The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.
About MACE Telescope:
|
Details |
| Details and Working |
• World’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, at 4.3 km above sea level.
• It has a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, the largest in Asia.
• Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
• Cherenkov radiation is captured using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Cherenkov radiation is the blue glow emitted when charged particles travel faster than light in a medium.
• Equipped with a high-resolution camera and movable base. |
| Aims and Objectives of MACE |
• Detects high-energy gamma rays (greater than 20 giga-electron volts) emitted by cosmic phenomena.
• Detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) for dark matter research.
• Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy by complementing data from other telescopes. |
| How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation? |
• Cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to mutations.
• Mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders if not repaired.
• DNA damage from gamma rays can lead to chromosomal aberrations and contribute to carcinogenesis. |
PYQ:
[2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:
- It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
- It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
- It is buried deep in the ice.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 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: Portuguese rule and liberation of Goa
Why in the News?
- On November 25, the Portuguese conquered Goa, establishing first territorial possession in India by any colonists.
- This marked the beginning of Portugal’s 400-year colonial rule in the region, which ended only in 1961, making them the last colonial power to leave India.
Why the Portuguese came to Goa?
- Vasco da Gama’s voyage in 1498 revealed the thriving trade networks in the Indian Ocean.
- The Portuguese aimed to capitalize on the wealth from the Indian Ocean trade routes.
- Rivalry with Muslim-controlled trade routes prompted the Portuguese to establish a military presence in the region.
- In 1505, the Portuguese State of India was formally established, six years after Vasco da Gama’s arrival.
- Francisco de Almeida, the first Viceroy, set up the first base in Fort Manuel (now part of Kochi).
- The Portuguese controlled the Island of Bom Bahia (later Bombay) until it was ceded to England in 1661.
How Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa?
- Albuquerque (Viceroy, 1509-1515) understood that Goa was essential for controlling the maritime trade routes in the East.
- The decision to attack Goa was influenced by Timmayya, a debated figure, either a Malabari pirate or an aristocrat with links to the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Albuquerque’s first attack on Goa (February-March 1510) was largely successful due to the unpopularity of Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah’s rule among Goa’s Hindu population.
- Many locals supported the Portuguese against the Sultan’s rule.
- After being stranded on the Mandovi River during the monsoon season, Albuquerque received reinforcements from Portugal.
- In November 1510, with reinforcements, Albuquerque launched a successful attack and retook Goa.
Who Was Timmayya?
- Timmayya, a key figure in the conquest of Goa, is described in various sources as a pirate from Malabar.
- However, other historians argue that he was of noble birth and held a prestigious position in the Vijayanagara Empire.
- According to historians, Timmayya was actually a high-ranking admiral in the Vijayanagara navy.
- Though the Portuguese regarded him as a corsair or pirate, he was in fact executing orders from the Vijayanagara Empire, attacking Portuguese and rival merchant ships on his empire’s behalf.
- While some historians argue that Timmayya’s counsel was pivotal in the timing of the attack on Goa, others suggest that Albuquerque may have already planned the assault, with Timmayya’s advice simply solidifying the decision.
Why did Timmayya want Goa conquered?
- The rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire had long eyed Goa after it was lost to the Sultan of Bijapur.
- Timmayya’s personal motivations were likely shaped by the empire’s strategic interest in regaining control of the region, as Goa was seen as a valuable territory in both military and economic terms.
|
PYQ:
[2021] Consider the following statements:
1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.
2. It was during the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.
3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco da Gama reached the coast of Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Guru Tegh Bahadur and his Contributions
Why in the News?
November 24 is commemorated as the Shaheedi Divas of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 9th guru of the Sikhs, who was executed on the orders of Aurangzeb in 1675.
Guru Tegh Bahadur: Everything you need to know
|
Details |
| Who was Guru Tegh Bahadur? |
- Born on April 1, 1621 in Amritsar, Punjab to Guru Hargobind (6th Sikh Guru), Mata Nanaki
- Death: November 11, 1675, executed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
- Became 9th Guru (1665 to 1675)
- Promoted the idea of Nirbhau (fearless) and Nirvair (without enmity) and emphasized the oneness of God.
- Referred to as ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ (Shield of India).
|
| What was his historical contribution? |
- Guru stood up for the Hindu Kashmiri Pandits, defending their right to practice their religion against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s oppressive policies.
- Refused to convert to Islam despite facing torture and persecution, ultimately leading to his execution.
- Advocated for the principle of one God, rejecting idol worship and preaching about the unity of all religions.
- Emphasized meditation, self-discipline, moral living, and serving others. He urged Sikhs to remain spiritually committed while defending the rights of the innocent.
- His hymns are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, with 115 hymns attributed to him.
- Many Gurdwaras are dedicated to him, including Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, built on the site where he was executed.
- Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, was born to Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1666.
|
PYQ:
[2013] Consider the following Bhakti Saints:
- Dadu Dayal
- Guru Nanak
- Tyagaraja
Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
Why in the News?
Delhi has been experiencing severe air pollution for 10 days, leading the Supreme Court to criticize the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its poor response.
About Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):
|
Details |
| About |
-
- A statutory body for air quality management in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas.
- Established under the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas, Act 2021, replacing the Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) (formed in 1998).
- It came into effect in 2020 through an ordinance.
Structure:
- Chairperson: Senior government official (Secretary or Chief Secretary)
- 5 ex-officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh; 3 full-time technical members
- 3 members from NGOs
- Technical support from CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog
|
| Functions |
- Monitor and coordinate air quality management efforts in NCR and adjoining areas
- Research sources of air pollution and propose mitigation strategies
- Implement air quality policies with state agencies
- Raise public awareness and engage communities in air quality management
|
| Powers |
Jurisdiction: Over air quality issues in NCR, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Powers:
- Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals
- Restrict activities impacting air quality
- Investigate and enforce environmental pollution measures
- Take strict actions against non-compliance under the CAQM Act, 2021
- Initiate complaints and enforce regulations
|
PYQ:
[2018] How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?
1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.
2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.
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 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lothal’s Maritime Heritage Complex
Why in the News?
PM recently highlighted Lothal’s importance in India’s maritime history as the site of the world’s first dockyard, now home to the National Maritime Heritage Complex under Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
About Lothal’s Maritime Heritage Complex:
| Facts about Lothal |
- Dockyard Evidence: Recent IITGn study confirms existence of a dockyard (222 x 37 meters).
- River Shift: Sabarmati River’s old course closer to Lothal during Harappan period, now 20 km away.
- Trade Route: Linked Ahmedabad, Lothal, Nal Sarovar, Little Rann, and Dholavira.
- Satellite Imagery: Revealed ancient channels of Sabarmati River, confirming Lothal’s strategic location.
- Trade Connections: Traders might have used the Gulf of Khambhat, collecting materials from Ratanpura and transporting them to Mesopotamia.
|
| Historical Significance |
- Built around: 2200 BC as a major trade center for beads, gems, and ornaments.
- Lothal means “mound of the dead” in Gujarati similar to Mohenjodaro.
- Discovered by S.R. Rao, excavated from 1955 to 1960.
- World’s earliest known dock; connected to the ancient Sabarmati River.
- Nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014; only port-town of the Indus Valley Civilization.
|
| Features of the Present Complex |
- Location: Bhal region, Gujarat, India.
- Objective: Showcase India’s 5,000-year-old maritime history, focusing on the first dockyard at Lothal.
- Developed by: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
- Components: Exhibition halls, maritime park, amphitheater, and educational spaces.
|
PYQ:
[2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelling water into connected reservoirs?
(a) Dholavira
(b) Kalibangan
(c) Rakhigarhi
(d) Ropar |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Compressed Biogas (CBG)
Why in the News?
PM Modi inaugurated the 100 TPD cattle dung-based Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant in Gwalior.
About the CBG Plant
- The plant is located in Laltipara, Gwalior, within the largest cowshed in the region, Adarsh Gaushala, which houses over 10,000 cattle.
- It spans over 5 acres.
- It is India’s first self-sufficient gaushala with a modern CBG plant, where cow dung and organic waste (such as vegetable and fruit waste from mandis and households) are processed into valuable biogas.
- The project, developed at a cost of ₹31 crores, is a collaboration between Gwalior Municipal Corporation and the Indian Oil Corporation.
Working features:
- Bio CNG: The plant produces 2 tons of compressed Bio CNG daily from 100 tons of cattle dung, providing a cleaner, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
- Organic Manure: The plant also generates 10-15 tons of dry bio-manure daily, which is a valuable by-product for organic farming.
- Windrow composting: The plant incorporates windrow composting, located adjacent to the main facility, which enhances organic waste processing.
|
What is Compressed Biogas (CBG)?
|
Details |
| About |
- CBG is a renewable natural gas produced from the biochemical conversion of organic waste into methane.
- It is chemically similar to CNG (compressed natural gas) and can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels in transportation, cooking, and power generation.
|
| Process of Making CBG |
- Collection of Organic Waste: Organic waste such as agricultural residue, animal dung, food waste, and municipal solid waste is collected from farms, industries, and households.
- Anaerobic Digestion: Waste is placed in an airtight chamber, where microorganisms break it down without oxygen, producing biogas (methane, carbon dioxide, trace gases).
- Purification: The raw biogas undergoes purification through methods like pressure swing adsorption, water scrubbing, or membrane separation to remove impurities like CO₂, H₂S, and water, leaving pure methane.
- Compression: The purified methane is compressed to 200-250 bar pressure to form CBG, reducing volume for storage and transportation.
- Storage and Distribution: It is stored in high-pressure cylinders or tanks and transported to fuel stations or industries for various applications.
|
| Significance of CBG |
- Reduces fossil fuel dependence.
- Mitigates landfill methane emissions.
- CBG can replace CNG, reducing pollution.
- Utilizes local organic waste.
- Creates jobs, promotes organic farming, and provides eco-friendly fertilizers.
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Poverty and Hunger;
Why in the News?
The recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featured the official launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty (referred to as “the Alliance”).
What are the primary objectives of the Global Alliance?
- Eradication of Hunger and Poverty: The Alliance aims to eliminate hunger and poverty by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Support for Vulnerable Populations: It focuses on providing targeted assistance to vulnerable groups through various initiatives, including cash transfers and school meal programs.
- Resource Mobilization: The initiative emphasizes large-scale resource mobilisation to support its objectives, aiming to reach 500 million people through income distribution programs by 2030.
|
Who are the key stakeholders involved in this initiative?
- The Alliance has 148 founding members, including 82 countries such as India, Brazil, and Bangladesh.
- It includes participation from 26 international organizations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNICEF.
- Nine financial institutions and 31 philanthropic foundations and non-governmental organizations are also involved in supporting the Alliance’s goals.
How will Alliance function?
- The Alliance serves as a platform for countries to share best practices and access technical expertise or financial support from other member nations.
- It offers more than 50 evidence-based policy instruments that member countries can utilize to develop their national strategies against hunger and poverty.
- Unlike traditional funding bodies, the Alliance does not have an exclusive fund but acts as a matchmaking entity connecting countries in need with donors and technical support providers. Its operational costs are estimated at $2-3 million annually, funded by member contributions.
What challenges does the Global Alliance aim to address in combating hunger and poverty?
- Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has exacerbated issues of hunger and poverty, reversing progress made toward the SDGs. The Alliance aims to counteract these setbacks by fostering international cooperation.
- Global Inequalities: It addresses deepening social, racial, and gender inequalities that have been intensified by recent global crises.
- Food Insecurity Projections: Current trends suggest that without intervention, millions will continue to live in extreme poverty and hunger by 2030—double the target levels set in the SDGs. The Alliance seeks to reverse these projections through coordinated action.
Conclusion: The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty aligns with SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by mobilizing resources, fostering collaboration, and implementing targeted interventions to combat hunger, poverty, and inequalities, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future.
Mains PYQ:
Q Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (UPSC IAS/2024)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kaziranga National Park
Why in the News?
A sub-adult female tiger from Kamakhya Reserve Forest in Assam strayed near Kaziranga National Park and was attacked by locals.
All facts about Kaziranga National Park:
|
Details |
| About |
• Located in the Golaghat, Sonitpur, Biswanath, and Nagaon districts of Assam, India.
• Spans 430 sq. km. (166 square miles).
• Established as a reserve forest in 1905, declared as a National park in 1974, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
• Declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2006. |
| Geographical Features |
• The park is crisscrossed by the Brahmaputra River along with numerous small bodies of water.
• Dominated by tall elephant grass, marshland, and tropical moist broadleaf forests.
• Terrain includes sandbars, beels (flood-formed lakes), and chapories (elevated areas). |
| Flora and Fauna |
- Flora: Includes 4 main vegetation types: alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests.
- Fauna: Home to 35 mammalian species(15 threatened), it also includes the world’s largest populations of Indian rhinoceros (2,613), wild water buffalo (1,666), swamp deer (468), elephants (1,940), gaur (1,300), and sambar (58).
• Important bird area with 57 species of birds, including migratory species.
• Rich biodiversity, including significant populations of chital, Indian muntjac, wild boar, and hog deer.
|
PYQ:
[2013] Consider the following pairs:
National Park River flowing through the Park
1. Corbett National Park : Ganga
2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas
3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) None |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ashtamudi Lake
Why in the News?
Several dead fish are floating on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala due to illegal use of ‘thotta’ (explosives) and ‘nanchu’ (poisons) for fishing.
About Ashtamudi Lake:
|
Details |
| About |
• Brackish-water estuarine lake, located in Kerala, covering 5,700 hectares.
• Designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2002. |
| Geographical Features |
• Encompasses 8 channels (arms) connecting to the lake, giving it the name “Ashtamudi.” (gateway to the backwaters of Kerala)
• Second largest lake in Kerala (first being the Vembanad Lake), drains into the sea via Neendakara estuary.
• Kallada River is the main water source for the lake.
• Historical significance as a major port city of Quilon, as recorded by Ibn Battuta. |
| Flora and Fauna |
• Mangrove species: Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Sonneratia caseolaris.
• Endangered species: Syzygium travancoricum and Calamus rotang.
• 57 species of avifauna, including 6 migratory species and 51 resident species.
• In 2014, the Clam Governing Council became the first Marine Stewardship Council certified fishery in India for their sustainable clam fishing. |
PYQ:
[2018] Which one of the following is an artificial lake?
(a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)
(b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh)
(c) Nainital (Uttarakhand)
(d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh) |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nafithromycin
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Science & Technology has launched Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic to combat drug-resistant infections.
About Nafithromycin:
|
Details |
| About |
• It was developed with the support of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a unit under the Department of Biotechnology, to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• It aims to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) caused by drug-resistant bacteria.
( Awaiting final approval from CDSCO for manufacturing and public use.) |
| Features |
• Developed over 14 years of clinical trials in the U.S., Europe, and India.
• 10 times more effective than azithromycin. (3 doses to combat Drug-Resistant Pneumonia)
• Minimal side effects, no significant drug interactions, and food-independent. |
| Significance |
• It targets both typical and atypical pathogens.
• It addresses a global health issue, especially CABP, contributing to over 2 million deaths annually.
• Offers a more effective, faster, and safer treatment for drug-resistant pneumonia.
• Demonstrates successful public-private collaboration between the government and Wockhardt Pharmaceuticals.
• A cost-effective solution for treating resistant infections in low-resource settings. |
PYQ:
[2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
- Genetic predisposition of some people
- Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
- Using antibiotics in livestock farming
- Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project Veer Gatha 4.0
Why in the News?
Over 1.76 crore school students participated in Project Veer Gatha 4.0, sharing creative tributes to the bravery and sacrifice of Armed Forces personnel.
About Project Veer Gatha:
|
Details |
| About |
• Launched in 2021 to honor the acts of bravery and selfless sacrifice of Gallantry Awardees.
• 1.76 crore students from 36 states and UTs participated.
• Conducted annually since its inception, with increasing participation:
• First Edition (2021): 8 lakh students, Second Edition (2022): 19.5 lakh students, Third Edition (2023): 1.36 crore students. |
| Aims and Objectives |
• Instill patriotism and national pride among students.
• Spread awareness about the heroic contributions of Gallantry Awardees.
• Foster creativity through various forms of artistic expression.
• Promote national unity and pride across India’s diverse school system.
• Enhance knowledge about unsung heroes and military heritage. |
| Features of the Program |
• Creative content submissions, including poems, paintings, essays, and videos.
• 100 national-level winners annually, with a ₹10,000 cash prize and recognition by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Defence.
• District and state awards for outstanding students.
• Educational outreach programs by the Ministry of Defence to engage students.
• Digital submission via the MyGov portal, making the process inclusive and easy for wide participation.
• Focus on both famous Gallantry Awardees and unsung heroes. |
PYQ:
[2024] Operations undertaken by the Army towards upliftment of the local population in remote areas to include addressing of their basic needs is called:
(a) Operation Sankalp
(b) Operation Maitri
(c) Operation Sadbhavana
(d) Operation Madad |
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