Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AR6 Report, IPCC, Global Stocktake
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- Since 1988, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has been pivotal in assessing climate science and guiding global responses to climate change through its assessment reports and special publications.
- Last years’ Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) underscores the urgency of addressing climate change, highlighting the need to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
About IPCC
|
Description |
| Establishment |
Established in 1988 by WMO and UNEP |
| Membership |
195 member countries. |
| Objective |
Assess scientific info on human-induced climate change, impacts, and mitigation/adaptation options. |
| Main Activity |
Prepares assessment, special, and methodology reports, crucial for international climate negotiations. |
| Scientific Research |
Relies on global scientific community for literature review and conclusions. |
| Working Groups |
Comprises three groups:
- I (climate physics),
- II (impacts/adaptation), and
- III (mitigation)
|
| Reports |
Each group issues reports, compiled into a synthesis report. |
Key Findings of AR6
- Urgent Warning: AR6 warns that time is running out to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and stresses the need for immediate action to mitigate climate change impacts.
- Adaptation Challenges: The report highlights challenges in adapting to climate change and offers strategies to enhance resilience in natural and human-made systems.
Initiation of AR7 Cycle
- IPCC Bureau Meeting: In January 2024, the IPCC initiated its seventh assessment cycle (AR7) with a bureau meeting in Turkey to discuss budgeting, timelines, and the work program.
- Lessons from AR6: Insights from the AR6 cycle, along with member country submissions, informed discussions on the structure and focus of the upcoming reports.
Global Stocktake and IPCC’s Role
- Assessing Progress: The global stocktake (GST) evaluates progress towards the Paris Agreement goals, with the IPCC playing a crucial role in providing scientific input.
- Alignment with Stocktake: Member countries request IPCC reports to align with the GST, facilitating comprehensive assessments of climate action effectiveness.
Scope and Timeline of AR7 Cycle
- Report Components: The AR7 cycle will include full assessment reports, synthesis reports, methodology reports, and a special report on climate change and cities.
- Revised Guidelines: Methodology reports will cover short-lived climate forcers and carbon removal, while technical guidelines on impacts and adaptation will be updated.
- Publication Timeline: The bureau aims to publish special and methodology reports by 2027, with the timeline for assessment reports pending further discussion.
Challenges and Considerations
- Time Constraints: Balancing the need for timely reports with the rigorous review process and evolving climate research poses challenges.
- Content Integrity: Shortened timelines may affect the depth and breadth of the reports, potentially compromising their scientific rigor and inclusivity.
- Engagement Complexity: Limited timeframes may hinder effective engagement with under-represented communities and stakeholders, impacting report quality.
Conclusion
- The initiation of IPCC’s AR7 cycle marks a critical juncture in global climate science, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change.
- Despite challenges, the IPCC remains committed to delivering comprehensive and scientifically robust assessments to guide climate action.
- Collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders will be essential in navigating the complexities of climate science and fostering sustainable solutions for a resilient future.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bubonic Plague and its causes
Mains level: Rise of zoonotic diseases
Introduction
- Recent reports from Oregon, US, confirm the reemergence of bubonic plague, marking the first case since 2005.
- Notable historical instances include the Third Pandemic in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, originating in China and spreading worldwide, reaching India by 1896.
What is Bubonic Plague?
- Cause: Bubonic plague is caused by Yersinia pestis, a zoonotic bacterium primarily found in small animals and their fleas, capable of transmission to humans.
- Transmission: The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies three primary modes of transmission:
- Through infected vector fleas,
- Contact with infectious bodily fluids or materials, and
- Inhalation of respiratory droplets from pneumonic plague patients.
Symptoms and Forms
- Bubonic Plague: Characterized by fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and weakness, typically resulting from flea bites.
- Septicemic Plague: Occurs when the bacteria enter the bloodstream, leading to severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, shock, and skin discoloration.
- Pneumonic Plague: The most perilous form, causing rapid-onset pneumonia, and posing a high risk of fatality if left untreated, with potential person-to-person transmission.
Historical Impact of the Black Death
- Deadliest Outbreak: The Black Death, spanning from 1346 to 1353, decimated up to half of Europe’s population, leaving a profound and enduring impact on survivors.
- Genetic Legacy: Genetic mutations linked to increased survival during the Black Death era have been identified, albeit with potential implications for autoimmune diseases in modern populations.
- Social and Economic Ramifications: Historians attribute Europe’s rise to global dominance partly to the aftermath of the Black Death, shaping subsequent societal, economic, and cultural trajectories.
Contemporary Outlook and Mitigation
- Limited Spread: Medical experts allay fears of a Black Death resurgence, affirming the localized nature of the recent bubonic plague case and the low likelihood of widespread transmission.
- Modern Interventions: Advancements in antibiotics and healthcare infrastructure significantly mitigate the threat posed by bubonic plague, rendering it treatable and containing its potential impact.
- Global Surveillance: Vigilant monitoring and prompt treatment protocols contribute to managing sporadic plague cases reported worldwide, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Medaram Jatara, Tribes gathered, historical background
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- People have started shopping ahead of Asia’s largest tribal festival, the Medaram Jatara. Devotees offer jaggery equivalent to their weight to the deities, Sammakka and Saralamma, during the festival.
About Medaram Jatara
|
Description |
| Origin |
Rooted in the legend of Sammakka and Sarakka, a revered mother-daughter duo among the local tribal community. |
| Historical Significance |
Commemorates the 13th-century battle of Sammakka and Sarakka against then local Kakatiya rulers’ taxation of the Koya people. |
| Location |
Mulugu, Telangana, India |
| Frequency |
Biennial festival |
| Attendance |
Attracts around 1.5 crore devotees from various tribal and non-tribal communities from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh but also from as far as Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra |
| Political & Social Impact |
Declared as a State Festival in 1996;
Receives active support from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Telangana state government. |
| Infrastructure Development |
Funds allocated for community shelters and infrastructure in and around Medaram. |
| Ministry Support |
Active participation and significant financial backing from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Telangana state government. |
| Tribal Circuit Development |
Ministry of Tourism sanctions funds for the integrated development of the tribal circuit. |
Try this PYQ:
Consider the following pairs:
| Traditions |
Communities |
| Chaliha Sahib Festivals |
Sindhis |
| Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra |
Gonds |
| Wari-Warkari |
Santhals |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) None of the above
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ultradian vs. Circadian Rhythms and key difference between them
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Life on Earth is characterized by cyclical processes that sustain and enhance survival, with one such fundamental process being ultradian rhythms.
- Ultradian rhythms are distinct from circadian rhythms and refer to biological cycles that occur more frequently than once every 24 hours, governing essential physiological functions.
Ultradian vs. Circadian Rhythms
|
Ultradian Rhythms |
Circadian Rhythms |
| Definition |
Repeat at intervals of less than 24 hours. |
Repeat approximately every 24 hours. |
| Duration |
Shorter cycles, typically minutes to a few hours. |
Longer cycles, around 24 hours. |
| Examples |
Sleep cycles, heart rate variability, hormone release. |
Sleep-wake cycle, body temperature regulation. |
| Influence |
Impact physiological processes within a single day. |
Regulate sleep-wake patterns, hormone release, etc. |
| Importance |
Essential for various bodily functions and processes. |
Crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. |
| Disruption Effects |
Interruption can lead to fatigue or mood swings. |
Disruption can cause sleep disorders or mood disorders. |
Key Characteristics of Ultradian Rhythms
- Frequency: Ultradian rhythms recur more frequently than circadian rhythms, impacting various biological processes.
- Physiological Patterns: These rhythms regulate heartbeat, breathing, hormonal release, and brain-wave activity, ensuring proper functioning of living organisms.
Significance
- Sleep Cycle: A well-known example of ultradian rhythm is the sleep cycle, which comprises alternating periods of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and non-REM sleep, typically lasting around 90 minutes each.
- REM and Non-REM Sleep: REM sleep involves dreaming, while non-REM sleep is essential for physical restoration and memory consolidation.
Role in Hormonal Regulation
- Pulsatile Hormone Secretion: Ultradian rhythms influence the pulsatile secretion of hormones like growth hormone, cortisol, and insulin throughout the day.
- Metabolism and Stress Response: These hormonal fluctuations are crucial for regulating metabolism, energy levels, and responses to stress, ensuring overall well-being.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MnBi2S4 and its properties
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Researchers have identified a unique mechanism of electric polarization via magnetic ordering in a novel mineral named “MnBi2S4”, which can be useful for energy-efficient data storage.
About Magnetoelectric Multiferroics
- This special class of materials is renowned for their rarity and unique properties, capable of exhibiting both magnetism and ferroelectricity simultaneously.
- They find applications in advanced technology like spintronics, electronic memory devices, actuators, and switches.
What is MnBi2S4?
- Also known as mineral gratianite, it belongs to the ternary manganese chalcogenide family.
- It showcases distinct magnetic structures, including a spin density wave, cycloidal, and helical spin structures.
- Notably, the latter two spin structures induce ferro-electricity in the material.
- MnBi2S4 is centro-symmetric and undergoes magnetic ordering at low temperatures (27, 23, and 21.5 Kelvins).
Significance of the Study
- This finding highlights the strong coupling between magnetism and electric polarization.
- The unique mechanism, driven by magnetic frustration, represents a breakthrough in magnetoelectric coupling.
- If the material can exhibit the same phenomena at room temperature, it could revolutionize data storage by reducing energy consumption during writing processes.
- Additionally, these findings could aid in the development of a four-state logic memory system, providing additional degrees of freedom for device performance compared to current binary logic systems.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Vardhaman Mahavir, Jainism
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- A 1,000-year-old stone statue of Thirthangara Mahavir has been found in Tamil Nadu at at Manavarayanendal near Thiruchuli in Virudhunagar district.
Features of the Statue
- There is a triple umbrella above the head of the statue, which has creepers carved on it.
- It is flanked by sculptures of yakshas.
- Based on the sculpture technique, it is assumed that the statue might belong to the 11th century AD.
About Vardhaman Mahavir
|
Description |
| Birth |
540 B.C. |
| Birthplace |
Kundagrama village near Vaishali |
| Family Background |
Belonged to the Jnatrika clan; father Siddharta was the head of the Jnathrika Kshatriya clan, and mother Trishala was a sister of Chetaka, the king of Vaishali. |
| Renunciation |
Renounced home at the age of 30 to become an ascetic. |
| Spiritual Practice |
Practiced austerity for 12 years. |
| Attainment of Kaivalya |
Attained the highest spiritual knowledge called Kaivalya (conquered misery and happiness) at the age of 42. |
| First Sermon |
Delivered his first sermon at Pava. |
| Symbol |
Associated with the symbol of a lion. |
| Missions |
Traveled to various regions including Koshala, Magadha, Mithila, Champa, etc. |
| Passing Away |
Passed away at the age of 72 in 468 B.C. at Pavapuri in Bihar. |
| Legacy |
Founded Jainism as it is known today; contributed significant teachings and principles to the religion. |
Everything you need to know about Jainism
|
Description |
| Origin |
Jainism gained prominence in the 6th century B.C. when Lord Mahavira propagated the religion. |
| Founder |
Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, is the central figure |
| Tirthankaras |
- Jainism recognizes 24 Tirthankaras or great teachers
- Rishabhanatha being the first and Mahavira the last.
|
| Meaning of “Jain” |
“Jain” is derived from “jina” or “jaina,” signifying the “Conqueror” or one who has conquered the inner enemies like attachment, aversion, and delusion. |
| Main Principles |
Jainism emphasizes the Three Jewels or Triratna:
- Right Faith (Samyakdarshana),
- Right Knowledge (Samyakjnana), and
- Right Conduct (Samyakcharita).
|
| Five Doctrines |
Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Aparigraha (non-attachment), and Brahmacharya (chastity) are the fundamental principles of Jainism. |
| Concept of God |
- Jainism does not adhere to the concept of a creator God
- Believes in the existence of liberated souls (Siddhas) who have attained spiritual perfection.
|
| Major Doctrines |
- Anekantavada: Jain doctrine of non-absolutism, recognizing that truth can have multiple perspectives or facets.
- Syadvada: Jain doctrine stating that all judgments are conditional and true only from certain perspectives, expressed by the term “syat” (may be).
|
| Sects/Schools |
Jainism is divided into two major sects:
- Digambara (sky-clad) and
- Svetambara (white-clad)
|
| Spread |
- Jainism spread gradually into regions where Brahmanical influence was weak,
- Received royal patronage from rulers like Chandragupta Maurya
|
| Literature |
Jain literature comprises:
- Agama (canonical) texts, which include the direct teachings of Mahavira, and
- Non-agama (commentaries and elaborations) works, such as the Acaranga Sutra.
|
| Architecture |
- Temples, caves (layana/gumphas), statues, and ornamental pillars (manastambha), exhibiting intricate designs and religious motifs.
- Notable Jain architecture in India includes the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, and the Girnar and Palitana Temples in Gujarat.
- These structures exemplify intricate craftsmanship and religious symbolism.
|
| Jain Councils |
Two significant Jain councils were held for compiling and preserving Jain scriptures and teachings:
- First Jain Council at Pataliputra (3rd century B.C.) and
- Second Jain Council at Vallabhi (512 A.D.)
|
| Difference from Buddhism |
- Acknowledgment of a permanent self (atman),
- Acceptance of the varna system,
- Belief in the concept of a soul (jiva), and
- Advocacy of extreme asceticism ex. Santhara/Sallekhana
|
Thoughts on Rebirth
|
Acaranga Sutra: Jainism teaches the doctrine of rebirth (samsara) and various realms of existence (lokas) based on karma, with souls cyclically transmigrating through different life forms. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: INSAT-3DS
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS aboard the spacecraft GSLV F14.
INSAT-3DS: Mission Objectives
- Continuity of Services: The mission seeks to continue and enhance the services provided by existing operational satellites like INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR.
- Meteorological Observations: INSAT-3DS will facilitate advanced meteorological observations, land and ocean surface monitoring, and weather forecasting.
- Disaster Warning: It will play a critical role in disaster warning systems, aiding in timely alerts and response efforts.
- Satellite-aided Research and Rescue Services (SAR): Additionally, the satellite will support SAR operations, contributing to enhanced search and rescue capabilities.
Significance
- This marks the 16th space mission for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), emphasizing India’s progress in space technology.
- INSAT-3DS aims to be deployed into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), funded entirely by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, signifying a significant step in India’s space advancements.
- After around 18 minutes of launch, the satellite will be injected in a 36,647 km x 170 km elliptical orbit.
Why called as Naughty Boy?
- Failure: GSLV F14 has faced challenges in the past, earning the moniker “naughty boy” within the Indian space programme due to its history of encountering problems.
- Probability: With a failure rate of 40%, GSLV F14 has experienced issues in six out of its fifteen missions to date.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gulf Stream System
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Recent research warns that the Gulf Stream System, known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), faces a critical threat of collapse due to unabated global carbon emissions.
- If left unchecked, this collapse could occur between 2025 and 2095, with a central estimate of 2050.
What is Gulf Stream System?
|
Description |
| Origin |
Begins in the Gulf of Mexico, merging warm waters from the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. |
| Flow |
Flows northward along the eastern coast of the United States. |
| Current |
Carries warm waters from the tropics towards higher latitudes. |
| Speed and Volume |
Swift ocean currents with speeds of 2 to 5 miles per hour, transporting 30 million cubic meters per second. |
| Function |
Redistributes heat towards the North Atlantic region, influencing climate and weather patterns. |
| Climate Impact |
Moderates the climate of Western Europe, keeping it relatively warmer than other regions at similar latitudes. |
| Interaction with Atmosphere |
Releases heat and moisture, influencing weather and precipitation. |
| Importance for Marine Life |
Supports diverse marine life, serving as a migratory route for fish and marine mammals. |
Gulf Stream’s Vulnerability
- Gulf Stream, currently at its feeblest point in 1,600 years, is grappling with the consequences of global heating.
- Alarming signals of a tipping point were already observed back in 2021.
- Past collapses during ice ages have triggered rapid temperature shifts of up to 10 degrees Celsius in just a few decades, underlining the immense climatic impact it holds.
Implications of Collapse
The potential collapse of Gulf Stream could lead to dire consequences worldwide, including:
- Disrupted Rainfall Patterns: Billions of people in regions like India, South America, and West Africa, reliant on these patterns for food production, would face food insecurity.
- Intensified Storms and Colder Temperatures: Europe would experience increased storm activity and colder temperatures.
- Rising Sea Levels: The eastern coast of North America would be at risk of rising sea levels, posing threats to coastal communities.
- Endangered Ecosystems: The Amazon rainforest and Antarctic ice sheets could face severe endangerment.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Green Deposits
Mains level: Read the attached story
Introduction
- State Bank of India (SBI) is in talks with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to reduce the cash reserve ratio (CRR) requirement on green deposits.
What are Green Deposits?
- Definition: Green deposits are fixed-term investments tailored for individuals and entities seeking to support environmentally friendly initiatives.
- ESG Investing: These deposits align with the principles of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable finance.
- Utilization: Funds from green deposits are directed towards projects promoting renewable energy, clean transportation, pollution control, green infrastructure, and sustainable water management.
RBI Framework for Green Deposits
- Preventing Greenwashing: The RBI’s framework ensures transparency in environmental claims associated with green deposits.
- Deposit Options: Banks offer green deposits denominated in rupees, with choices between cumulative or non-cumulative options.
- Applicability: Scheduled commercial banks, small finance banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), and housing finance companies (HFCs) must comply with this framework.
- Eligibility: Both corporate entities and individual customers can invest in green deposits, contributing to environmentally sustainable initiatives.
- Allocation: Funds mobilized through green deposits are directed towards sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, and afforestation.
- Restrictions: Lenders are prohibited from channelling green deposit funds into sectors like fossil fuels, nuclear power, or tobacco.
- Verification: Independent Third-Party Verification is conducted annually to assess the allocation and impact of funds raised through green deposits.
- Oversight: Lenders are required to review the impact of funds lent for green finance activities on an annual basis.
- Penalties: There are no penalties for underutilization of funds raised through green deposits, providing flexibility to financial institutions.
Distinguishing Green Deposits from Normal Deposits
- Project Allocation: Green deposits allocate funds to specific environmentally friendly projects, unlike regular deposits.
- Interest Rates: Interest rates on green deposits are determined by lenders and are currently comparable to those offered on conventional deposits.
Back2Basics: Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)
- Banks are mandated to maintain a certain portion of their deposits and specific liabilities in liquid cash with the RBI.
- CRR serves as a crucial tool in the RBI’s arsenal for managing liquidity in the economy and acts as a safety net during times of banking stress.
- Currently, banks are required to uphold 4.5% of their Net Demand and Time Liabilities as CRR with the RBI.
- Incremental-CRR was introduced on August 10, 2023, as a temporary measure by RBI to absorb surplus liquidity.
- Banks were required to maintain an I-CRR of 10% on the increase in their Net Demand and Time Liabilities (NDTL) between May 19, 2023, and July 28, 2023.
- It came into effect from the fortnight starting August 12, 2023.
- ICRR is employed during periods characterized by excess liquidity in the financial system.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Pulse Confederation (GPC), Stats on Pulses Production
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- The Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) has initiated the three-day convention — Pulses 24 — in New Delhi, India.
About Global Pulse Confederation (GPC)
|
Description |
| Formation |
Founded in 2016 through the merger of the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) and the International Starch Institute (ISI). |
| Headquarters |
Dubai, United Arab Emirates. |
| Mission |
Represents the global pulse industry, aiming to promote the sustainable growth of the pulse industry worldwide. |
| Focus Areas |
- Advocating for policies supporting the pulse industry’s interests.
- Providing resources and support to pulse industry stakeholders.
- Facilitating research and innovation in pulse production and utilization.
|
| Membership |
Open to businesses, organizations, and individuals involved in the pulse industry, including growers, processors, traders, and researchers. |
| India’s Connect |
India, being a major producer and consumer of pulses, actively participates in the GPC and holds membership status, contributing to the organization’s objectives. |
Key Highlights from Pulses 24 Convention
- Production Growth: Pulses production in India has increased by 60% over the past decade, reaching 270 lakh tonnes in 2024 from 171 lakh tonnes in 2014.
- Partnership Goals: Mr. Goyal emphasized the partnership between NAFED and GPC, aiming to position pulses as a vital dietary component not only in India but also globally.
- Minimum Support Price (MSP): The Centre ensures an MSP offering 50% over the actual cost of production to farmers, resulting in attractive returns on investment. Significant increases in MSP for various pulses were highlighted, reaching as high as 117% in masoor and 90% in moong over the past decade.
- Self-Sufficiency by 2027: India’s progress towards self-reliance in chickpeas and other pulses, with efforts focused on achieving self-sufficiency in all pulses by 2027. Initiatives include the supply of new seed varieties and the expansion of tur and black gram cultivation.
- Global Knowledge Sharing: GPC president emphasized India’s potential to benefit from the conference by exchanging best practices and technological advancements in pulse cultivation from other countries.
- Focus on Smallholding Farmers: Pulses are noted for their soil benefits and nutritional value, particularly beneficial for smallholding farmers.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Sangam: Digital Twin Initiative
Mains level: Digital Twin Technology
Introduction
- Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced the ‘Sangam: Digital Twin’ initiative, inviting Expressions of Interest (EoI) from industry pioneers, startups, MSMEs, academia, innovators, and forward-thinkers.
What is Digital Twin Technology?
- A digital twin is a digital representation of a physical object, person, or process, contextualized in a digital version of its environment.
- Digital twins can help an organization simulate real situations and their outcomes, ultimately allowing it to make better decisions.
About Sangam: Digital Twin Initiative
- Context: The initiative aligns with the technological advancements of the past decade in communication, computation, and sensing, in line with the vision for 2047.
- Proof of Concept (PoC) in Two Stages: The initiative will be distributed in two stages, conducted in one of India’s major cities.
- First Stage: An exploratory phase focusing on clarifying horizons and creative exploration to unleash potential.
- Second Stage: A practical demonstration of specific use cases, generating a future blueprint for collaboration and scaling successful strategies in future infrastructure projects.
- Objectives:
- Demonstrate practical implementation of innovative infrastructure planning solutions.
- Develop a model framework for facilitating faster and more effective collaboration.
- Provide a future blueprint for scaling and replicating successful strategies in future infrastructure projects.
Features
- Sangam: Digital Twin represents a collaborative leap towards reshaping infrastructure planning and design.
- It integrates 5G, IoT, AI, AR/VR, AI native 6G, Digital Twin, and next-gen computational technologies, fostering collaboration among public entities, infrastructure planners, tech giants, startups, and academia.
- Sangam brings all stakeholders together, aiming to translate innovative ideas into tangible solutions, bridging the gap between conceptualization and realization, and paving the way for groundbreaking infrastructure advancements.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nohar Irrigation Project, Indira Gandhi Canal
Mains level: Lift Irrigation Projects in India
Introduction
- The Nohar irrigation project, supplying water to the agricultural fields in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan, is getting a boost with the repairing of Ferozepur feeder in neighbouring Punjab.
About Nohar Irrigation Project
|
Description |
| Location |
Located in the Nohar region of the Hanumangarh district in the state of Rajasthan, India. |
| Purpose |
To improve irrigation facilities in the region, thereby increasing agricultural productivity and supporting the livelihoods of local farmers. |
| Irrigation Methods |
Canal irrigation and the construction of check dams, reservoirs, and water storage facilities. |
| Water Source |
Indira Gandhi Canal |
| Rivers |
Situated near the Ghaggar-Hakra River
A seasonal river originating in the Shivalik Hills |
Back2Basics: Indira Gandhi Canal
|
Description |
| Origin |
Harike Barrage, Punjab |
| History |
Conceived by hydraulic engineer Kanwar Sain in the late 1940s, construction began in 1960 |
| Length |
612 km
Longest canal in India |
| Rivers |
Utilizes water from the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers |
| Location |
Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan |
| Purpose |
Irrigation and water supply |
| Renaming |
Renamed from Rajasthan Canal to Indira Gandhi Canal in 1984 after the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various laws, judgments mentioned
Mains level: Internet Shut-downs
Introduction
- The Union government invoked its authority under a colonial-era Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017 to suspend mobile Internet in select districts of Punjab during Farm Protests 2.0.
Mechanisms allowing Internet Shut-downs
|
Authorities |
Purpose |
| Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017 |
Home Departments in the states, state government review committee, central government (under this law, but rarely used) |
Enforces shutdowns for public emergency or safety reasons. |
| Section 144 of the CrPC |
Local law enforcement authorities |
Enables shutdowns, particularly before 2017, to maintain public order and safety. |
| The Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, Section 5(2) |
Home Secretary of the Union or state governments |
Allows blocking of messaging during a public emergency, safeguarding public safety, or protecting sovereignty and integrity. |
Constitutional Provisions for Right to Internet
|
Constitutional Provision |
Explanation |
| Anuradha Bhasin vs. Union of India and Ors. (2020) |
Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression under Article 19(1)(a) |
Grants the right to freedom of speech and expression, which encompasses access to information and the Internet. |
| Faheema Shirin RK vs. State of Kerala and others (2019) |
Right to Education under Article 21A |
Guarantees the right to education for children aged 6 to 14;
Internet access is crucial for modern education. |
| K.S. Puttaswamy (Privacy) vs. Union of India (2017) |
Right to Privacy under Article 21 |
Protects the fundamental right to privacy, and Internet access is often used for secure communication. |
| Anuradha Bhasin vs. Union of India and Ors. |
Freedom to Practice Any Profession or Carry on Any Trade, Business, or Occupation under Article 19(1)(g) |
Ensures the freedom to conduct various trades, businesses, and professions, often requiring Internet access. |
Landmark Precedence: Anuradha Bhasin Judgment (2020)
- Supreme Court’s Ruling: In January 2020, the Supreme Court of India recognized access to the Internet as a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution.
- Restrictions Guidelines: The Court mandated that any government-imposed Internet restrictions must be temporary, limited, lawful, necessary, and proportionate. It also emphasized judicial review.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Horseshoe Crab and its conservation
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- Environmental groups have petitioned the U.S. government to grant endangered species protection to the American horseshoe crab.
- Horseshoe crabs, often called “living fossils,” have existed since before the age of dinosaurs.
About Horseshoe Crab
|
Description |
| Habitat |
Shallow coastal waters with soft sandy or muddy bottoms;
Spawns primarily on intertidal beaches during summer-spring high tides. |
| Taxonomic Division |
Chelicerata, a division of Arthropoda, comprising spiders, scorpions, harvestmen, mites, and ticks; characterized by segmented body and limbs, and a chitinous exoskeleton. |
| Status |
Referred to as a marine “living fossil” due to minimal evolutionary changes over time. |
| Geographic Range |
American horseshoe crab: Eastern coast of the USA and the Gulf of Mexico.
Indo-Pacific species (Tri-spine, Coastal, Mangrove): Mainly in coastal waters of India, Southeast Asia, China, and Japan. |
| Habitat in India |
Odisha serves as the largest habitat for horseshoe crabs in India. |
| Conservation Status |
Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. |
| IUCN Status |
American horseshoe crab: Vulnerable.
Tri-spine horseshoe crab: Endangered.
Other two are not listed yet. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hastsal Minaret, its history, architecture
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- The Hastsal Minar, also known as the Mini Qutub Minar or Chhota Qutub Minar, stands as a Grade A heritage monument in Delhi, silently narrating stories of an era marked by grandeur and mystery amidst ruins and encroachment.
About Hastsal Minaret
|
Description |
| Name |
Mini Qutub Minar (Chhota Qutub Minar, Mini Minar, Kaushal Minar, Hastsal ki Laat) |
| Location |
Hastsal village in Uttam Nagar, West Delhi, India |
| Built |
1650 |
| Builder |
Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan |
| Original Height |
5 storeys, topped with a domed Chhatri pavilion |
| Current Height |
3 storeys, 16.87 meters (55 feet) tall |
| Structure |
Built with Lakhori bricks and clad with red sandstone |
| Significance |
Grade A listed, protected heritage monument with the Department of Archaeology, India |
| History |
Originally built as a hunting lodge tower for Shah Jahan
Used to have a tunnel connecting it to the royal hunting lodge nearby |
| Architecture |
Resembles Qutub Minar in Delhi, octagonal platform, narrow staircase |
| Threats |
Endangered due to neglect, lack of conservation, encroachment by new constructions, surrounded by urbanization |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Cuscuta Dodder
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- An invasive weed, Cuscuta dodder, is gradually strangling the Chengalpet forests and Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, posing a severe threat to local vegetation, ecology, and the habitat of migratory birds.
About Cuscuta Dodder
- Parasitic Nature: It is a parasitic vine devoid of roots, already infesting acres of trees in reserve forests and beginning to spread within India’s oldest bird sanctuary.
- Origin: Native to North America.
- Modus Operandi: As a holoparasitic plant, it forms a canopy on the host plant and extends thousands of tendrils, eventually forming a dense spectacle before strangling and killing the host.
Persistence and Germination
- Seed Characteristics: Cuscuta seeds are spheroid with a hard coat, enabling them to survive up to 50 years in dry storage and at least 10 years in the field.
- Germination: Unlike root parasites, Cuscuta seeds do not require a specific stimulant to induce germination, enhancing their ability to spread rapidly.
Impact and Spread
- India: According to a technical paper by the National Research Centre for Weed Science, Cuscuta poses a significant problem in oilseeds, pulses, and fodder crops across various states, including Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Orissa, West Bengal, and parts of Madhya Pradesh under both rain-fed and irrigated conditions.
- Global Legislation: It is listed as a ‘declared noxious weed’ in 25 countries, with seeds and plant material restricted from entry. In the United States, it is the only weed seed whose movement is prohibited in every state.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah and his contemporaries
Mains level: NA
Introduction
- A digital twin of the Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah’s tomb was unveiled by a reality technology company, Hexagon in Hyderabad.
Who was Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah?
- Parentage: Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah was born on April 4, 1565, as the third son of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah Wali and his Hindu mother Bhagirathi.
- Literary Talent: He was not only an able administrator but also a skilled poet who composed verses in Persian, Telugu, and Urdu.
Contemporaries of Quli Qutb Shah
- Akbar (1556–1605): Mughal Emperor known for his religious tolerance and administrative reforms.
- Rani Durgavati (1550–1564): Queen of the Gondwana Kingdom in central India, renowned for her bravery in resisting Mughal expansion.
- Maharana Pratap (1572–1597): Rajput ruler of Mewar, famous for his defiance against Mughal Emperor Akbar and his valor in battles.
- Chand Bibi (1550–1599): Regent of the Ahmednagar Sultanate in Deccan, known for her role in defending Ahmadnagar against Mughal forces.
- Guru Ram Das (1574–1581): Fourth Sikh Guru who established the city of Amritsar and contributed significantly to Sikhism’s growth.
- Sher Shah Suri (1540–1545): Founder of the Sur Empire in North India, celebrated for his administrative reforms and construction of the Grand Trunk Road.
|
Key Accomplishments
[A] Reign and Accomplishments
- Ascension to the Throne: Muhammad Quli succeeded his father in 1580 at the age of 15 and ruled for 31 years.
- Military Campaigns: Despite facing rebellions, he effectively led troops and quelled disturbances, ensuring stability in his realm.
[B] Foundation of Hyderabad
- Urban Planning: Concerned about overcrowding in Golkonda, Muhammad Quli initiated the construction of Hyderabad in 1591.
- Land Selection: While folklore suggests a romanticized version of land selection, Muhammad Quli’s vision for Hyderabad’s development aimed at relieving congestion and promoting growth.
[C] Architectural Marvels and City Planning
- Charminar: As the architectural centrepiece, Charminar was built under Muhammad Quli’s patronage, symbolizing the city’s grandeur.
- City Layout: Hyderabad was meticulously planned with a gridiron layout, featuring significant landmarks like Darulshafa, Mecca Masjid, and Badshahi Ashurkhana.
[D] Support for Arts and Literature
- Calligraphic Art: Under Muhammad Quli’s rule, calligraphy flourished, with various scripts adorning buildings such as the Mecca Masjid.
- Literary Contributions: Muhammad Quli’s poetic works in Urdu and Dakhni languages reflected his diverse interests and cultural appreciation.
- Taraqqi: He was a poet himself and composed poetry in Persian and Telugu under the pen name “Taraqqi”.
[E] Medical and Literary Contributions
- Intellectual Hub: Hyderabad became a centre for medical and literary pursuits, with scholars producing notable works during Muhammad Quli’s reign.
- Preservation of Culture: Muhammad Quli’s literary legacy, including his Diwan, is preserved in institutions like the Salar Jung Museum, showcasing his contribution to cultural heritage.
Legacy and Influence
- Cultural Integration: Muhammad Quli’s reign represents a period of cultural fusion, blending Hindu and Islamic traditions in the Deccan region.
- Symbol of Unity: His efforts to promote harmony and coexistence endure as a testament to the inclusive ethos of his administration.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Endometrial Stem Cells
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- Approximately 20 years ago, biologist Caroline Gargett embarked on a quest to uncover remarkable cells within hysterectomy tissue.
- Dr. Gargett discovered two types of cells in the endometrium through rigorous microscopy examination, suspected to be adult stem cells due to their regenerative capabilities.
- The discovery of these cells, known as endometrial stromal mesenchymal stem cells, opened new avenues for research in tissue repair and disease treatment.
What are Endometrial Stem Cells?
- Potential for Regeneration: Endometrial stem cells possess the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including neurons, cartilage, fat, bone, heart, liver, and skin cells.
- Collection Methods: These stem cells can be obtained through a biopsy procedure or harvested from menstrual blood, offering a less invasive and more accessible means of procurement.
Application in Women’s Health
- Understanding Endometriosis: Endometrial stem cells have been linked to endometriosis, a condition affecting millions of women worldwide, providing insights into its etiology and potential therapeutic targets.
- Diagnostic and Therapeutic Potential: Differences in menstrual stem cells between healthy individuals and those with endometriosis offer promising avenues for diagnostic tests and targeted treatments.
- Treatment Innovations: Clinical trials exploring the transplantation of menstrual stem cells have shown potential for treating pelvic organ prolapse and other gynecological conditions.
Beyond Gynecological Diseases
- Wider Therapeutic Applications: Research indicates the potential of menstrual stem cells in treating diseases beyond gynecological disorders, including diabetes and wound healing.
- Clinical Trials and Future Prospects: Small-scale trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of stem cell transplantation in humans, paving the way for further exploration and application in diverse medical fields.
Challenges and Biases
- Underrepresentation in Research: Despite their therapeutic potential, menstrual stem cells constitute a minuscule fraction of stem cell research, attributed to cultural taboos and biases surrounding menstruation.
- Funding and Investment: Limited funding and gender bias in research funding pose significant challenges to advancing research on menstrual stem cells, necessitating greater advocacy and support.
Way Forward
- Addressing Bias: Tackling sex and gender bias in research funding is crucial for fostering equitable investments in women’s health research.
- Recognition and Validation: By overcoming cultural taboos and biases, menstrual stem cells can be recognized as a valuable resource in regenerative medicine, transforming perceptions of menstruation from inconvenience to scientific opportunity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: RuPay and UPI
Mains level: Rupee as regional and global currency
Introduction
- RBI has announced the establishment of RuPay card and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) connectivity between India and Mauritius, as well as UPI connectivity between India and Sri Lanka.
- This initiative aims to deepen financial integration and facilitate digital payments among citizens of the three countries.
Discussion: Rupee Integration with Neighbours
- UPI in Mauritius: Indian travellers visiting Mauritius can now pay merchants in Mauritius using UPI, while Mauritian travellers can utilize the Instant Payment System (IPS) app for payments in India.
- RuPay Adoption: The MauCAS card scheme in Mauritius will leverage RuPay technology, allowing banks to issue RuPay cards domestically. These cards can be used at ATMs and Point of Sale (PoS) terminals in Mauritius and India.
- First Adoption: Mauritius becomes the first country outside Asia to implement RuPay technology, enabling acceptance of Indian RuPay cards at ATMs and PoS terminals within Mauritius.
- QR Code Payments in SL: Indian travellers can make QR code-based payments at merchant locations in Sri Lanka using their UPI apps.
About RuPay and UPI
[A] RuPay Debit Cards
|
Details |
| Launch Year |
2012 |
| Conceived by |
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) |
| Key Features |
First global card payment network of India
Wide acceptance at ATMs, POS devices, and e-commerce websites |
| Security Measures |
Highly secure network against anti-phishing
Supports electronic payments at all Indian banks and financial institutions |
| International Acceptance |
NPCI maintains ties with Discover Financial, JCB for international acceptance |
| Issuers |
More than 1100 banks including public sector, private, regional banks, and cooperatives |
| Core Promoter Banks |
SBI, PNB, Canara Bank, BOB, Union Bank of India, Bank of India, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Citibank, HSBC |
[B] Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
|
Details |
| Launch |
April 11, 2016 |
| Developed by |
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) |
| Key Features |
Enables simple, easy, and quick transactions using Unified Payments Interface (UPI) |
| Payment Methods |
Direct bank payments using UPI ID or QR code scanning
Requesting money from a UPI ID |
| Working |
Transfers using UPI ID, mobile number, QR code, or Virtual Payment Address.
Offers consistent transaction PIN across apps, enhancing cross-operability.
Supports push and pull transactions, over-the-counter payments, and recurring payments such as utility bills and subscriptions. |
Countries where UPI works
|
Details |
| Bhutan |
Launched in July 13, 2021.
Partnership between NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL) and the Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) of Bhutan.
First country to adopt UPI. |
| Oman |
Launched on October 4, 2022.
Enables acceptance of Indian RuPay cards at all OmanNet network ATMs, POS & E-commerce sites.
Allows reciprocal acceptance of Oman cards/MPCSS in the networks of NPCI in India. |
| Mauritius |
Connectivity allows Indian visitors in Mauritius to use UPI for local payments, and vice versa for Mauritian tourists in India using the Instant Payment System (IPS) app.
Enables issuance of RuPay cards by banks in Mauritius through the MauCAS card network. |
| Sri Lanka |
Digital payments connectivity enables Indian travellers to make QR code-based payments at merchant locations in Sri Lanka using their UPI apps. |
| Nepal |
Nepali users can make bank transfers to India using a unified payment interface (UPI) ID through mobile banking. |
| France |
UPI service launched at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France this year.
Partnership between NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) and Lyra, a French leader in securing e-commerce and proximity payments. |
| Southeast Asia |
Agreement signed between NIPL and Liquid Group to enable QR-based UPI payments in 10 countries: Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. |
Why such move?
- Tourism Promotion: Facilitating digital payments through RuPay and UPI encourages tourists from India to visit Mauritius and Sri Lanka by providing them with convenient payment options.
- Financial Integration: The rollout of RuPay and UPI fosters closer economic ties between India, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka by enabling cross-border transactions and financial services.
- Diversification (away from Maldives): By providing modern payment infrastructure and options comparable to those in popular tourist destinations like Mauritius and Sri Lanka can attract more tourists and diversify their tourism sectors.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Black Hole and related terminologies
Mains level: Evidences confirming gravitational waves, relativity theory and black holes
Introduction
- Scientists have revealed new insights into a colossal black hole located 53 million light-years away, initially captured by the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) in 2017.
- This groundbreaking achievement provided the first visual confirmation of the existence of black holes, validating a key prediction of Einstein’s theory of general relativity.
Key Findings by EHT
- The new data, obtained with improved telescope coverage and resolution, reiterated the previous discovery of the black hole’s ‘shadow’.
- The findings confirmed the presence of an asymmetric ring structure consistent with strong gravitational lensing effects.
- Observations indicated a stable ring formation process over time, with subtle changes suggesting variations in the magnetic field structure.
About Event Horizon Telescope (EHT)
|
Description |
| About |
A large telescope array consisting of a global network of radio telescopes.
Uses Very-long-baseline interferometry (VLBI).
Resolution of 25 micro-arc-seconds |
| Collaboration |
International collaboration involving over 300 members and 60 institutions across 20 countries and regions |
| Launch Year |
Initiated in 2009 |
| First Image Published |
April 10, 2019 (First image of a black hole, M87*) |
| Objective |
Observation of objects the size of a supermassive black hole’s event horizon |
| Key Targets |
Black holes including M87* and Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) |
| Recent Developments |
First image of black hole (March 2021), first image of Sgr A* (May 12, 2022) |
| Reconstructive Algorithms |
Includes CLEAN algorithm and regularized maximum likelihood (RML) algorithm |
| Scientific Implications |
Verification of general relativity, measurement of black hole mass and diameter, study of accretion processes |
Back2Basics: Black Holes and Related Concepts
|
Definition |
| Black hole |
A region in space where gravity is so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it. |
| Event horizon |
The boundary surrounding a black hole beyond which nothing can escape its gravitational pull. |
| Singularity |
A point within a black hole where gravity becomes infinitely strong and spacetime curvature becomes infinite. |
| Gravitational collapse |
The process by which massive stars collapse under their own gravity to form black holes. |
| Schwarzschild radius |
The radius of the event horizon of a non-rotating black hole. |
| Hawking radiation |
Radiation emitted by black holes due to quantum effects near the event horizon, predicted by physicist Stephen Hawking. |
| Accretion disk |
A rotating disk of matter that forms around a black hole as it pulls in surrounding gas and dust. |
| Supermassive black hole |
A black hole with a mass millions or billions of times greater than that of the Sun, found at the center of most galaxies. |
| Quasar |
A luminous object powered by an active galactic nucleus, thought to be fueled by the accretion of material onto a supermassive black hole. |
| Neutron star |
A highly compact star composed primarily of neutrons, formed from the collapsed core of a massive star. |
| White dwarf |
A small, dense star composed of electron-degenerate matter, formed from the remnants of a low to medium mass star. |
| Gravitational waves |
Ripples in spacetime caused by the acceleration of massive objects, such as black holes or neutron stars. |
| Black Hole Information Paradox |
The theoretical problem concerning the loss of information about the initial state of matter swallowed by a black hole, which contradicts the principles of quantum mechanics. |
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