Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: India's steel sector
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Indian government is focusing on the steel sector with the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme 2.0 and ensuring raw material supply in 2024.
- Minister of State for Steel highlighted these initiatives, emphasizing the promotion of scrap usage in steel production.
Growth and Recovery Post-Pandemic
- Resilience: The steel sector has shown a strong recovery following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-21.
- Production and Consumption: From April to November 2023, crude steel production increased by 14.5% y-o-y to 94.01 Million Tonnes (MT), and finished steel consumption rose by 14% to 86.97 MT.
Targets and Technological Advancements
- Capacity Goal: India aims to reach an installed steel manufacturing capacity of 300 MT by 2030, currently at around 161 MT.
- Innovation: Efforts are underway to integrate artificial intelligence and new technologies to enhance steel output and reduce carbon emissions.
PLI Scheme and Industry Expansion
- PLI Scheme 1.0: The first phase aimed to boost speciality steel production, creating an additional capacity of around 25 MT.
- Capacity Increase: Steel players are expanding their capacities, with the government facilitating project clearances and easing business operations.
Challenges and Concerns
- Rising Imports and Costs: The industry faces challenges with increasing imports, high raw material prices, and geopolitical uncertainties.
- Dependency: India relies heavily on imports for coking coal, a critical raw material for steel production.
Global Steel Industry and India’s Role
- India’s Growth: India, the world’s second-largest steel producer, has shown robust growth, significantly contributing to the global steel industry.
- Comparison with China: While China remains the largest producer, India has outpaced China in terms of growth rate in recent years.
Demand and Import Dynamics
- Sectoral Demand: The construction sector, driven by government infrastructure spending and private investment, leads the demand for steel in India.
- Import Measures: The government has implemented anti-dumping duties and other barriers to address steel dumping, particularly from China and Vietnam.
Price Trends and Future Outlook
- Domestic Prices: Indian steel prices have increased due to strong demand, but global uncertainties may impact future price hikes.
- Global Market Influence: Domestic pricing trends may be influenced by global economic recovery and price movements in the US and Europe.
Conclusion
- Strategic Focus: The Indian government’s initiatives, like the PLI scheme, aim to strengthen the steel sector’s global competitiveness and self-reliance.
- Balancing Growth and Challenges: While the sector shows promising growth, addressing challenges like raw material dependency and import pressures remains crucial.
- Global Positioning: India’s significant role in the global steel market underscores its potential to influence industry trends and drive economic growth.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Veer Bal Divas
Mains level: Not Much
Introduction
- The Prime Minister paid homage to the courage and sacrifice of the Sahibzade, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.
- This day, announced on January 9, 2022, commemorates the martyrdom of Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.
Veer Bal Divas: A Day of Remembrance
- Inception: Veer Bal Divas was established to honor the young Sahibzade who were martyred at the ages of 6 and 9.
- Guru Gobind Singh’s Legacy: Guru Gobind Singh, as the tenth Guru of Sikhs and founder of the Khalsa, holds a significant place in Sikh history.
The Legend of the Sahibzades
- Meaning of Sahibzada: In Punjabi, “Sahibzada” means “son,” referring to the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh.
- Sacrificial Week: The week from December 21 to 27 is observed in memory of the Sahibzades’ sacrifices for Sikhism and Hinduism.
- Martyrdom for Faith: The Sahibzades, Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh, and Fateh Singh, were martyred defending their faith against forced conversion.
Backstory of Their Martyrdom
- Khalsa Panth and Anandpur Sahib: After establishing the Khalsa Panth, Guru Gobind Singh left Anandpur Sahib with his family in December 1704 amidst Aurangzeb’s invasion.
- Capture and Martyrdom: The younger Sahibzades were captured by Subedar Wazir Khan of Sirhind and faced pressure for religious conversion, leading to their tragic martyrdom.
- Elder Sahibzades’ Sacrifice: The elder Sahibzades, Ajit Singh and Jujhar Singh, were martyred in the battle of Chamkaur in 1705.
Implications and Historical Impact
- Guru Gobind Singh’s Response: Upon learning of their martyrdom, Guru Gobind Singh wrote the ‘Zafarnama’ to Aurangzeb, declaring the Khalsa’s readiness to challenge his empire.
- Baba Banda Singh Bahadur’s Revenge: He avenged the Sahibzades’ martyrdom, punishing Wazir Khan and establishing Sikh dominance in the region.
- Emergence of the Sikh Empire: This sacrifice paved the way for the later establishment of a vast Sikh empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Significance in Indian History
- A Watershed Moment: The martyrdom of the Sahibzades is a pivotal event in Indian history, remembered with both respect and sorrow.
- Legacy in Sikh Tradition: The Sahibzades’ names are honored in the Sikh Ardas, symbolizing their enduring legacy in Sikh faith and history.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Konsachem Festival
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- In Goa, August marks the formation of new rice grains, celebrated through the festival of Konsachem.
Konsachem Festival and Its Traditions
- Background: Konsachem, observed by Goan Hindus and Catholics, honors the new rice grains, known as konxeo in Konkani.
- Shared Rituals: The first harvested rice sheaves are taken for blessings – to deities by Hindus and to saints by Catholics.
- Catholic Celebrations: For Goan Catholics, the festival peaks on August 24, the Feast Day of St. Bartholomew, one of Jesus Christ’s 12 Apostles.
- Observances: The celebration includes a procession, ritual cutting of grain, and a thanksgiving mass, with offerings made to St. Bartholomew.
Bartholomew’s Legacy and Christian Faith in India
- Missionary Journey: Bartholomew is believed to have landed in Kallianpur and preached along the Konkan coast, reaching as far as Karachi.
- Lesser-Known Apostles: While St. Thomas’s mission in Kerala and Tamil Nadu is well-documented, St. Bartholomew’s contributions in India are less known but significant.
- Martyrdom and Influence: He is revered for his martyrdom in Azerbaijan and his role in the Christianization of Armenia and Georgia.
- Pre-Portuguese Christian Origins: Research by scholars underscores Christianity’s roots in India dating back to the Apostles, reinforcing its integral place in Indian faith traditions.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Field Pansy Flower
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Researchers have found that a flower species in Paris, the field pansy (Viola arvensis), is evolving rapidly, exhibiting reduced nectar production and smaller flower sizes.
- This study aims to understand the impact of these evolutionary changes on plant-pollinator interactions.
Changing Nature of Field Pansy
- Decreased Nectar and Size: The wild pansy variety in Paris showed a 20% reduction in nectar production and a 10% decrease in flower size.
- Comparative Analysis: Scientists compared current flower growth with seeds from 20-30 years ago, observing notable changes.
- Adaptation to Pollinator Decline: The evolution towards self-pollination in field pansies is attributed to the decreasing availability of insect pollinators.
- Experimental Design: The study employed the “resurrection ecology” method, planting seeds from the 1990s and 2000s alongside their 2021 descendants.
Implications of Self-Pollination and Evolutionary Shifts
- Contrast with Angiosperm Convention: The move towards self-pollination deviates from the typical reliance of angiosperms on insects for pollination.
- Long-Term Coevolution: The traditional plant-insect relationship, involving nectar production for pollination, has evolved over 100 million years.
- Genetic Analysis: Population genetics analysis revealed a 27% increase in selfing rates, with consistent trait shifts across studied populations.
Concerns and Potential Consequences
- Short-Term Benefits, Long-Term Risks: While self-pollination may offer short-term advantages, it poses long-term survival threats to plants amid environmental changes.
- Feedback Loop Risks: Reduced nectar production could lead to further declines in pollinator populations, creating a detrimental eco-evolutionary feedback loop.
- Network Degradation: The study highlights the degradation of plant-pollinator networks, as observed in previous research.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Stagflation
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) officials have reported a decreased risk of stagflation in India, now estimated at 1%, down from 3% in August
What is Stagflation?
|
Details |
| Definition |
An economic condition characterized by stagnant growth, high unemployment, and high inflation. |
| Indian context |
Fluctuating growth rates; periods of slowdown have raised concerns about stagnation. |
| Inflation Dynamics in India |
Historically high at times, often driven by rising food and fuel prices. |
| Supply Shocks |
Vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations and agricultural supply shocks (e.g., monsoon variability). |
| Past Episodes |
Elevated stagflation risks were noted during the Asian Crisis, Global Financial Crisis, taper tantrum, and COVID-19 pandemic. |
Methodology for Assessing Stagflation
- Two-Pronged Approach: RBI assessment utilized two methods: analyzing periods of low economic growth with high inflation, and employing ‘at-risk’ frameworks, namely “Inflation at Risk” (IaR) and “Growth at Risk” (GaR), using quantile regression.
- Determinants of Stagflation: Key factors identified include supply-side shocks, commodity price spikes, tighter financial conditions, and currency depreciation.
Key Risk Factors for India
- Financial Conditions and Rupee Depreciation: Financial conditions and the depreciation of the rupee against the U.S. dollar are significant risk factors for stagflation in India.
- Empirical Evidence: The integrated IaR and GaR frameworks corroborate these findings, although the impact of crude oil prices on domestic fuel prices has limited predictive power for stagflation.
- Global Concerns: Post-pandemic, higher commodity prices and the U.S. dollar’s appreciation raised global stagflation concerns.
Back2Basics: Economic Conditions: Definitions and Concepts
|
Explanation |
| Depression |
A sustained, long-term downturn in economic activity.
Characterized by significant decline in GDP, high unemployment, low spending, and reduced industrial output. |
| Deflation |
A general fall in the price level of goods and services over some time, indicating negative inflation rates. |
| Disinflation |
A decrease in the rate of inflation, i.e., a slowdown in the rate at which prices increase.
Example: Inflation rate falling from 8% to 6%. |
| Reflation |
Economic measures, such as increasing money supply or reducing taxes, aimed at stimulating the economy to reach its long-term growth trend after a downturn. |
| Skewflation |
A situation where the price of some items rises significantly while others remain stable.
Example: Seasonal rise in the price of onions while other prices are stable. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- India seeks to modernize the ASEAN India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA) to reduce the significant trade deficit with ASEAN nations in February 2023 with a target to complete the revamp by 2025.
About ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA)
|
Details |
| Signing Date |
August 13, 2009, w.e.f. January 1, 2010. |
| Objectives |
Eliminate tariffs and liberalize trade in goods.
Facilitate economic integration between ASEAN and India. |
| Key Features |
Gradual reduction and eventual elimination of tariffs
Measures to facilitate trade and customs efficiency |
| Member Countries |
ASEAN Members: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and India. |
| Economic Impact |
Growth in trade between India and ASEAN countries – Diversification of trade basket. |
| Recent Developments |
Discussions on reviewing and upgrading the agreement. |
| Challenges |
Concerns over trade imbalances.
Potential impact on certain domestic industries in India. |
| Strategic Significance |
Part of India’s “Act East” policy.
Step towards broader regional economic integration. |
Need for review
- Significant Trade Partner: ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia, accounted for 11.3% of India’s global trade in 2022-23.
- Existing Trade Imbalance: The current trade deficit with ASEAN stands at $43.57 billion, a substantial increase from $7.5 billion per annum when the pact was first implemented.
- Trade Statistics: In 2022-23, India’s exports to ASEAN were valued at $44 billion against imports of $87.57 billion.
- Rebalancing Trade: The primary goal is to address the disproportionate benefits that have favored ASEAN since the agreement’s implementation in 2010.
- Modernization of the Agreement: The focus is on updating the FTA to reflect current global trade dynamics and include new elements like product-specific rules and trade remedies.
Key Areas of Negotiation
- Rules of Origin (ROO): Modifications in ROO are planned to increase market access for Indian products and prevent the rerouting of goods, particularly from China, through ASEAN countries.
- Trade Remedies: A new chapter on trade remedies will aim to protect domestic industries from unfair trade practices and import surges.
- Exclusion of New Areas: The agreement will not expand to cover additional areas like labor, environment, MSMEs, or gender to avoid complicating the pact.
Challenges and Industry Perspectives
- Need for Concessions: While India seeks to balance the trade deficit, concessions may be necessary to ensure mutual benefits.
- Sectoral Focus: Industries such as chemicals, plastics, minerals, leather, textiles, and gems and jewellery are identified for potential growth in exports.
Conclusion
- Strategic Approach: India’s efforts to modernize the AITGA reflect a strategic approach to enhance trade relations while protecting domestic interests.
- Balancing Act: The challenge lies in negotiating terms that benefit both India and ASEAN members, fostering a more equitable trading environment.
- Long-Term Implications: Successful negotiations could significantly impact India’s trade dynamics, potentially reducing the trade deficit and strengthening economic ties with ASEAN nations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Disinvestment
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- India’s disinvestment process, primarily focusing on minority stake sales rather than full privatisation, is expected to fall short of its fiscal year 2024 target.
- The government’s cautious approach, influenced by the upcoming general elections, has led to a slowdown in the privatisation of major public sector undertakings (PSUs).
Disinvestment Performance and Targets
- Past Achievements: Over the past decade, disinvestment has generated over ₹4.20 lakh crore, but the current fiscal year’s target appears challenging.
- FY24 Target: The government set a disinvestment goal of ₹51,000 crore for FY24, a reduction from the previous year’s estimate.
- Major PSUs on Hold: Plans for the privatisation of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), and CONCOR have been deferred.
- Progress So Far: Approximately ₹10,049 crore, or 20% of the budgeted amount, has been raised through IPOs and OFS.
- Pipeline Projects: Strategic sales of CPSEs like SCI, NMDC Steel Ltd, BEML, HLL Lifecare, and IDBI Bank are planned but face delays due to various procedural hurdles.
Factors Influencing Disinvestment
- Political Considerations: Strategic disinvestment decisions are being influenced by the upcoming elections, leading to a cautious approach.
- Challenges in Strategic Sales: The sale process involves multiple stakeholders and complex procedures, making it a lengthy affair.
- Public and Political Resistance: Certain sectors, particularly defence and shipping, face opposition to privatisation, causing delays and policy reassessments.
- Economic Think Tank Views: Observers note a recent slowdown in PSU stake sales, attributed to regulatory processes, global economic volatility, and shifting government priorities.
Historical Context and Government Policy
- Post-2014 Strategy: Since 2014, the government has revived its disinvestment policy, focusing on stake sales and listing of PSEs on the stock market.
- Union Budget 2023-24: The disinvestment target for FY24 is the lowest in seven years, with the government yet to meet the target for 2022-23.
- Reasons for Disinvestment: The government undertakes disinvestment to reduce fiscal burdens, finance deficits, invest in development, and retire debt.
- Types of Disinvestment: The process includes minority disinvestment, majority divestment, and complete privatisation, managed by the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM).
Recent Disinvestment Performance
- Meeting Targets: The government has met its disinvestment targets only twice since 2014.
- Challenges in Execution: Strategic sales have been complicated by various factors, including market volatility and political opposition.
Future of Disinvestment in 2023-24
- No New Additions: The government plans to continue with the already announced privatisation of state-owned companies without adding new ones.
- Challenges and Vision: Observers suggest that disinvestment should align with the government’s long-term vision for privatisation and sectoral presence, rather than being driven solely by revenue needs.
Conclusion
- Strategic Policy Shifts: The government’s disinvestment strategy is evolving, balancing between raising revenues and managing political and public sentiments.
- Impact of Upcoming Elections: With general elections approaching, the focus on disinvestment might shift, impacting the progress and priorities of stake sales.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nematocysts
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Evolution has crafted unique defense mechanisms in the animal kingdom, one of which is the nematocyst.
Understanding Nematocysts
- Structural Composition: A nematocyst comprises a capsule with a coiled tubule and a toxin-filled bulbous structure.
- Rapid Deployment: Upon stimulation, the nematocyst ejects its tubule at an incredibly high acceleration, comparable to a bullet’s speed.
- Fastest Biological Mechanisms: This ejection process is among the quickest in the animal kingdom.
- Found in: Nematocysts are particularly prevalent in jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras, serving as effective tools for hunting and protection.
Role in Cnidarians’ Survival
- Cnidarians and Cnidocytes: Cnidarians, a group of animals characterized by cnidocytes (specialized cells), heavily rely on nematocysts for feeding and defense.
- Activation Process: Contact with potential prey triggers sensory structures on cnidocytes, leading to the nematocyst’s release and subsequent prey immobilization or toxin injection.
Diversity of Toxins in Nematocysts
- Variety of Effects: Nematocyst toxins can be paralytic, halting prey movement, or cytolytic, breaking down cells.
- Strategic Use: Cnidarians often employ a mix of toxins to enhance the effectiveness of their predatory and defensive actions.
- Contribution to Cnidarians’ Success: The complexity and efficiency of nematocysts play a vital role in the survival and dominance of cnidarians in aquatic habitats.
- Formidable Aquatic Predators: The presence of nematocysts makes cnidarians formidable entities in their ecosystems.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project PRAYAS
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) introduced Project PRAYAS (Promoting Regular & Assisted Migration for Youth and Skilled Professionals) to facilitate secure and regular migration for Indian workers and students.
What is Project PRAYAS?
|
Details |
| Project Name |
Project PRAYAS |
| Introduced By |
International Organization for Migration (IOM) |
| Partnership |
Ministry of External Affairs, India |
| Objective |
To facilitate secure and regular migration for Indian workers and students |
| Key Focus |
Enhancing coordination between state and central governments
Addressing India’s growing role in international migration
Providing policy recommendations for migration governance |
| IOM’s Role |
Promoting humane and orderly migration as a United Nations agency |
| Significance |
Represents a consolidation of state-level efforts for well-managed international migration |
| Focus Areas and Activities |
Conducting comprehensive studies on migration trends
Launching awareness programs for safe and orderly migration processes |
Back2Basics: International Organisation for Migration (IOM)
|
Details |
| Establishment |
1951 |
| Initial Purpose |
To assist in the resettlement of people displaced by World War II |
| Current Role |
Providing services and advice on migration to governments and migrants, including various displaced persons |
| Type |
Intergovernmental Organization |
| Membership |
173 member states, 8 observer states |
| Headquarters |
Geneva, Switzerland |
| Key Objectives |
Promote humane and orderly migration Emergency response
Link migration with development Health and support for migrants
Facilitate managed labor migration Counter human trafficking |
| UN Relationship |
Became a related organization of the United Nations in 2016 |
| India and IOM |
India has been a member of IOM since 1992. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bab El-Mandeb
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The war between Israel and Hamas in October raised concerns about Hezbollah’s involvement, but the focus shifted when the Houthis in Yemen expanded the conflict to the Red Sea.
- Despite tensions, Hezbollah and Israel avoided full-scale war, with Israel concentrating on Gaza.
Houthi Involvement and Shift in Tactics
- Initial Actions: The Houthis, aligned with Iran, initially targeted Israel in solidarity with Palestinians, using drones and missiles, which were intercepted.
- Change in Strategy: Later, they shifted focus to attacking commercial ships in the Red Sea, threatening global shipping routes.
Understanding the Houthis
- Background: The Houthis, known formally as Ansar Allah, are a Shia militia group in Yemen, named after their late leaders Badr al-Din al-Houthi and Hussein al-Houthi.
- Iranian Support: They receive direct support from Iran and have significant military capabilities, including drones and ballistic missiles.
Strategic Importance of Bab el-Mandeb Strait
- Geographical Significance: The Strait of Bab el-Mandeb is a crucial maritime chokepoint, connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.
- Impact on Global Shipping: Houthi actions near the strait have led to a significant decrease in Red Sea traffic and increased shipping costs.
Global and Regional Consequences
- Effect on Israel: Israel’s southern port traffic, particularly in Eilat, has been severely impacted.
- Broader Trade Implications: Approximately 12% of global maritime trade passes through the strait. Disruptions here could exacerbate inflationary pressures worldwide.
- Alternative Routes: Shipping companies are rerouting around Africa, significantly increasing travel time and costs.
International Response
- US Naval Task Force: The U.S. has established a naval force to counter the Houthi threat.
- Arab World’s Stance: Many Red Sea countries, including Egypt, have not joined the U.S. task force, reflecting regional discontent with U.S. policies.
- Potential Offensive Measures: The U.S. has not ruled out bombing Houthi targets in response to continued attacks on shipping lanes.
Conclusion
- Continued Houthi Threat: The Houthis vow to persist in their actions as long as Israel’s conflict with Gaza continues.
- Challenges for Global Trade: The situation underscores the fragility of global shipping routes and the potential for regional conflicts to have far-reaching economic impacts.
- Need for Diplomatic Solutions: This complex scenario highlights the importance of diplomatic efforts to resolve regional tensions and protect vital maritime trade routes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: India's textile sector
Central Idea
- Major textile hubs in India, including Ludhiana, Surat, and Erode, are grappling with the surge in imports of man-made fibre (MMF) fabrics, impacting a sector worth about $60 billion.
- Fabric processors and weavers across these hubs express concerns over the influx of cheaper imports, primarily from China, affecting their businesses.
Impact of Imported MMF Fabrics
- Market Dominance: Imported fabrics, especially from China, are increasingly found in Indian markets, leading to unsold stocks and production cuts by local weavers.
- Price Disparity: Indian weavers face competition from cheaper imported yarns, compelling them to import materials like viscose yarn from China to remain competitive.
Statistical Overview of MMF Fabric Imports
- Doubling of Imports: In the last three years, MMF fabric imports have doubled, with a significant portion being knitted synthetic fabrics.
- Import Data: Daily imports from China increased from 325 tonnes in 2019-2020 to 887 tonnes in the April-June quarter of the current fiscal year, with a notable drop in average value per kg.
Under-Invoicing and Quality Control Issues
- Under-Invoicing Concerns: The practice of under-invoicing imported finished fabrics poses a major challenge, leading to calls for stricter customs regulations.
- Quality Control Orders (QCOs): The government’s introduction of QCOs on MMF fibres and products, requiring BIS certification, has impacted the entire value chain.
Consequences for Local Industry and Global Trade
- Operational Capacity: The downstream industry is reportedly operating at only 70% capacity due to these challenges.
- Export Decline: Exports of man-made yarn, fabrics, and made-ups have seen a year-on-year decline.
- Global MMF Trade: India’s share in global MMF trade was 2.7% in 2019, with fabrics and yarn being major export components.
Industry Perspectives and Government Policies
- Innovation Gap: Industry experts highlight a lack of innovation in MMF products in India compared to countries like China, Thailand, and Korea.
- Impact of QCOs: The introduction of QCOs, particularly at the fibre stage, is criticized for disrupting the industry, with calls for implementing quality controls at the garment stage instead.
- Challenges for MSMEs: Small and medium enterprises face financial strain due to declining orders, high prices, and increased operational costs.
- GST Issues and Financial Relief Demands
- GST Refund Delays: The introduction of GST led to higher taxes on MMF fibre and yarn, with delayed refunds causing financial burdens for weavers.
- Refund Controversy: Weavers contend that they are owed significant refunds due to the inverted duty structure, with the government potentially owing around ₹1,000 crore to the sector.
Conclusion
- Need for Strategic Measures: Addressing the challenges in India’s textile industry requires a balanced approach, considering both domestic capabilities and global market dynamics.
- Government’s Role: Effective policy measures, including rationalizing import duties and quality controls, are essential to support the industry and enhance its competitiveness.
- Future Outlook: The textile sector’s resilience and adaptability will be key in overcoming these challenges and capitalizing on potential opportunities in the global market.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Prime Meridian, Ujjain
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The newly elected Madhya Pradesh CM asserted that Ujjain, was the reference for world time 300 years ago, before the Prime Meridian shifted to Paris and then Greenwich.
- For UPSC aspirants, understanding these nuances is essential for a comprehensive grasp of India’s scientific heritage and its global context.
Time Measurement and Ujjain’s Role
- Ujjain’s Central Meridian: Before Greenwich’s establishment in 1884, Ujjain was the central meridian for time in India, influencing Hindu almanac calculations.
- Vedshala Observatory: The Vedshala or Government Jiwaji Observatory in Ujjain offers insights into ancient Indian timekeeping methods.
Ujjain’s Geographical and Astronomical Significance
- Surya Siddhanta’s Contributions: This 4th-century astronomical treatise positions Ujjain at the intersection of the zero meridian of longitude and the Tropic of Cancer, highlighting its global importance.
- Astronomical Landmarks: Ujjain’s location on the Tropic of Cancer, intersecting significant temples, underscores its historical and religious significance in Hindu cosmogony.
Legacy of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and the Vedshala
- Observatory’s Origins: Built between 1725-1730 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the Vedshala was inspired by the observatory in Samarkand and predates those in Jaipur, Delhi, Mathura, and Varanasi.
- Motivation for Construction: Jai Singh’s initiative to educate the country in astronomy was sparked by a debate in the Mughal court over astronomical calculations.
Ujjain’s Astronomical Heritage and Contributions
- Center for Ancient Astronomy: Ujjain was a hub for astronomical and mathematical studies, home to scholars like Varahamihira, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskaracharya.
- Vikram Samvat Calendar: King Vikramaditya’s establishment of the Vikram Samvat calendar around 58–56 B.C. further cements Ujjain’s historical importance.
Exploring the Vedshala’s Instruments and Functions
- Yantras and Their Uses: The observatory houses various instruments (yantras) for measuring time, celestial altitudes, planetary motions, and eclipses.
- Unique Instruments: The Shankhu Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Digansha Yantra, Nadi Valay Yantra, and Bhitti Yantra demonstrate the sophistication of ancient Indian astronomical tools.
- Taramandel Shows: The observatory also features a planetarium offering educational shows about celestial bodies.
Ongoing Astronomical Research and Preservation
- Renovation and Continuation of Studies: Maharaja Madhav Rao Scindia of Gwalior renovated the observatory in 1923, ensuring the continuation of astronomical research.
- Annual Ephemeris Publication: The observatory publishes an ephemeris, detailing the daily positions and movements of planets.
Conclusion
- Balancing Historical Pride and Scientific Accuracy: While appreciating Ujjain’s rich astronomical heritage, it’s crucial to distinguish between historical significance and contemporary scientific standards.
- Insights for UPSC Aspirants: Understanding Ujjain’s role in ancient timekeeping and astronomy offers UPSC aspirants a nuanced perspective on India’s scientific contributions and cultural heritage.
- Enduring Legacy: Ujjain’s astronomical legacy, exemplified by the Vedshala Observatory, continues to be a testament to India’s historical advancements in science and time measurement.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tribunals
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The Supreme Court clarified that tribunals, bound by their governing legislations, cannot compel the government to formulate policy.
- It emphasized the separation of powers, stating that policy-making is outside the judiciary’s domain, including quasi-judicial bodies like tribunals.
What are Tribunals?
|
Details |
| Nature |
Judicial or quasi-judicial institutions established by law |
| Purpose |
Provide faster adjudication compared to traditional courts
Offer expertise on specific subject matters |
| Functions |
Adjudicating disputes
Determining rights between parties
Making administrative decisions
Reviewing existing administrative decisions |
| Constitutional Recognition |
42nd Amendment Act, 1976 introduced Articles 323-A and 323-B in the Constitution |
| Article 323A |
Empowers Parliament to constitute administrative Tribunals for public service matters |
| Article 323B |
Allows Parliament or state legislatures to constitute tribunals for specific subjects like taxation, land reforms |
| Composition |
Comprises expert (technical) members and judicial members |
| Expert Members |
Selected from various fields, including central government departments |
| Judicial Members |
Persons with a judicial background, such as High Court judges or eligible lawyers |
| Supreme Court’s Stance |
Technical members not required if tribunal’s aim is expeditious disposal of matters |
Case in Focus: Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) and Policy Direction
- Specific Case Reviewed: The Bench addressed whether the AFT could direct the government to create a policy for appointing the Judge Advocate General (Air).
- General Observation: It has been consistently observed that courts cannot mandate the government to enact legislation or develop a policy.
Judicial Analysis and Reasoning
- Justice Karol’s Observations: Justice Sanjay Karol noted that the AFT, with powers akin to a civil court, lacks the authority of the Supreme Court or High Courts.
- High Courts’ Limitations: Even High Courts, under Article 226 of the Constitution, cannot order the government or its departments to establish specific policies.
- Government’s Prerogative: The judgment reinforced that policy creation, especially concerning defense personnel services or their regularization, is exclusively the government’s responsibility.
Implications of the Judgment
- Tribunals’ Restricted Powers: Tribunals must operate within the confines of their governing legislation and lack the jurisdiction to influence policy formation.
- Judiciary’s Role in Policy Matters: The judgment highlights the judiciary’s limited role in policy-making, even in cases where fundamental rights might be at stake.
- Separation of Powers: This ruling underscores the principle of separation of powers, delineating the distinct functions of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
Conclusion
- Respecting Institutional Boundaries: The judgment serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the boundaries and roles of different government institutions in a democratic setup.
- Broader Implications: This decision has significant implications for how tribunals and courts interact with policy-making processes, emphasizing judicial restraint and adherence to the constitutional framework.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Districts in India
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Amid reports that Odisha may create a few more districts before the end of the year, the Orissa High Court has directed the government not to issue any final order in this regard without its permission.
Districts in India
- Historical Background: Districts, as local administrative units, are a legacy from the British Raj era.
- Administrative Hierarchy: Positioned below the state and territory level, districts are crucial in India’s local governance structure.
- Leadership and Responsibilities: A Deputy Commissioner or Collector, often from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), heads a district, overseeing administration and maintaining law and order.
- Subdivision of Districts: Districts are further divided into smaller units like tehsils, talukas, or mandals, varying by region.
Mechanics of Creating New Districts
- State Government’s Prerogative: The authority to create, modify, or abolish districts lies with State governments, executed via executive orders or state assembly legislation.
- Preferred Methodology: States typically opt for the executive route, issuing official gazette notifications for these changes.
Central Government’s Role in District Reconfiguration
- Limited Involvement: The Central government’s role is minimal in district reformation, primarily concerning name changes.
- Procedure for Name Changes: For renaming districts or railway stations, State governments seek clearances from central entities like the Home Ministry, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Intelligence Bureau, Department of Posts, Geographical Survey of India, and the Railway Ministry.
Trends in District Formation
- Increase in Numbers: India’s district count has risen from 593 in 2011 to 718, as per the Government of India’s Know India website.
- Factors Influencing Growth: This increase includes new districts formed between 2001-2011 and the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh into Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in 2014.
Rationale behind Creating New Districts
- Benefits: Districts gain from government investments in local administration and development.
- Infrastructure and Economic Development: New districts see enhanced infrastructure, attracting investments and boosting economic activities and employment.
Challenges in District Formation
- Limitations and Costs: The financial burden of establishing administrative infrastructure restricts rampant district creation.
- Resource Allocation: The process involves setting up offices and deploying officers and public servants, impacting the state’s budget.
Way Forward
- Community Engagement: Involving local populations in the decision-making process is vital to align district formation with their aspirations and needs.
- Conflict Resolution and Inclusive Growth: This approach can help mitigate conflicts and ensure decisions contribute to the inclusive growth of the state and nation.
Back2Basics: History of Districts in India
|
Details |
| Early Administration |
Initiated by the British East India Company post-Battle of Plassey (1757) and Battle of Buxar (1764) |
| Collectorate System |
Introduced by Warren Hastings in 1772; District Collector as key revenue, judicial, and administrative authority |
| Transition to Crown Rule |
Post-1857 Revolt, direct British Crown rule led to formalization of district system |
| Role of District Collector |
Central figure in district administration, responsible for revenue, law, and order |
| Revenue Systems |
Implementation of Zamindari, Ryotwari, and Mahalwari systems for land revenue collection |
| Survey and Settlement |
Extensive land surveys for revenue assessment |
| Judicial Functions |
Initially, Collectors (District Magistrate) handled judicial roles; later, separate judicial offices were established |
| Law Enforcement |
Establishment of modern police system with districts as key units |
| Impact on Indian Society |
Centralized control, introduction of bureaucracy |
| Post-Independence Legacy |
Retained district system with evolved role of District Collector |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-DevINE Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Only about 10% of the funds under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) have been sanctioned.
About PM-DevINE Scheme
|
Details |
| Genesis of PM-DevINE |
– Introduced in Union Budget 2022-23
– Approved by the Cabinet on 12th October 2022 |
| Funding |
100% Central funding |
| Implementing Ministry |
Ministry of Development of North-East Region |
| Objectives |
– Infrastructure Development in line with PM GatiShakti
– Supporting Social Development Projects
– Empowering Youth and Women in the NER |
| Project Implementation |
State-wise, project-wise list of projects approved for FY 2022-23, tailored to specific state needs |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Evolution of Passports
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A recent Bollywood movie ‘Dunki’ addresses the complex issue of immigration.
- The term “donkey journey” in the title refers to the perilous routes taken by people lacking legal permits or financial means to immigrate.
- The film highlights that the current system of visas and passports is a relatively recent development, dating back about 70 years.
Historical Perspective on Passports
- Early Forms of Passports: Passports, serving as identity proofs and travel permits, have existed in various forms for centuries.
- Biblical Reference: The Book of Nehemiah mentions King Artaxerxes of ancient Persia providing letters for safe passage, akin to modern passports.
- European Documentation: In France and the United Kingdom, systems similar to modern passports were in place well before the French Revolution of 1789.
The French Passport System
- Internal and Overseas Passports: France required internal passports for domestic travel and overseas passports for foreign trips.
- State Control and Regulation: The system was also used to regulate skilled workers and prevent the entry of potential troublemakers.
Emergence of Modern Passports
- Shift in India: Before World War I, India did not issue passports, but the British government introduced mandatory passports under the Defence of India Act (1914 to 1918).
- Global Changes Post-World Wars: The need for secure borders during the World Wars led to a global shift in the perception and use of passports.
- British Nationality and Status of Aliens Act: This 1914 Act in Britain consolidated laws related to citizenship and introduced modern passport features.
Standardization and Regulation
- League of Nations’ Involvement: In 1920, the League of Nations aimed to standardize passport systems, with the British model becoming widely adopted.
- US Immigration Laws and Passports: The US introduced passport laws in the 1920s, coinciding with immigration restrictions from Asia.
Public Reception and Cultural Impact
- Personal Discomfort: In the US and UK, some people found the detailed physical descriptions and identity verification in passports intrusive.
- Media Attention: The requirement for prominent individuals, including President Woodrow Wilson, to have passports garnered significant media interest.
Conclusion
- Beyond Wartime Necessity: Initially intended as a wartime tool, passports have become an integral part of modern citizenship and international travel.
- Continued Evolution: The history of passports, as explored in ‘Dunki’, reflects the ongoing evolution of identity verification and border control in response to global socio-political changes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Srinivasa Ramanujan (1887-1920)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- December 22, Ramanujan’s birthday, was declared National Mathematics Day in India by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2012, in recognition of his contributions to the field.
Srinivasa Ramanujan (1887-1920)
- Early life: Srinivasa Ramanujan, born on December 22, 1887, in Erode, Tamil Nadu, exhibited extraordinary mathematical abilities from a very young age.
- Mathematical Mastery by 14: By age 14, Ramanujan had mastered advanced mathematics, excelling in exams and exploring complex topics.
- Difficulties in Other Subjects: His singular focus on mathematics led to poor grades in other subjects, hindering his academic progress.
- Scholarship Loss and Hardships: After losing a scholarship at Government College in Kumbakonam due to his academic struggles, Ramanujan faced financial difficulties and limited job opportunities.
Rise in Mathematical Circles
- Recognition in Madras: By 1910, Ramanujan had gained recognition in Madras’s mathematical circles for his independent work.
- Clerical Job and Research: In 1912, he secured a clerical position at the Madras Port Trust, which afforded him time for mathematical research.
- Collaboration with GH Hardy: In 1913, Ramanujan began a correspondence with British mathematician GH Hardy, leading to an invitation to Cambridge University.
Collaboration and Achievements in Cambridge
- Journey to Britain: Ramanujan arrived in Britain in 1914 and joined Trinity College, Cambridge.
- Work with Hardy and Littlewood: Collaborating with Hardy and JE Littlewood, Ramanujan made significant contributions despite his lack of formal higher education.
- Prestigious Honors: He was elected to the London Mathematical Society in 1917 and became a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1918, one of the youngest Fellows in its history.
Health Struggles and Return to India
- Declining Health: Ramanujan’s health worsened in the cold British climate, leading to a diagnosis of tuberculosis.
- Final Years: He returned to India in 1919 and passed away on April 26, 1920, at the age of 32.
Ramanujan’s Enduring Mathematical Legacy
- High Praise from Hardy: GH Hardy ranked Ramanujan’s natural mathematical talent alongside greats like Euler and Jacobi.
- Bruce C Berndt’s Analysis: American mathematician Bruce C Berndt extensively studied Ramanujan’s notebooks, emphasizing the depth of his contributions.
- Impact on Number Theory: Ramanujan’s work, particularly on the partition function, has had a lasting impact on number theory.
- Broad Contributions: His expertise included areas like continued fractions, Riemann series, elliptic integrals, hypergeometric series, and the zeta function.
- Legacy of Unpublished Works: Ramanujan left behind notebooks filled with unpublished results that continued to inspire mathematicians for decades.
Try this question from CSP 2016:
A recent movie titled “The Man Who Knew Infinity” is based on the biography of-
(a) S. Ramanujan
(b) S. Chandrasekhar
(c) S. N. Bose
(d) C. V. Raman
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Polar Stratospheric Clouds
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Residents in the Arctic have witnessed an extraordinary atmospheric display of Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs).
Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSCs)
|
Details |
| Formation and Location |
Form in the polar stratosphere at altitudes of 15,000–25,000 meters; common over Antarctica and the Arctic. |
| Temperature Conditions |
Require extremely cold temperatures, typically below −78°C (−108°F). |
| Types |
Type I: Composed of water and nitric acid.
Type II: Made almost entirely of water ice. |
| Role in Ozone Depletion |
Facilitate chemical reactions that produce chlorine and bromine compounds, leading to ozone destruction. |
| Appearance |
Iridescent, shimmering pastel colors, leading to their nickname “nacreous” or “mother-of-pearl” clouds. |
| Observation |
Visible during twilight, illuminated from below by the Sun. |
| Research and Monitoring |
Studied for impact on ozone depletion and climate change; monitored via satellites and ground stations. |
| Environmental Concern |
Linked to human-made chemicals like CFCs; subject to international regulation like the Montreal Protocol. |
| Climate Change Connection |
Research ongoing into how climate change might affect PSCs’ frequency and distribution. |
| Discovery and Study History |
Observed since the 19th century; their role in ozone depletion understood in the 1980s. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Eyjafjallajokull Eruption
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- A volcanic eruption occurred near Iceland’s capital between Sýlingarfell and Hagafell, near the town of Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Iceland: ‘Land of Fire and Ice’
- Geographical Location: Iceland is situated just south of the Arctic Circle in the North Atlantic Ocean.
- Tectonic Setting: The country lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, marking the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
- Unique Landscape: Iceland’s landscape features geysers, glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, and lava fields, housing 33 active volcanoes – the highest number in Europe.
- Historical Settlement: The first human settlement in Iceland dates back to 874 by Norsemen from Scandinavia, leading to the founding of Reykjavik.
Recent Volcanic Activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula
- Historical Dormancy: The Reykjanes Peninsula had not experienced volcanic eruptions for 800 years until recently.
- Recent Eruptions: The current eruption is the fourth in less than three years on the peninsula, indicating a potential new era of volcanic activity.
- Eyjafjallajokull Eruption: The last major volcanic event in Iceland that gained global attention was the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajokull.
- Eruption Timeline and Impact: The volcano erupted twice in March and April 2010, spreading an ash cloud across continents and disrupting air traffic on the North Atlantic route for six days – the longest disruption since World War II.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Vipassana
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A political leader is set to attend a 10-day Vipassana meditation retreat in Punjab, skipping a summons by the Enforcement Directorate.
About Vipassana
|
Details |
| Meaning |
“To see things as they really are” |
| Origin |
Rooted in Buddhism, attributed to Gautama Buddha, rediscovered and refined by him over 2,500 years ago. |
| Historical Roots |
Preserved in Theravada Buddhism, especially in Myanmar; based on teachings in the “Satipatthana Sutta.” |
| Technique |
Mindfulness or insight meditation focusing on the interconnection between mind and body through physical sensations. |
| Practice |
Observing natural breath and bodily sensations, understanding their impermanent nature, typically taught in 10-day retreats. |
| Goal |
Self-transformation through self-observation, leading to improved mental clarity and insight. |
| Non-Sectarian |
Taught as a universal practice, suitable for all backgrounds. |
| Global Spread |
Popularized globally by S.N. Goenka and others in the 20th century. |
| Retreats |
Offered worldwide, often free of charge, funded by donations. |
| Scientific Research |
Studies show benefits in stress reduction, mental health, and treatment of substance abuse. |
| Code of Discipline |
Includes abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual activity, false speech, and intoxicants during courses. |
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