From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NFlES Scheme
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES).
Do you know?
Central sector schemes: They are 100% funded by the Union government and implemented by the Central Government machinery. It covers subjects from Union List (central subjects).
Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS): It has a certain percentage of the funding borne by the States and the implementation is by the State Governments.It covers subjects from Concurrent List (shared subjects).
States have some flexibility to modify schemes to suit local needs within central guidelines.
About National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFlES)
The Central Sector Scheme NFIES aims to strengthen national forensic infrastructure, expand NFSU’s reach, and establish CFSLs to meet growing forensic demands.
It aligns with India’s goals of enhancing forensic capabilities and securing robust criminal justice outcomes.
Key Components of NFlES:
Campuses of NFSU: Establishing campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) across India.
Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs): Setting up new CFSLs nationwide.
Delhi Campus Enhancement: Upgrading infrastructure at the Delhi Campus of NFSU.
Financial outlay: Rs. 2254.43 crore for 2024-25 to 2028-29, funded by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Objectives:
Enhancing the criminal justice system with timely and scientific forensic examinations.
Addressing the increased workload due to new criminal laws requiring forensic investigation for serious offences.
Mitigating the shortage of trained forensic professionals in Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs).
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme; Its features.
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the PM, approved the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme for offshore wind energy projects.
Note: Offshore wind energy projects refer to developing and operating wind farms located offshore, typically in coastal waters or oceans.
Back2Basics: Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme
The VGF scheme is a financial tool to support infrastructure projects that are economically justified but face financial viability challenges.
It was launched in 2004 to address the gap between economically viable infrastructure projects and their financial feasibility under traditional financing models.
Administration: Administered by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, the scheme operates as a Plan Scheme with annual budget allocations.
Features:
Capital Subsidy: VGF provides a grant (capital subsidy) to infrastructure projects to make them financially attractive for private sector participation. This subsidy helps cover part of the cost that private investors would find economically unviable.
Project Eligibility: Projects eligible for VGF are typically selected through competitive bidding processes. They must demonstrate economic justification but face challenges in attracting private investment solely on commercial terms.
Disbursement Timing: The VGF grant is disbursed during the construction phase of the project. However, disbursement is conditional upon the private sector developer making the required equity contribution to the project.
Budgetary Allocation: Funds for VGF are allocated from the government’s budget. Sometimes, contributions may also come from the statutory authority that owns the project asset.
Limitations: Additional financial assistance beyond the VGF amount is capped at 20% of the total project cost. This additional support can be provided by the sponsoring Ministry, State Government, or the statutory entity involved.
Benefits:
Encouraging Investment: By reducing the financial risks associated with infrastructure projects, VGF encourages private sector participation, leading to faster project implementation and improved service delivery.
Infrastructure Development: The scheme supports the development of critical infrastructure such as transportation (roads, railways, airports), energy (power generation, transmission), and public utilities.
About VGF Scheme for Offshore Wind Energy Projects
The VGF scheme aligns with the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy (2015) to harness India’s offshore wind potential.
It aims to reduce power costs from offshore wind projects, making them viable for DISCOMs through government support.
It seeks installation and commissioning of 1 GW of offshore wind energy projects (500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu).
Functionaries:
Private Developers will execute projects via transparent bidding.
Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) will build power evacuation infrastructure.
Total outlay: Rs. 7453 crore, including Rs. 6853 crore for installing and commissioning 1 GW of projects in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
Advantages of Offshore Wind Energy:
Offshore wind offers higher reliability, lower storage requirements, and greater employment potential than onshore wind and solar.
The development will attract investments, build indigenous manufacturing capabilities, and foster technology advancements.
Environmental and Economic implications:
1 GW projects will generate 3.72 billion units annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 2.98 million tons per year for 25 years.
Expected to kickstart India’s offshore wind sector, supporting initial development of 37 GW capacity with an investment of Rs. 4,50,000 crore.
Creates an ecosystem for ocean-based economic activities, contributing to India’s energy transition goals.
PYQ:
[2018] With reference to solar power production in India, consider the following statements:
India is the third largest in the world in the manufacture of silicon wafers used in photovoltaic units.
The solar power tariffs are determined by the Solar Energy Corporation of India.
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
[2016] Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Capsaicin Poisoning
Why in the News?
Food safety authorities in Denmark have recalled three types of South Korean spicy instant noodles due to potential risks of “acute Capsaicin poisoning.”
What is Capsaicin?
Capsaicin, the chemical responsible for chili pepper spiciness, is primarily found in the white membrane (placenta) of some chili peppers.
Mechanism of Capsaicin:
Capsaicin binds to TRPV1 receptors in the human body, which detect heat and pain.
These receptors are tricked by capsaicin into reacting as if there is a rise in temperature, causing a painful, burning sensation.
The body’s response includes sweating, facial redness, runny nose, teary eyes, gut cramps, and diarrhoea as it attempts to cool down and expel the perceived heat.
Evolutionary Benefits of Capsaicin
While birds avoid chilies, rodents consume them.
Birds lack TRPV1 receptors, unlike rodents act as seed dispersers, aiding in the germination of chili seeds.
Capsaicin serves an evolutionary purpose by deterring mammals from eating the seeds and protecting the plant from fungi and insects.
Producing capsaicin is resource-intensive, making spicy chilies more vulnerable to droughts.
Human Affinity for Spicy Foods
Over 3,000 chili cultivars have been bred for varying color, taste, and pungency.
Some experts believe humans’ love for spicy foods stems from their antimicrobial benefits, which are particularly useful in hotter climates where food spoils faster.
Psychologists argue that eating spicy foods is similar to thrill-seeking activities, providing a simulated risk without actual danger.
Potential Risks of Capsaicin
High concentrations of capsaicin can cause heartburn, gastrointestinal pain, and diarrhoea.
Long-term ingestion of high levels may lead to chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
Capsaicin poisoning is rare due to the large amount required for toxicity, with a person needing to consume around 2.5 liters of Tabasco sauce to overdose.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Carbon-14, Carbon Storage in Plants
Why in the News?
A recent study in the Science journal indicates that the storage of carbon in terrestrial vegetation is more short-lived and more vulnerable to climate change than previously estimated.
Carbon Absorption and Storage in Plants
Current models may overestimate the time carbon remains stored in plants, meaning it returns to the atmosphere sooner than previously expected.
Experts emphasised that while plants and forests play a crucial role in drawing down carbon dioxide, their potential is limited.
The study calls for a rapid reduction in fossil fuel emissions to mitigate climate change impacts.
Key Findings:
Plants and soils absorb 30% of annual carbon dioxide emissions from human activities, mitigating climate change.
However, there are gaps in understanding the stability and mechanisms of this carbon storage.
Use of Radiocarbon (Carbon-14) in Research
Researchers used Carbon-14, a radioactive isotope, to track carbon accumulation and turnover in the terrestrial biosphere.
Nuclear bomb testingin the 1950s and 1960s increased atmospheric C-14 levels, providing a unique opportunity to study carbon cycling.
Study Results
By analysing C-14 accumulation in plants from 1963 to 1967, researchers compared these findings to current models.
The analysis showed that net primary productivity (the rate of new plant tissue creation) is likely at least 80 petagrams of carbon (PgC) per year, higher than the 43-76 PgC per year predicted by current models.
The C-14 accumulation in vegetation during 1963-67 was 69 ± 24 ×10²⁶, suggesting a more rapid carbon cycle between the atmosphere and biosphere than previously thought.
Back2Basics:Carbon-14 and Carbon Dating
Carbon dating is a widely used method for determining the age of organic materials that were once living.
The method is based on the radioactive decay of Carbon-14 (C-14), an isotope of carbon with an atomic mass of 14.
It works by measuring the ratio of C-12 to C-14 in the atmosphere, as well as in plants and animals that acquire carbon through photosynthesis or food consumption.
The Half-Life Concept
Carbon-14 has a half-life of 5,730 ± 40 years—i.e., half the amount of the radioisotope present at any given time will undergo spontaneous disintegration during the succeeding 5,730 years.
Because carbon-14 decays at this constant rate, an estimate of the date at which an organism died can be made by measuring the amount of its residual radiocarbon.
Implications of the Study: Reforestation is inadequate
Today, reforestation is proposed to remove CO2 from the atmosphere, but trees do not return the CO2 to the geological layers from which the fossil fuels came.
This sink is transitory and this study shows us that its duration is even shorter than we thought.
PYQ:
[2012] Consider the following agricultural practices:
Contour bunding
Relay cropping
Zero tillage
In the context of global climate change, which of the above helps/help in carbon sequestration/storage in the soil?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of them
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AMRSense Project, AMR, National Programme on AMR Containment
Why in the News?
The AMRSense Project of the IIIT-Delhi has won the joint second prize in Trinity Challenge’s competition focused on combating Antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The project shares the £600,000 joint second prize with ‘OASIS: OneHealth Antimicrobial Stewardship for Informal Health Systems,’ also from India.
The Trinity Challenge
It is a global initiative aimed at fostering innovative solutions to major global health challenges, particularly focusing on pandemic and epidemic threats.
It operates as a charity organization.
Objective: The Trinity Challenge seeks to harness the power of data and analytics to address global health threats, including pandemics, epidemics, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). It encourages collaboration across sectors to develop data-driven solutions that can protect populations worldwide.
Focus Areas: The initiative primarily focuses on:
Enhancing global health security by improving early detection and response to disease outbreaks.
Strengthening health systems and resilience against future health crises.
Promoting innovations in public health, healthcare delivery, and data analytics to mitigate health risks.
What is the AMRSense Project?
The AMRSense is aimed at addressing the critical issue of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) through a comprehensive and proactive approach.
The project focuses on empowering communities, particularly Community Health Workers (CHWs), with tools and strategies to enhance AMR surveillance and management.
It seeks to bridge the gap in data collection and evidence-based interventions at the community level in India.
Collaborators: The project involves collaboration with CHRI-PATH, 1mg.com, and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Four Components of AMRSense:
Community Engagement: AMRSense empowers CHWs with AI-assisted tools for accurate and simplified data collection related to AMR. This helps in improving the quality and reliability of AMR data gathered from local communities.
Data Integration: The project integrates various sources of AMR-related data, including antibiotic sales, consumption patterns, and WHONet-compliant surveillance data. This integration is facilitated through open-source tools and APIs, aiming to create a unified AMR data ecosystem.
Predictive Analytics: AMRSense employs federated analytics across the OneHealth ecosystem. This approach provides integrated insights into AMR trends, facilitating proactive decision-making and interventions to manage and mitigate AMR risks.
AMRaura Scorecard: This tool is designed to monitor and evaluate AMR trends over time. It helps in assessing the effectiveness of interventions and guiding targeted strategies to combat AMR effectively.
Impact and Future Prospects
AMRSense aims to fill gaps in CHW awareness, training, and motivation, enhancing community-level AMR data collection and management in India.
The project’s comprehensive approach seeks to foster proactive AMR surveillance and management practices.
National Programme on AMR Containment
India has launched a “National Programme on AMR Containment” during the 12th five-year plan (2012-2017) which is being coordinated by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).
The network of labs is being expanded in a phased manner and currently includes 35 state medical college labs in 26 States/UTs.
PYQ:
[2020] What is the importance of using Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in India?
1. These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis.
2. Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced.
3. These vaccines have no side effects and cause no allergic reactions.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 67th Global Environment Facility (GEF) Council
Why in the News?
The 67th meeting of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) was recently held in Washington DC. It concluded with the approval of $736.4 million in funding for 34 nature protection and renewal projects.
About Global Environment Facility (GEF)
Details
Establishment
A pilot program in 1991 by the World Bank
Restructured after the 1992 Rio Earth Summit.
Objective
Grants and blended finance for environmental projects
Funding
Over $1 billion annually; $22 billion grants to date
World Bank serves as the GEF Trustee
Replenishment
$5.33 billion pledged for 2022-2026
Member Countries
184 countries
Main Governing Bodies
Assembly: Composed of all 184 member countries, meets every 3-4 years at ministerial level. Reviews policies, and operations, and approves amendments.
Council: Main governing body with 32 members from member countries (14 developed, 16 developing, 2 economies in transition). Meets biannually to develop policies, approve projects, and evaluate operations.
India, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh have together formed a Permanent Constituency in the Executive Council of the GEF.
Secretariat: Based in Washington, D.C., reports to Council and Assembly, oversees project implementation and policy adherence.
STAP (Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel): Provides scientific advice on policies, strategies, and projects, consisting of six internationally recognized experts.
GEF IEO (Independent Evaluation Office): Reports to the Council, evaluates GEF’s impact and effectiveness, and shares best practices and lessons learned.
Operational Agencies
18 agencies including UNDP, UNEP, World Bank
Financial Mechanism for
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) (1994)
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) (1991)
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) (1994)
Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (2001)
Minamata Convention on Mercury (2013)
Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1987)
Focus Areas
Biodiversity, Climate Change (Mitigation & Adaptation), Chemicals & Waste, International Waters, Land Degradation, Sustainable Forest Management
A total of $736.4 million was approved for 34 projects worldwide.
These projects span various environmental sectors and include initiatives under the GEF Trust Fund, Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF), Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF), and a Multi-Trust Fund project.
[2] GBFF Initiatives:
The GBFF approved its first work programme, allocating $37.8 million specifically for enhancing protected area management in Brazil and Mexico.
This initiative aims to support sustainable practices across more than 30 million hectares of protected areas, with a focus on indigenous-led conservation efforts.
[3] GEF Trust Fund Projects:
Several projects were funded under the GEF Trust Fund, including:
Sustainable Cities Integrated Program.
Initiatives targeting chemical and waste pollution in Bolivia’s cement, textile, brick, and glass sectors, as well as Brazil’s cement industry.
[4] Projects in India:
India secured funding for two significant projects:
Enhancing biodiversity conservation to meet global targets, focusing on expanding protected areas and community-led conservation practices with a funding of $6.7 million.
Conservation and sustainable management of wetlands, forests, and grasslands along the Central Asian Flyway, receiving $10.7 million.
[5] Global Impact and Targets:
Several projects aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework’s 30X30 target (conservation of 30% of Earth’s land and sea by 2030), including initiatives in Argentina, Central Asia, and Namibia.
These projects aim to reduce ecosystem degradation, combat biodiversity loss, and strengthen protected area management.
[6] Future Plans (GEF-9):
The Council discussed plans for the ninth replenishment funding cycle (GEF-9) from 2026 to 2030.
This period aligns with global environmental goals and targets set under international agreements like the Biodiversity Plan.
PYQ:
[2014] With reference to ‘Global Environment Facility’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
(a) It serves as financial mechanism for ‘Convention on Biological Diversity’ and ‘United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’.
(b) It undertakes scientific research on environmental issues at global level.
(c) It is an agency under OECD to facilitate the transfer of technology and funds to underdeveloped countries with specific aim to protect their environment.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Principle of Diyya; Reparative Justice
Why in the News?
The Indian Government has approved the transfer of the sum of $40,000 for preliminary discussions regarding the release of Nimisha Priya from a Yemeni prison.
Currently, Priya’s mother is in Yemen, trying to waive her death penalty by paying “blood money” to the murdered man’s family.
Nimisha Priya’s Case Details
Priya, a nurse, moved to Yemen in 2008 and married Tomy Thomas in 2011 before returning to Yemen.
She faced abuse and exploitation by Talal Abdo Mahdi, leading to the tragic events resulting in Mahdi’s death and Priya’s arrest.
The $40,000 payment aims to initiate negotiations for Priya’s release.
To waive the death penalty, Priya’s family may need to raise $300,000-$400,000.
The ‘Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council’ is fundraising to meet this requirement.
What is Blood Money?
According to Islamic law, victims of crimes have a say in how criminals are to be punished.
In the case of murder, this principle applies to the families of victims.
Although murder is punished via the death penalty, the victim’s family (specifically, heirs) may choose to “forgive” the murderer in exchange for monetary compensation.
This is the principle of Diyya, or, as it is commonly referred to “blood money”.
It can be traced to the Holy Quran.
Applicability:
Blood money is applicable in cases of unintentional homicide (Qatl Khata) or accidental death, as well as in cases of bodily injury or harm caused by negligence or unintentional actions.
Practical Implications of Blood Money
Scholars believe that the idea behind this is to encourage the virtue of forgiveness, while also providing reparative justice to the victims’ family.
The scriptures do not set any specific amount as compensation.
The sum is generally arrived at via negotiation between the murderer’s family/representatives and the victim’s family.
Some Islamic countries, however, have set minimum compensation amounts.
Significance of Blood Money
Forgiveness from the victim’s family is highly encouraged and considered virtuous in Islam.
Blood money aims to prevent cycles of vengeance or retaliation (Qisas) that could lead to further social harm or conflict.
It promotes reconciliation and mutual understanding.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PARIVESH Portal
Why in the News?
Kerala is set to construct a ropeway in Sabarimala by compensating the Forests department with alternative land at Chinnakkanal in Idukki.
The 2.7-kilometre-long ropeway aims to transport goods from the Pampa base station to the Sabarimala Sannidhanam.
Once the land is transferred for compensatory afforestation, an application will be submitted in the PARIVESH portal for clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
What is PARIVESH Portal?
PARIVESH, which stands for Pro-Active and Responsive facilitation by Interactive Virtuous & Environmental Single-window Hub.
It is an online portal developed by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
It is designed to streamline and expedite the process of obtaining clearances related to environment, forests, wildlife, and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) from central, state, and district-level authorities.
Purpose and Scope:
PARIVESH is intended to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the clearance processes for environment, forests, wildlife, and CRZ.
It aims to reduce the turnaround time for obtaining clearances and improve responsiveness through workflow automation and real-time information availability.
Functionality:
It serves as a role-based, web-based workflow application where user agencies can submit proposals online for clearances.
It operates on a Web Architecture using IIS as an Application Server, .NET framework, and SQL Server as a database server.
Benefits to Users:
Allows for online submission and monitoring of compliance reports, including geo-tagged images of sites through a Mobile App, enhancing compliance monitoring.
Integrates Geographic Information System (GIS) interface for Appraisal Committees to analyze proposals efficiently.
Accessible 24×7 from any PC with internet connectivity, ensuring continuous availability for users across different locations and time zones.
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following statements:
The Environment Protection Act, 1986 empowers the Government of India to
State the requirement of public participation in the process of environmental protection, and the procedure and manner in which it is sought.
Lay down the standards for emission or discharge of environmental pollutants from various sources
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Yoga Day
Why in the News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leading the celebrations of the 10th International Day of Yoga at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.
About International Day of Yoga
The International Day of Yoga is observed annually on June 21 worldwide since 2014 to celebrate the practice of Yoga, which originated in ancient India.
Yoga is renowned for its physical and mental health benefits, promoting well-being globally.
PM Modi proposed the idea of a Yoga Day during his UN address in September2014.
In December 2014, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN introduced the draft resolution in the UN General Assembly.
It was adopted with support from 177 countries without a vote.
The first International Day of Yoga was successfully celebrated on June 21, 2015, in cities around the world, including New York, Paris, Beijing, and New Delhi.
Why 21st June was chosen for this day?
The date of June 21 was chosen because it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolizing spiritual significance across various cultures.
In Hindu mythology, this day marks the transition to Dakshinayana and is associated with the first yogi, Shiva, who began teaching Yoga to humanity.
Back2Basics: Yoga
Yoga originated in ancient India and has its roots in Indian philosophy, spirituality, and culture.
The word “yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means “to join” or “to unite.” It signifies the union of mind, body, and spirit.
Historical References:
Yoga-like practices were mentioned in the Rig-Veda, an ancient Hindu text dating back to approximately 1500 BCE.
References to yoga can also be found in the Upanishads, which are philosophical texts from around 800 to 400 BCE.
Contributions of Sage Patanjali:
Patanjali is considered the father of classical yoga.
He compiled the Yoga Sutras, a foundational text that provides a systematic and philosophical framework for the practice of yoga.
The Yoga Sutras were written around the 2nd century BCE.
Eight Limbs of Yoga:
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras outline the eight limbs or stages of yoga, known as Ashtanga Yoga. These limbs include:
Ethical principles (yamas),
Positive duties or observances (niyamas)
Physical postures (asanas),
Breath control (pranayama),
Sense withdrawal (pratyahara),
Concentration (dharana),
Meditation (dhyana), and
Self-realization (samadhi).
Schools and Styles: There are various schools and styles of yoga, each with its own approach and emphasis. Some popular styles include Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Bikram, Kundalini, and Yin yoga.
PYQ:
[2014] Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?
Assam’s wildlife officials reported its discovery during a herpetofauna survey.
Back2Basics: Herpetofauna
Herpetofauna refers to a group of reptiles and amphibians collectively.
The term combines “herpeto-” from the Greek “herpeton,” meaning “creeping animal,” and “fauna,” referring to the animal species found in a particular region or time.
Herpetofauna play essential roles in ecosystems:
They act as both predators and prey, help regulate insect populations, and serve as indicators of environmental health.
They serve as environmental indicators and play significant roles in pest control.
About Striped Caecilian
The Striped Caecilian (Ichthyophis spp.) is a type of limbless amphibian belonging to the family Ichthyophiidae.
Caecilians are often mistaken for snakesor worms due to their elongated, cylindrical bodies and lack of limbs.
They are primarily found in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
They usually live underground or in moist soil habitats.
Key features of the Striped Caecilian include:
They have smooth, cylindrical bodies with a ringed or striped pattern, hence the name “striped.”
Caecilians are predominantly fossorial (burrowing), spending most of their lives underground or in leaf litter. This behaviour makes them elusive and difficult to study.
They are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates found in soil and leaf litter.
Their eyesight is generally poor, and they rely on chemoreception (sensing chemicals in the environment) to locate prey.
Caecilians are known for their unique reproductive strategies, which can involve live births or laying eggs. Some species exhibit parental care, with adults guarding eggs or young offspring.
Significance: Kaziranga’s Biodiversity
Kaziranga National Park’s diverse ecosystem, encompassing flood plains, wetlands, grasslands, and hill tracts, provides an ideal habitat for herpetofauna.
The park hosts 24 amphibian species, 74 reptile species, and 21 of India’s 29 species of tortoises and freshwater turtles.
About Kaziranga National Park
Details
Location
Assam, India
Geographical Features
Situated between Brahmaputra River and Karbi (Mikir) Hills
Significance
Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot
Rivers
Diphlu River runs through the park
Highways
National Highway 37 passes through the park
Legal Status
Designated as a National Park in 1974.
UNESCO World Heritage Site (1985).
Important Bird Area by Birdlife International
Key Conservation Achievements
Houses around 2/3rd of the world’s Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.
Declared a Tiger Reserve due to high tiger density
‘Big Five’ species
Great Indian One-Horned Rhino, Asian Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Water Buffalo, Swamp Deer
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IBBI, IBC
Why in the News?
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) has proposed amendments to the Insolvency Resolution Process for Corporate Process regulations to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and increase transparency.
This aims to align with the Companies (Registered Valuers and Valuation) Rules and streamline the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP).
Do You Know?
Since its enactment, the IBBI has achieved notable successes in resolving insolvency cases and recovering debts:
Debt Resolution: The IBC has successfully resolved Rs. 3.16 lakh crore of debt across 808 cases within seven years (as per CRISIL).
Higher Recovery Rates: Creditors have realized an average of 32% of admitted claims and 169% of the liquidation value through IBC proceedings, demonstrating higher recovery rates compared to previous mechanisms.
Behavioural Change: Companies have been proactively involved in the settlement of debts amounting to over Rs. 9 lakh crore before cases enter formal insolvency processes.
Proposed amendments by IBBI
Simplified Valuation: Instead of separate reports for different types of assets, there will be one comprehensive valuation report covering the entire company. This helps in keeping valuation consistent and clear.
Single Valuer for Small Companies: For smaller companies with assets up to ₹1,000 crore and MSMEs, only one valuer will be appointed to determine the company’s value unless there’s a good reason for more than one.
Option for Two Valuers: If needed, the creditors’ committee can choose to have two valuers to deal with complex cases, but they have to explain why.
Faster Appointment of Representatives: Representatives appointed to represent creditors can start participating in meetings as soon as their application is submitted, to avoid delays.
Guarantees in Resolution Plans: If a resolution plan suggests releasing guarantees, it won’t stop creditors from going after guarantors or using the guarantees according to their agreements.
About Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)
Details
Establishment
Established on 1st October 2016 under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016.
Objective: To promote a creditor-driven insolvency resolution process and enhance India’s credit culture and business environment.
Responsibility
Responsible for implementing and enforcing the IBC,
IBC consolidated laws related to insolvency resolution for individuals, partnership firms, and corporate entities.
Functions
Regulates insolvency professionals and processes.
Oversees insolvency professional agencies, entities, and information utilities.
Enforces rules for corporate and individual insolvency resolution, liquidation, and bankruptcy.
Sets eligibility criteria and curriculum for insolvency professionals.
Collects and maintains records on insolvency cases and disseminates related information.
Composition
Total 10 members
Chairperson appointed by the Central Government.
Three members from central government officers (Ministries of Finance, Corporate Affairs, Law).
One member nominated by RBI (Reserve Bank of India).
Five other members nominated by the Central Government, including at least three full-time members.
The term is 5 years or until age 65, with reappointment possible.
Adjudicating Authorities under the IBC:
Under the IBC, two primary adjudicating authorities handle insolvency cases based on the nature of the entity:
National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT): NCLT adjudicates insolvency cases involving corporate entities and other limited liability entities.
Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT): DRT has jurisdiction over insolvency cases concerning individuals and partnership firms, excluding Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs).
Recent Amendments to the IBC:
Approval for segregated sale of assets or resolution plans.
Increase in the number of NCLT benches to 16 for faster adjudication.
Extension of timelines for filing claims to accommodate procedural complexities.
Sector-specific amendments tailored to address unique challenges in various industries.
Modifications in procedural forms such as Form G2 to enhance clarity and efficiency in insolvency proceedings.
PYQ:
[2017] Which of the following statements best describes the term ‘Scheme for Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets (S4A)’, recently seen in the news?
(a) It is a procedure for considering the ecological costs of developmental schemes formulated by the Government.
(b) It is a scheme of RBI for reworking the financial structure of big corporate entities facing genuine difficulties.
(c) It is a disinvestment plan of the Government regarding Central Public Sector Undertakings.
(d) It is an important provision in ‘The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code’ recently implemented by the Government.
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nalanda Mahavihara, University
Why in the News?
The Prime Minister has inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University, an international institution located near the ancient ruins of Nalanda in Rajgir, Bihar.
Revival of Nalanda University
The idea to revive Nalanda University was proposed by former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006, leading to the passing of the Nalanda University Bill in 2010.
The university’s revival was operationally launched in 2014 from a temporary location.
Former president Pranab Mukherjee laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus in 2016, with construction starting in 2017 and culminating in today’s inauguration.
The Parliament established the university following decisions from the second East Asia Summit (EAS) in 2007 and the fourth EAS in 2009.
International Collaboration and Courses
Nalanda University has participation from 17 countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Indonesia, and others, which have signed MoUs to support the university.
It offers 137 scholarships to international students, sponsored by the ASEAN-India Fund, BIMSTEC, and Bhutan’s Ministry of External Affairs.
The university provides postgraduate and doctoral research courses, as well as short-term certificate courses.
Historical Background
Nalanda University was established in the 5th century CE in the ancient kingdom of Magadha (modern-day Bihar) and was the world’s first residential university.
Establishment and Patronage:
The Gupta dynasty, under Emperor Kumaragupta I, established Nalanda University in 427 AD, promoting it as a premier center for Buddhist scholarship.
It received substantial endowments from monarchs like King Harsha and rulers of the Pala Empire, enhancing its stature and influence across Asia.
Countries: It attracted scholars from China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
Subjects taught included medicine, Ayurveda, Buddhism, mathematics, grammar, astronomy, and Indian philosophy.
The university thrived under the patronage of the Pala dynasty during the 8th and 9th centuries CE and made significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy.
Aryabhatta, a pioneer of Indian mathematics and the inventor of zero, was one of the esteemed educators at Nalanda.
Admission and Academic Rigor
Admission to Nalanda was highly competitive, akin to today’s top institutions like IIT, IIM, or Ivy League schools.
Students underwent rigorous interviews and were mentored by scholars and Buddhist masters like Dharmapala and Silabhadra.
The university’s library, known as ‘Dharma Gunj’ or the ‘Mountain of Truth,’ contained 9 million handwritten palm-leaf manuscripts, making it the richest repository of Buddhist knowledge.
Destruction and Rediscovery
In the 1190s, Bakhtiyar Khilji, a Turko-Afghan military general, destroyed Nalanda University by arson, which burned for three months and destroyed invaluable Buddhist manuscripts.
Some surviving manuscripts are preserved in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Yarlung Museum in Tibet.
The university was rediscovered in 1812 by Scottish surveyor Francis Buchanan-Hamilton and officially identified in 1861 by Sir Alexander Cunningham.
Scholarly Influence
Nalanda’s intellectual legacy includes contributions from scholars like Nagarjuna, known for his foundational work in the Madhyamaka school of Mahayana Buddhism, and his disciple Aryadeva.
Dharmapala’s commentaries further enriched Buddhist philosophy.
These scholars’ insights into metaphysics and epistemology extended Nalanda’s influence, shaping religious and philosophical thought across Asia and inspiring subsequent generations of thinkers.
Foreign Travellers Account of Nalanda University
Visit Period
Key Details
Xuanzang
7th century CE
Described Nalanda as vast with lecture halls and residential quarters.
Noted a large library with thousands of manuscripts.
Mentioned numerous teachers and students engaged in debates.
Provided detailed records of Nalanda’s organization and academic activities.
I-Tsing
7th century CE
Spent several years studying at Nalanda.
Emphasized rigorous academic environment.
Noted diverse student population from Asia.
Contributed to understanding Nalanda’s curriculum and scholarly environment.
Al-Biruni
11th century CE
Wrote about Nalanda’s reputation as a premier center of learning in India.
Highlighted its attraction for scholars across Asia.
Introduced Nalanda’s achievements to the medieval Islamic world.
PYQ:
[2020] Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India. Enumerate.
[2018] Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the reconstruction of the history of India.
[2014] Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines. Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not considered as a university in the modern sense. Discuss.
India is close to developing a gene therapy using CRISPR-Cas9, a gene-editing tool for sickle cell disease (SCD).
SCD is a genetic blood disorder prevalent among the Scheduled Tribes.
What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited blood disorders caused by a genetic mutation in the hemoglobin-β gene located on chromosome 11.
This mutation results in defective hemoglobin, which forms rod-like structures after releasing oxygen.
As a result, red blood cells become rigid and assume a sickle shape.
The disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry the abnormal gene for a child to inherit it.
Symptoms may not manifest immediately in newborns but can include extreme tiredness, fussiness, swollen hands and feet, and jaundice.
Implications:
The mis-shapen RBCs can block small blood vessels, leading to impaired blood flow and causing chronic anaemia.
Individuals with SCD often experience acute pain episodes, severe bacterial infections, and tissue damage due to inadequate blood supply.
Treatment:
Presently treatment includes medications for pain relief, regular blood transfusions to replace damaged red blood cells.
In rare cases, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, which carries significant risks, is recommended.
Eliminating Sickle Cell Disease: Global and National Context
This progress follows the approval of CRISPR-Cas9 technology by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for a cell-based gene therapy to treat sickle cell disease in December 2023.
One of the main challenges for India is to develop a cost-effective therapy, as part of its mission to eradicate sickle cell disease by 2047, launched by Prime Minister in July 2023.
The mission aims to conduct over 7 crore screenings among vulnerable tribal populations across 17 States and Union Territories, with three crore screenings completed so far.
Back2Basics: CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing
CRISPR-Cas9 stands for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats and CRISPR-associated protein 9.
It is a technology that allows geneticists and researchers to edit parts of the genome by altering sections of the DNA sequence.
Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna’s work on CRISPR-Cas9 as a ‘molecular scissor’ earned them the 2020 Nobel Prize in chemistry.
The system consists of two key components:
Cas9: This is the enzyme that acts like a pair of molecular scissors. It is responsible for cutting the DNA strand at a specific location, allowing for the removal, addition, or alteration of DNA at that site.
Guide RNA (gRNA): This is a piece of RNA that is designed to find and bind to a specific sequence of DNA that matches its code. The gRNA guides the Cas9 enzyme to the exact spot in the genome where an edit is desired.
Mechanism:
The process begins with the design of a gRNA that matches the DNA sequence where an edit is needed.
Once inside the cell, the Cas9 enzyme and the gRNA form a complex that can identify and bind to the target DNA sequence.
The Cas9 then cuts the DNA at this location.
After the DNA is cut, the cell’s natural repair mechanisms can be harnessed to add or remove genetic material, or to make specific changes to the DNA.
PYQ:
[2023] Consider the following statements in the context interventions being undertaken under Anaemin Mukt Bharat Strategy :
It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women.
It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of child-birth.
It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents.
It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) All four
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NHRC, Various labour reform initiatives
Why in the News?
The National Human Right Commission (NHRC) issued notice to the Centre over reports from a Amazon company’s warehouse in Haryana’s Manesar.
Employees were allegedly forced to pledge not to take toilet or water breaks until unloading six trucks post 30-minute tea break.
NHRC’s Observations and Actions
NHRC views this as a serious human rights violation, potentially breaching labour laws and Ministry guidelines.
Notice was issued to the Secretary, Union Ministry of Labour and Employment for a detailed report within a week.
About National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
Details
Establishment
A Statutory Body;
Established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
Functions
Inquire into any violation of human rights
Recommend immediate interim relief to victims or their families
Intervene in court proceedings involving human rights violations
Review constitutional and legal safeguards for human rights
Study international instruments on human rights
Promote human rights literacy
Support the efforts of NGOs working in the field of human rights
Powers
Regulate its own procedure
Possess all the powers of a civil court
Proceedings have a judicial character
Chairperson
Must be a former Justice of the Supreme Court or Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Appointed by the President of India
Members
Four full-time members;
Chairperson: former Supreme Court Justice or Chief Justice;
Other Member: former Judge of the Supreme Court;
Other Member: former Chief Justice of a High Court;
Three Members: with knowledge or experience in human rights, including at least one woman –
Seven ex-officio members: Chairpersons of National Commissions viz., National Commission for Scheduled Castes, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, National Commission for Women , National Commission for Minorities, National Commission for Backward Classes, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights; and the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.
Appointment
Appointed by the President, based on a committee recommendation including the Prime Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Home Minister, Leaders of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and others
Consultation with the Chief Justice of India for judicial appointments
Removal
Removal by order of the President of India
Consultation with the Supreme Court before removal
Terms of Office
Hold office for a term of three years or until the age of 70
Ineligibility for further government employment after office
Eligible for reappointment
Salaries
Determined by the Central government
Reporting
Submits annual or special reports to the Central government and the concerned State government
Reports laid before the respective legislatures, along with a memorandum of action taken on the recommendations and reasons for non-acceptance of any recommendations
Limitations
The commission is not empowered to inquire into any matter after the expiry of one year from the date on which the act constituting the violation of human rights is alleged to have been committed
Functions are recommendatory in nature, with no power to punish or award relief to violators
Limited role concerning armed forces violations
Government Initiatives for Worker Welfare in India:
Description
Constitutional Framework
Labour falls under the Concurrent List, allowing both Central and State governments to enact laws.
Articles 14, 16, and 39(c) ensure equality and welfare principles.
Judicial Interpretation under Randhir Singh vs Union of India (1982)
Upholds ‘Equal pay for Equal work’ through constitutional articles, promoting fairness in employment.
Legislative Framework
Introduction of 4 labour codes:
Code of Wages, 2019: Standardizes wage payments across sectors.
Industrial Relations Code, 2020: Consolidates laws related to industrial disputes and trade unions.
Social Security Code, 2020: Expands social security benefits coverage for workers.
Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020: Ensures safety and welfare standards in workplaces.
“Shramev Jayate” Initiative
Launched in 2014 to maximize benefits for workers through enhanced welfare initiatives.
Maternity Benefit Amendment Act, 2017
Increases paid maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks, supporting maternal health and childcare.
PYQ:
[2015] “Success of ‘Make in India’ programme depends on the success of ‘Skill India’ programme and radical labour reforms.” Discuss with logical arguments.
[2011] Consider the following:
Right to education.
Right to equal access to public service.
Right to food.
Which of the above is/are Human Right/Rights under “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”?
Focus include on graphite, gallium, and germanium to strengthen supply chains.
What are Critical Minerals?
Critical minerals are elements that are crucial to modern-day technologies and are at risk of supply chain disruptions.
These minerals are mostly used in making electronic equipment such as mobile phones, computers, batteries, electric vehicles, and green technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.
Many of these are required to meet the manufacturing needs of green technologies, high-tech equipment, aviation, and national defence.
List of critical minerals includes:
The centre has released a list of 30 critical minerals for India in 2023:
Identified Minerals: Antimony, Beryllium, Bismuth, Cobalt, Copper, Gallium, Germanium, Graphite, Hafnium, Indium, Lithium, Molybdenum, Niobium, Nickel, Platinum Group elements (PGE), Phosphorous, Potash, Rare Earth Elements (REE), Rhenium, Silicon, Strontium, Tantalum, Tellurium, Tin, Titanium, Tungsten, Vanadium, Zirconium, Selenium and Cadmium.
Fertilizer Minerals: Two minerals critical for fertilizer production, phosphorous and potash, are also included in the above list.
Critical Mineral Blocks in India
Distribution: There are 20 blocks spread across eight states, including Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Types of Licenses: Four blocks are for a Mining License (ML), allowing immediate mining post-clearance. The remaining 16 blocks are for a Composite License (CL), permitting further exploration before potentially converting to an ML.
Approvals Required: Licensees must obtain various approvals, including forest clearance and environmental clearance.
Forest Land: Approximately 17% of the total concession area, or 1,234 hectares, is forest land.
India’s Critical Mineral Imports
Lithium Imports: In FY23, India imported 2,145 tonnes of lithium carbonate and lithium oxide, costing Rs 732 crore.
Nickel and Copper Imports: The country imported 32,000 tonnes of unwrought nickel and 1.2 million tonnes of copper ore, costing Rs 6,549 crore and Rs 27,374 crore, respectively.
Import Dependence: India relies entirely on imports for lithium and nickel, and 93% for copper.
Country-wise dependence:
China: India heavily relies on China for the import of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite.
Australia: India is actively engaged with Australia for acquiring mineral assets, particularly lithium and cobalt, to secure its supply chain for critical minerals.
Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile: India is engaging with these countries, known for their reserves of battery metals like lithium and cobalt, to diversify its sources for critical minerals.
India’s Strategic Mineral Initiatives
Amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 support expanded exploration.
Establishment of Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) with equity from National Aluminium Company Ltd, Hindustan Copper Ltd, and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd for global mineral asset acquisition.
International Collaborations and Partnerships
India joined the U.S.-led mineral security partnership to secure critical mineral supply chains.
Creation of an India-U.S. advanced materials research forum to foster collaboration in universities, laboratories, and private sectors.
Bilateral technology collaboration on neodymium-iron-boron and studies on minerals like lithium, titanium, gallium, and vanadium.
Back2Basics: Indo-US Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (iCET)
Details
Initiation
Announced in May 2022, officially launched in January 2023
Management
Overseen by the National Security Councils of India and the US
Objectives
Enhance bilateral cooperation in critical and emerging technologies
Focus Areas of the Initiative
AI Research Agency Partnership
Defense Industrial and Technological Cooperation
Innovation Ecosystems
Semiconductor Ecosystem Development
Cooperation on Human Spaceflight
Advancement in 5G and 6G Technologies
Key Achievements
Quantum Coordination Mechanism
Public-private dialogues on telecommunications and AI
MoU on semiconductor supply chain
Defense industrial cooperation roadmap
Upcoming Initiatives
Finalization of major jet engine deal
Launch of India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X)
Strategic Trade Dialogue establishment
PYQ:
[2019] With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:
Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
State governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AlphaFold 3 System
Why in the News?
AlphaFold 3, and AI System introduced in a May 2024 Nature paper, extends capabilities to predict protein-protein interactions, DNA, RNA structures, and their interactions.
Importance of Proteins
Proteins are crucial molecules regulating nearly every biological function.
They are composed of amino acids, which determine their structure and function.
Understanding protein folding is essential for comprehending cellular and organismal functions.
The Protein-Folding Problem
The process of protein folding is complex and not fully understood, known as the protein-folding problem.
It is vital for deciphering how cells, organisms, and life itself operate.
Frank Uhlmann emphasizes the significance of understanding protein structure for molecular biology.
What is AlphaFold?
Google DeepMind’s AlphaFold debuted in 2020, employs AI and machine learning to predict protein structures.
AlphaFold 2, released in 2021, significantly improved accuracy in protein structure prediction.
Derek Lowe acknowledges AlphaFold’s achievement in predicting structures effectively, although the deeper biological principles remain less explored.
AlphaFold 3’s Advancements:
It democratizes research by offering accessible structure prediction tools, even for non-experts.
Technology behind AlphaFold 3
Unlike its predecessors, AlphaFold 3 utilizes a diffusion model akin to image-generating software.
This approach involves training on noisy data and de-noising to predict accurate protein structures.
Working:
Given an input list of molecules, AlphaFold 3 generates their joint 3D structure, revealing how they all fit together.
It models large biomolecules such as proteins, DNA and RNA, as well as small molecules, also known as ligands — a category encompassing many drugs.
Applications of AlphaFold 3
AlphaFold 3 excels in predicting protein structures and interactions, aiding drug discovery efforts.
DeepMind’s spin-off, Isomorphic Labs, utilizes AlphaFold 3 for drug candidate identification.
Challenges
The model’s code restriction has sparked criticism among researchers for hindering scientific collaboration and transparency.
DeepMind initially withheld AlphaFold 3’s full code, prompting calls for open access from the scientific community.
Responding to backlash, DeepMind plans to release the complete code within six months.
PYQ:
[2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?
Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units
Create meaningful short stories and songs
Disease diagnosis
Text-to-Speech Conversion
Wireless transmission of electrical energy
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pro-Tem Speaker of Lok Sabha
Why in the News?
The 18th Lok Sabha will convene its first session very soon. A new Speaker of the House will be elected during this session.
Until the election of the new Speaker, a pro-tem Speaker will be appointed to administer the oath to the new Members of Parliament.
Who is a Pro-tem Speaker?
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha oversees the day-to-day proceedings of the House.
According to Article 94 of the Indian Constitution, the outgoing Speaker continues in office until the first meeting of the new Lok Sabha.
A pro-tem Speaker is appointed temporarily to manage certain duties until the new Speaker is elected.
The Constitution does NOT mention explicitly about the post.
However, the ‘Handbook on the Working of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs provides guidelines on the appointment and duties of the Speaker pro-tem.
Functions:
The primary duty of the pro-tem Speaker is to administer oaths to the new MPs, as mandated by Article 99 of the Constitution.
Appointment of the Pro-tem Speaker
When the Speaker’s post is vacant before the new Lok Sabha convenes, the PRESIDENT appoints a Member of the House as the Speaker pro-tem.
The President administers the oath to the Speaker pro-tem at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Generally, three other elected members of the Lok Sabha are also appointed by the President to assist in the oath-taking process.
The SENIORMOST members, in terms of years of service, are usually chosen for this role, though there can be exceptions.
Process of Administering Oaths
The Legislative I Section of the Government of India prepares a list of the seniormost Lok Sabha members after the formation of the new government.
This list is submitted to the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs or the Prime Minister, who identifies the Speaker pro-tem and the three other members for oath-taking.
After the Prime Minister’s approval, the consent of the selected members is obtained by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, usually over the telephone.
The Minister then submits a note to the President seeking approval for the appointments and the date and time for the swearing-in ceremony.
Upon the President’s approval, the Ministry informs the Speaker pro-tem and the other members about their appointments.
The Speaker pro-tem then administers the oath to the other three members in the Lok Sabha.
PYQ:
[2024] With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements :
While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration
He/She shall not preside.
He/She shall not have the right to speak.
He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: G-7 Countries
Why in the News?
PM Modi was placed at centre stage for a group photograph at the G-7 Outreach Summit held in Italy.
This marks India’s 11th participation in the G7 Summit and PM Modi’s fifth consecutive attendance.
About G-7 (Group of Seven)
The G7 is an informal bloc of industrialized democracies comprising the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom (UK).
It convenes annually to address global economic governance, international security, and more recently, issues related to artificial intelligence (AI).
Formation and Expansion:
Originally formed as the Group of Six in 1975 by the United States, France, Italy, Japan, the UK, and West Germany, with Canada joining in 1976.
It was formed as a result of the oil crisis to stabilize global economic policies and international relations.
The group’s formation coincided with the challenges of the Cold War era, aiming to address economic concerns such as inflation and recession exacerbated by the OPEC oil embargo.
Key statistics about G7 countries:
Wealth: They control 60% of the global net wealth.
Growth: They drive 46% of the global GDP.
Population: They represent 10% of the world’s population.
Russia’s Joining and Suspension
Russia joined in 1998, transforming it into the G8, aimed at enhancing its international prestige and fostering closer ties with Western nations.
Russia was suspended in 2014 following its annexation of Crimea, leading to ongoing tensions and challenges with both Russia and increasingly, China.
Functioning of the G7
Unlike formal institutions like the United Nations or NATO, the G7 lacks a charter and secretariat.
Its presidency rotates annually (Canada in 2025), responsible for setting the agenda and logistical arrangements for the summit.
Policy initiatives are crafted by ministers and envoys known as Sherpas, who prepare discussions and agreements before the annual gathering.
Non-member countries are occasionally invited to participate in G7 meetings.
Why G7 needs India?
Economic Significance and Democratic Stability: India’s regular participation in G7 meetings highlights its economic importance and stable democratic framework.
Rising Economic Power: With India poised to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, its involvement in global issues is increasingly crucial.
Leadership in the Global South: Modi’s initiatives, such as the Voice of the Global South Summit, have bolstered India’s global standing.
G20 Presidency: India’s recent presidency of the G20 demonstrated its ability to build consensus on contentious global issues.
Neutrality and Strategic Partnerships: India’s neutral stance on Western concerns over China’s actions in the South China Sea and its economic policies enhances its partnership with G7 nations.
Balancing with Russia and the West: As the West confronts Russia over Ukraine, India’s neutral stance positions it as a key ally while maintaining diplomatic balance.
Divergence within G7
Geopolitical Tensions: The G7 nations often face disagreements and tensions over geopolitical matters, such as responses to Russian aggression, conflicts in regions like Ukraine, and strategic alliances with emerging economies.
Economic Policies: Economic policies and trade relations are frequent topics of debate within the G7. Issues include trade tariffs, market regulations, financial stability, and economic cooperation in the face of global economic challenges.
Climate Change: Addressing climate change and achieving environmental sustainability are critical concerns for the G7. Discussions typically focus on climate action commitments, renewable energy investments, and international cooperation on climate policies.
Security and Defense: Security and defence cooperation, including responses to global terrorism, cybersecurity threats, and military alliances, are important agenda items for the G7.
Technology and Innovation: Managing technological advancements, including AI regulation, digital governance, cybersecurity standards, and technological innovation policies, is another area of focus.
Social Issues: Social issues such as gender equality, human rights, immigration policies, and global development aid are also part of the G7 agenda, reflecting broader societal concerns and international commitments.
PYQ:
[2020] In which one of the following groups are all four countries members of G20?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Facts about Elephants
Why in the News?
Recent studies utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI)tools have revealed that elephants possess unique names used to address each other, placing them among the select animals with this ability.
Unlike animals such as parrots and dolphins, elephants do not imitate the calls of those they address, resembling humans in this communicative trait.
Naming Behavior in Elephants
Unlike humans, elephants do not mimic the calls of the addressee, setting their communication apart from other animals.
Published in Nature, the study titled ‘African elephants address one another with individually specific name-like calls’ involved researchers from institutions like Colorado State University and Save The Elephants.
Study Methodology
Communication Methods: Contrary to popular belief, elephants predominantly communicate through low-pitched rumbles rather than trumpets, which are primarily emotional expressions.
Data Analysis: Researchers analyzed recordings of wild female African savannah elephants and their offspring’s rumbles across various Kenyan national parks spanning from 1986 to 2022.
AI Application: Using AI technology, they scrutinized 469 recorded rumbles to detect patterns indicating specific recipients of the communication.
Success Rate: The AI model successfully identified the intended elephant recipient in 27.5% of cases, surpassing chance levels.
Observations
Behavioural Observation: To validate their findings, researchers played back recorded rumbles to 17 elephants and noted heightened reactions when elephants heard their ‘names’, indicating recognition of individual names.
Unique Communication: Unlike animals that imitate others’ calls, elephants display no evidence of imitation, suggesting a unique communication strategy.
Significance of the Study
Sophisticated Communication: The study underscores elephants’ advanced communication abilities, challenging previous assumptions about their cognitive prowess.
Human-Elephant Parallels: It draws parallels between human and elephant communication, fostering greater admiration for elephants and potentially mitigating human-elephant conflicts crucial for conservation efforts.
Future Research: Further investigation is warranted to pinpoint the exact location of elephant names within rumbles and explore whether elephants assign names to objects besides individuals.
Back2Basics: Elephants in India
Details
Population Estimate
India hosts the largest population of wild Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus), with around 29,964 individuals,
Approximately 60% of the global population (2017 census).
Leading States
Karnataka holds the highest number of elephants, followed by Assam and Kerala.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered.
CMS: Appendix I.
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I,
CITES: Appendix I.
Conservation Initiatives
‘Project Elephant’ was launched in 1992, covering 23 states across India.
This project contributed to the increase in the wild elephant population from around 25,000 in 1992 to about 30,000 in 2021.
Establishment of Elephant Reserves. Total 33 in numbers covering approximately 80,777 Sq.km.
PYQ:
[2020] With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:
The leader of an elephant group is a female.
The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Valentina Tereshkova, Manned mission to space
Why in the News?
On June 16, 1963, Valentina Tereshkova made history as the first woman to venture into space. Her achievement marked a significant milestone in the Space Race between the USA and the USSR during the Cold War.
About Valentina Tereshkova’s Space Journey
In 1962, Tereshkova was selected among five women for the Soviet space program, aiming to achieve ‘gender equality’ in space exploration.
The USSR’s decision to send a woman into space was partly influenced by the success of Yuri Gagarin’s mission in 1961 and the desire to surpass the US in space achievements.
Tereshkova’s affiliation with theCommunist Party and her skills as a parachutist were factors in her selection for the Vostok 6 mission.
The Mission – Vostok 6
On June 16, 1963, Tereshkova piloted Vostok 6, becoming the first woman to orbit the Earth.
She spent 71 hours in space, completing 48 orbits around the Earth during her mission.
Impact and Legacy
Tereshkova’s mission boosted Soviet prestige in the Space Race, following earlier successes like launching Sputnik-1 in 1957 and Yuri Gagarin’s historic flight in 1961.
Despite her pioneering role, the USA would later achieve milestones like the Apollo moon landings, surpassing Soviet achievements in manned space missions.
Tereshkova continued to advocate for women’s participation in space exploration and held prominent positions in Soviet politics and the Air Force.
Indian Women in Space
Indian women have made significant contributions to space exploration, marking milestones and inspiring future generations. Here are notable Indian women who have ventured into space:
Kalpana Chawla: Born in Karnal, Haryana, Kalpana Chawla was the first woman of Indian origin in space. She flew on two Space Shuttle missions, including STS-87 in 1997. Tragically, she lost her life during the re-entry of the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003.
Sunita Williams: An American astronaut of Indian-Slovenian descent, Sunita Williams has set records for spacewalks and served as a flight engineer on the International Space Station (ISS). She has logged over 322 days in space across multiple missions.
Sirisha Bandla: An aeronautical engineer and Vice President at Virgin Galactic, Sirisha Bandla became the second India-born woman to travel to space on the Virgin Galactic Unity 22 mission in 2021.
Women Pioneers of ISRO:
Lalitha Ramachandran: Joined ISRO in 1969 as a technical assistant at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), becoming one of the first female chemical engineers recruited by ISRO. She retired as associate project director of the Cryogenic Upper Stage Project.
J Geetha: Joined ISRO in 1972 after working at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. She reminisces about the challenges of data gathering in the pre-internet era and the mentorship she received from stalwarts like Satish Dhawan and Vasant R Gowarikar.
Radhika Ramachandran: Joined ISRO in 1984 and served in various roles, including technical liaison officer at ISRO’s New Delhi office and director of the Space Physics Laboratory. She highlights the merit-based culture and the support for open discussions and suggestions.
T S Ramadevi: Joined ISRO in 1970 after completing her BTech from CET, Thiruvananthapuram. She was part of the communications unit and contributed to the growth of ISRO’s transmission technologies. She retired as deputy director of management systems.
Athula Devi: Joined ISRO in 1987 and retired in January, having been part of the team that developed base software systems for the Gaganyaan launch. She emphasizes ISRO’s growth through failures and the team’s dedication to projects above personal recognition.
PYQ:
[2017] India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space missions. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (10)
