Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Singhbhum Craton, Archaen Eon
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
- Some recent study about the Singhbhum Craton in India, reveals that explosive volcanic eruptions were frequent around 3.5 billion years ago in regions that are also present in South Africa, and Australia.
What are Cratons?
- Cratons are stable, ancient portions of the continental lithosphere, consisting of Earth’s two topmost layers—the crust and the uppermost mantle.
- Cratons are typically found in the interiors of tectonic plates and are characterized by their ancient crystalline basement rock, often dating back to the Archean Eon.
- Mantle plume events have played a significant role in the evolution of cratons.
About Singhbhum Craton:
- The Singhbhum Craton is a geological region in India.
- Location: It is located in eastern India, covering parts of the states of Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal. The craton is separated from the Bastar Craton by the Mahanadi Graben and is in the vicinity of two Proterozoic mobile belts: the Satpura Mobile Belt and the Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt.
- Geological features:
- The rocks in the Singhbhum Craton are predominantly of Archean age, ranging from Paleoarchean to Paleoproterozoic.
- It is a part of the larger Indian Shield, which is a stable continental crust that formed during the Archean Eon.
- The Singhbhum Craton is known for its abundant occurrences of Banded Iron Formations (BIFs), which are closely associated with basic volcanic and ultrabasic intrusive. The craton is also known for its iron ore deposits, which are found in the Iron Ore Group (IOG) and are closely associated with lavas and tuffs.
- The Singhbhum Craton has undergone regional metamorphism of the amphibolite facies and is believed to have evolved as a consequence of multiple phases of compressive deformation.
- The craton is made up of multiple pulses of discrete mantle plume events, resulting in a complex geological history.
Archaean Eon
- The Archaean Eon, one of the two formal divisions of Precambrian time, began about 4 billion years ago and extended to the start of the Proterozoic Eon.
- During this period, life on Earth was limited to simple single-celled organisms lacking nuclei, known as Prokaryota.
- The atmosphere lacked oxygen, and the Earth’s crust had cooled enough to allow the formation of continents.
- Volcanic activity was considerably higher than today, with numerous lava eruptions.
- The oldest rock formations exposed on Earth are from the Archaean Eon.
- The Archaean rock system includes Archaean Gneisses and Schists, which are the oldest metamorphosed rocks found in abundance in regions like the Dharwar district of Karnataka.
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What are the recent key findings?
- Submarine Mafic Volcanism: The prevalence of submarine mafic volcanic eruptions between 3.5 and 3.3 billion years ago is documented, enriching our understanding of ancient volcanic and sedimentary processes.
- Geodynamic Insights: Comparative analysis enhances our comprehension of early Earth tectonic activities and surface/atmospheric processes during the Archaean.
Research Methodology Used:
- Field Studies and Radiometric Dating: Detailed field-based studies coupled with uranium-lead radiometric-age dating were employed to establish geological timelines and understand magma crystallization.
- Comparative Analysis: The geological similarities between the Singhbhum Craton and counterparts in South Africa and Australia were studied, focusing on volcanic eruption patterns.
Implications and Significance of the study:
- Earth’s Formative Years: Insights into Earth’s early tectonic activities contribute significantly to understanding the planet’s formative years.
- Habitable Conditions: Unique geological features, such as greenstone belts, provide invaluable information about early habitable conditions and the emergence of life.
- Global Geodynamic Processes: Comparative studies across cratons worldwide facilitate the construction of comprehensive models elucidating ancient geodynamic processes prevalent during the Archaean.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Super Pollutants types
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
- Recently, the annual meeting of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) which took place from 21 to 23 February 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya on the margins of the Sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) highlighted the critical importance of international collaboration in combating short-lived climate pollutants, commonly known as “Super Pollutants.”
What are Super Pollutants?
- Super pollutants, or short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), have a shorter atmospheric lifespan compared to CO2 but significantly impact climate change and air quality. Methane (CH4), black carbon (soot), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and tropospheric ozone (O3) are some of the major superpollutants.
Impacts of Super Pollutants
- Methane (CH 4):
- Characteristics: Potent greenhouse gas emitted from various sources such as livestock and fossil fuel production.
- Its Impact: Traps heat in the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change.
- Black Carbon (Soot):
- Characteristics: Fine particulate matter from incomplete combustion of fuels.
- Its Impact: Absorbs sunlight, heats the atmosphere, and accelerates the melting of snow and ice.
- Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs):
- Characteristics: Synthetic greenhouse gases used in refrigeration.
- Its Impact: High global warming potential despite short atmospheric lifespan.
- Tropospheric Ozone (O3):
- Characteristics: Secondary pollutants formed from VOCs and NOx.
- Its Impact: Contributes to smog, has adverse health effects, and acts as a greenhouse gas.
About Climate and Clean Air Conference 2024:
- What is the aim and objective?
- The CCAC 2024 moved the dialogue forward, focusing on the cost of inaction, highlighting ways to further scale up implementation of the Global Methane Pledge, Clean Air Flagship and Kigali Amendment, and collectively charting the course to 2025 and beyond.
- What did the CCAC 2024 Feature for?
- National policy and planning: High-level plenary sessions on global, regional and national efforts to reduce methane, black carbon, and HFCs, including the benefits of fast action, and financing for implementation.
- Science and Technology: Science Policy Dialogue sessions on latest emerging science and how new information can inform policy development. Technical sessions among CCAC Sector Hub members to showcase best practices in key emitting sectors: agriculture, cooling, fossil fuels, heavy-duty vehicles and engines, household energy, and waste.
- Focus on Implementation: Practical sessions to further refine work plans among CCAC National Consultants; Non-State Partners and Scientific Advisory Panel Members.
- What are the Functions?
- The CCAC works at the nexus of climate and air quality, to deliver multiple benefits from the fast mitigation of short-lived climate pollutants.
- Driven by policy-relevant science and pragmatism, CCAC works from the ground up, equitably and inclusively, empowering our partners to achieve their respective National Goals and catalyzing action — as well as from the top down, bringing together ministers and leaders to drive high-level ambition.
- About the previous Conference:
- The CCAC 2023 was held in Bangkok.
- As an outcome of this conference, CCAC 2023 integrated planning on climate and clean air is essential to identify priority actions in key emitting sectors to scale up mitigation, and action at the national and regional level is motivating collaboration at the global scale.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AEgIS Initiative , Positronium
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
- For the first time, an international team of physicists from the Anti-hydrogen Experiment: Gravity, Interferometry, Spectroscopy (AEgIS) collaboration has achieved a breakthrough by demonstrating the laser cooling of Positronium.
What is Positronium?
- Positronium comprises a bound electron (e-) and a positron (e+), forming a fundamental atomic system.
- What are its Properties?
- Concise (short) life where it annihilates with a half-life of 142 nanoseconds.
- Its mass is twice the electron mass, and it is considered a pure leptonic atom.
- Its hydrogen-like system, with halved frequencies for excitation, makes it ideal for attempting laser cooling and performing tests of fundamental physics theories.
About AEgIS Initiative
- Timeline: The AEgIS experiment was formally accepted by CERN in 2008, with construction and commissioning continuing through 2012-2016.
- Team: Physicists representing 19 European and one Indian research group from the AEgIS collaboration announced this scientific breakthrough.
- Experiment Location: The experiment was conducted at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Why this is significant? This experiment serves as a crucial precursor to the formation of anti-hydrogen and the measurement of Earth’s gravitational acceleration on antihydrogen in the AEgIS experiment.
Key Outcomes
- Temperature Reduction: Laser cooling initially brought Positronium atoms from ~380 Kelvin to ~170 Kelvin.
- Laser System: A 70-nanosecond pulse of the alexandrite-based laser system was used to demonstrate cooling in one dimension.
- Frequency Bands: Lasers deployed were either in the deep ultraviolet or infrared frequency bands.
Future Implications
- Spectroscopic Comparisons: Physicists expect this experiment to pave the way for performing spectroscopic comparisons required for Quantum Electrodynamics (QED).
- Potential Applications: The experiment allows for high-precision measurements of properties and gravitational behavior of Positronium, offering insights into newer physics and the production of a positronium Bose–Einstein condensate.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Exercise Dosti
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- Indian and Sri Lankan coast guard ships recently arrived in the Maldives to participate in the trilateral coast guard exercise Dosti 16.
Exercise Dosti
- Trilateral Collaboration: Dosti is a trilateral coast guard exercise involving India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
- Biennial Event: Conducted biennially, the exercise serves as a platform for enhancing cooperation and interoperability among participating nations.
- Inception: Initiated in 1991 between the Indian and Maldives Coast Guards, with Sri Lanka joining in 2012.
- Previous Editions: The exercise, last held in 2021, focuses on various maritime scenarios, including search and rescue operations and pollution response.
Objectives and Focus Areas
- Enhancing Friendship: Dosti aims to strengthen the bonds of friendship and mutual trust among the coast guards of participating nations.
- Operational Capability: The exercise emphasizes enhancing operational capability and interoperability through joint drills and exercises.
- Maritime Safety: Exercises and drills focus on providing assistance during sea accidents, combating sea pollution, and addressing challenges like oil spills.
Dosti 16: Current Edition
- Edition Details: Dosti 16 marks the 16th edition of the exercise, continuing the tradition of fostering maritime cooperation.
- Participating Forces: The coast guards of India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, along with observers from Bangladesh, are actively participating.
- Indian Contribution: India’s participation includes vessels like ICGS Samarth (with integral helo), ICGS Abhinav, and ICG Dornier, showcasing its commitment to regional maritime security.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ASHA
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- ASHAs, or Accredited Social Health Activists, have emerged as pivotal figures in India’s public health landscape, embodying the promise of compassionate care and community advocacy.
Who are the ASHA workers?
- Inception: Established in 2002 in Chhattisgarh, ASHAs were envisioned as community health workers, modeled after the ‘Mitanins’, to bridge the gap between the health system and local populations. Initiated in 2005-06 as part of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM); Expanded to urban settings since 2013 via the National Urban Health Mission.
- Number: Around 10.4 lakhs employed across India. The highest numbers are in populous states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
- Geographical Distribution: One ASHA per 1,000 people in rural areas, adjusted to one per habitation in tribal, hilly, and desert regions.
- Global Recognition: Awarded by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2013.
- Functions and Responsibilities: Register newborns, pregnant women, and deaths; accompany patients to health centers; distribute medicines; conduct immunization drives; and report health statistics.
Criteria for selection of ASHA worker:
- For Rural:
- The prospective candidate must be a married, widowed or divorced female resident of the village she’s applying to work at.
- Must be aged between 25 and 45 years.
- Candidates must be literate. Preference is given to those with a 10th pass certificate. There are several interviews at the Anganwadi, block and district levels. The health committees maintain a thorough selection process.
- For Urban:
- The prospective candidates must be female residents of vulnerable clusters or slums within an urban setup.
- This slum or cluster must be identified by the City or District Health Society as priority zones for ASHA healthcare workers. The candidate should preferably be married, widowed, separated or divorced.
- Must be aged between 25 and 45 years.
- Candidates must be literate and must have fluency in the native language of the community.
Challenges Faced by ASHAs
[1] Work Challenges
- Overwork and Underpayment: ASHAs endure a “triple shift,” balancing household responsibilities, community outreach, and health center duties, often without adequate compensation or rest.
- Systemic Inequities: ASHAs experience power imbalances along gender and caste lines, compounded by their status as “volunteers,” leading to economic, physical, and psychological vulnerabilities.
- Social Stigma: Despite their crucial role in improving health outcomes, ASHAs often face social stigma and discrimination within their communities, hindering their effectiveness and well-being.
[2] Occupational Hazards
- Physical Strain: Irregular meals, inadequate sleep, and exposure to extreme weather conditions contribute to health issues like malnutrition, anaemia, and non-communicable diseases among ASHAs.
- Mental Health Challenges: The demanding nature of their work and limited social support expose ASHAs to high levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, affecting their overall well-being and job satisfaction.
- Safety Concerns: ASHAs, particularly those working in remote or conflict-affected areas, face risks of harassment, violence, and assault while performing their duties, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures and support systems.
[3] Social and Economic Implications
- Economic Precarity: ASHAs’ honorariums serve as primary family income, yet delays in payment and out-of-pocket expenses exacerbate financial strain, perpetuating cycles of poverty and dependence.
- Gendered Burden: ASHAs, predominantly women, often bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities within their households, leading to gender disparities in workload distribution and access to resources.
- Empowerment and Agency: Despite facing numerous challenges, ASHAs demonstrate resilience and agency in advocating for their rights, mobilizing communities, and demanding policy reforms to improve their working conditions and livelihoods.
Advocacy and Policy Recommendations
- Recognition and Fair Compensation: Advocate for institutional recognition, fair wages, and improved working conditions for ASHAs, aiming for them to become government employees with access to social security benefits and maternity support.
- Capacity Building: Support initiatives aimed at enhancing ASHA skills, knowledge, and confidence through targeted training and skill development programs.
- Community Engagement: Encourage local communities to recognize and appreciate the contributions of ASHAs, fostering stronger support, trust, and collaboration.
- Safety Measures: Enhance safety protocols and support systems for ASHAs, especially those working in remote or conflict-affected areas, to minimize risks of harassment, violence, and assault.
- Address Systemic Barriers: Tackle gender and caste-based inequalities experienced by ASHAs, promoting equal opportunities and access to resources.
- Financial Security: Ensure timely payments and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for ASHAs, mitigating financial strain and perpetual cycles of poverty.
Conclusion
- The plight of ASHAs reflects broader structural injustices within India’s healthcare sector, underscoring the urgent need for policy reforms and systemic support.
- As frontline warriors in public health, ASHAs deserve equitable treatment, recognition, and protection, essential for advancing both individual well-being and community health outcomes.
- Through collective advocacy, empowerment, and solidarity, ASHAs can continue to drive positive change and make lasting contributions to public health in India.
Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:
With reference to the National Rural Health Mission, which of the following are the jobs of ASHA, a trained community health worker?
- Accompanying women to the health facility for antenatal care checkups
- Using pregnancy test kits for early detection of pregnancy
- Providing information on nutrition and immunization
- Conducting the delivery of the baby
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2 and 4 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various portals mentioned in the newscard
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Minister of Information and Broadcasting unveiled four groundbreaking portals poised to reshape India’s media landscape, promising efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.
[1] Press Sewa Portal:
- Objective: The Press Sewa Portal is designed to streamline the process of newspaper registration and related activities under the Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023 (PRP Act, 2023).
- Key Features:
- Online Application: Publishers can submit applications for title registration online, utilizing Aadhar-based e-signatures for authentication.
- Probability Meter: Indicates the likelihood of title availability, offering publishers insight into the registration process.
- Real-time Tracking: Allows users to track the status of their applications through an intuitive dashboard, facilitating transparency and efficiency.
- District Magistrate Module: Enables District Magistrates to manage applications received from publishers in a centralized dashboard.
- Benefits of Automation: The portal offers online services for title registration, paperless processes with e-sign facilities, integration of a direct payment gateway, issuance of QR code-based digital certificates, and a module for Press Keepers/owners to provide online intimation about printing press activities.
- Impact: Simplifies the cumbersome registration procedures prevalent under the colonial PRB Act, 1867, and modernizes the registration landscape for publishers, enhancing efficiency and transparency.
[2] Transparent Empanelment Media Planning and eBilling System:
- Objective: This system aims to revolutionize media planning processes, enhance transparency, and provide an end-to-end ERP solution for the media industry, particularly for the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC).
- Key Features:
- Streamlined Empanelment Process: Offers an online system for empanelment of various media channels (newspapers, periodicals, TV, radio, and digital media), ensuring transparency and efficiency.
- Automated Media Planning: Enhances tools and features for online generation of media plans, reducing manual intervention and preparation time.
- Automated Billing: Integration of an eBilling processing system for seamless and transparent bill submission, verification, and payment.
- Mobile App: Provides a comprehensive mobile app for partners with timestamp and geo-tagging functionality for organized monitoring.
- Promoting Ease of Doing Business: Facilitates faster empanelment, a hassle-free business environment, automated compliance, and swifter payment processing, thereby enhancing the ease of doing business in the media industry.
- Reliable Solution: The portal is integrated with the latest technology to generate real-time analytical reports, enabling data-driven decisions and efficient media planning.
[3] NaViGate Bharat Portal:
- Objective: The NaViGate Bharat portal serves as the National Video Gateway of Bharat, offering a unified bilingual platform for hosting videos on government’s development initiatives and welfare-oriented measures.
- Key Features:
- Dedicated Pages: Offers dedicated pages for ministries, sectors, schemes, and campaigns, providing detailed descriptions and advanced search functionalities.
- Easy Navigation & Search: Provides easy access for users to find relevant videos through categorization, tagging, and advanced search functionalities.
- Seamless Video Playback & Streaming: Enables seamless video playback and streaming for a user-friendly viewing experience.
- Download & Sharing Options: Allows users to download and share videos through social media platforms, promoting widespread dissemination of information.
- Empowering Citizens: Empowers citizens by providing a single platform for accessing authentic government videos, fostering transparency, and promoting awareness about government initiatives.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Offers comprehensive coverage of government schemes, initiatives, and campaigns, ensuring that no one is left behind in understanding the initiatives shaping the nation’s future.
[4] National Register for LCOs:
- Objective: The National Register for Local Cable Operators (LCOs) aims to centralize the registration process for LCOs, bringing them under a centralized registration system.
- Key Features:
- Web Form: A web form is designed to collect information from local cable operators for the purpose of the National Register.
- Online Publication: The National Register for LCOs is published online and regularly updated, offering a more organized approach to cable sector registration.
- Impact: Promises a more organized cable sector with a National Registration Number for LCOs, facilitating the formulation of new policies for responsible service and convenience for cable operators.
- Aligning with Vision: The initiative aligns with India’s vision of a developed and organized cable sector, contributing to the countries overall development and welfare.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Paruveta Festival
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is spearheading efforts to secure UNESCO recognition for the annual ‘Paruveta’ Festival celebrated at the Sri Narasimha Swamy temple in Ahobilam, Andhra Pradesh.
About Paruveta Festival
- The festival takes place at the Sri Narasimha Swamy temple in Ahobilam, Andhra Pradesh, attracting devotees from diverse backgrounds.
- Celebrated by people of all castes, the festival fosters communal harmony, with devotees from various religious communities, including Muslims, offering prayers to Lord Narasimha.
- Folklore narrates that Lord Vishnu married Chenchulakshmi, a tribal girl, in Ahobilam, strengthening ties between the deity and the local Chenchu tribe.
- Unlike other temples where Paruveta rituals occur during Vijayadasami or Sankranti, at Ahobilam, the festival celebration spans a ‘mandala’ of 40 days.
- Rituals:
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- The deity is ceremoniously taken to the 32 Chenchu tribal villages surrounding Ahobilam, signifying the community’s reverence.
- Chenchus demonstrate their protective devotion by symbolically aiming arrows at the deity’s palanquin.
- Chenchu devotees undertake ‘Narasimha Deeksha’, donning yellow robes and observing celibacy during the 40-day period.
- Temple staff reside in these hamlets, reflecting a historical casteless society devoid of untouchability.
UNESCO Criteria for Inclusion into the Cultural Heritage List:
- To represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
- To exhibit an important interchange of human values, over some time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
- To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization that is living or which has disappeared;
- To be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape that illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
- To be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land use, or sea use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
- To be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance. (The Committee considers that this criterion should preferably be used in conjunction with other criteria);
Try this PYQ from CSP 2014:
Every year, a month long ecologically important campaign/festival is held during which certain communities/ tribes plant saplings of fruit-bearing trees. Which of the following are such communities/tribes?
a) Bhutia and Lepcha
b) Gond and Korku
c) lrula and Toda
d) Sahariya and Agariya
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Guinea Worm Disease
Mains level: NA
Why in the News?
The imminent eradication of Guinea worm disease marks a major win for public health, showcasing the effectiveness of simple strategies in fighting diseases.
About Guinea Worm Disease
- Causes: Guinea worm disease, known since ancient times as the “fiery serpent,” is caused by the Guinea worm (Dracunculus medinensis), bringing painful blisters and severe symptoms to those affected.
- How It Spreads: People develop painful blisters, and when they come into contact with water, adult worms emerge, contaminating water sources and continuing the cycle of infection.
Symptoms and Impact
- Pain and Suffering: The disease causes intense pain, swelling, and ulcers, making it hard for people to go about their daily lives.
- Effects: Mostly affecting the legs and feet, Guinea worm disease worsens poverty and illness in areas where clean water and healthcare are scarce.
Success Story in India
- Beating the Disease: India successfully got rid of Guinea worm disease in the late 1990s by focusing on simple things like clean water and educating communities about health.
- Team Effort: India’s government, local health workers, and international partners worked together to achieve this victory.
Global Progress and Challenges
- Making Strides: Progress has been made globally, but challenges remain in places like Chad and the Central African Republic, where the disease is still a problem.
- New Hurdles: Finding Guinea worms in animals like dogs shows that the disease is tough and needs continued attention.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kiru Hydel Project
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- The CBI has conducted searches at 12 locations in Delhi and Rajasthan regarding alleged corruption in the award of civil works worth ₹2,200 crore related to the Kiru hydroelectric power project.
About Kiru Hydel Project
- Location: Situated over the Chenab River near Patharnakki and Kiru villages in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
- Capacity: A 624MW run-of-river project.
- Developers: Chenab Valley Power Projects (CVPP), a joint venture of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC, 49%), Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC, 49%), and Power Trading Corporation (PTC, 2%).
- Beneficiary States: J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Rajasthan, Union territories of Chandigarh & Delhi.
- The Hydropower Plant consists of :
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- 135m-high concrete gravity dam near Kiru.
- Catchment area of 10,225km², with a 6.5km-long and 1.03km² reservoir.
- 700m-long horse-shoe shaped diversion tunnel with two openings to divert river flow for dam construction.
Back2Basics: Run-of-the-River Hydroelectric Systems
- These systems harness energy from flowing water to generate electricity without the need for a large dam and reservoir, distinguishing them from conventional impoundment hydroelectric facilities.
- Run-of-the-river projects utilize the natural flow of rivers, diverting a portion of the water through turbines to generate electricity.
- This minimizes environmental impact compared to traditional dam projects.
- They have lower ecological disruption, reduced flood risk, and faster project implementation compared to conventional hydroelectric dams.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Three-finger toxin (3FTx)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc.) in Bengaluru have successfully created a synthetic human antibody capable of neutralizing potent neurotoxins found in the venom of highly toxic snakes.
Synthetic Antibody against Snake Venom
- Approach: The team utilized a method previously employed to screen antibodies against HIV and COVID-19 to synthesize the new venom-neutralizing antibody.
- Targeted Region: The developed antibody targets a conserved region within the core of a major toxin called the three-finger toxin (3FTx) present in elapid venom.
- Library of Antibodies: The team designed a library of artificial antibodies from humans displayed on yeast cell surfaces and screened them for binding to 3FTxs from different elapid snakes worldwide.
- Effective Binding: After rigorous screening, one antibody emerged capable of binding strongly to various 3FTxs, displaying effectiveness across different elapid species.
Challenges with Current Anti-venom
- Animal-Based Production: Existing anti-venom production involves injecting snake venom into equines and collecting antibodies from their blood, leading to therapeutically redundant antibodies due to exposure to various microorganisms.
- Efficacy Concerns: Research indicates that less than 10% of anti-venom contains antibodies specifically targeting snake venom toxins, raising concerns about efficacy.
Animal Model Testing
- Efficacy in Mice: Mice injected with a toxic 3FTx along with the antibody survived past the 24-hour observation window, while those given only the toxin succumbed within four hours.
- Versatility: The antibody showed effectiveness against the venom of different elapid species, including the monocled cobra and black mamba, with nearly 15 times the potency of conventional products.
- Delayed Administration: Crucially, administering the antibody after a time delay still successfully saved the mice, highlighting its potential for delayed treatment.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fali S Nariman and his notable cases
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Fali S. Nariman, an eminent jurist and Senior Advocate, left an indelible mark on India’s legal landscape over his illustrious 75-year career.
- Representing clients in a multitude of landmark cases, his contributions reshaped constitutional jurisprudence and safeguarded democratic principles.
Legacy in Indian Jurisprudence
- Legal Battle: Advocating before the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association v. Union of India (1981), Nariman challenged the interpretation of “consultation” in judicial appointments, emphasizing its binding nature to preserve judicial autonomy.
- Judicial Triumph: Nariman’s advocacy led to the establishment of the Supreme Court Collegium, ensuring transparent and independent judicial appointments, a landmark decision that endures to this day.
- Presidential Reference: Nariman contributed to the Supreme Court’s deliberations in Special Reference 1 (1998), facilitating a structured consultative process for judicial appointments, reinforcing the judiciary’s collective responsibility.
- Expanded Collegium: His efforts expanded the scope of judicial consultation, enhancing transparency and accountability in the appointment process.
- Challenging Executive Interference: In Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association v. Union of India, Nariman vehemently opposed the National Judicial Appointment Commission Act, 2014, safeguarding judicial autonomy against executive overreach.
- Triumph for Collegium System: His advocacy contributed to the reinstatement of the collegium system, preserving the judiciary’s prerogative in judicial appointments.
- Constitutional Challenge: Nariman’s intervention in Golak Nath v. State of Punjab (1967) underscored Parliament’s limitations in amending fundamental rights, reinforcing the sanctity of constitutional provisions.
- Protecting Liberties: His advocacy upheld the inviolability of fundamental rights, ensuring the primacy of constitutional principles.
[5] Bhopal Gas Tragedy: Union Carbide Corporation v. Union of India (1989)
- Navigating Tragedy: Nariman’s representation of Union Carbide in the aftermath of the Bhopal gas tragedy facilitated a landmark settlement, ensuring timely compensation for victims and environmental remediation.
[6] Safeguarding Minority Rights: TMA Pai Foundation v. State of Karnataka
- Advocating Pluralism: Nariman’s involvement in TMA Pai Foundation v. State of Karnataka underscored the constitutional protection of minority rights in education, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the educational landscape.
[7] Upholding Constitutional Norms: Nabam Rebia v. Deputy Speaker
- Restoring Constitutional Order: Nariman’s intervention in Nabam Rebia v. Deputy Speaker (2016) reaffirmed the constitutional mandate for gubernatorial action, preserving democratic governance and institutional integrity.
[8] Ensuring Legal Fairness: J. Jayalalithaa v. State of Tamil Nadu
- Securing Justice: Nariman’s successful bail plea for Jayalalithaa exemplified his commitment to due process, ensuring equitable legal treatment for all individuals before the law.
[9] Resolving Inter-State Disputes: State of Karnataka v. State of Tamil Nadu
- Navigating Complexities: Nariman’s representation in the Cauvery water dispute showcased his dedication to resolving interstate conflicts through legal avenues, contributing to the equitable allocation of vital natural resources.
Conclusion
- Fali S. Nariman’s illustrious legal career stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.
- His profound influence on Indian jurisprudence reverberates through landmark decisions and enduring legal principles, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s legal landscape.
Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:
What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the Supreme Court of India?
- While appointing the Supreme Court Judges, the President of India has to consult the Chief Justice of India.
- The Supreme Court Judges can be removed by the Chief Justice of India only.
- The salaries of the Judges are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India to which the legislative does not have to vote.
- All appointments of officers and staffs of the Supreme Court of India are made by the Government only after consulting the Chief Justice of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 3 only
- 3 and 4 only
- 4 only
- 1, 2, 3 and 4
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Helium Star, Neutron Star etc.
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Astronomers have triumphantly uncovered a rare class of stars, known as helium stars, after a decade-long quest.
- Led by Dr. Maria Drout from the University of Toronto, astronomers embarked on a collaborative mission to decipher the mysteries of these elusive cosmic entities
Helium Stars: An Overview
- Helium stars, also known as helium-burning stars, are a stage in the evolution of certain types of stars.
- These stars are typically more massive than the Sun and have exhausted the hydrogen fuel in their cores, leading to a contraction and subsequent heating of the core.
- As a result, helium fusion begins in the core, where helium nuclei fuse to form heavier elements such as carbon and oxygen.
- This fusion process releases energy, causing the star to expand and become more luminous.
- Helium stars represent an intermediate stage in stellar evolution between main-sequence stars and later stages such as red giants or supernovae.
Key Findings and Insights
- Spectral Analysis: Rigorous spectral analysis conducted from 2017 to 2024 unveiled distinct classes of helium stars based on hydrogen content, providing profound insights into their evolutionary trajectories.
- Computational Modeling: Advanced computational modelling techniques yielded crucial data on surface temperatures and gravitational forces, enriching our understanding of helium stars’ properties.
- Surface Conditions of Class 1 Stars: Further investigations into Class 1 helium stars revealed intriguing surface conditions. The team utilized computer modelling to determine surface temperature and gravity, finding them to be approximately 20 times hotter than the Sun and possessing surface gravity about 1,000 times stronger than Earth’s.
Significance of the Findings
- Hydrogen-Deficient Supernovae: A pivotal breakthrough in the discovery of helium stars was the elucidation of hydrogen-deficient supernovae, perplexing phenomena that puzzled scientists for decades.
- Binary-Star Interactions: Gravitational interactions within binary star systems played a crucial role in unmasking the helium-rich surfaces of these stellar anomalies.
Implications for Astrophysics
- Cosmic Laboratories: Helium stars serve as invaluable cosmic laboratories, offering unprecedented opportunities to explore the intricacies of stellar evolution and binary star dynamics.
- Frontiers of Research: Their discovery opens new frontiers in astrophysical research, unraveling mysteries surrounding heavy element formation and gravitational wave generation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP)
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved ₹340/quintal as the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane for sugar season 2024-25 at sugar recovery rate of 10.25%.
- This is about 8% higher than FRP of sugarcane for the current season 2023-24.
Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP): Explained
- Legal Framework: FRP is established under the Sugarcane Control Order, 1966.
- Minimum Payment: It denotes the minimum price obligated to be paid by sugar mills to farmers for their sugarcane produce.
- State Agreed Price (SAP): States have the authority to determine their SAP, typically higher than the FRP.
- The fixation of FRP considers various factors, including:
- Cost of sugarcane production,
- Return from alternative crops,
- Consumer sugar prices,
- Sale price of sugar,
- Sugarcane-to-sugar recovery rate,
- Income from by-products (e.g., molasses, bagasse),
- Adequate profit margins for sugarcane growers.
Determining Sugarcane Prices
- Central Determination: FRP is set by the Central Government based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and endorsed by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
- State Role: States announce SAP, often surpassing the FRP.
Minimum Selling Price (MSP) for Sugar
- Market Dynamics: Sugar prices fluctuate based on market demand and supply.
- Introducing MSP: To safeguard farmers’ interests, MSP for sugar was introduced in 2018.
- Components Considered: MSP incorporates elements of FRP for sugarcane and the minimal conversion cost of efficient mills.
Basis of Price Determination
- Transition from SMP to FRP: In 2009-10, FRP replaced the Statutory Minimum Price (SMP) of sugarcane.
- Consultative Process: The Central Government, in consultation with state authorities and sugar industry associations, determines the sugarcane price based on CACP recommendations.
Try this PYQ from CSP 2019:
Q. The Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane is approved by the:
(a) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
(b) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
(c) Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture
(d) Agricultural Produce Market Committee
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CE20, Working of Cryogenic Engine
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its quest for human spaceflight with the successful human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine.
- The ground qualification tests, conducted at the High Altitude Test Facility at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, have been successfully completed, validating the CE20 engine for the Gaganyaan programme.
What is Cryogenic Engine?
- It is a type of rocket engine that operates on cryogenic (extremely low-temperature) fuels and oxidizers, typically liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX).
- They are highly efficient due to the high energy density of cryogenic fuels.
- They provide greater thrust compared to traditional rocket engines, making them suitable for launching heavy payloads into space.
- They are commonly used in the upper stages of space launch vehicles, where they propel payloads from initial launch phases into desired orbits.
- They operate at extremely low temperatures, typically below -150°C (-238°F) for liquid hydrogen and below -183°C (-297°F) for liquid oxygen.
|
About CE20 Cryogenic Engine
- It has been designed and developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), a subsidiary of ISRO.
- It is the first Indian cryogenic engine to feature a gas-generator cycle.
- It is one of the most powerful upper-stage cryogenic engines in the world.
- This engine develops a nominal thrust of 186.36 kN in vacuum.
Key Highlights of Ground Qualification Tests
- Thorough Evaluation: The CE20 engine underwent extensive testing, including evaluation under nominal and off-nominal conditions related to thrust, mixture ratio, and propellant tank pressure.
- Hot Firing Tests: Four engines underwent a total of 39 hot firing tests, accumulating a cumulative duration of 8,810 seconds, surpassing the minimum human rating qualification standard requirement of 6,350 seconds.
Update on First Unmanned Gaganyaan (G1) Mission
- Mission Objectives: The Gaganyaan project aims to demonstrate India’s human spaceflight capabilities by launching a crew of three members into a 400 km orbit for a 3-day mission, followed by a safe return to Earth with a landing in Indian sea waters.
- Acceptance Tests: ISRO has completed the acceptance tests of the flight engine designated for the first unmanned Gaganyaan (G1) mission, scheduled tentatively for the second quarter of 2024.
- Engine Specifications: The flight engine, which will power the upper stage of the human-rated LVM3 vehicle, boasts a thrust capability of 19 to 22 tonnes and a specific impulse of 442.5 seconds.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kapilvastu Relics
Mains level: Places associated with Buddha
Introduction
- India will showcase some relics of Lord Buddha, currently in its possession, in Thailand from February 22 to March 18.
Kapilvastu Relics: Details
- Designation: The relics of Lord Buddha and his disciples Arahata Sariputra and Arahata Maudgalayana are known as the ‘Kapilvastu Relics.’
- Origin: These relics, comprising 20 bone fragments, have been preserved at India’s National Museum.
- Discovery: They were recovered in 1898 from a site in Bihar believed to be the ancient city of Kapilvastu. It was an inscribed casket found at the stupa site in Piprahwa (near Siddharthnagar in UP) that helped identify Kapilavastu.
- Age: Dating back to the 4th or 5th Century BC, these relics were discovered in Bihar’s Piprahwa, believed to be the ancient city of Kapilvastu.
- Excavation Details: The ASI unearthed these relics during excavations conducted from 1971 to 1977, discovering two inscribed steatite stone caskets containing 12 and 10 sacred relics, respectively.
Public Display in Thailand
- Previous Exhibitions: Portions of these relics were earlier exhibited in Sri Lanka (1976, 2012), Mongolia (1993, 2022), Singapore (1994, 2007), South Korea (1995), and Thailand (1995).
- Construction of Pagoda: The Thai government has built a special pagoda in Bangkok to enshrine the relics during the exhibition.
Significance of Display: Promotion of Indian Diplomacy
- Diplomatic Achievement: This event signifies a diplomatic achievement for India, strengthening ties with Thailand and promoting cultural exchange.
- Buddhist Circuit Development: The initiative aligns with India’s ‘Look East’ policy and emphasizes the promotion of soft power through cultural exchanges.
- Past Engagements: India previously sent the relics to Mongolia in 2022 and Sri Lanka in 2012, showcasing its commitment to fostering cultural and spiritual ties.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nanoplastics in Water Bottles
Mains level: Health and ecological hazards of Nanoplastics
Introduction
- A recent study conducted by scientists at Columbia University sheds light on the pervasive presence of micro- and nano-plastics in bottled water, with nano-plastics comprising a staggering 90% of the detected particles.
What are Nanoplastics?
- Definition: Nanoplastics, measured in billionths of a metre, are minuscule particles that evade detection by the naked eye, posing challenges for identification and quantification.
- Comparative Analysis: Smaller than microplastics, nano-plastics exemplify dimensions that are 70 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair, rendering them inconspicuous yet ubiquitous.
Key Findings
- Elevated Concentration: Bottled water contains approximately 2.4 lakh micro- and nano-plastic particles per litre, highlighting a significant underestimation of plastic concentration compared to previous assessments.
- Dominance of Nanoplastics: Nano-sized particles, previously overlooked by conventional imaging techniques, emerge as the predominant component, constituting 90% of the total plastic population.
- Complex Particle Dynamics: Analysis reveals a diverse array of plastic compositions, shapes, and sizes, elucidating the intricate interplay between different plastic types within the aquatic environment.
How were they assessed?
- Challenges in Analysis: Nanoplastics pose analytical challenges due to their diminutive size and the limitations of existing diagnostic methods.
- Innovative Approach: Researchers utilize a custom hyperspectral Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) imaging platform to overcome these challenges, enabling detailed molecular analysis at the single-particle level.
- Raman Scattering Principle: SRS microscopy leverages the Raman Effect, allowing for the identification of plastic particles based on their unique spectral signatures.
What is Raman Effect?
- Discovered by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928, it describes the scattering of light by molecules, resulting in a shift in wavelength due to energy exchange.
- Raman Effect occurs spontaneously when light interacts with matter, causing a small fraction of light shift to longer or shorter wavelengths.
- SRS is a controlled process where two laser beams with different frequencies interact with a material, amplifying the Raman signal.
- Unlike the weak signal of the Raman Effect, SRS involves amplifying the Raman signal by the presence of pump and Stokes laser beams.
- SRS find applications in various fields such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and chemical analysis, with SRS offering enhanced sensitivity and specificity due to its controlled nature.
- India celebrates National Science Day on February 28 each year to mark the discovery of the Raman effect by Indian physicist Sir C. V. Raman on 28 February 1928
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Implications
- Environmental Significance: The study underscores the pervasive nature of plastic pollution, with microplastics infiltrating ecosystems worldwide, including bottled water sources.
- Biological Impact: Sub-micrometre plastic particles pose potential health risks, as they can traverse biological barriers and accumulate within living organisms.
- Technological Advancements: The adoption of advanced imaging technologies enhances our understanding of nanoplastic dynamics, facilitating more accurate assessments of plastic pollution levels.
Try this question from CSP 2017
Q.Which Indian astrophysicist and Nobel laureate predicted rapidly rotating stars emit polarized light?
(a) Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar
(b) CV Raman
(c) Ramanujan
(d) Amartya Sen
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lodrani, Dholavira, Harappan Civilizaiton (IVC)
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Legend has it that Lodrani, a hamlet near Dholavira in Kutch, was believed to be sitting on buried gold, prompting locals to initiate a dig around five years ago.
- Contrary to expectations, the excavation led to the discovery of a fortified Harappan-era settlement, challenging the assumptions about the area’s history.
Archaeological Findings at Lodrani
- Harappan-Era Settlement: Ajay Yadav and Damian Robinson from Oxford’s School of Archaeology led the archaeological exploration, revealing a well-preserved Harappan settlement.
- Architectural Resemblance to Dholavira: Yadav notes striking architectural similarities between the newly discovered site, named Morodharo, and Dholavira.
- Flourishing Ancient Life: Despite being initially dismissed as a medieval fortress, the site unveils evidence of a thriving civilization dating back around 4,500 years.
Significance
- Harappan Pottery: The site yielded a significant amount of Harappan pottery akin to findings at Dholavira, indicating a connection between the two settlements.
- Chronological Placement: Experts suggest Morodharo exhibits characteristics of mature to late Harappan periods (2,600-1,300 BCE), shedding light on the region’s ancient chronology.
Insights from Archaeologists
- Dependence on the Sea: Both Dholavira and Morodharo depended on the sea, suggesting navigable waters near the Rann of Kutch during ancient times.
- Archaeological Fame: Despite false starts in the past, Lodrani now claims archaeological fame, highlighting the importance of local initiatives in uncovering historical treasures.
About Dholavira
|
Description
|
| Discovery |
Discovered in 1968 by archaeologist Jagat Pati Joshi. |
| Importance |
- One of the most remarkable and well-preserved urban settlements in South Asia.
- Fifth largest metropolis of the Indus Valley Civilization.
|
| Location |
- Archaeological site located in the Kachchh District, Gujarat, dating from the 3rd to mid-2nd millennium BCE.
- On Khadir bet island in the Great Rann of Kachchh.
|
| Strategic Location |
- Located on the Tropic of Cancer;
- Strategic for trade and access to mineral and raw material sources.
|
| Archaeological Findings |
- Terracotta pottery, beads, gold and copper ornaments, seals, fish hooks, tools, urns, imported vessels.
- Unique stone inscriptions in Indus Valley script.
|
| Distinct Features |
Cascading series of water reservoirs, outer fortification, multi-purpose grounds, unique gates, tumulus funerary architecture, multi-layered defenses. |
| Decline |
- Coincided with the collapse of Mesopotamia;
- Affected by climate change, aridity, and drying up of ancient rivers like Saraswati.
|
Try this PYQ:
Q. 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 channelizing water into connected reservoirs?
(a) Dholavira (b) Kalibangan (c) Rakhigarhi (d) Ropar
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Quantum Theory, Bose-Einstein Statistics, Bose-Hubbard Model
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- Satyendra Nath Bose emerged in the physics community like a comet in 1924, amidst the turbulence of a quantum revolution.
- His groundbreaking work filled a significant gap in the emerging quantum theory.
Satyendra Nath Bose: Early Life
- Born in Kolkata in 1894, Bose’s mathematical prowess was evident early on.
- He befriended Meghnad Saha during their time at Presidency College and later collaborated with him at Rajabazar Science College.
- Amidst the changing landscape of physics marked by Einstein’s theory of relativity and quantum concepts, Bose and Saha contributed significantly to translating and applying new physics concepts.
Notable Contributions
[1] Bose-Einstein Statistics:
- Bose formulated a new statistical theory in 1924, known as Bose-Einstein statistics, to describe the behavior of particles that obey the laws of quantum mechanics.
- He derived this statistical distribution for particles with integer spin, which later became fundamental in understanding the behavior of particles now known as bosons.
[2] Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC):
- Bose’s work laid the foundation for the concept of Bose-Einstein condensate, a state of matter where particles occupy the same quantum state at low temperatures.
- In 1995, scientists successfully created a BEC in a dilute gas of alkali atoms, confirming Bose’s theoretical predictions and opening up new avenues for research in quantum physics.
[3] Quantum Theory of Radiation:
- Bose made significant contributions to the field of quantum theory of radiation.
- He introduced a quantum mechanical theory to explain the behavior of photons, which was later incorporated into the broader framework of quantum electrodynamics.
[4] Bose-Hubbard Model:
- Bose’s work also inspired the development of the Bose-Hubbard model, a fundamental model in condensed matter physics.
- This model describes the behavior of ultra-cold atoms trapped in an optical lattice and has applications in quantum computing and quantum simulation.
[5] Exploring Planck’s Law
- While teaching at Dhaka University, Bose delved into understanding Planck’s law of black-body radiation, a cornerstone of quantum theory.
- Bose’s innovative approach eliminated classical physics from the picture, revealing the statistical essence behind Planck’s formula and pioneering the field of quantum statistics.
Legacy and Impact
- Bose’s work laid the groundwork for understanding fundamental particles, distinguishing between bosons and fermions based on their statistical behavior.
- Despite publishing sparingly after his groundbreaking discovery, Bose’s contribution to quantum theory remains unparalleled, earning him the status of a scientific comet that illuminated the quantum world.
Conclusion
- Satyendra Nath Bose’s remarkable insight and contribution to quantum theory reshaped the trajectory of physics.
- His pioneering work on Bose-Einstein statistics not only filled a crucial gap in the emerging quantum framework but also laid the foundation for subsequent advancements in particle physics and quantum mechanics.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mimas, Cassini Mission
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Recent findings published in the journal Nature suggest that beneath the icy shell of Mimas, there lies a potential liquid ocean, challenging previous assumptions about the moon’s composition and internal dynamics.
About Mimas
|
Description
|
| Discovery |
Discovered by William Herschel on September 17, 1789. |
| Characteristics |
Smallest and innermost of Saturn’s major moons. |
| Size |
Diameter of about 396 kilometers (246 miles), making it one of the smallest known astronomical bodies that is rounded in shape. |
| Features |
Known for its large Herschel Crater,
Called as “Death Star” from the Star Wars films. |
| Composition |
Mostly composed of water ice with a small amount of rock. |
| Orbit |
Orbits Saturn at a distance of about 185,520 km (115,220 miles). |
| Exploration |
Visited by the Cassini spacecraft, which captured detailed images of its surface during its mission to Saturn. |
Astronomical Insights
- Potential Liquid Ocean: Scientists analyzed Mimas’s orbital motion using data from NASA’s Cassini spacecraft, concluding that the moon’s oscillations indicate the presence of either an elongated silicate core or a global ocean.
- Librational Model: Calculations based on Mimas’s librations and orbital changes reached a deadlock, prompting consideration of a subsurface ocean. Theoretical models incorporating viscoelastic outer layers and hydrostatic interior interfaces suggested an ice shell thickness of 20-30 km.
- Surface Heat and Eccentricity: Estimates indicate surface heat release of approximately 25 milliwatts per sq. m, expected to reduce Mimas’s eccentricity by half in 4-5 million years. Simulations suggest the ocean may have formed 2-25 million years ago, with potential hydrothermal activity.
Implications and Findings
- Comparative Analysis: Similarities between Mimas and Enceladus, another Saturn moon with a global ocean, hint at potential hydrothermal activity despite surface differences.
- Ice Shell Composition: The viscoelastic nature of Mimas’s outer icy layer and hydrostatic interior interfaces align with observations, supporting the theoretical ice shell thickness determined through calculations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Financial Emergency under Article 360
Mains level: Not Much
In the news
- The Supreme Court proceeded with hearing a suit filed by the State of Kerala against the Centre for alleged arbitrary interference in its financial matters, following unsuccessful negotiations between the two parties.
- Earlier, Kerala Governor sought for the Presidential imposition of a financial emergency in the State under Article 360(1) of the Constitution due to dwindling situation of finances in the State.
What is Financial Emergency?
- Enshrined in Article 360: It is a vital provision aimed at addressing severe financial crises threatening India’s economic stability.
- Declaration and Authority: It can be declared by the President upon satisfaction that the financial stability or credit of India or any part of its territory is under threat.
- CoM Advice: The declaration is made based on the advice of the Council of Ministers, reflecting the collective responsibility of the executive branch.
Legislative Approval
- While the President can proclaim a Financial Emergency, its extension beyond two months needs approval from both Houses of Parliament.
- Once approved, it remains in effect until revoked by the President, allowing for flexible management of financial crises.
Effects and Implications
- The Centre’s executive authority expands significantly during a Financial Emergency, enabling it to issue directives to states on financial matters.
- Centralization of fiscal policies occurs, with the President empowered to reserve money bills passed by state legislatures for consideration.
- Austerity measures, including salary and allowance reductions for public officials, can be implemented to address economic challenges.
Judicial Review and Criticism
- 38th Amendment Act (1975) made the President’s decision final and immune from judicial review.
- However, the 44th Amendment Act (1978) allowed for judicial scrutiny.
- This amendment ensured checks and balances within the constitutional framework, preventing unchecked executive authority.
Historical Context and Usage
- Financial Emergencies have been sparingly invoked in India’s history, despite facing significant financial crises such as in 1991.
- The cautious utilization of this provision underscores the importance of aligning its implementation with democratic principles and federalism.
Conclusion
- The Supreme Court’s intervention in the Kerala-Centre financial dispute underscores the importance of cooperative federalism in addressing intergovernmental conflicts.
- The forthcoming hearings aim to reconcile differences and ensure the equitable distribution of resources, fostering harmonious relations between the Centre and states.
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