Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Union Information and Broadcasting Minister announced that veteran actor Waheeda Rehman would be given the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for 2021, honouring her stellar contribution to Indian cinema.
About Dadasaheb Phalke Award
| Purpose |
Highest honor in Indian cinema for outstanding contributions to its growth and development. |
| Inception |
Instituted by the Indian government in 1969. |
| Named After |
Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, “Father of Indian Cinema.” |
| Components |
‘Swarna Kamal’ (Golden Lotus), INR 10 lakh cash prize, certificate, silk scroll, and shawl. |
| Presentation |
By the President of India in the presence of key film industry representatives and officials. |
| First Recipient |
Devika Rani Roerich (1969). |
Who was Dadasaheb Phalke?
- Early Life: Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, born in 1870 in Trimbak, Maharashtra, had a diverse career. He initially studied engineering and sculpture and later developed a fascination for motion pictures after watching the 1906 silent film ‘The Life of Christ.’
- Varied Pursuits: Before entering the world of cinema, Phalke worked as a photographer, owned a printing press, and even collaborated with the renowned painter Raja Ravi Varma.
- Filmmaking Pioneer: In 1913, Phalke scripted, produced, and directed India’s inaugural feature film, the silent masterpiece ‘Raja Harishchandra.’ This groundbreaking film’s commercial success marked the beginning of Phalke’s prolific career in which he created 95 more films and 26 short films over the next 19 years.
- Father of Indian Cinema: Dhundiraj Govind Phalke is hailed as the “Father of Indian Cinema” for his pioneering contributions to the country’s film industry.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Balsams
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The genus Impatiens, locally known as Kasithumba and Onappovu, is currently enchanting tourists with its vibrant pink blooms in Munnar.
What are Balsams?
- Distinctive Feature: Balsams are commonly referred to as ‘touch-me-not’ due to the unique behavior of their mature seeds bursting open upon touch and distributing seeds.
- Sign of Active Micro-Climate: Botanists suggest that the extensive flowering of balsams in Munnar indicates the continued activity of the microclimate in this hill station.
- Indian Balsam Species: India hosts a total of 220 balsam species, with a significant presence of 135 species in the southern Western Ghats.
- Balsam Paradise: Idukki, particularly the high ranges around Anamudi, is renowned for its rich diversity of wild balsams. Scientists often term the district as a ‘balsam paradise.’
Conservation Efforts
- Balsams in Munnar: Munnar boasts 46 balsam species, extending from Munnar to Chinnar and Bison Valley.
- Protection in National Park: The Eravikulam National Park alone is home to over 40 wild balsam species, with the Forest Department ensuring their protection.
- Unparalleled Diversity: Prasad G, working plan officer, highlights that Munnar’s altitude has unveiled 46 balsam species, a level of diversity unmatched elsewhere in the world.
- Indicator Species: Balsams play a crucial role as indicator species for climate change. Any alterations in the climate of a region are often reflected in the population of these plants.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Angel Tax
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The government has introduced revisions to the angel tax provisions that were initially implemented in this year’s Budget, primarily targeting investments by non-resident investors into startups at a premium over their fair market value.
Key changes introduced
- The Central Board of Direct Taxes issued a notification, amending Rule 11UA under the Income Tax Act, incorporating changes to the draft norms released earlier.
- Five distinct valuation methods for shares have been introduced, accompanied by a 10% tolerance allowance for deviations from accepted share valuations.
- These changes aim to provide some relief to prospective foreign investors interested in Indian startups.
Angel Investment
- An angel investor is an individual who provides financial backing to early-stage startups or entrepreneurs, typically in exchange for equity in the company.
- Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their own personal funds, rather than investing on behalf of a firm or institution.
- Features of Angel Investing:
- Early-stage funding
- Equity investment
- High-risk, high-reward
- Active involvement
- Personal investment
- Flexible terms
- Shorter investment horizon
|
What is Angel Tax?
- Referred to as Angel Tax, this rule is described in Section 56(2)(viib) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- Essentially it’s a tax on capital receipts, unique to India in the global context.
- This clause was inserted into the act in 2012 to prevent laundering of black money, round-tripping via investments with a large premium into unlisted companies.
- The tax covers investment in any private business entity, but only in 2016 was it applied to startups.
Why was angel tax introduced?
- The complicated nature of VC fundraising with offshore entities, multiple limited partners and blind pools is contentious.
- There has been some element of money laundering or round-tripping under guise.
Details of its levy
- The Angel Tax is being levied on startups at 9% on net investments in excess of the fair market value.
- For angel investors, the amount of investment that exceeds the fair market value can be claimed for a 100% tax exemption.
- However, the investor must have a net worth of ₹2 crores or an income of more than ₹25 Lakh in the past 3 fiscal years.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Monsoon Withdrawal/Retreat
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced withdrawal of the monsoon.
What is Monsoon Withdrawal/Retreat?
- In India, retreating monsoon is the withdrawal of south-west monsoon winds from North India.
- The withdrawal is gradual and takes about three months.
- With the retreat of the monsoons, the clouds disappear and the sky becomes clear. The day temperature starts falling steeply.
- Monsoon rains weaken all over India except few southeastern states.
- It is helpful in Rabi crop cultivation.
Factors affecting the retreat
Two predominant factors cause the phenomenon:
(1) Land topography
- First, the low mountain range in each region runs from north to south, shielding it from west-bound winds that trigger summer monsoon.
- After summer, the range aids in the ‘orographic lift’ or rising of east-bound air mass from a lower to higher elevation, forming clouds and resulting in rain.
(2) Atmospheric convection
- The second factor is atmospheric convection or vertical movement of air.
- As the earth is heated by the sun, different surfaces absorb different amounts of energy and convection may occur where the surface heats up very rapidly.
- As the surface warms, it heats the overlying air, which gradually becomes less dense than the surrounding air and begins to rise.
- This condition is more favorable from September to February because of the role played by sea surface temperature or water temperature.
Immediate factors influencing withdrawal
- The withdrawal of the monsoon is based on meteorological conditions such as-
- Anti-cyclonic circulation (dry air that is the opposite of a cyclone)
- Absence of rain in the past five days and
- Dry weather conditions over the region
When does it occur?
- The monsoon withdrawal is a long-drawn process and extends into mid-October, though the IMD considers September 30 to be the final day of the season over India.
- The rain after that is categorised as “post-monsoon” rainfall.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Read the attached story
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- A groundbreaking 21-meter-long ship, constructed using an age-old technique of stitching wooden planks with ropes, cords, coconut fibers, natural resins, and oils, is scheduled to embark ‘Baliyatra’ from Odisha to Bali, Indonesia.
- The initiative, led by the Govt. of India, aims to rekindle the nation’s rich maritime tradition and heritage.
- This remarkable journey will be manned by a crew from the Indian Navy.
Early Evidence of Maritime Trade
- Ancient Maritime Trade: The presence of maritime trade networks dating back to circa 3300-1300 BCE is supported by evidence from the Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, and coastal sites along the Arabian Sea. The engineering marvel of the dock at Lothal in Gujarat stands as a testament to the Indus civilization’s profound understanding of tides and winds.
- Historical Accounts: Ancient texts, including the Vedas (circa 1500-500 BCE), contain vivid accounts of seafaring adventures and the associated risks. Furthermore, the Jataka Tales (circa 300 BCE-400 CE) and Tamil Sangam literature (circa 300 BCE-300 CE) provide explicit references to maritime activities.
Challenges in Recognizing Maritime Heritage
- Historiographical Biases: Historians have often marginalized India’s maritime heritage in favor of narratives centered on land-based polities. This bias has led to the neglect of India’s maritime contributions.
- Emergence of Deep-Sea Voyages: The 1st century BCE witnessed intensified mid-ocean voyages driven by the Roman Empire’s demand for Eastern commodities, which harnessed monsoon winds and marked a significant turning point in maritime activity.
Ancient Indian Boats and Shipbuilding
- Limited Knowledge: The field of marine archaeology in India remains at an early stage of development, with primary insights derived from boat-building traditions, artistic depictions, and literary sources.
- Traditional Boat-Building Techniques: Indian boat construction traditions favor stitching planks of wood together instead of using nails. These traditions encompass coir-stitched, jong (Southeast Asian), and Austronesian methods, each employing various stitching techniques.
- Wood Selection: Selection of wood types for shipbuilding depended on their suitability for specific ship components. Mangrove wood excelled in creating sturdy dowels, while teak was preferred for planks, keels, stem, and stern posts.
India’s Role in Maritime Trade
- Trade Lake of the Indian Ocean: By the Common Era, the Indian Ocean had evolved into a thriving trade network, with India positioned at its heart. This network facilitated trade connections between India and Europe via the Middle East and Africa in the west, as well as Southeast Asia, China, and Malaysia in the east.
- Evidence of Scale: Estimates indicate the colossal scale of trade, with customs taxes collected from the Red Sea trade route alone contributing significantly to the Roman exchequer.
Uncovering a Hidden Past
- Ongoing Exploration: Recent excavations have provided substantial insights into India’s maritime history. Nevertheless, experts acknowledge that numerous discoveries await on this journey of exploration.
- Need for Investment: Marine archaeology in India requires increased funding and recognition to unlock its full potential and contribute meaningfully to humanity’s understanding of the past.
- Value of Knowledge: Scientific archaeology’s pursuit of India’s deep maritime past offers the potential for immense benefits to humanity. Engaging with this history challenges conventional narratives and represents a subversive yet essential endeavor.
Conclusion
- The forthcoming voyage of the stitched ship symbolizes India’s dedicated efforts to rejuvenate its maritime heritage, shedding light on the forgotten history of Indian seafarers and their remarkable vessels.
- Through exploration and study, India seeks to restore the rightful place of its maritime legacy in the annals of history.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Tobacco Warnings on OTT Platforms
Central Idea
- The Central government’s regulations mandated long-duration smoking warnings for films and TV series on OTT platforms like Hotstar, Amazon, and Netflix.
- Streaming websites voiced objections, raising concerns about user experience.
Recent Development
- According to a recent report, the government has agreed to find “pragmatic solutions” for stricter tobacco warnings on OTT platforms.
- A closed-door meeting saw streaming executives engage with Health Ministry and Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry officials.
Why Smoking Warnings in Indian Entertainment?
- Linking Health Impact and Public Perception: The introduction of smoking warnings in Indian entertainment stems from the connection between smoking’s health impact and its portrayal to the public. The goal is to communicate clear information about the health risks associated with smoking and discourage its use.
- Regulation Evolution: The Indian government has a history of regulating how smoking is portrayed. The Cinematograph Act of 1952 prohibited the “glamorization” of tobacco in movies, and the Cable Television Networks Amendment Act of 2000 banned tobacco and alcohol advertising on cable TV.
Historical Context
- Factors Leading to Consensus: Several factors contributed to a growing national consensus on tobacco control, including increased health awareness, new laws and enforcement, judicial rulings (e.g., the 2008 ban on public smoking), civil society efforts, global support for tobacco control, and the influence of the World Health Organization.
- COTPA and Health Ministry Notification: Under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), signed into law in May 2003, the Health Ministry introduced a notification prohibiting the display of tobacco products in cinema and television programs.
- Content Rules: This notification required films and shows produced before it to include health warnings regarding smoking as a prominent scroll at the bottom of the screen. It also recommended prohibiting smoking in public places and using pictorial health warnings covering 85% of tobacco product display areas.
- Legal Challenges: Legal challenges arose as some filmmakers and actors argued that these rules violated their freedom of speech. The Delhi HC quashed the notification in 2009, but the Supreme Court later upheld the rules.
Introduction of Health Spots
- Consensus-Building Efforts: Amid legal disputes, I&B Ministry appointed a new minister, leading to attempts to reach consensus. In 2011, the Health Ministry introduced new rules after consultations with I&B Ministry, aiming to make them more practical and implementable.
- Health Spots in Old Content: For films and shows made before these rules, anti-tobacco health spots or messages were required at the beginning and middle of television programs, made available to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
- Requirements for New Content: New films and TV shows with smoking scenes were to provide an “editorial justification” to the CBFC, include anti-tobacco health spots, display a prominent static message during tobacco product scenes, and feature an audio-visual disclaimer on the ill effects of tobacco use.
Implementation Challenges
- A study revealed that while many movies implemented at least one element of the film rules on tobacco imagery, few fully complied.
- Compliance with other aspects of COTPA, such as restrictions on selling cigarettes near schools, has also been lacking.
Debate over OTT Smoking Warnings
- Content Library Concerns: I&B Ministry which regulates streaming platforms, expressed concerns about implementing warnings in existing content, foreign content, and health spots. It suggested displaying an appropriate health warning when users log in.
- OTT Industry Concerns: In May, India ordered OTT platforms to insert static health warnings and anti-tobacco disclaimers. OTT executives raised concerns about the potential need to edit vast amounts of existing content, impacting user experience and creators’ freedom of expression.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SARFAESI Act
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The RBI has issued a directive requiring commercial banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), collectively referred to as Regulated Entities (REs), to disclose borrower information.
- This disclosure pertains to borrowers whose secured assets have been repossessed under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act, 2002 (SARFAESI Act).
What is the SARFAESI Act?
- Objective: The SARFAESI Act, introduced in 2002, is formally known as the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act. Its primary objective is to protect financial institutions against loan defaults.
- Empowering Banks: The Act empowers banks to seize, manage, or sell securities pledged as collateral for loans, facilitating the recovery of bad debts without the need for court intervention.
- Broad Application: The SARFAESI Act applies nationwide and covers all types of assets, whether movable or immovable, provided as security to lenders.
Aim of the SARFAESI Act
The SARFAESI Act serves two key purposes:
- Efficient NPA Recovery: It streamlines and expedites the recovery of non-performing assets (NPAs) for financial institutions and banks.
- Asset Auction: It enables financial organizations and banks to auction residential and commercial assets in cases of borrower default.
Why was such a Law needed?
- Pre-SARFAESI Era: Before the enactment of the SARFAESI Act in December 2002, financial institutions and banks faced complex procedures for recovering bad debts.
- Legal Complexity: Lenders had to navigate legal complexities, resorting to civil courts or designated tribunals to secure ‘security interests’ for recovering defaulted loans, resulting in slow and cumbersome debt recovery.
Powers Granted to Banks under the Law
- Default Trigger: The SARFAESI Act comes into play when a borrower defaults on payments for more than six months.
- Notice Period: The lender is required to issue a notice to the borrower, providing them with a 60-day window to clear their outstanding dues.
- Asset Possession: If the borrower fails to comply within the stipulated period, the financial institution gains the right to take possession of the secured assets and manage, transfer, or sell them.
- Appellate Avenue: The defaulter has the option to appeal to an appellate authority established under the law within 30 days of receiving a notice from the lender.
SARFAESI Act: Applicability
The SARFAESI Act primarily deals with various legal aspects related to:
- Registration of asset reconstruction companies.
- Acquisition of rights or interest in financial assets.
- Measures for asset reconstruction.
- Resolution of disputes.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: OSIRIS-REx Mission
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The NASA OSIRIS-REx mission has achieved a significant milestone by successfully returning to Earth with an estimated 250 grams (8.8 ounces) of material gathered from the surface of an asteroid.
- These precious samples hold the potential to provide critical insights into differentiating authentic asteroid-origin materials from potential terrestrial contaminants or alterations across various meteorite types.
OSIRIS-REx Mission
(a) Mission Launch and Journey:
- OSIRIS-REx embarked on its journey when it was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, in 2016.
- Over a span of two years, it traversed space to reach Bennu, a carbon-rich asteroid nestled between Earth and Mars.
(b) Orbiting Bennu:
- The spacecraft reached its destination, Bennu, in December 2018.
- It spent two years in orbit around the asteroid, conducting a comprehensive suite of measurements.
- These measurements encompassed critical aspects such as Bennu’s mass, density, albedo, surface composition, and particle environment.
- The landing site chosen on Bennu was named “Nightingale.”
(c) Notable Discoveries:
- During the reconnaissance phase, the OSIRIS-REx mission uncovered several intriguing findings:
- Bennu is classified as an active asteroid, periodically ejecting material from its surface.
- The surface of Bennu exhibited a considerably rougher terrain than initially expected, featuring numerous boulders exceeding ten meters in diameter.
- Bennu’s bulk density was found to be lower than anticipated, suggesting the presence of substantial empty space within the asteroid’s structure.
- Surface features on Bennu indicated signs of past aqueous activity, and the asteroid’s rotation was observed to be accelerating due to the YORP effect.
Previous such missions
- Previous space missions like Japan’s Hayabusa and Hayabusa2, as well as China’s Chang’e 5, have made substantial contributions to our understanding of celestial bodies and their compositions.
- The return of asteroid samples by OSIRIS-REx marks NASA’s first sample return mission since Stardust in 2006 and Genesis in 2004.
Significance of Sample Return
- The return of material directly from celestial sources, such as asteroids, comets, the solar wind, and the Moon, holds immense scientific significance.
- It provides the means to answer questions that lie beyond the scope of remote observations, landers, rovers, or even meteorites.
- Collecting samples directly from the source ensures the preservation of intricate details that may otherwise be lost during a meteorite’s passage through Earth’s atmosphere and subsequent impact.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Tripitaka
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- A team from Buddhavanam Theme Park in Hyderabad embarked on a significant visit to Sri Lanka.
- Their destination: the third-century BC Buddhist rock-cut caves at Mathale, situated on the Colombo-Kandy route.
Why such move?
- The team noted that the teachings of Lord Buddha, known as Tripitaka (Sutra, Vinaya, and Abhidhamma pitakas), were originally transmitted orally.
- However, it was under the auspices of Sri Lankan king Devanampiya Tissa, a contemporary of King Asoka, that these teachings were written on palm leaves in Sri Lanka.
- This event marked the advent of Buddhist literature in India.
About Tripitaka
- The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is a collection of sacred Buddhist scriptures that form the foundational texts of the Theravada Buddhist tradition.
- It is divided into three sections, known as the Tripitaka, which literally means “Three Baskets.”
History and significance
- The Tripitaka was orally transmitted from the time of Gautama Buddha in the 5th century BCE until it was eventually written down in the 1st century BCE.
- It holds immense historical and religious significance as it contains the teachings, discourses, rules, and guidelines given by the Buddha and his prominent disciples.
Composition of the Tripitaka:
(1) Vinaya Pitaka (Basket of Discipline):
- Comprises the rules and guidelines for monastic discipline in the Buddhist community.
- Provides detailed instructions on the conduct and behavior expected from monks and nuns.
- Covers various aspects, including ethical guidelines, disciplinary codes, and procedures for resolving disputes.
- Offers insights into the monastic life, the organization of the Sangha (monastic community), and the role of the monastic code in maintaining harmony and ethical conduct.
(2) Sutta Pitaka (Basket of Discourses):
- Contains the discourses and teachings delivered by Buddha and his close disciples.
- Includes a vast collection of discourses covering a wide range of topics, such as ethics, meditation, philosophy, and social issues.
- Consists of individual Suttas (discourses) grouped into different collections or Nikayas, such as the Digha Nikaya (Long Discourses), Majjhima Nikaya (Middle-Length Discourses), Samyutta Nikaya (Connected Discourses), and Anguttara Nikaya (Numerical Discourses).
- Presents the Buddha’s profound teachings on the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, dependent origination, and other core concepts of Buddhism.
(3) Abhidhamma Pitaka (Basket of Higher Teachings):
- Provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of Buddhist philosophy and psychology.
- Explores the nature of mind, consciousness, and reality in intricate detail.
- Presents the teachings in a more technical and analytical manner, offering an advanced understanding of Buddhist concepts.
- Divided into seven books, known as the Abhidhamma books, which delve into topics such as consciousness, mental factors, elements, and the path to liberation.
- Offers a deep exploration of the ultimate nature of existence and the workings of the mind.
Features and Characteristics
- Authenticity and Authority: The Tripitaka is regarded as the most authoritative and authentic collection of Buddhist scriptures in the Theravada tradition.
- Canonical Language: The texts are primarily written in Pali, an ancient Indian language close to the language spoken during the Buddha’s time.
- Extensive Coverage: The Tripitaka covers a wide range of topics, offering comprehensive guidance for practitioners in various aspects of life.
- Preservation of Early Buddhist Teachings: The Tripitaka is believed to preserve the original teachings of the Buddha, providing insights into his wisdom and teachings.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Types of Majority Votes
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- In a very rare event, the Parliament passed the women’s reservation bill with a near-unanimous 2/3rd Majority Votes.
- Rajya Sabha gave the green light in an absolute majority vote.
- In Lok Sabha, 454 members voted in favour of the bill that seeks to reserve one-third of seats to women in central and state legislatures.
Types of Majority in Indian Parliament
| |
Description |
Examples of Use |
| Absolute Majority |
More than 50% of the total membership of the house. |
Formation of government at the Center and States. |
| Effective Majority |
More than 50% of the effective strength of the house (total strength minus vacancies). |
Removal of Vice-president in RS, Speaker/Deputy Speaker removal. |
| Simple Majority |
More than 50% of the members present and voting. |
Passing Ordinary/Money/Financial bills, Confidence Motion, etc. |
| Special Majority |
All majorities other than absolute, effective, or simple majority. |
Constitutional amendment bills, National emergency approval, etc. |
Types of Special Majority in Parliament
|
| Article 249 |
2/3rd members present and voting. |
Empowering Parliament to make laws in the state list. |
| Article 368 |
2/3rd members present and voting + more than 50% of the total strength of the house. |
Constitutional amendment bills not affecting federalism. |
| Article 368 + State Ratification |
2/3rd members present and voting + more than 50% of state legislatures by a simple majority. |
Constitutional amendment bills affecting federalism. |
| Article 61 |
2/3rd members of the total strength of the house. |
Impeachment of the Indian President. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Poona Pact
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- Mahatma Gandhi used fasting as a potent tool to press for change during India’s struggle for independence.
- He employed it both as a form of personal penance and as a means to pressure the British authorities to meet his demands.
The Gandhi-Ambedkar Debate
- The 1932 Turning Point: In September 1932, within the walls of the Yerawada Central Jail in Pune, Gandhi initiated a hunger strike against the idea of separate electorates for the harijans (lower castes). This action brought him into a fierce debate with another prominent leader, B.R. Ambedkar.
- The Debate’s Legacy: The “Gandhi-Ambedkar debate” revolved around their differing views on caste and ultimately influenced the reservation system that India has today.
Gandhi’s Changing Views on Caste
- Early Beliefs: In his early years, Gandhi held orthodox views on caste, supporting prohibitions on inter-dining and inter-marriage. He considered caste a crucial part of Hinduism.
- Evolution of Beliefs: As Gandhi became a central figure in India’s freedom movement, his views evolved. Partially influenced by the emerging Dalit movement, he advocated unity and opposed untouchability, referring to untouchables as “harijans” or children of God.
- Important Quote: Gandhi wrote in 1936, “I do know that it [untouchability] is harmful both to spiritual and national good.”
Ambedkar’s Radical Views on Caste
- Ambedkar’s Perspective: B.R. Ambedkar’s stance was more radical than Gandhi’s. He believed that mere reform wouldn’t undo centuries of discrimination. He argued that change would only come when the oppressed themselves rejected their condition, including the divine authority of the shastras (holy scriptures) that upheld caste.
- Political Empowerment: Ambedkar emphasized that political power was essential for lower castes to address their grievances and proposed separate electorates as a form of affirmative action.
- Separate Electorates Explained: Ambedkar’s proposal involved separate electorates for lower castes, allowing them to vote for candidates from their own community as well as in the general electorate. He believed this would empower lower castes.
Gandhi’s Opposition to Separate Electorates
- Gandhi’s Perspective: Gandhi opposed separate electorates, arguing that they did too little for lower castes. He believed that lower castes should aspire to lead, not settle for a small share of seats.
- Concerns: Gandhi feared that separate electorates would divide Hindu society further and play into the hands of British colonial rulers who exploited internal divisions.
- Challenging Times: The rising tensions between Hindus and Muslims at the time also fueled Gandhi’s concerns. Separate electorates for lower castes alongside those for Muslims would weaken the unity of the Hindu community.
The Yerawada Fast and the Poona Pact
- Gandhi’s Hunger Strike: In September 1932, Gandhi embarked on a hunger strike in Yerawada Jail against separate electorates for castes. He called it a “God-given opportunity” to sacrifice his life for the downtrodden.
- Ambedkar’s Dilemma: Ambedkar faced a challenging decision. Giving in to Gandhi’s demands was difficult, as it conflicted with his own ideas. However, Gandhi’s immense popularity and the potential for violence against Dalits pressured him.
- The Poona Pact: Eventually, under duress, Ambedkar signed the Poona Pact, securing reservations for lower castes while putting the idea of separate electorates to rest.
Legacy of the Fast
- Mixed Perspectives: Gandhi’s fast is seen by some as preventing British “divide and rule” tactics. Others view it as coercion, as Ambedkar had little choice but to concede. Ambedkar questioned why Gandhi didn’t fast against untouchability itself.
- Unresolved Tensions: The debate’s legacy endures. While the Poona Pact addressed immediate concerns, it left lingering issues of political representation and social transformation within India’s caste system.
- Ambedkar’s View: Ambedkar later wrote, “The Joint Electorate is… a ‘Rotten Borough’ in which the Hindus get the right to nominate an untouchable to set nominally as a representative of the untouchables but really as a tool of the Hindus.”
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Neuralink
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Elon Musk’s brain implant company Neuralink has announced it is one step closer to putting brain implants in people.
Neuralink’s Vision
- Neuralink uses tiny brain implants to control neural signals for movement.
- These implants translate thoughts into actions via a wireless app.
Science behind Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)
- They use a tiny chip implanted in the brain.
- This chip reads and sends brain signals to an app, turning thoughts into actions.
- It starts with helping paralyzed individuals control a computer cursor using their thoughts.
- Some BCIs use sensor-filled structures like hairnets to detect brain signals.
- They can stimulate different parts of the brain, which showed promise in treating conditions like depression.
India’s Role in Brain Tech
- C-DAC in India is developing BCIs to capture brain signals that show intentions.
- The All India Institute of Medical Sciences is testing this project.
- BrainSight AI, an Indian startup, maps brain connections to understand neurological conditions.
Indian Innovations and Their Impact
- Indian BCIs, like Neuralink’s, aim to help paralyzed patients move and communicate.
- They could also treat mental disorders like schizophrenia.
- Indian hospitals are testing these technologies.
Challenges Ahead
- Invasive BCIs, like Neuralink’s, face rules and need lots of data.
- Non-invasive BCIs are moving faster.
- Indian institutions are actively testing these technologies and mapping the brain.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- In a groundbreaking development, JPMorgan has announced the inclusion of Indian government bonds in its Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM), slated to commence from June 2024.
- This decision could pave the way for substantial inflows of billions of dollars into local currency-denominated government debt.
What is Government Bond Index-Emerging Markets (GBI-EM)?
| Definition |
An index that tracks the performance of government bonds issued by emerging market countries.
It reflects the returns of local-currency-denominated sovereign bonds. |
| Purpose |
To provide a benchmark for measuring the performance of emerging market government bonds, helping investors assess the attractiveness of these bonds for investment. |
| Issuer |
J.P. Morgan |
| Components |
Includes government bonds issued by various emerging market countries.
The composition may change over time based on eligibility criteria. |
| Coverage |
Covers a broad range of emerging market countries and their local currency government bonds.
Different GBI-EM indices may have specific regional or maturity focuses. |
| Currency |
Denominated in the local currencies of the respective emerging market countries. |
India’s inclusion in GBI-EM
- Long-Awaited Discussion: India’s consideration for inclusion in global indexes began in 2013. However, limitations on foreign investments in domestic debt impeded progress.
- Fully Accessible Route (FAR): In April 2020, the Reserve Bank of India introduced select securities exempt from foreign investment restrictions through the “fully accessible route” (FAR), rendering them eligible for inclusion in global indexes.
- Index-Eligible Bonds: Currently, there are 23 Indian Government Bonds (IGBs) with a combined notional value of $330 billion that meet index eligibility criteria, according to JPMorgan.
- Investor Support: Approximately 73% of benchmarked investors voted in favor of India’s inclusion in the index, marking a significant endorsement.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Adi Shankaracharya
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A monumental 108-foot-tall statue of Hindu saint Adi Shankaracharya, known as ‘Ekatmata Ki Pratima’ (Statue of Oneness), was recently unveiled in Omkareshwar, Khandwa district, Madhya Pradesh.
- This project is part of the government’s efforts to develop Omkareshwar as a prominent religious and tourism destination.
Adi Shankaracharya: A Brief Overview
- Adi Shankaracharya was a prominent Indian philosopher and theologian, often referred to as Sankara (Jagatguru). He was a staunch advocate of ancient Hinduism.
- His birthplace Kaladi in Ernakulam, Kerala, is poised to be declared a national monument.
- He received guidance from his guru, Govinda Bhagavatpada, under whom he diligently studied texts like ‘Gaudapadiya Karika,’ ‘Brahmasutra,’ Vedas, and Upanishads.
- Shankara propagated the philosophies of ‘Advaita Vedanta’ and ‘Dashanami Sampradaya,’ earning him the title ‘Shankaracharya’ among his disciples.
His Philosophy: Advaita Vedanta
- Non-Dualism: Shankaracharya’s philosophy, known as ‘Advaita Vedanta,’ espouses non-dualism.
- Ultimate Reality: It asserts that the world exists due to the creative energy (Maya) of Brahman, the ultimate, transcendent, and immanent God of the later Vedas.
- Identity of Self: In Advaita Vedanta, the transcendental self of the universe (Atman) and the experiencing self (Jiva) are both identical in truth – both are Brahman. However, the individual self appears different, akin to space inside a container seeming distinct from space as a whole.
- Overcoming Error: Mistakes and ignorance lead to a plurality (Avidya), but understanding Brahman eliminates these errors, resulting in liberation from the cycle of reincarnation and worldly servitude.
Disciples of Adi Shankaracharya
Shankaracharya’s four closest disciples played pivotal roles in propagating his teachings:
- Padmapada: Known for his deep devotion and poetry.
- Totakacharya: Devoted to Shankaracharya’s mission and revered for his poetry “Totakashtakam.”
- Hasta Malaka: A child prodigy who astounded Shankaracharya with his understanding of Advaita philosophy.
- Sureshwara: Initially a householder, he became a disciple after losing a philosophical debate to Shankaracharya.
Contributions of Adi Shankaracharya
- Shankaracharya introduced the ‘Shanmata’ system, which emphasized worship of the five principal deities and restored the Dashanami structure.
- He composed numerous devotional and meditative hymns and authored key texts on Advaita Vedanta, including commentaries on major scriptures.
- Adi Shankaracharya revitalized Hinduism at a time when it faced challenges from Jainism and Buddhism, promoting unity and re-establishing traditions.
- He established four monastic institutions (Mathas) in different corners of India, unifying the nation and codifying leadership roles:
- Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetam in Chikmaglur in Karnataka
- Jyotir Matha in the Garhwal region in Uttarakhand
- Kalika Matha in Dwarka in Gujarat
- Govardhana Matha in Puri in Odisha
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nuakhai
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Prime Minister has greeted the people on the auspicious occasion of Nuakhai.
About Nuakhai
- Nuakhai, also known as Nuakhai Parab or Nuakhai Bhetghat, is alternatively referred to as Navakhai Parv in Chhattisgarh.
- Nuakhai is predominantly an agricultural festival celebrated by tribal communities and Hindus residing in Western Odisha.
- It is also observed in the adjacent regions of Simdega in Jharkhand, where the cultural influence of Western Odisha is prominent.
- Nuakhai is observed to mark the arrival of the new rice harvest.
- The term “nua” signifies new, and “khai” represents food, symbolizing the farmers’ possession of the freshly harvested rice.
- This festival falls on the panchami tithi (the fifth day) of the lunar fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada (usually August- September).
- It occurs the day following the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
Historical Roots
- Nuakhai traces its origins back to ancient times, with its roots in the Pralambana Yajna, which involves harvesting the first crop and making a reverential offering to the mother goddess.
- In its present form, the festival is linked to the time of the first Chauhan King Ramai Deva of Patnagarh in western Odisha.
Course of Celebrations
- Nuakhai festivities encompass a series of nine rituals commencing with Behrana and culminating in Juhar Bhet.
- Beheren: This marks the announcement of the scheduled meeting date.
- Nuakhai: The highlight of the celebration involves partaking in the freshly harvested crop after offering it to the deity, accompanied by lively dancing and singing.
- Juhar bhet: It involves seeking blessings from elders and exchanging gifts with them as a gesture of respect and affection.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Reservation , Article 344
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- A Constitution Bench led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud is set to scrutinize the constitutional validity of repeatedly extending the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
Historical Context of Reservation
- Original Intent: The Constituent Assembly, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, initially envisioned reservation for SCs/STs for ten years from the commencement of the Indian Constitution in 1950.
- Amendments to Article 334: Article 334 of the Constitution, addressing the duration of SC/ST and Anglo-Indian seat reservations, underwent multiple amendments. Each time, the deadline for ending the reservation was extended by approximately ten years.
- The 2019 Amendment: The Constitution (104th Amendment) Act of 2019 abolished the reservation for the Anglo-Indian community and set the deadline to terminate SC/ST reservation in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies for 2030. This extended the reservation period to 80 years from the Constitution’s adoption.
Examining Parliament’s Constituent Power
- Key Question: The Constitution Bench will assess whether Parliament’s constituent power to amend Article 334 repeatedly, extending the SC/ST seat reservation, is constitutionally valid.
- Limited Scope: The examination will focus solely on the 104th Constitution Amendment Act of 2019 concerning SC/ST communities and will not address the termination of the Anglo-Indian quota.
- Impact of Continuous Reservations: The petitioner’s argument contends that persistent extensions of reservation restrict electoral choice by excluding members of other communities from contesting elections. This, they argue, infringes upon the fundamental right to equality under Article 14 of the Constitution.
- Violation of Fundamental Right: The petition asserts that these recurrent extensions violate the basic structure of the Constitution by denying other communities the opportunity to contest in reserved seats, impinging upon their right to equal representation in government.
Government’s Perspective
- Union of India’s Stand: Represented by the Attorney General and Solicitor General, the Union of India contends that the 104th Constitution Amendment Act is constitutionally valid.
What next?
- The Constitution Bench has scheduled the hearing.
- This critical examination of SC/ST reservation extensions raises profound questions about constitutional principles and the right to equality in Indian democracy.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Preamble of Indian Constitution
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The inclusion of the terms “socialist” and “secular” in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution has recently sparked debate.
- Leader of the a party in Lok Sabha has raised concerns about these words in the Preamble.
Significance of the Preamble
- The Preamble encapsulates the core principles and objectives of the Indian Constitution.
- It serves as an introduction to the Constitution, outlining its fundamental ideals.
Original Preamble
- Content in 1950: The Preamble, when the Constitution came into effect in 1950, did not include the terms “socialist” and “secular.” It reflected the vision and objectives of the Constituent Assembly at that time.
Addition of “Socialist” and “Secular”
- The 42nd Amendment: During the Emergency imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1976, the terms “socialist” and “secular” were added to the Preamble through The Constitution (42nd Amendment) Act, 1976.
- Indira Gandhi’s Agenda: Indira Gandhi’s government aimed to emphasize a socialist and pro-poor image, aligning with slogans such as “garibi hatao” (Eradicate poverty). The addition of “socialist” highlighted socialism as a fundamental goal of the Indian state.
- Distinctive Indian Socialism: The Indian version of socialism did not endorse complete nationalization but emphasized selective nationalization of essential sectors.
Understanding “Secular”
- Religious Diversity: India is home to diverse religious beliefs and practices. The term “secular” was added to the Preamble to promote unity and fraternity among people of various faiths.
- State Neutrality: Secularism in the Indian context implies that the state maintains neutrality and impartiality towards all religions. It does not favor any particular religion as a “state religion.”
- Secularism as Law: Articles 25-28 of the Constitution secure the secular nature of the Indian state.
- Inherent in the Constitution: The philosophy of secularism was inherent in the Constitution even before the 42nd Amendment.
Debates Surrounding “Socialist” and “Secular”
- Consensus on Secularism: The concept of secularism was already part of the Constitution’s philosophy. The insertion of the word “secular” in the Preamble simply made explicit what was implicit in various provisions.
- Constituent Assembly Discussions: The Constituent Assembly debated including these words in the Preamble but decided against it.
- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s Perspective: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar argued that issues related to the state’s policy, organization, and economic aspects should be determined by the people, not dictated by the Constitution itself.
- Ongoing Debates: Over the years, there have been petitions and discussions regarding the removal of “socialist” and “secular” from the Preamble. Some argue that these terms were added arbitrarily during the Emergency.
Conclusion
- The presence of “socialist” and “secular” in the Preamble remains a topic of discussion and legal challenges, with differing views on their inclusion and significance in shaping India’s constitutional identity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: TrueNat Test
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Kerala has been accorded sanction by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) to use TrueNat test to diagnose Nipah.
- Hospitals with BSL 2 level labs can perform the test.
What is TrueNat Test?
- The TrueNat test is a molecular diagnostic test used for the detection of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19.
- It is a portable, chip-based and battery-operated machine developed by a Goa-based company.
- It is based on real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, which allows for the amplification and detection of specific genetic material (RNA or DNA) from the target pathogen.
- The WHO has approved TrueNat for detecting TB as it is cost-effective and a miniature version of the PCR test.
Benefits offered
- TrueNat machines are designed to be portable and easy to use in various settings, including remote or resource-limited areas.
- This feature has been particularly useful for TB diagnosis in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.
About RT-PCR
- Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology is a molecular biology method used to detect and quantify DNA or RNA sequences in biological samples.
- It combines PCR amplification with fluorescent probes to monitor DNA amplification in real-time.
- This allows for the quantification of specific genetic material, making it valuable for applications such as gene expression analysis, disease diagnosis, and genetic research.
- It provides high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid results, making it a widely used tool in molecular biology and clinical diagnostics.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Section 6A
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- A Constitution Bench has decided to commence hearings regarding a series of petitions that challenge the constitutionality of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, of 1955.
Background of Section 6A
- Section 6A was introduced as a special provision in the 1955 Act following the signing of the ‘Assam Accord‘ Memorandum of Settlement on August 15, 1985.
- This accord, facilitated by the Rajiv Gandhi government, aimed to protect the cultural, linguistic, and social identity of Assam.
- It marked the end of a six-year-long agitation led by the All Assam Students Union against illegal immigrants, primarily from Bangladesh.
Legal Challenge
- Centre’s Defense: The Union government has maintained that Section 6A is legally sound and urged the court to dismiss the petitions. These petitions were filed nearly 40 years after the enactment of Section 6A.
- Provisions of Section 6A: Under Section 6A, foreigners who entered Assam before January 1, 1966, and were “ordinarily resident” in the State, were granted all the rights and obligations of Indian citizens. Those who arrived in the State between January 1, 1966, and March 25, 1971, were accorded similar rights and obligations but could not vote for a period of 10 years.
- Challenging Discrimination: Petitioners, including Assam Public Works and others, argue that Section 6A’s “discriminatory” nature in granting citizenship to immigrants, especially illegal ones, is in violation of Article 6 of the Constitution, which establishes the cutoff date for granting citizenship to immigrants as July 19, 1948.
Key Points of Contention
- Conservation of Cultural Rights: The Assam Sanmilita Mahasangha, a Guwahati-based civil society organization, has demanded the updating of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) for Assam based on the 1951 NRC rather than the electoral rolls of March 1971.
- Supreme Court’s Involvement: In December 2014, the Supreme Court formulated 13 questions encompassing various issues related to the constitutionality of Section 6A, including its impact on the political rights of Assam’s citizens and whether it violated the rights of the Assamese people to preserve their cultural identity. In 2015, a three-judge Bench referred the case to a Constitution Bench.
Why discuss this?
- The Section 6A case has been pending for several years, coinciding with the Supreme Court’s monitoring of the final Assam NRC list in August 2019, which excluded over 19 lakh individuals.
- Additionally, the past years witnessed the enactment of the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Act, which granted accelerated citizenship to immigrants from minority communities in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
What lies ahead?
- The upcoming hearings on Section 6A will provide a crucial legal examination of its constitutionality and its implications for the protection of cultural rights and the status of immigrants in Assam.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- The center introduced The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, marking a historic step towards reserving 33% of seats for women in Lok Sabha and state Legislative Assemblies.
73rd and 74th Amendments: Foundations
- Pioneering Amendments (1992): The Constitution (Seventy-third Amendment) Act, 1992, and The Constitution (Seventy-fourth Amendment) Act, 1992, laid the groundwork for women’s reservation.
- Narsimha Rao’s tenure: Enacted during Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao’s tenure, these amendments mandated the reservation of one-third of seats for women in Panchayati Raj institutions and chairperson offices at all levels, as well as in urban local bodies.
- Effective Dates: These amendments took effect on April 24, 1993, and June 1, 1993, respectively.
Background to the Amendments
- Balwantrai Mehta Committee (1957): The Balwantrai Mehta Committee recommended the establishment of village-level agencies to represent community interests and execute government development programs. It called for elected local bodies with devolved resources and authority.
- Asoka Mehta Committee (1977): The Asoka Mehta Committee proposed a shift of Panchayati Raj towards a political institution. It identified bureaucratic resistance, political apathy, and role ambiguity as factors undermining Panchayati Raj.
- State Initiatives: Karnataka, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh passed laws based on the Asoka Mehta Committee report to strengthen Panchayati Raj. An attempt to enact a national strengthening law through The Constitution (Sixty-fourth Amendment) Bill in 1989, during Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure, was unsuccessful in the Rajya Sabha.
Key Features of the Amendments
- Local Self-Governance: The 73rd and 74th Constitution Amendment Acts established local self-governance in rural and urban India, respectively.
- Institutions of Self-Government: Panchayats and municipalities became “institutions of self-government.”
- Empowering Gram Sabha and Ward Committees: The gram sabha became the foundational unit of village democracy, while municipalities formed “ward committees.” These bodies included all adult citizens registered as voters, holding the panchayat or municipality accountable.
- Direct Elections: Direct elections introduced for all three governance tiers: gram panchayat at the village level, taluka or block panchayat at the intermediate level, and zila panchayat or parishad at the district level. States with populations under 20 lakh were exempt.
- Women’s Reservation: One-third of seats were reserved for women, with an additional 33% reservation for SCs and STs. Office-bearer and chairperson positions at all levels also reserved for women.
- Fixed Tenure: Each body had a five-year tenure, and elections for successor bodies had to conclude before the previous body’s term ended. In cases of dissolution, elections had to occur within six months.
- State Election Commissions: Each state established a State Election Commission for electoral roll supervision.
- Development Planning: Panchayats were tasked with creating economic development and social justice plans, covering subjects in the Eleventh Schedule, such as agriculture, land, irrigation, animal husbandry, fisheries, cottage industries, and drinking water.
- District Planning Committees: The 74th Amendment introduced District Planning Committees to consolidate plans prepared by panchayats and municipalities.
Conclusion
- Progressive Foundations: The journey toward women’s political representation in India has been shaped by decades of struggle, starting from grassroots committees to constitutional amendments.
- Empowering Local Governance: The 73rd and 74th Amendments laid the foundation for robust local self-governance, empowering rural and urban communities.
- Women’s Reservation: The inclusion of women’s reservation as a crucial component signifies India’s commitment to gender parity in political decision-making at all levels.
- Continued Progress: With the introduction of The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, India takes another step forward in its commitment to gender equality and empowerment.
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