Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Leptospirosis
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Leptospirosis has emerged as an important infectious disease in the world today.
- It is a potentially fatal zoonotic bacterial disease that tends to have large outbreaks after heavy rainfall or flooding.
What is Leptospirosis?
- Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease that poses a significant global health threat, particularly after heavy rainfall or flooding.
- It affects millions of people annually, with a high mortality rate, and its burden is expected to increase in the future.
- The disease is caused by the bacterium Leptospira interrogans, primarily transmitted from animals to humans.
Disease Transmission and Risk Factors
- Disease transmission: Leptospira is shed in the urine of infected animals, contaminating soil and water.
- Carriers: Both wild and domestic animals, including rodents, cattle, pigs, and dogs, can transmit the disease.
- Human exposure: Direct contact with animal urine or indirectly through contaminated soil and water poses a risk.
- Occupational hazards: Agricultural workers, animal handlers, and those in sanitary services are at an increased risk.
- Recreational activities: Engaging in water-based activities in contaminated lakes and rivers can also raise the risk.
Symptoms and Misdiagnosis
- Range of symptoms: Leptospirosis symptoms vary from mild flu-like illness to life-threatening conditions affecting multiple organs.
- Misdiagnosis challenges: Symptoms mimic other diseases like dengue, malaria, and hepatitis, leading to underreporting and limited awareness.
- Limited access to diagnostics: Lack of reliable diagnostic tools hinders accurate disease detection.
- Lack of environmental surveillance: Insufficient monitoring of the environment contributes to underestimating the disease burden.
Misconceptions and Preventive Measures
- Reservoir hosts: Rats are not the sole cause; various animals act as reservoir hosts.
- Environmental factors: Humidity and extreme weather events like floods increase the risk of exposure.
- Sanitary conditions: Poor waste management, high density of stray animals, and inadequate sanitation facilities contribute to the disease spread.
- Prevention strategies: Adopting a ‘One Health’ approach involving humans, animals, and the environment is crucial.
- Personal protective equipment: People working with animals or in flooded areas should use gloves and boots.
- Animal health and prevention: Ensuring sanitary animal-keeping conditions reduces the risk of leptospirosis transmission.
- Health education and awareness: Promoting proper hygiene practices, educating about the disease, and improving health literacy are essential preventive measures.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: GIFT NIFTY
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- GIFT NIFTY (formerly known as SGX NIFTY) commenced trading from GIFT City in Gujarat, marking the first cross-border initiative between India and Singapore’s capital markets.
- The trading session witnessed over 30,000 trades, signifying the growing significance of this collaboration.
What is GIFT NIFTY?
- The migration to GIFT NIFTY was initiated by PM Modi in July 2022.
- GIFT NIFTY plays a crucial role in expanding GIFT IFSC’s reach to foreign investors and enhancing the capital market ecosystem in GIFT City.
- The collaboration between SGX and NSE strengthens the connection between two rapidly growing economies.
- NSE IX is restricted from entering similar arrangements with other exchanges, providing stability to the partnership.
- The initial five-year contract can be extended for an additional two years.
Operating time
- GIFT NIFTY establishes a trading link where trading and matching take place in India, while clearing and settlement occur in Singapore.
- It operates from 6:30 am to 3:40 pm in the Asia time zone.
- The second session, from 4:35 pm to 2:45 am (next day), targets investors from the United States and Europe.
Deal between SGX and NSE
- Revenue sharing: The five-year contract establishes a 50:50 revenue-sharing arrangement between Singapore Exchange (SGX) and NSE International Exchange (NSE IX).
- Initial revenue split: For Singapore-generated business, SGX will receive 75% of the revenue, while NSE will receive the remaining 25%.
- IFSC business: NSE will retain 75% of the International Financial Service Centre (IFSC) business, with the remaining 25% going to SGX.
- Future volume-based sharing: Once a “threshold volume” is reached, the revenue sharing will be equally split between both entities.
Shift to GIFT NIFTY
- Ceasing SGX NIFTY: On June 30, trading on SGX NIFTY in Singapore ended, with the entire trading volume and liquidity transitioning to GIFT IFSC.
- Rechristened GIFT NIFTY: The trading platform was renamed GIFT NIFTY, offering four products: GIFT Nifty 50, GIFT Nifty Bank, GIFT Nifty Financial Services, and GIFT Nifty IT derivatives contracts.
Back2Basics: GIFT City, Gandhinagar
- GIFT city is India’s first operational smart city and international financial services centre (much like a modern IT park).
- The idea for GIFT was conceived during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investor Summit 2007.
- The initial planning was done by East China Architectural Design & Research Institute (ECADI).
- Currently approximately 225 units/companies are operational with more than 12000 professionals employed in the City.
Key features
- The entire city is based on the concept of FTTX (Fibre to the home/office).
- The fiber optic is laid in fault-tolerant ring architecture so as to ensure maximum uptime of services.
- Every building in GIFT City is an intelligent building.
- There is piped supply of cooking gas. India’s first city-level DCS (district cooling system) is also operational at GIFT City.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Alluri Sitarama Raju
Mains level: Tribal revolts
Central Idea
- The President of India, Draupadi Murmu, honoured the freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju during the closing ceremony of his 125th birth anniversary celebrations in Hyderabad.
- The President highlighted the significance of Alluri Seetharama Raju’s struggle against injustice and exploitation in India’s freedom struggle.
About Alluri Sitarama Raju
- Raju was believed to be born in 1897 or 1898 in Andhra Pradesh.
- He became a sanyasi (ascetic) at the age of 18 and gained a mystical aura among the hill and tribal people due to his austerity, knowledge of astrology and medicine, and his ability to tame wild animals.
Revolutionary Activities of Alluri Sitarama Raju
- Raju channelled the discontent of the hill people in Ganjam, Visakhapatnam, and Godavari into effective guerrilla resistance against the British.
- The Forest Act of 1882 and other colonial policies threatened the tribals’ traditional podu cultivation and forced them into labor.
- The tribals and muttadars (village headmen) who were affected by the curtailment of their powers by the British government joined together in armed resistance against colonial rule in August 1922.
Contribution to the Freedom Struggle
- Raju’s guerrilla war, known as the Rampa or Manyam Rebellion, continued until May 1924.
- The rebellion coincided with Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement.
- Raju admired Gandhi and promoted his ideas of wearing khadi (homespun cloth) and giving up alcohol.
- However, Raju believed that India could only be liberated through the use of force, contrary to Gandhi’s principle of non-violence.
Capture and Execution of Alluri Sitarama Raju
- Raju’s resistance came to an end when he was captured by the British in May 1924.
- He was executed for his involvement in the rebellion.
- Raju became known as the ‘Manyam Veerudu’ or Hero of the Jungle, and his efforts are remembered as a significant contribution to India’s freedom struggle.
Conclusion
- Overall, Alluri Seetharama Raju played a crucial role in leading a guerrilla resistance against British colonial rule, fighting for the rights of tribal communities, and advocating for India’s independence through forceful means.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Greedflation
Mains level: NA
Central Idea: Greedflation
- The concept of “Greedflation” has emerged, suggesting that corporate greed for higher profits is a significant cause of the high inflation experienced in the United States since the pandemic.
- Proponents of this theory argue that increased corporate profit margins have contributed to rising prices.
- However, many economists question the validity of this narrative and offer alternative explanations for inflation.
Inflation and Business Pricing
- Pricing Dynamics: Businesses set prices based on consumer willingness to pay, aiming to maximize profits.
- Consumer Influence: Consumers ultimately determine the market price through their buying decisions.
- Market Competition: Businesses unable to sell products at high prices must lower prices to clear their stock.
Inflation as a Macro-Level Phenomenon
- Widespread Price Rise: Inflation refers to a general increase in the price level across the economy.
- Corporate Influence on Prices: Corporations can impact overall prices by reducing supply, but there is no evidence of deliberate output reduction.
- Monetary Policy and Inflation: The expansionary monetary policy of the U.S. Federal Reserve, combined with supply-chain disruptions, explains recent inflation.
Rising Corporate Profit Margins
- Rising Costs vs. Consumer Prices: Input costs have risen faster than consumer goods prices, leading to unexpected profit margin growth.
- Corporate Profits vs. Wider Economy: Large corporations may have benefited from smaller business closures during the pandemic, but they represent a small portion of the overall economy.
- Profit Margins and Inflation: Rising profit margins do not directly cause high inflation; prices are determined by buyers, not sellers.
Critique of “Greedflation” as Cost-Push Inflation
- Cost-Push Inflation Comparison: Greedflation is likened to cost-push inflation theories that attribute price increases to rising input costs.
- Consumer Influence on Costs: The cost of inputs is indirectly determined by consumers through competitive bidding in the market.
Conclusion
- The notion of greedflation, attributing high inflation to corporate greed, lacks support from economists who emphasize the influence of consumer behaviour and macroeconomic factors.
- While rising profit margins of corporations may indicate market dominance, they do not directly drive inflation.
- Instead, factors such as monetary policy and supply disruptions better explain the recent inflationary pressures experienced in the United States.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: CH3+
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The recent discovery of the CH3+ molecule, also known as methyl cation, by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has provided significant insights into the building blocks of life.
- This simple organic molecule, consisting of one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms, has been found in the Orion Nebula.
- This reveals the potential for the formation of complex organic molecules necessary for life.
What is CH3+?
- The methyl cation, also known as the carbocation CH3^+, is an organic molecular ion consisting of a positively charged carbon atom (C+) with three hydrogen atoms (H) attached to it.
- It is the simplest carbocation and belongs to the alkyl cation family.
- The methyl cation is highly reactive due to its positive charge and the electron-deficient nature of the carbon atom.
- Due to its reactivity, the methyl cation tends to undergo reactions to achieve greater stability by accepting a pair of electrons.
- It can react with nucleophiles, which are electron-rich species, to form new chemical bonds.
How does it support life?
- Carbon-Based Organic Molecules: In biological processes, carbon atoms typically exist in stable organic molecules, such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which are essential for life.
- Importance of CH3+: The detection of the CH3+ molecule in space indicates the presence of basic building blocks for life beyond Earth.
Significance of discovering CH3+ in Space
- Molecular Fingerprints: Scientists analyze light emitted or absorbed by atoms and molecules to identify their unique spectroscopic signatures.
- Spectroscopy with JWST: The JWST observed the Orion Nebula, a swirling disk of dust and gas surrounding a young star, and detected the distinctive fingerprints of CH3+ in its light.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: D4R Tool
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Diversity for Restoration (D4R) tool, has been modified to adapt to the Indian context by researchers from Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE).
- The tool aims to support restoration programs in India by improving decision-making and promoting sustainable development.
What is D4R tool?
- The Diversity for Restoration (D4R) tool is a tool developed by Bioversity International.
- It is designed to assist in promoting effective agroforestry and ecosystem restoration.
- The tool aims to improve decision-making in restoration programs by providing information on tree species selection and their ecological benefits.
Key features and functions of the D4R
- Species Identification: Helping users identify tree species that align with their restoration objectives.
- Geographic Suitability: Assisting in determining which plant species are best suited for specific geographic locations.
- Resilience and Adaptation: Identifying species that can withstand local stresses and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
- Seed Procurement: Providing information on areas and regions to obtain seeds for the required species.
- Plant Functional Traits: Incorporating information on economic and ecological uses of tree species to guide selection.
- Habitat Suitability Modeling: Predicting suitable habitats for specific tree species based on present and future climate scenarios.
- Comprehensive Information: Providing details on commercial benefits, physiological resilience, windbreaking capabilities, nitrogen-fixing, and pollinator support of tree species.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PRISM Hotline
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Lok Sabha Speaker has established ‘PRISM’ a 24-hour research reference telephone hotline for Members of Parliament (MPs) to provide assistance with policy issues.
What is PRISM?
- The Parliamentary Research and Information Support for Members of Parliament (PRISM) offers round-the-clock services, including weekends during Parliament Sessions.
- It aims to support first-term MPs and those without extensive secretarial teams who may find it daunting to speak in Parliament on policy matters.
- A team of 30-32 officers serves on the hotline on a rotational basis to provide research and reference support.
Usage and Enquiries
- Between 2019 and 2023, 87% of MPs have utilized either online or offline reference services, which are also shared through WhatsApp and email.
- Enquiries mainly focused on bills such as the Juvenile Justice Bill, Wildlife Protection Bill, and short-duration discussions on topics like climate change, drug abuse, and price rise.
Need for PRISM
- First-term MPs often face challenges when asked to speak on bills without extensive research support.
- The hotline and reference services have proven invaluable in assisting MPs, allowing them to contribute effectively to debates and discussions.
- The initiative has particularly aided MPs who may not be proficient in English or Hindi, enabling them to raise pertinent issues in Parliament.
Significance
- Parliament can be a fragmented environment, with various cliques and clubs forming over the years.
- Backbenchers, in particular, often spend much time in obscurity.
- The research and reference services provided by PRISM can make these years on the backbench more productive by facilitating informed participation in policy debates.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Har Ghar Jal Initiative
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Har Ghar Jal initiative, part of the Jal Jeevan Mission, aims to provide potable water connections to all rural households in India by 2024.
- However, multiple sources and data analysis indicate that the initiative is likely to fall short of its target, with only 75% of village homes expected to have drinking water taps by April 2024.
Har Ghar Jal Initiative: A quick recap
- Har Ghar Jal (translation: Water to Every Household) is a scheme initiated by the Ministry of Jal Shakti under Jal Jeevan Mission in 2019.
- It aimed to provide tap water to every rural household by 2024.
- Finance Minister announced the scheme in 2019 Union budget.
- In August 2022, Goa and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu became the first ‘Har Ghar Jal’ certified State and UT respectively with 100% tap-water access.
- As of January 2023, other states and UTs Gujarat, Puducherry and Telangana have also achieved 100% tap-water access.
- Since its inception, the scheme has significantly improved household clean tap water availability in India.
Challenges Faced by the Initiative
- Delayed Progress: The COVID-19 pandemic and a lack of qualified manpower in states have contributed to the delayed implementation of the scheme.
- Shortages of Essential Materials: The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war resulted in major shortages of steel and cement, crucial for manufacturing and connecting metal pipes, leading to delays and price revisions.
- Manpower Shortage: Some states faced challenges in finding skilled workers to construct tanks, cisterns, and water connections of acceptable quality.
- State-Specific Issues: Certain states, such as Rajasthan, face challenges in ensuring the availability of water, while West Bengal and Kerala struggle with water contamination issues.
- Certification Gap: While the states report high coverage figures, there is a significant gap between reported and verified connections.
Expectations and Progress
- Revised Expectations: The officials now expect about 75% of households to be covered by March 2024 and 80% by December 2024.
- Work Yet to Begin: Around one crore households (5% of the total) have not even begun work under the scheme.
- Timeframe Challenges: Connecting all households in villages that already have access to water sources takes an average of eight months, making it unlikely to finish in some places before 2025-26.
Political Factors and Connection Status
- Political Angle: Some states, like Bihar and Telangana, did not rely on central funds and did not certify their connection status due to political considerations.
- Significance of Certification: “Har Ghar Jal” villages certified as 100% compliant prominently display the images of the Prime Minister and Chief Minister, especially if Central funds were used.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hul Diwas, Santhal Revolt
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Prime Minister commemorated Hul Diwas, honoring the sacrifice of Santhals in their fight against British colonial authorities.
What is Hul Divas?
- The Santhal rebellion, known as the ‘Hul,’ was an organized war against colonialism led by the Santhals, who stood against various forms of oppression inflicted upon them by the British.
- This article explores the significance of the Santhal rebellion, their identity, the reasons behind the Hul, its organization, and its lasting impact.
Santhals and their Migration
- The Santhal people, or Santhalis, migrated from the Birbhum and Manbhum regions of Bengal to modern-day Santhal Pargana.
- The British relocated the Santhals to the forested area of Damin-i-Koh, dislodging the indigenous Pahariya community, as part of their revenue collection strategy.
- However, the Santhals faced severe colonial oppression, including exploitative moneylenders and the police.
Reasons behind the Hul
- The Santhals rebelled against the British due to extortions, oppressive extractions, dispossession of property, false measurements, and other illegalities.
- Tribal councils and meetings discussed the possibility of rebellion, leading to a massive assembly of over 6,000 Santhals on June 30, 1855, marking the beginning of the rebellion.
- Led by Sidhu and Kanhu, the Santhals rose against the British, attacking symbols of colonial rule and executing moneylenders and zamindars.
Organization of the Hul
- Contrary to popular belief, the Hul was a well-planned and organized political war.
- Evidence from documents and historical accounts reveals preparations such as guerrilla formations, military teams, detectives, secret bases, logistics, and a network of message carriers for coordination.
- Non-Adivasi Hindu castes also participated in the rebellion, highlighting the diverse nature of the movement.
Lesser-Known Facts about the Hul
- The rebellion saw participation from 32 communities, both tribals and non-tribals, challenging the notion that it was solely a Santhal rebellion.
- Phulo-Jhano, two sisters, led an army of 1,000 women, playing crucial roles in providing food supply, gathering information, and attacking British camps.
- The East India Company’s army was defeated twice during the rebellion, debunking the belief that they were invincible.
British Narratives and Accounts
- British reports and personal narratives provide insights into the causes of the Santhal rebellion, including excessive taxation, falsehood, and negligence of British officials, extortion by moneylenders, corruption, and oppression.
- The sufferings inflicted by moneylenders or ‘mahajans’ on the Santhals were a primary cause of the uprising.
Accounts from Prisoners and Divine Intervention
- Similar to other tribal uprisings, accounts exist of deities appearing in dreams or before the rebels.
- Judicial proceedings of captured Santhals revealed instances where deities instructed rebellion leaders to fight against the British and oppressors.
Lasting Impact of the Hul
- The Santhal rebellion did not end with its suppression in 1855; it continued to inspire future uprisings, such as the Santhal involvement in the 1857 mutiny.
- The Hul rebellion symbolized resistance against British colonialism and laid the foundation for subsequent movements in Jharkhand.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Aspartame
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The cancer research arm of the World Health Organization (WHO) is reportedly considering listing aspartame, a popular sugar substitute ‘Aspartame’ as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”
- This potential listing by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has generated controversy as it contradicts previous studies that found no evidence linking aspartame to cancer.
What is Aspartame?
- Aspartame is widely used as an artificial sweetener in various food and beverage products.
- It is made from the dipeptide of two amino acids, L-aspartic acid and L-phenylalanine.
- It is approximately 200 times sweeter than table sugar and is commonly used in diet soft drinks, sugar-free gum, and other sugar-free products.
- It is favored by those seeking to reduce calorie intake or manage diabetes.
Safety Record and Regulatory Approvals
- Aspartame has undergone extensive studies over 40 years, with over 100 studies finding no evidence of harm caused by its consumption.
- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has permitted its use in food since 1981, and it has been reviewed multiple times for safety.
- The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), as well as national regulators in various countries, also deem aspartame safe for consumption.
- However, individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder, should avoid aspartame due to the presence of phenylalanine.
Controversies and Impact of WHOs Listings
- Past IARC rulings have raised concerns, led to lawsuits, and influenced manufacturers to seek alternatives due to public confusion.
- The potential listing of aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic” by the IARC contradicts previous scientific consensus on its safety.
- Critics argue that IARC assessments can be confusing to the public and may create unnecessary fear and misinformation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: IceCube Neutrino Observatory , Ghost Particle
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The IceCube Neutrino Observatory, a gigaton detector located at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, has achieved a significant scientific breakthrough by producing an image of the Milky Way using neutrinos.
- Neutrinos are minuscule particles and serve as ghostlike astronomical messengers.
IceCube Neutrino Observatory
- The IceCube Neutrino Observatory is a unique detector encompassing a cubic kilometer of Antarctic ice with over 5,000 light sensors.
- It detects high-energy neutrinos, which possess energies millions to billions of times higher than those produced by stellar fusion reactions.
What are Neutrinos?
- Neutrinos are fundamental particles in the Standard Model of particle physics.
- They belong to the family of elementary particles called leptons, which also includes electrons and muons.
- Neutrinos have extremely low mass, and they interact very weakly with matter, making them challenging to detect.
Properties of Neutrinos
|
| Electric Charge |
Electrically Neutral |
| Mass |
Extremely Low (Exact Masses Not Known) |
| Flavors |
Electron Neutrino, Muon Neutrino, Tau Neutrino |
| Interaction |
Weak Interaction |
| Speed |
Close to the Speed of Light |
| Spin |
Fermion, Half-Integer Spin |
| Neutrino Oscillations |
Neutrinos Change Flavor during Travel |
| Interactions |
Very Weak Interaction with Matter |
| Abundance |
Among the Most Abundant Particles in the Universe |
| Cosmic Messengers |
Can Carry Information from Distant Cosmic Sources |
Neutrino Emission from the Milky Way
- The IceCube Collaboration’s research reveals evidence of high-energy neutrino emission from the Milky Way.
- This emission, unlike light, allows researchers to observe the universe beyond nearby sources within our galaxy.
- The detection of neutrinos from the galactic plane of the Milky Way confirms its status as a source of cosmic rays and high-energy particles.
Challenges and Breakthroughs
- Detecting neutrinos from the Milky Way’s southern sky presented challenges due to background interference from cosmic-ray interactions with Earth’s atmosphere.
- IceCube researchers developed advanced data analysis techniques, including machine learning algorithms, to identify and analyze neutrino events.
- These methods improved the identification of neutrino cascades and enhanced the accuracy of energy and direction reconstruction.
Implications and Future Prospects
- The study utilized 60,000 neutrinos from ten years of IceCube data, providing a more comprehensive analysis than previous studies.
- The research confirms the Milky Way as a source of high-energy neutrinos, leading to further investigations to identify specific sources within the galaxy.
- Neutrino astronomy offers a unique perspective to explore the universe, complementing traditional observations using light.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- India’s Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) is part of an international effort involving six large telescopes.
- The telescopes have provided evidence confirming the presence of gravitational waves through pulsar observations.
Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT)
- The GMRT is an array of thirty fully steerable parabolic radio telescopes located near Narayangaon, Pune, in India.
- It is renowned as the world’s largest and most sensitive radio telescope array operating at low frequencies.
- It is operated by the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), a part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai.
- It has made significant contributions to the field of astronomy since its construction under the guidance of Late Prof. Govind Swarup between 1984 and 1996.
- The recent upgrade of the GMRT has further enhanced its capabilities, earning it the name “upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope” (uGMRT).
Location and Specifications
- Location: The GMRT Observatory is situated approximately 80 km north of Pune, near Khodad, with the town of Narayangaon just 9 km away. The NCRA office is located within the Savitribai Phule Pune University campus.
- Telescope Array: The GMRT consists of thirty fully steerable parabolic radio telescopes, each with a diameter of 45 meters.
- Interferometry Array: The telescopes are configured in an interferometric array with baselines of up to 25 kilometres, allowing for precise and detailed observations.
Science and Observations
- Galaxy Formation and 21-cm Line Radiation: The GMRT was designed to search for highly redshifted 21-cm line radiation from primordial neutral hydrogen clouds, enabling the determination of the epoch of galaxy formation in the universe.
- Diverse Astronomical Objectives: Astronomers from around the world utilize the GMRT for studying a wide range of celestial objects, including HII regions, galaxies, pulsars, and supernovae, as well as the Sun and solar winds.
Remarkable Discoveries
- Most Distant Galaxy: In August 2018, the GMRT discovered the most distant known galaxy, located 12 billion light-years away.
- Ophiuchus Supercluster Explosion: In February 2020, the GMRT played a crucial role in observing the largest explosion ever recorded in the universe, the Ophiuchus Supercluster explosion.
- Radio Signal from the Distant Universe: In January 2023, the GMRT detected a radio signal originating from 8.8 billion light-years away, specifically a fast radio burst (FRB) known as FRB 2023L.
Recent Observations
- Time Aberrations: The team observed time aberrations in the signals emitted by pulsars, indicating the possible presence of gravitational waves.
- Galactic-Scale Gravitational Wave Detector: Scientists distributed ultra-stable pulsar clocks across the Milky Way to create a virtual detector sensitive to gravitational wave signals.
- Arrival Time Variations: The arrival times of signals from pulsars were affected by the presence of gravitational waves, causing slight delays or advances.
Significance of the Findings
- Humming Signals: Nano-hertz signals caused by gravitational waves were detected, leading to the identification of their presence in the universe.
- Opening a New Window: The team’s results represent a significant milestone in exploring the gravitational wave spectrum, providing new insights into astrophysics.
- Sensitivity and Timeframe: Detecting these elusive nano-hertz gravitational waves requires sensitive telescopes like GMRT and long-term observations due to their slow variations.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Critical Minerals
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Ministry of Mines has strategically identified 30 critical minerals, including lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite, crucial for the country’s economic development and national security.
- The move aims to address supply chain vulnerabilities and ensure availability of these minerals for key industries such as clean technologies, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and defense.
What are Critical Minerals?
- Critical minerals are elements that are crucial to modern-day technologies and are at risk of supply chain disruptions.
- These minerals are used in making mobile phones, computers, batteries, electric vehicles, and green technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.
- Minerals such as antimony, cobalt, gallium, graphite, lithium, nickel, niobium, and strontium are among the 22 assessed to be critical for India.
- Many of these are required to meet the manufacturing needs of green technologies, high-tech equipment, aviation, and national defence.
Three-Stage Assessment Process
- Analysis of Global Strategies: The expert team studied the strategies of major economies and identified 69 elements/minerals considered critical by these countries.
- Inter-Ministerial Consultation: Different ministries were consulted to identify minerals critical to their respective sectors.
- Empirical Formula for Criticality Evaluation: An empirical formula was derived considering economic importance and supply risk, similar to the methodology used by the European Union.
List of Critical Minerals for India
- Identified Minerals: The assessment resulted in a list of 30 critical minerals, including antimony, beryllium, cobalt, copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, silicon, tin, titanium, tungsten, and others.
- Fertilizer Minerals: Two minerals critical for fertilizer production, phosphorous and potash, are also included.
Why are these resources critical?
- Clean energy transition: Critical minerals are essential to the ecosystem that fuels the world’s transition towards clean energy and digital economy.
- Strategic nature: Any supply shock can severely imperil the economy and strategic autonomy of a country that is over-dependent on others to procure critical minerals.
- Rare availability: Supply risks exist due to rare availability, growing demand, and complex processing value chain.
What is the China ‘threat’?
- Dominant role: China is the world’s largest producer of 16 critical minerals, including cobalt and rare earth elements.
- Monopoly in processing: The country has a strong presence across the board in processing operations, with a share of refining around 35% for nickel, 50-70% for lithium and cobalt, and nearly 90% for rare earth elements.
- Control over offshore mines: China also controls cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo, from where 70% of this mineral is sourced.
- Supply chain dominance: The country’s dominance in critical minerals production and processing raises concerns of a supply disruption in case of a geopolitical conflict.
Challenges in ensuring resilient critical minerals supply
- Limited availability of critical minerals: The rare availability of critical minerals poses a challenge in meeting the growing demand for these minerals.
- Geopolitical risks: Complex supply chains can be disrupted by hostile regimes or politically unstable regions, leading to supply chain disruptions.
- Dominance of certain countries: A few countries, such as China, are the dominant producers of critical minerals, leading to concerns over supply disruptions in case of a geopolitical conflict.
- Increasing demand for critical minerals: With the shift towards renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles, the demand for critical minerals such as copper, lithium, and rare earth elements is increasing rapidly.
- Reliance on foreign partners: Countries with limited reserves and higher requirements for critical minerals may have to rely on foreign partners to meet their domestic needs, leading to supply chain vulnerabilities.
- Environmental and social concerns: The extraction and processing of critical minerals can have negative environmental and social impacts, leading to challenges in meeting sustainability goals.
What are countries around the world doing about it?
Several countries are taking measures to ensure a consistent supply of critical minerals to their domestic markets.
- US: It has ordered a review of vulnerabilities in its critical minerals supply chains and shifted its focus on expanding domestic mining, production, processing, and recycling of critical minerals and materials.
- Australia: Its Critical Minerals Facilitation Office (CMFO) and KABIL had recently signed an MoU aimed at ensuring reliable supply of critical minerals to India.
- UK: It has unveiled its new Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre to study the future demand for and supply of these minerals, and its critical mineral strategy will be unveiled later this year.
India’s Domestic and Global Outreach
- Domestic Exploration Efforts: The Geological Survey of India conducted advanced mineral exploration in Jammu & Kashmir, identifying inferred lithium resources. Further exploration is planned in different parts of the country.
- Joint Venture Company: Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) has been established to acquire overseas mineral assets, including lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, ensuring a reliable supply.
- Mineral Security Partnership (MSP): India’s inclusion in the MSP, a collaboration of 14 countries, highlights the country’s focus on securing critical mineral supply chains globally and reducing dependency on China.
What should India do to ensure resilient supply?
- Developing domestic sources of critical minerals: This can be achieved by promoting exploration and mining activities, both by public and private sector entities.
- Encouraging responsible mining practices: The Indian government should encourage responsible mining practices that minimize the negative environmental and social impacts of mining activities.
- Need for a Specialized Agency: The expert team proposed the establishment of a National Institute or Center of Excellence dedicated to critical minerals, similar to Australia’s CSIRO.
- Promoting transparency in the supply chain: India should promote transparency in the critical minerals supply chain by ensuring the traceability of minerals from the point of extraction to the point of end-use.
- Investing in research and development: India should invest in research and development to develop new technologies and processes for efficient extraction, processing, and recycling of critical minerals.
- Developing a national critical minerals strategy: India should develop a national critical minerals strategy that identifies priority minerals, promotes domestic exploration and mining, and promotes sustainable and responsible mining practices.
Conclusion
- India has a significant mineral geological potential, many minerals are not readily available domestically.
- Hence, India needs to develop a national strategy to ensure resilient critical minerals supply chains, which focuses on minerals found to be critical in this study.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Applications of Big Data and AI
Mains level: Significant developments in Big Data and AI and the Relevance of P.C. Mahalanobis
Central Idea
- Professor P.C. Mahalanobis, the pioneer of statistics in India, left an indelible mark on the field of statistics and survey culture in the country. His contributions, including the establishment of the Indian Statistical Institute, continue to shape the nation’s statistical landscape. As India grapples with the evolving socio-economic dynamics in the post-pandemic era, the absence of Mahalanobis’s expertise is keenly felt. This era, characterized by copious amounts of data, is commonly referred to as the age of Big Data
*Relevance of the topic*
- Due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Census 2021 and the related field activities have been postponed.
- Questions over data quality and delay in releasing surveys has been raised
- You can use this as case study and examples
Mahalanobis’s strategy in handling large-scale data
- Tackling Big Data: Mahalanobis encountered a Big Data challenge when his large-scale surveys yielded substantial amounts of data that required effective analysis for planning purposes. He successfully persuaded the government to procure the country’s first two digital computers in 1956 and 1958 for the Indian Statistical Institute. This accomplishment marked the introduction of computers and their utilization in handling vast amounts of data in India.
- Embracing Technology: Mahalanobis embraced technology throughout his career. He built simple machines to facilitate surveys and measurements, displaying a keen interest in leveraging technology for data collection and analysis. His adoption of digital computers showcases his progressive approach to incorporating technological advancements into statistical practices.
- Mathematical Calculations: Mahalanobis’s strategy involved employing complex mathematical calculations to tackle the extensive data generated from surveys. By utilizing digital computers, he aimed to streamline and expedite the process of analyzing large-scale datasets, enabling effective planning and decision-making.
- Built-in Cross-Checks: Mahalanobis was inspired by Kautilya’s Arthashastra and introduced the concept of built-in cross-checks in his surveys. This approach aimed to ensure data accuracy and reliability, minimizing errors and contradictions in the collected data. These cross-checks were implemented to enhance the quality control of statistical analysis and maintain the integrity of the findings.
Advantages of Big Data
- Improved Decision-Making: Big Data analytics provides organizations with valuable insights and patterns derived from vast amounts of data. These insights support data-driven decision-making, enabling organizations to make informed and evidence-based choices that can lead to improved outcomes.
- Enhanced Customer Understanding: Big Data allows organizations to gain a deeper understanding of their customers. By analyzing large and diverse datasets, businesses can identify customer preferences, behavior patterns, and trends, enabling personalized marketing strategies, product development, and customer experiences.
- Operational Efficiency: Big Data analytics can optimize operational processes by identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. By analyzing data from various sources, organizations can streamline workflows, reduce costs, and enhance productivity.
- Innovation and New Product Development: Big Data insights can drive innovation and the development of new products and services. By analyzing market trends, consumer demands, and competitive landscapes, organizations can identify opportunities for innovation and create products tailored to specific market needs.
- Fraud Detection and Security: Big Data analytics can help in detecting and preventing fraudulent activities. By analyzing patterns and anomalies in data, organizations can identify potential fraud or security breaches in real-time, reducing financial losses and protecting sensitive information.
- Personalized Marketing and Customer Experience: Big Data enables targeted and personalized marketing campaigns. By analyzing customer data, organizations can segment their audience, deliver customized messages, and create personalized experiences that resonate with individual customers.
- Improved Healthcare and Public Health: Big Data analytics has the potential to revolutionize healthcare. By analyzing patient data, medical records, and clinical research, healthcare providers can make better diagnoses, develop personalized treatment plans, and identify public health trends for proactive interventions.
key challenges associated with Big Data
- Data Quality and Integrity: Ensuring the quality and integrity of Big Data can be a significant challenge. Data may contain errors, inconsistencies, and biases, which can adversely affect the accuracy and reliability of analyses and insights.
- Data Privacy and Security: The vast amount of data collected and stored in Big Data systems raises concerns about privacy and security. Safeguarding sensitive information and preventing unauthorized access or data breaches require robust security measures and compliance with privacy regulations.
- Data Storage and Management: Storing and managing large volumes of data can be complex and costly. Big Data requires scalable and efficient storage solutions, including distributed storage systems and cloud-based platforms. Managing data across various sources and formats also poses challenges.
- Data Processing and Analysis: Processing and analyzing massive datasets in a timely manner can be computationally intensive and time-consuming. Traditional data processing tools and techniques may not be suitable for handling Big Data, requiring the use of specialized frameworks, algorithms, and infrastructure.
- Data Integration and Interoperability: Integrating and making sense of diverse data sources can be challenging due to differences in formats, structures, and semantics. Ensuring interoperability and data integration across systems and platforms is crucial for deriving comprehensive insights from Big Data.
Way forward: Mahalanobis’s potential approach to Big Data and AI
- Embrace Technological Advancements: Following Mahalanobis’s lead, it is crucial to embrace the latest technological advancements in handling Big Data. Continuously explore emerging technologies, such as advanced analytics tools, cloud computing, and distributed computing frameworks, to efficiently process and analyze large-scale datasets.
- Foster Statistical Expertise: Cultivate statistical expertise to navigate the complexities of Big Data. Invest in training programs and educational initiatives to develop a skilled workforce capable of extracting insights and interpreting the vast amounts of data generated. Promote interdisciplinary collaboration, involving statisticians, technologists, domain experts, and policymakers.
- Ensure Data Integrity and Quality: Establish robust data governance frameworks to ensure the integrity and quality of Big Data. Implement built-in cross-checks, validation processes, and quality control measures to enhance data accuracy, reliability, and transparency. Adhere to ethical guidelines to safeguard privacy, prevent bias, and address fairness in AI and Big Data applications.
- Encourage Ethical AI and Big Data Practices: Promote ethical AI and Big Data practices by integrating principles such as transparency, fairness, and accountability. Develop guidelines and regulations that address potential biases, discrimination, and privacy concerns. Foster a culture of responsible data use and continuous evaluation of AI systems to mitigate risks and ensure positive societal impact.
- Foster Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Approaches: Promote collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and organizations to leverage diverse expertise in tackling Big Data challenges. Foster partnerships between academia, industry, and government entities to encourage knowledge sharing, research collaboration, and the development of innovative solutions.
- Invest in Capacity Building and Education: Invest in educational programs and initiatives to build a skilled workforce capable of harnessing the potential of Big Data and AI. Promote data literacy and provide training opportunities to empower individuals and organizations to effectively collect, analyze, and interpret data. Support research and development in the field of AI and Big Data to drive innovation.
- Inform Evidence-based Decision-making: Advocate for evidence-based decision-making by integrating data-driven insights into policy formulation and resource allocation. Encourage policymakers to leverage Big Data analytics to understand societal trends, make informed decisions, and address pressing challenges effectively.
Conclusion
- Professor P.C. Mahalanobis’s legacy as a statistical luminary remains relevant in the age of Big Data and AI. His unique combination of perfectionism, tireless dedication, and visionary leadership positions him as an ideal candidate to handle vast amounts of data and embrace technological advancements for the betterment of humanity and national development. As India’s statistical landscape continues to evolve, the absence of Mahalanobis’s expertise and guidance is keenly felt
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Euclid Mission
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The European Space Agency (ESA) is embarking on an extraordinary mission with the launch of the Euclid Space Telescope.
- This ambitious project aims to survey billions of galaxies, providing valuable insights into the evolution of the Universe, as well as the mysterious phenomena of dark energy and dark matter.
What is Euclid Mission?
- The primary goal of the Euclid mission is to study the nature and properties of dark energy and dark matter, which together constitute a significant portion of the Universe.
- By mapping the distribution and evolution of galaxies, Euclid aims to shed light on the fundamental forces shaping the cosmos.
(1) Mission Scope and Duration
- Euclid is a space-based mission, equipped with a sophisticated telescope and state-of-the-art scientific instruments.
- The mission is expected to have a nominal operational lifetime of 6 years, during which it will conduct an extensive survey of the sky.
(2) Launch and Spacecraft
- Euclid was launched on July 1, 2023, from Cape Canaveral in Florida using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
- The spacecraft carries the Euclid Space Telescope, which is designed to observe galaxies across a wide range of wavelengths.
(3) Investigating Dark Energy and Dark Matter
- Dark energy, discovered in 1998, explains the unexpected acceleration of the universe’s expansion.
- Euclid’s mission aims to provide a more precise measurement of this acceleration, potentially uncovering variations throughout cosmic history.
- Dark matter, inferred through the gravitational effects it exerts on galaxies and clusters, plays a vital role in preserving their integrity.
Scientific Instruments and Observations
(a) Euclid Space Telescope
- The Euclid Space Telescope is equipped with a 1.2-meter primary mirror, allowing it to capture detailed observations of galaxies.
- It carries two main scientific instruments: the visible-wavelength camera (VIS) and the near-infrared camera and spectrometer (NISP).
(b) Visible-Wavelength Camera (VIS)
- The VIS instrument will capture images in visible light, enabling the study of the shapes, sizes, and morphological properties of galaxies.
(c) Near-Infrared Camera and Spectrometer (NISP)
- NISP will observe galaxies in the near-infrared range, providing essential data on their distance, redshift, and clustering properties.
- By measuring the distribution of galaxies at different cosmic epochs, NISP will aid in the study of large-scale cosmic structures.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Meira Paibis
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- During Home Minister’s visit to Manipur amidst ongoing violence in the state, he met with various civil society groups, including the Meira Paibis.
- This article explores the significance of the Meira Paibis in Manipur’s civil society, their social role, and major actions they have undertaken.
Who are the Meira Paibis of Manipur?
- The Meira Paibis, also known as Imas or Mothers of Manipur, are Meitei women who represent a powerful moral force in Manipur’s civil society.
- They come from various sections of society in the Imphal valley and are widely respected for their activism.
- They Paibis are loosely organized, led by groups of senior women, and lack rigid hierarchy or overt political leanings.
Social Role of Meira Paibis
- Originating in 1977, the Meira Paibis began as a grassroots movement primarily focused on combating alcoholism and drug abuse.
- Over time, their scope expanded to address human rights violations and work towards the development of society at large.
- They serve as the conscience keepers of Manipuri society and have a permanent and palpable presence in civil society.
Major Actions Undertaken
- Support for Irom Sharmila: The Meira Paibi women actively supported Irom Sharmila during her 16-year hunger strike against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which grants immunity to armed forces in “disturbed” areas.
- Advocacy for Inner Line Permit (ILP) System: In 2015, the Meira Paibis played a significant role in demanding the introduction of the ILP system, aiming to protect local interests, culture, and commercial opportunities.
- Bandh Protests: The Meira Paibis organized bandhs and shutdown calls in markets to protest against perceived injustices, such as the broken promise of a marriage by an elected representative.
- Recent Actions: During the current crisis, the Meira Paibis reportedly influenced the release of 12 KYKL cadres (an extremist group) who were apprehended by the armed forces, highlighting the influence of women activists in confronting security personnel.
Conclusion
- The Meira Paibis of Manipur play a crucial role in the state’s civil society.
- Their activism spans a range of social and political issues, and they have consistently fought for justice, human rights, and the betterment of society.
- Despite the recent controversy surrounding their alleged interference in security operations, their contribution as a powerful force for social change should be acknowledged and appreciated.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: GI Tag
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai has recently bestowed Geographical Indication (GI) tags on seven distinct products from Uttar Pradesh.
- These products represent the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the region.
What is GI Tag?
- A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
- Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
- GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
- The tag stands valid for 10 years.
GI tags awarded in UP
(1) Amroha Dholak – A Musical Masterpiece
- Description: The Amroha Dholak is a musical instrument crafted from natural wood, with a preference for mango, jackfruit, and teakwood.
- Carving Process: Skilled artisans use mango and sheesham wood to carve multiple-sized hollow blocks, which are then fitted with animal skin, predominantly goatskin, to create the instrument.
(2) Baghpat Home Furnishings – Timeless Handloom Artistry
- Description: Baghpat and Meerut are renowned for their exclusive handloom home furnishings and running fabrics crafted from cotton yarn for generations.
- Traditional Weaving: Skilled weavers in the region employ only cotton yarn in the handloom weaving process, ensuring the authenticity and quality of the products.
(3) Barabanki Handloom Product – A Heritage of Weaving
- Description: Barabanki and its surrounding areas house around 50,000 weavers and 20,000 looms, showcasing the significant presence of handloom weaving.
- Weaving Tradition: The region has a rich history of handloom weaving, with the skilled craftsmen contributing to the vibrant textile industry of Barabanki.
(4) Kalpi Handmade Paper – Time-Honored Craftsmanship
- Description: Kalpi is known for its handmade paper, with the craft being introduced by Munnalal ‘Khaddari’, a Gandhian, in the 1940s.
- Craftsmanship Legacy: The handmade paper-making cluster in Kalpi engages more than 5,000 craftsmen and approximately 200 units, preserving the tradition of exquisite paper-making.
(5) Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip – Crafted Elegance
- Description: Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip represents the stone craft of the region, created from the unique and soft ‘Pyro Flight Stone.’
- Radiant White Stone: The craft utilizes radiant white-colored stone predominantly found in the region, producing exquisite craft items.
(6) Mainpuri Tarkashi – Artistry in Brass Wire Inlay
- Description: Mainpuri is known for Tarkashi, an art form involving brass wire inlay work on wood.
- Traditional Use: Tarkashi was primarily used for crafting khadaous (wooden sandals) as a household necessity, replacing leather due to cultural considerations.
(7) Sambhal Horn Craft – Unique Handmade Art
- Description: Sambhal Horn Craft utilizes raw materials sourced from deceased animals and involves meticulous handcrafting processes.
- Artisanal Creation: Skilled craftsmen transform raw materials into beautiful handmade products, showcasing the uniqueness of Sambhal’s horn craft.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Elections to the Rajya Sabha
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The Election Commission announced elections to 10 Rajya Sabha seats from three States that are falling vacant in July and August.
Rajya Sabha and its Composition
- Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, is the upper house of the Parliament of India.
- It plays a vital role in the legislative process, representing the interests of states and providing a platform for deliberations on important national issues.
Composition of Rajya Sabha
- Members: Rajya Sabha consists of a maximum of 250 members, of which 238 members are representatives of states and union territories, while the President of India nominates 12 members having special knowledge or practical experience in various fields.
- Allocation of Seats: The allocation of seats in Rajya Sabha is based on the population of each state, with larger states having more representatives. The President can also nominate members to ensure the representation of expertise and diverse backgrounds.
- Term: Members of Rajya Sabha serve for a term of 6 years, with one-third of the members retiring every two years. This rotational system ensures continuity in the functioning of the house.
Nominated Members
- Nominations: In addition to the elected members, Rajya Sabha includes 12 nominated members who are appointed by the President of India. These nominations are made to ensure the representation of individuals with special knowledge or practical experience in various fields such as literature, science, art, social service, and more.
- Expertise and Diversity: Nominated members bring diverse perspectives and expertise to Rajya Sabha. They contribute to the legislative process by providing valuable insights and enriching debates on critical issues.
- Contribution: Nominated members play an essential role in shaping legislation and policy discussions. Their expertise and experience contribute to a more comprehensive and informed decision-making process in Rajya Sabha.
Functions of Rajya Sabha
- Legislative Functions: Rajya Sabha has equal legislative powers with the Lok Sabha in most matters, including passing bills related to constitutional amendments, finance, and non-financial matters. In certain circumstances, it enjoys exclusive powers, such as creating all-India services.
- Representation of States: Rajya Sabha represents the interests of states, allowing them to participate in the decision-making process at the national level. It ensures that laws and policies are formulated with the consideration of diverse regional perspectives.
- Role in Impeachment: Rajya Sabha, along with the Lok Sabha, plays a role in the impeachment of the President of India, Chief Justice, and judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts. It ensures a fair and balanced process in cases of impeachment.
Significance of Rajya Sabha
- Federal Character: Rajya Sabha represents the federal character of India’s political system by giving states and union territories a voice in the national legislature. It serves as a platform for states to raise their concerns and participate in policy discussions.
- Reviewing and Amending Legislation: Rajya Sabha plays a critical role in the legislative process by reviewing and amending bills passed by the Lok Sabha. It acts as a revising chamber and provides an opportunity for in-depth scrutiny and debate on proposed laws.
- Expertise and Stability: The nomination of members with specialized knowledge and experience, along with the rotational system, ensures that Rajya Sabha benefits from their expertise. The continuity of membership allows for stability and the accumulation of institutional knowledge.
Try this PYQ:
Q.Consider the following statements:
- The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not the members of that House.
- While the nominated members of the two Houses of the Parliament have no voting right in the presidential election, they have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Post your answers here.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hajj Yatra
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Historic pilgrimage in Mecca: More than two million Muslims are expected to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage, making it a significant religious event.
- Participation of over two million Muslims: The Hajj pilgrimage attracts a massive gathering of Muslims from various countries, all converging in Mecca to fulfill their religious obligations.
What is Hajj Yatra?
- Religious obligation: Hajj is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who possess the physical ability and financial means to undertake the pilgrimage.
- Purpose: Cleanse sins and foster a closer connection with God: The Hajj pilgrimage is seen as a means of purifying oneself from sins and seeking spiritual growth through a profound connection with Allah.
- Dates: 8th to 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Muslim calendar: The Hajj pilgrimage takes place during specific dates in the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, known as Dhu al-Hijjah.
- Variations in date: Since the Islamic lunar calendar is shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the dates of the Hajj pilgrimage vary from year to year.
Historical Background
- Tracing back to Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham): The origins of the Hajj pilgrimage can be traced back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim, who was instructed by Allah to build the Kaaba in Mecca, establishing its significance as a sacred site.
- Commanded by Allah to build the Kaaba in Mecca: Prophet Ibrahim received a divine command to construct the Kaaba, a cubic-shaped structure considered the most sacred site in Islam, laying the foundation for the Hajj pilgrimage.
- Gradual dilution of monotheistic nature: Over time, the original monotheistic essence of the Hajj pilgrimage was influenced by various cultural practices and customs, deviating from its original purpose.
- Re-consecration by Prophet Muhammad in 630 AD: Prophet Muhammad, during the conquest of Mecca, reinstated the monotheistic principles of the Hajj pilgrimage, cleansing it from polytheistic elements and restoring its true significance.
Rituals and Ceremonies
- State of ihram: Symbolizing spiritual purity and detachment: Pilgrims enter a state of ihram, a state of ritual consecration, by wearing simple white garments, signifying purity and detachment from worldly distractions.
- Tawaf ritual: Circling the Kaaba seven times while reciting prayers: Pilgrims perform the tawaf, which involves circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction, accompanied by recitation of specific prayers and supplications.
- Sa’i: Reenacting Hagar’s search for water for her son Ismail: Pilgrims engage in sa’i, walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah, replicating the journey of Hagar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, in her search for water for her son Ismail.
- Mount Arafat: Seeking forgiveness for sins: Pilgrims gather at the plains of Mount Arafat, spending the day in prayer and reflection, seeking forgiveness for their sins and supplicating to Allah for blessings and mercy.
- Jamarah ritual: Symbolically stoning the devil in the valley of Mina: Pilgrims engage in the symbolic stoning of pillars representing Satan, casting pebbles as a symbolic act of resistance against evil temptations and following the example of Prophet Ibrahim.
- Final circling of the Kaaba and symbolic hair removal: The pilgrimage concludes with a final circumambulation of the Kaaba and the symbolic removal of a lock of hair, symbolizing the completion of the Hajj journey.
Significance of the Event
- Logistical marvel: The Hajj pilgrimage is a massive logistical undertaking, with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah organizing facilities and services to accommodate the millions of pilgrims who arrive in Mecca.
- Quotas based on Muslim population and diplomatic relationships: Quotas are allocated to each country based on factors such as the size of their Muslim population and diplomatic relationships with Saudi Arabia.
- Once in life experience: Participating in the Hajj pilgrimage requires significant financial resources, and many pilgrims save for years to afford the associated costs. They often rely on authorized travel agents who arrange travel, lodging, and food arrangements.
Significance for Saudi Arabia
- Pride and legitimacy: Organizing the Hajj pilgrimage gives Saudi Arabia a sense of pride and legitimacy, as it serves as the custodian of the two holiest sites in Islam, Mecca and Medina.
- Control over sacred mosques: Saudi Arabia’s control over the sacred mosques in Mecca and Medina enhances its position as a leader in the Islamic world and grants the country religious influence.
- Major revenue source: The Hajj pilgrimage serves as a major source of revenue for Saudi Arabia. The influx of pilgrims contributes billions of dollars to the country’s economy through various channels, such as transportation, accommodation, food services, and religious tourism.
- Huge revenues: In recent years, Hajj-related revenues have reached significant levels, with estimates surpassing $150 billion in 2022 alone, making it a crucial economic driver for Saudi Arabia.
Organizing the Pilgrimage: Hajj Quotas
- Logistical challenge for Saudi Arabia: Organizing the Hajj pilgrimage poses a monumental logistical challenge for Saudi Arabia due to the immense scale of the event and the need to ensure the well-being and safety of millions of pilgrims.
- Quotas determined by country-wise allocations: Quotas, or the number of pilgrims allowed from each country, are determined through country-wise allocations, taking into account various factors such as the size of the Muslim population in each country.
- Allocations based on population: The allocation of quotas is influenced by factors such as the size of the Muslim population and an agreement reached in 1987 among member states of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC).
- Diplomatic considerations: Diplomatic considerations, such as bilateral relations and negotiations between Saudi Arabia and other countries, also play a role in determining the quotas allocated to each country.
India’s Hajj Quota
- Record number of 175,025 Indian pilgrims in Hajj 2023: India, with the world’s largest Muslim population, has historically received a significant quota for the Hajj pilgrimage.
- Involvement of the Ministry of Minority Affairs and HCoI: The Ministry of Minority Affairs, along with the Haj Committee of India (HCoI), plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating the Hajj pilgrimage for Indian pilgrims.
- 70% quota allocation to HCoI, 30% to private operators: The HCoI is allocated 70% of India’s Hajj quota, allowing them to organize and oversee a significant portion of the pilgrimage. The remaining 30% is allocated to private operators who provide services and packages for Indian pilgrims.
- Abolition of the discretionary quota: Previously, there was a ‘Government discretionary quota’ that reserved 500 slots for government allocation. However, this quota was abolished in January, returning those seats to the general pool for distribution among the pilgrims.
- Draw of lots conducted by states for available slots: In cases where the number of applicants exceeds the available slots, states in India conduct a draw of lots to determine which individuals will be able to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage.
Conclusion
- The Hajj pilgrimage holds immense religious and historical significance for Muslims.
- It represents a journey of faith, unity, and spiritual renewal.
- Saudi Arabia’s role in organizing the Hajj provides the country with pride, legitimacy, and economic benefits.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Fibonacci Spirals
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Nature’s mathematical patterns: Observing Fibonacci spirals in plants reveals intriguing mathematical patterns in nature.
- Fascination surrounding Fibonacci spirals: Scientists have been captivated by the prevalence of these spirals in various natural elements.
- Aim of the study: Re-evaluating the ancient origins of Fibonacci spirals in plants through fossil analysis.
What are Fibonacci Spirals?
- In mathematics, the Fibonacci sequence is a sequence in which each number is the sum of the two preceding ones.
- Numbers that are part of the Fibonacci sequence are known as Fibonacci numbers.
- A Fibonacci spiral approximates the golden spiral using quarter-circle arcs inscribed in squares derived from the Fibonacci sequence.
Fibonacci Spirals in Nature: Exploring Patterns and Significance
- Spirals occur frequently in nature: Found in plant leaves, animal shells, and DNA’s double helix.
- Connection to the Fibonacci sequence: Spirals often adhere to the numerical Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, etc.).
- Notable examples: Pinecones, leaves, and animal shells exhibit Fibonacci spirals.
- Visible spirals in plants: By closely examining plants, clockwise and anticlockwise spirals can be observed.
Widespread Presence of Fibonacci Spirals in Living Plants
- Fibonacci spirals in pinecones: Extensive study of 6,000 pinecones revealed 97% exhibiting Fibonacci spirals.
- Fibonacci spirals in other plant organs: Over 90% of 12,000 spirals analyzed in 650 plant species adhered to the Fibonacci sequence.
- Investigation of Ancient Fossils: Non-Fibonacci Spirals Discovered
- Study focus: Fossils of clubmoss species Asteroxylon mackiei.
- Analysis techniques: Imaging and digital reconstruction employed to visualize and quantify spirals.
- Surprising findings: Ancient fossil exhibited high variability, with non-Fibonacci spirals as the most common pattern.
- Rarity of non-Fibonacci spirals in modern plants: Contradicts the prevailing assumption based on the scarcity of such patterns today.
Implications for Understanding Fibonacci Spirals in Land Plants
- Re-evaluating ancient origins: Discovery of non-Fibonacci spirals challenges the belief that all leafy plants originated with Fibonacci patterns.
- Challenging universality: Indicates separate emergence of Fibonacci spirals during plant evolution.
- Distinct evolutionary history: Clubmosses’ leaf evolution and Fibonacci spirals differed from other plant groups.
- Multiple independent emergences: Suggests Fibonacci spirals emerged multiple times independently.
Unanswered Questions and Debates
- Significance of Fibonacci spirals in modern plants: Ongoing debate on their adaptive advantages.
- Hypotheses: Functions of Fibonacci spirals include maximizing light exposure and efficient seed packing.
- Insights from fossils and clubmosses: Valuable for unraveling the significance of Fibonacci spirals in plants.
Conclusion
- Revising understanding of Fibonacci spirals in plants: Ancient fossils challenge the assumption of universal presence.
- Unique evolutionary history: Clubmosses demonstrate a distinct trajectory of Fibonacci spirals.
- Role of fossils in uncovering answers: Further research may provide insights into the adaptive advantages and functions of Fibonacci spirals in plants.
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