Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Prelims_Quick_Revision_Part_3_431b274561
Prelims_Quick_Revision_Part_3_431b274561
Prelims_Quick_Revision_Part_3_431b274561
Part 3
16th Apr – 20th May 2024
POLITY AND GOVERNANCE(3-9)
National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission Spices Board India
(NCDRC) 'Eggshell Skull' Rule
Survey of India Commission on Population and Development
Section 144 of CrPC Diplomatic Passports
Indelible Ink DigiLocker
Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN) Scheme Rules on Contesting from Multiple Seats
National Career Service Portal 2024 World Press Freedom Index
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS(10-12)
Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA)
Chabahar Port
India’s Trading Partners
United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS)
ECONOMY(13-19)
Imported Inflation Increase in Participatory Notes
Safeguard Measures Under World Trade Non-Market Economy
Organization (WTO) IREDA gets Navratna status
IMF's Stand-By Arrangement Rise in Cocoa prices
Paradox of Thrift Foot Rot Disease
Front Running India VIX
GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) Sachetisation of F&O trade
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 1
Bitcoin Halving TacticAI
Biomarkers Bisphenol A (BPA)
Voyager Spacecrafts Salmonella Bacteria
Pink Hydrogen Oxytocin
Nephrotic Syndrome Chloropocrin
Auto-Brewery Syndrome (ABS) Goldene
Raman Spectroscopy Semi Cryogenic Pre-Burner Ignition Test Article
Liquid Nitrogen (PITA)
Biohacking AlphaFold 3
China's High Energy Photon Source (HEPS)
DEFENCE AND SECURITY(36-38)
Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Test Firing of Crystal Maze 2 Missile by Indian Air
GPS Spoofing Force (IAF)
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 2
POLITY AND GOVERNANCE
National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC)
• The NCDRC is a quasi-judicial commission established in 1988 under the Consumer Protection Act of 1986.
The provisions of this act cover ‘goods’ as well as ‘services’
• Its primary mandate is to provide inexpensive, speedy, and summary redressal of consumer disputes.
• The NCDRC is headquartered in New Delhi and is headed by a sitting or a retired Judge of the Supreme Court
or a sitting or a retired Chief Justice of a High Court.
• The NCDRC has jurisdiction to entertain complaints valued more than Rupees two crore and also has
appellate and revisional jurisdiction from the orders of State Commissions or the District Commissions.
• Who Can File a Complaint?
o A consumer
o Any voluntary consumer association registered under the Companies Act 1956
o The Central Government or any State Government
o One or more consumers where there are numerous consumers.
• Appeal: Any person aggrieved by an order of NCDRC may prefer an appeal against such an order to the
Supreme Court within a period of 30 days
Survey of India
Aspect Details
Role National Survey and Mapping Organization under the Department of Science and Technology
Establish- Founded in 1767 during India's British rule, making it the oldest scientific department under
ment the Government of India
• Utilizes cutting-edge technology tailored for defense, planning, and scientific applications in
geo-sciences, land management, and resource management
• Provides expert advice to government ministries and undertakings on sensitive matters like
border settlement and underdeveloped area development
Functions
• Assists in scientific programs related to geophysics, remote sensing, and digital data
transfers
• Serves as an advisor to the Government of India on all survey matters, including geodesy,
photogrammetry, mapping, and map reproduction
• In its assigned role as the nation's principal mapping agency, SoI bears a special responsibility
to ensure that the country's domain is explored and mapped suitably to provide base maps
for expeditious and integrated development.
• Its expert advice is being utilized by various ministries and undertakings of the Govt. of India
in many sensitive areas, including the settlement of international borders, state boundaries
and in assisting planned development of hitherto under developed areas.
• It acts as an adviser to the Govt. of India on all survey matters, viz Geodesy, Photogrammetry,
Responsi- Mapping, and Map Reproduction.
bilities • It Surveys for developmental projects including forests, cantonments, large scale city
surveys, guide maps, cadastral surveys, etc.
• Demarcation of the External Boundaries of India, their depiction on maps published in the
country, and also advice on the demarcation of inter-state boundaries.
• Research and Development in Cartography, Printing, Geodesy, Photogrammetry,
Topographic Surveys, and Indigenisation.
• Prediction of tides at 44 ports, including 14 foreign ports and publication of Tide Tables one
year in advance to support navigational activities
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 3
Section 144 of CrPC
• Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) grants authority to the Executive Magistrate of any state
or territory to issue orders prohibiting the assembly of four or more people in a specified area.
• This section is imposed in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger of some event that has the
potential to cause trouble or damage to human life or property.
• Anyone participating in such an 'unlawful assembly' can be charged with rioting under the law.
• Additionally, carrying any weapons in the restricted area is prohibited, with violators subject to detention and
a maximum punishment of three years.
• Under a Section 144 order, public movement can be restricted, educational institutions remain closed, and
holding public meetings or rallies can be prohibited.
• Obstructing law enforcement from dispersing an unlawful assembly is also punishable. Authorities are
empowered to block internet access and prohibit certain events that would otherwise be allowed during
normal times.
• The duration of a Section 144 order is limited to two months initially, but the state government can extend
it for two additional months, up to a maximum of six months.
• Additionally, it can be withdrawn at any point of time if the situation becomes normal.
Indelible Ink
With Lok Sabha elections approaching, the ubiquitous symbol of Indian polls emerges: a left-hand sporting only
an extended index finger, marked by purple-black indelible ink.
About Indelible Ink
Contains silver nitrate, a colourless compound visible under ultraviolet light, sunlight
Composition
Higher concentration of silver nitrate results in superior ink quality.
Durability Resistant to soap, liquids, and detergents for up to 72 hours post-application.
Drying Water-based ink with a solvent like alcohol for faster drying.
First Initially produced by the government's Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) at
Manufacturer the request of Election Commission
Manufacturer Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd. has been licensed to produce the ink since 1962.
Export Exported to over 25 countries including Canada, Ghana, and Malaysia.
The Representation of the People Act (RPA) of 1951 addresses the use of indelible ink, with
Legal Mention Section 61 specifying rules for marking voters with it before ballot paper delivery at polling
stations.
Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN) Scheme
• Established in 1997, RAN provides one-time financial aid to patients living below poverty line suffering from
life-threatening illnesses like heart diseases, kidney ailments, liver disorders, and cancer.
• It is a Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
Components of RAN Umbrella Scheme
• Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN): Offers financial support to patients needing treatment for life-threatening
diseases at Government hospitals with Super Specialty facilities (maximum assistance: Rs. 15 lakhs).
• Health Minister’s Cancer Patient Fund (HMCPF): Provides financial aid for cancer treatment at designated
centers (maximum assistance: Rs. 15 lakhs).
• Financial Aid for Rare Diseases: Offers financial assistance for specified rare diseases treatment at Super
Specialty Government facilities (maximum assistance: Rs. 20 lakhs).
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 4
National Career Service Portal
• The Centre intends to modernize the nine-year-old National Career Service (NCS) portal to connect millions of
young individuals with potential employers.
• The portal offers online career counseling and vocational guidance services to registered users, facilitating
informed career decisions based on qualifications, skills, and interests.
• It serves as a nationwide platform for job seekers and employers to match dynamically, efficiently, and
responsively. Additionally, it houses a repository of career-related content.
National Career Service Initiative
• Launched in 2015, the National Career Service is a mission-mode project under the E-Governance Plan.
• It aims to bridge the gap between job seekers, employers, training seekers, career guidance seekers, and
training and counseling agencies.
• The initiative provides various services including job matching, career counseling, job notifications, vocational
guidance, and information on skill development courses and internships.
• Focus Areas: The initiative focuses on enhancing career and employment opportunities, providing counseling
and guidance for career development, promoting decent employment, increasing female labor force
participation, and encouraging entrepreneurial endeavors.
• Nodal Agency: Directorate General of Employment, Ministry of Labour & Employment.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 5
Here, the court ruled that a kick from Putney to Vosburg, unknowingly aggravating a prior injury, constituted
an "unlawful act" resulting in compensation.
Application of Rule
• The eggshell skull rule, despite its name, is applied across various domains to ensure fairness and justice.
• It allows for claiming increased compensation for a range of injuries, encompassing physical, emotional, and
psychological harm resulting from a defendant's actions that exacerbated a victim's existing vulnerability.
• Not Applicable to Unrelated Pre-Existing Injury: However, this rule does not extend to compensating for
injuries that are unrelated to the pre-existing condition of the victim.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 6
o "Select individuals authorized to undertake official travel on behalf of the government," including Union
Ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs) who frequently represent the government abroad.
• Diplomatic passports differ from normal passports primarily in appearance and validity:
o Normal passports have dark blue covers and are valid for 10 years for adults, whereas diplomatic
passports have maroon covers and are valid for five years or less.
o In the case of MPs, validity is concurrent with their term.
• Diplomatic passport holders are typically permitted to stay in a foreign country for a period ranging from 30
to 90 days, depending on the specific regulations of each country.
Benefits of Diplomatic Passports
• Diplomatic passport holders enjoy various privileges and immunities not afforded to ordinary passport
holders.
• These include immunity from arrest, detention, and certain legal proceedings in the host country.
• Additionally, their immigration formalities are expedited upon arrival, and they may not require a visa note
from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) if traveling to one of the 34 nations with which India has Visa
Exemption Agreements, such as Finland, France, Germany, Spain, Kenya, Japan, and Iran. These agreements
operate on a reciprocal basis.
• Moreover, India and Moldova recently signed an agreement on visa waivers for diplomatic and official
passport holders. India also has similar agreements with 99 other countries, including Bahrain, Brazil, Egypt,
Hong Kong, Oman, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates, allowing diplomatic, service, and official passport
holders to avail operational visa exemption for stays of up to 90 days.
International Laws Pertaining to Diplomatic Passports
The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961, establishes the framework for diplomatic relations
between countries and outlines the privileges diplomats enjoy in host countries.
Type Colour Validity Description
10 years for Issued to Indian citizens for personal travel purposes,
Ordinary
Blue adults, 5 for typically for those who have completed their education
Passport
minors beyond the 10th grade.
10 years for
Issued to government officials excluding diplomatic or
Service Passport White adults, 5 for
consular officials for official purposes.
minors
10 years for
Emigration Provided to Indian citizens seeking overseas employment
Orange adults, 5 for
Passport who have not completed their formal education.
minors
Exclusively issued to diplomats, consular officers, and other
Diplomatic
Maroon 5 years high-ranking government officials representing India abroad,
Passport
granting various privileges and immunities.
Others (Tibetan
Issued to Tibetans seeking refugee status in India as their
Refugee Yellow -
identity card.
Passport)
A digital version of ordinary (blue) passports equipped with
10 years for an electronic chip containing biometric information such as
E-Passports - adults, 5 for fingerprints and iris data, alongside traditional personal
minors details. Aims to streamline immigration processes and
enhance security.
Additional Information: According to the Henley Passport Index for 2024, the Indian passport holds the 80th
position among the world's most powerful passports. Holders of the Indian passport enjoy visa-free access to 62
countries out of the 199 countries considered in the index.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 7
DigiLocker
• DigiLocker, cloud-based storage platform, is a flagship initiative of
the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) under the Digital India Role of National e-Governance
program. It was launched in 2015. Division (NeGD)
• DigiLocker is developed by National e-Governance Division • Established in 2009 by MeitY, the
(NeGD). National e-Governance Division
• Objective: To promote a paperless environment and facilitate the (NeGD) is an Independent
seamless sharing of e-documents among institutions and Business Division under the Digital
organizations while allowing them to verify the ‘authenticity’ of India Corporation (formerly
the documents online. Media Lab Asia).
• Rule 9A of the Information Technology (Preservation and • It manages various National Public
Retention of Information by Intermediaries providing Digi Locker Digital Platforms, including
Facilities) Rules, 2016, provides that issued documents in the Digi DigiLocker, UMANG, Poshan
Locker system are to be regarded on par with original physical Tracker, Academic Bank of Credits,
documents. National Academic Depositories,
• For instance, when applying for a new passport, the Passport Seva and National AI Portal.
portal now allows applicants to share their Digi Locker uploaded
documents, thus facilitating a seamless application experience.
Benefits
For Users For Organizations
• Access to important documents anytime, anywhere, reducing • Reduction of administrative costs
the need to carry physical documents. through a paperless process.
• Legally equivalent e-verified documents. • Shortened verification process with
• Consent-based sharing of digital documents. e-verified documents.
• Faster service delivery in various sectors such as Govt Benefits, • Real-time retrieval of issued
Employment, Financial Inclusion, Education, and Health. documents from the issuing agency.
Security Measures
DigiLocker employs standard security features, including:
• 2048 Bit RSA SSL encryption for secure communication.
• Multi-factor authentication (OTP verification).
• Consent systems and timed logouts.
• Regular security audits.
• None of its data is shared with third parties and data is encrypted in transit.
Rules on Contesting from Multiple Seats
Recently, the question around dual candidature arose when an MP candidate filed his nomination from Uttar
Pradesh after contesting from Kerala.
How Many Seats Can a Candidate Contest from?
• According to Section 33(7) of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1951, a candidate can contest
elections from up to two constituencies. However, if elected from both, the candidate is permitted to hold
only one seat at a time, as outlined in Section 70 of the RPA.
• This section was amended in 1996. Prior to this, there were no restrictions on the number of constituencies
from which a candidate could contest.
• There have been recommendations by both the Election Commission of India and the Law Commission to
amend the RPA, advocating for candidates to contest from only one seat, considering a person cannot hold
two seats simultaneously.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 8
• Additionally, it's suggested that such candidates should be voters in the specific state they seek to contest
assembly polls from.
• Presently, to contest in a Lok Sabha election, a candidate can be registered as a voter in any constituency
across the country and can contest from any seat in India, except for autonomous districts of Assam,
Lakshadweep, and Sikkim.
Prerequisites for Contesting Elections:
• Candidates must be at least 25 years old to contest Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.
• They must be Indian citizens, registered as valid voters in any constituency.
• They must not have been convicted of any offence punishable by more than two years.
• There is no minimum educational qualification needed.
When Can a Candidate Not Contest Elections?
• A candidate shall be disqualified from being chosen or being a member of either House if they:
o Hold any office of profit under the Government of India or any State government.
o Are declared of unsound mind by a competent court.
o Are an undischarged insolvent.
o Are not Indian citizens or have voluntarily acquired citizenship of a foreign state.
o Are convicted of any offence and sentenced to imprisonment of 2 years or more, as per Sec 8 of the RPA.
o Are out on bail, post-conviction, with a pending appeal for disposal. If the conviction is stayed, the
candidate can contest elections.
o Are convicted of serious offences like dowry, rape, murder, irrespective of the punishment.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 9
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 10
International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)
• The INSTC, which was initiated by Russia,
India, and Iran, is a multi-modal
transportation route envisaged to link the
Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf to the
Caspian Sea via Iran, and onward to
northern Europe via St Petersburg in
Russia.
• The INSTC envisages the movement of
goods:
o from Mumbai to Bandar Abbas in
Iran by sea;
o from Bandar Abbas to Bandar – e-
Anzali, an Iranian port on the
Caspian Sea, by road;
o from Bandar-e-Anzali to Astrakhan,
a Caspian port in the Russian Federation by ship across the Caspian Sea; and
o onward to other parts of the Russian Federation and Europe by rail
• Hence, INSTC and Chabahar Port will complement each other for optimising Indian connectivity with Russia
and Eurasia.
India’s Trading Partners
China emerged as the largest trading partner of India in FY24, with a two-way commerce of $118.4 billion. The US
was narrowly overtaken by China, with India-US two-way trade at $118.3 billion.
India’s Trade Profile with China
Bilateral Trade • Bilateral trade with China in FY24 stood at $118.4 billion.
between India and • India's imports increased by 3.24% to $101.7 billion, while exports rose by 8.7% to
China $16.67 billion compared to FY23.
Major Imports • Electrical and electronic equipment, engineering goods, chemicals, telecom
from China to India equipment, organic chemicals, fertilizers, plastics, textiles, among others.
• Engineering goods, agricultural and allied products, ores and minerals (copper,
Major Exports
aluminium), cotton, diamonds/natural gems, chemicals, petroleum & crude
from India to China
products, etc.
Trade Deficit with • India's trade deficit with China expanded from USD 53.57 billion in FY2019 to
China $85.09 billion in FY2024.
• Imports to fill the gap between domestic production and demand.
Reasons for High
• Export of raw materials (low cost) while importing finished goods (high cost).
Trade Deficit
• Dependence of India's pharmaceutical industry on Chinese imports.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 11
• Trade surplus of $0.34 billion in FY19 turned into a deficit of $12.39 billion by FY24
due to increased imports.
• India’s trade with Russia stands at $65.7 billion. India's exports to Russia increased
by 78.3% from $2.39 billion to $4.26 billion, while imports soared by 952% from
Trade with Russia
$5.84 billion to $61.44 billion in the last five years. Widening the trade deficit from
$3.45 billion to $57.18 billion.
• India’s trade with Saudi Arabia stands at $43.4 billion.
Trade with Saudi • Exports to Saudi Arabia more than doubled, rising by 107.9% from $5.56 to $11.56
Arabia billion.
• Imports from Saudi Arabia increased by 11.7% from $28.48 to $31.81 billion.
United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS)
Recently, a former Indian Army Officer, who was working with the UNDSS, was killed.
About United Nations Department of Safety and Security
• The UNDSS is a department of the United Nations that provides safety and security services for UN agencies
and departments as part of the UN Safety Management System.
• UNDSS reports directly to the Secretary-General and is led by Under-Secretary-General Gilles Michaud from
Canada.
• Mandate: UNDSS's mission is to enable United Nations system operations through trusted security
leadership and solutions, with the vision of "Security for the United Nations, for a better world".
• Establishment:
o UNDSS was formally established on 1 January 2005, pursuant to General Assembly Resolution 59/276 in
December 2004.
o The resolution merged the security management component of the Office of the UN Security
Coordinator (UNSECOORD) and the Security and Safety Services (SSS).
• Services
o Coordinating safety and security in the field for UN organizations
o Providing security at UN Offices Away from Headquarters
o Managing security at major UN conferences and events
o Analyzing threats and risks through the Security Risk Management process
o Supporting peacekeeping and regional sections
o Collaborating with NGOs through the Saving Lives Together framework
o Advising on physical security for UN premises
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 12
ECONOMY
Imported Inflation
• Imported inflation refers to a general and sustained increase in prices resulting from higher costs of imported
goods and services. Imported inflation is also known as cost inflation.
• This includes the price of raw materials as well as all other imported products or services utilized by
companies within a country.
Factors Causing Imported Inflation
• Exchange Rates: Currency depreciation raises import costs.
• Commodity Prices: Global price hikes in essential imports like oil and metals increase domestic inflation.
• Trade Policies: Changes in tariffs and quotas impact import costs.
• Transportation Costs: Increase in fuel prices and logistics affect import prices.
Effects of Imported Inflation
• Higher Consumer Prices: Increased prices for consumer goods.
• Increased Production Costs: Higher costs for businesses.
• Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Currency value affects import prices.
• Impact on Trade Balance: Potential trade deficits.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 13
• Conditionalities
o Countries must address the economic issues that led them to seek funding.
o Disbursements conditional on the observance of quantitative performance criteria.
o Progress in implementing structural measures is assessed holistically, including through benchmarks.
• Duration of the assistance: Flexible. Typically covers a period of 12–24 months, but not more than 36 months.
Paradox of Thrift
• The paradox of thrift suggests that increased savings by individuals can lead to a decrease in overall savings
in an economy.
• Popularized by John Maynard Keynes in "The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money” it
believes that higher savings can harm the economy and that increasing consumer spending is essential for
growth.
• In a nutshell, the theory implies that while saving is good for individuals, if everyone saves too much at the
same time, it can hurt the economy by reducing overall spending, leading to less economic activity and overall,
less economic growth. This is why it’s called the paradox of thrift—saving, which is normally good, can become
harmful when done excessively by everyone.
• Keynesians recommend government measures, including increased spending, to boost consumer spending
during downturns.
• Criticisms:
o Critics argue that more savings are not harmful and that reduced consumer spending does not decrease
investment. The paradox assumes that saved money is not lent out by banks to spur investment.
o They contend that lower consumer spending increases savings, which are then invested.
o Increased savings boost demand for production factors (land, labor, entrepreneurship, capital) due to
increased investment.
o Thus, reduced consumer demand is offset by higher production factor demand, maintaining aggregate
demand.
o Additionally, higher savings lead capitalists to invest more to meet future consumer demand.
Front Running
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved amendments to its mutual fund regulations
to establish an institutional mechanism to curb front-running and fraudulent transactions.
• Front-running is the practice where a broker or trader buys or sells stocks or other financial assets based on
advance, non-public knowledge of an upcoming transaction that is expected to affect the asset's price
significantly.
• In practical terms, if a broker knows that a large client order will affect a stock's price, they might buy or sell
shares of same stock for themselves before handling the client's order. This way, they can profit from the price
change caused by the client's trade.
• Front-running is considered a form of market manipulation and insider trading because it involves exploiting
confidential information for personal gain.
Additional Information
• Insider trading refers to the practice of buying or selling a publicly traded company’s security based on
material, non-public information about the company.
• An insider is typically a person who has access to confidential, price-sensitive information about a company
due to their position within the company or their relationship with company insiders.
• The insider uses this privileged information to make a profit or avoid a loss before the information is made
public.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 14
GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT)
• The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs has appointed Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra as the first
President of the GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT), marking the start of the operationalization of the body
responsible for resolving GST-related disputes.
• The GSTAT is an appellate authority established under the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017.
• It is responsible to hear various appeals under the Central GST Act and the respective State/UTs GST Acts
against the orders of the first appellate authority.
• The Tribunal consists of a Principal Bench and various State Benches. The Principal Bench has been notified
at New Delhi and 31 State Benches have been notified at various locations across the country.
• The Principal Bench consists of the President, a judicial member and two technical members (one for the
Centre and one for the State).
Non-Market Economy
• Vietnam has been pushing the US administration to change its “non-market economy” classification to market
economy.
• In total, the list includes 12 non-market economies such as Russia, China, and some countries which used to
be a part of the erstwhile Soviet Union.
Non-market Economies
• The US designates a country as a non-market economy based on several factors:
o If the country’s currency is convertible.
o If wage rates are determined by free bargaining between labour and management.
o If joint ventures or other foreign investment are allowed.
o Whether the means of production are owned by the state.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 15
o If the state controls the allocation of resources and price and output decisions.
o Other factors like human rights are also considered.
• The non-market economy label allows the US to impose anti-dumping duties on goods imported from
designated countries.
o In international trade, dumping is when a country’s export prices are considered to be intentionally set
below domestic prices, which harms the industries in the importing country.
o Anti-dumping duties essentially compensate for the difference between the imported good’s export price
and their normal value.
• The level of anti-dumping duties is determined using a third country as a reference, such as Bangladesh, which
is a market economy.
• The US assesses the value of a product to be imported from a non-market economy like Vietnam based on
what it is worth in Bangladesh and then assumes that this is the supposed production cost to a Vietnamese
company.
• The actual data from the Vietnamese company about their production costs are not considered.
IREDA Gets Navratna Status
• The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) was recently granted ‘Navratna’ status by the
Department of Public Enterprises.
• IREDA is a public-sector enterprise functioning under the administrative control of Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy (MNRE).
• It was established as a Non-Banking Financial Institution in 1987 for promoting, developing and extending
financial assistance for setting up projects related to new and renewable sources of energy and energy
efficiency/conservation.
• It has been notified as a ‘Public Financial Institution’ under the Companies Act, 1956 and registered as Non-
Banking Financial Company (NBFC) with RBI.
• Objectives of IREDA
o Financing renewable energy projects
o Supporting green power capacity
o Financing the setting up of solar manufacturing units
o Encourage the use of renewable energy to foster sustainable growth
Eligibility Criteria for Navratna status
• The Central Public-Sector Enterprises which are Miniratna I, Schedule ‘A’ and have obtained excellent or very
good MOU ratings in three of the last five years and have composite scores of 60 (out of a maximum score of
100) or above in the following six selected performance indicators:
o Net profit to Net Worth;
o Manpower cost to Total cost of production or cost of services;
o Profit Before Depreciation Interest and Tax (PBDIT) to Capital employed;
o Profit Before Interest and Tax (PBIT) to Turnover;
o Earnings Per Share (EPS)
o Inter sectoral performance
Benefits of Navratna status
• It grants enhanced delegation of powers, operational freedom, and financial autonomy, boosting the
company's progress.
• Normally, a CPSE needs government approval to invest large sums in projects or deals.
• Navratna companies can invest up to ₹1,000 crore without central government approval.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 16
• They can also invest up to 15% of their net worth on a single project or 30% of their net worth annually, with
a cap of ₹1,000 crore.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 17
Prevention
• To prevent and control foot rot disease, farmers employ several practices such as early seedling treatment,
using disease-free seeds, and removing infected seedlings.
• Effective seed nursery management is crucial, with experts recommending seed sowing in the first half of June
and transplantation in July to avoid the disease.
• Sowing in May is discouraged as the temperatures are high, which favour the spread of foot rot.
• Well-drained fields with proper irrigation are essential for setting up the nursery to prevent the disease from
spreading.
• Currently, seedlings are treated with Trichoderma harzianum before sowing and transplantation, and seeds
are treated with fungicides like Sprint 75 WS (carbendazim + mancozeb). However, these chemical
treatments pose risks to soil health and consumer safety.
• PAU (Punjab Agricultural University) proposes Trichoderma asperellum as a non-chemical alternative to
traditional pesticides for managing foot rot disease. During experimental trials, it showed promising results in
combating foot rot while avoiding harmful residues on the crop and ensuring environmental safety.
India VIX
In May so far, the India VIX has risen by around 53 per cent and recently crossed the 21 mark.
Volatility Index
• The Volatility Index (VIX), also known as the Fear Index, gauges the market's anticipation of near-term
volatility. Volatility reflects the rate and extent of price changes, often associated with financial risk.
• Usually, during periods of market volatility, the market moves steeply up or down and the volatility index
tends to rise. As volatility reduces, the Volatility Index declines.
• It measures the expected fluctuation level of an underlying index in the short term, expressed as annualized
volatility (e.g., 20%).
• Introduced by the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) in 1993 for US markets, initially based on S&P
100 Index options. In 2003, the methodology was revised, and the Index became based on S&P 500 Index
options.
India VIX
• India VIX is a volatility index computed by the National Stock Exchange based on the order book of NIFTY
Options.
• India VIX indicates the investor’s perception of the market’s volatility in the near term i.e. it depicts the
expected market volatility over the next 30 calendar days.
• The higher the India VIX values, the higher the expected volatility and vice versa.
• The recent rise shows that fear among traders or market participants on the expected volatility is more now.
Currently, the fear among the market players is coming from the outcome of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.
• ‘VIX’ is a trademark of the CBOE, and Standard & Poor’s has granted a license to NSE, with permission from
the CBOE, to use such a mark in the name of the India VIX and for purposes relating to the India VIX.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 18
• These contracts obligate both parties to fulfill the terms of the agreement on the specified date, regardless
of the current market price of the asset.
• Futures are commonly used by traders and investors to hedge against price fluctuations in the underlying
asset or to speculate on future price movements.
Options
• Options contracts give the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy (call option) or sell (put option) an
asset at a predetermined price (strike price) on or before a specified date (expiration date).
• Unlike futures contracts, options provide flexibility to the buyer, who can choose whether or not to exercise
the option based on market conditions.
• Option buyers pay a premium to the seller for this right.
• Options are used for various purposes, including hedging, speculation, and generating income through
writing (selling) options.
• They are also traded on organized exchanges and are standardized in terms of strike price, expiration date,
and other contract terms.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 19
ENVIRONMENT AND GEOGRAPHY
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 20
• Such "dehydration melting" is common in the shallow mantle and forms the source for magmas in many
volcanoes.
Implications for Earth’s water cycle
• The discovery of this deep-water reservoir has significant implications for our understanding of the Earth’s
water cycle.
• It suggests that water can be transported to the Earth’s surface from deep within its mantle, contributing to
the water found in oceans, rivers, and lakes.
• This internal water source could also play a role in volcanic activity and the formation of new crust.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 21
Dooars
• This year, 2024, marks 150 years of tea production in the Dooars, where the first plantations were established
in 1874, following the earlier development in Darjeeling
• The Dooars are alluvial floodplains in northeastern India, south of the Himalayan foothills and the
Brahmaputra plain.
• Spanning 30 km wide and 350 km long, they stretch from the Teesta River in West Bengal to the Dhansiri
River in Assam.
• This region is a gateway to Bhutan, Sikkim, and Eastern Nepal, with 18 passages connecting Bhutan's hills to
India's plains.
• The Western Dooars (Bengal Dooars) and Eastern Dooars (Assam Dooars) cover an area of 880 km² and are
divided by Sankosh River.
• Significance of Dooars: Their deep, well drained, fertile and humus-rich soil supports its primary industry i.e.
tea plantation. Thousands of people work in the region's tea estates and factories.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 22
• Companies can also use vague claims without providing real data or scientific validation, aiming to
overshadow their involvement in harmful practices.
Baseflow in Rivers
• Baseflow, also known as low-flow or fair-weather flow, is the portion of a river's water that originates from
groundwater. This water seeps into the streambed gradually, unlike surface runoff caused by precipitation
events such as rain or snowmelt.
• Baseflow plays a crucial role in maintaining streamflow and water levels in rivers during dry periods.
• It helps sustain aquatic ecosystems and supports various human activities that depend on reliable water
sources.
• Understanding baseflow dynamics is essential for effective water resources management, ecological
conservation, and accurate hydrological modeling.
• Factors Affecting Baseflow: Geology, Topography, Climate, Vegetation & Hydrogeology
Blood Minerals
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has accused Apple of using 'blood minerals' (illegally exploited
minerals) extracted from the eastern region of the country.
About Blood Minerals
• These minerals are mined in conflict zones (that’s why also called as Conflict Minerals) and often fund
ongoing conflicts.
• Mining of conflict minerals is linked to severe human rights abuses, including forced labor, child soldiers, and
violence against civilians.
• Key examples include tantalum, tin, tungsten, and gold, collectively known as 3TG minerals.
• These minerals are crucial for many electronic devices, such as smartphones and laptops.
• The DRC is the world's largest producer of cobalt, supplying about 70% of the global market.
• Demand for cobalt is expected to increase 20-fold by 2040 due to the rise in electric vehicle production.
Catatumbo Lightning
The Catatumbo River in Venezuela experiences near-continuous lightning strikes, known as Catatumbo
Lightning, earning it the title "the lightning capital of the world."
About Catatumbo Lightning
• This phenomenon primarily occurs where the Catatumbo River
meets Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela's largest lake.
• Catatumbo lightning is notable for its high frequency and
duration, happening up to 160 nights a year with an average of
28 lightning strikes per minute at its peak.
Formation
• Warm, moist air from the Caribbean Sea is pushed towards the
Andes mountains and collides with cooler air descending from
the peaks.
• This interaction causes the warm air to cool and condense, forming towering cumulonimbus clouds.
• The collision of powerful winds and temperature variations generates electrical charges within these clouds,
which can reach heights over 5 km and carry significant static electricity.
• When the electrical potential within these clouds reaches a critical level, it discharges as lightning.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 23
Indian Ocean Dipole
The Positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), also known as the Indian Niño, is set to re-emerge in the latter half of 2024
for the second consecutive year since 1960, marking the first time this event has recurred in consecutive years.
About Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)
• The IOD is an irregular oscillation of sea surface temperatures, causing the western Indian Ocean to alternate
between warmer (positive phase) and colder (negative phase) than the eastern part.
• In scientific terms, the IOD is a coupled ocean and atmosphere phenomenon, similar to ENSO but in the
equatorial Indian Ocean.
• A ‘positive IOD’ — or simply ‘IOD’ — is associated with cooler than normal sea-surface temperatures in the
eastern equatorial Indian Ocean and warmer than normal sea-surface temperatures in the western tropical
Indian Ocean.
• The opposite phenomenon is called a
‘negative IOD’, and is characterised by
warmer than normal SSTs in the eastern
equatorial Indian Ocean and cooler than
normal SSTs in the western tropical
Indian Ocean.
• The IOD was identified as an
independent system only in 1999.
• IOD and El Niño: When a positive IOD
occurs alongside an El Niño event, it can
partly mitigate the adverse effects of El
Niño.
• Impacts: The IOD affects local weather,
leading to heavy rains or droughts in Africa and Australia. Additionally, sea-level changes associated with the
IOD can increase the risk of coastal flooding and related impacts.
Armoured Sailfin Catfish (ASC)
• Scientists from CCMB-CSIR have found that the armoured sailfin catfish has infiltrated 60% of Eastern Ghats
water bodies, causing damage to fishing nets and the ecosystem.
• The ASC (Rakashi or Devil Fish) is a large predatory freshwater catfish native to the Amazon and Orinoco
basins in South America. It has been introduced to other regions, including India, for the aquarium trade and
algae control.
• It has a long, slender body with a bony head and a large dorsal fin resembling a sail.
• ASC is an omnivorous fish that feeds on a variety of plants and animals, including insects, crustaceans, fish,
and small mammals.
• IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern
NO2 Pollution
• A recent study has raised concerns about gas and propane stoves increasing indoor air pollution levels of
nitrogen dioxide (NO₂).
About Nitrogen Oxide Pollution
• Nitrogen dioxide is a reddish-brown, pungent, acidic gas that is corrosive and
About NO₂ strongly oxidizing.
• NO₂ is not usually released directly into the air. It typically forms when nitrogen oxide
(NO) and other nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with other chemicals in the air.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 24
Sources of NO₂ • Burning Fossil Fuels: Emissions from vehicles and power plants burning coal, oil, or
Pollution natural gas.
• Industrial Processes: Activities such as welding and metal refining.
• Acid Rain: NO₂ can combine with other pollutants to form acid rain, damaging plants,
Environmental animals, and aquatic ecosystems.
Impacts • Smog Formation: NO₂ contributes to smog, reducing visibility and air quality
• Nutrient Pollution: Eutrophication of surface waters, harmful algal blooms, hypoxia
• Respiratory problems
Health Concerns • Heart problems
• Aggravated allergies
Initiatives & • NO₂ is a criteria air pollutant tracked by the WHO's Global Air Quality Guidelines.
Mitigation • In India, NO₂ is regulated under the National Air Quality Index (NAQI).
Strategies for • The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has established National Ambient Air
NO₂ Pollution Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 12 parameters, including NO₂.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 25
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Gaia-BH3
• Astronomers recently identified Gaia-BH3 as the most massive known stellar black hole in the Milky Way
galaxy.
• The Gaia- BH3 was spotted using data from the European Space Agency’s Gaia mission, which detected an
unusual ‘wobbling’ motion in its companion star.
• The researchers used the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope in Chile’s Atacama Desert
and other ground-based observatories to confirm the mass of Gaia BH3.
• Mass and Location: Gaia-BH3 has a mass nearly 33 times that of the Sun and is located 1,926 light-years away
in the Aquila constellation, making it the second-closest known black hole to Earth.
• Comparison: The closest known black hole is Gaia-BH1, located about 1,500 light-years away, with a mass
nearly 10 times that of the Sun.
• The most massive black hole in the Milky Way is Sagittarius A*, a supermassive black hole at the Milky Way's
center, with about 4 million times the mass of the Sun. Gaia-BH3 is the most massive among stellar black
holes.
Characteristics Stellar Black Hole Supermassive Black Hole
Formed from the gravitational collapse of
Formation not entirely understood; likely
Formation a single star or from the merger of two
not from single star collapse.
neutron stars.
Greater than about 50,000 times the mass
Ranges from about 3 to 50 times the mass
Mass of our sun; typically, millions to billions of
of our sun.
solar masses.
Always found at the center of a galaxy.
Location Not limited to galaxy centers. Almost all galaxies have a supermassive
black hole at its center.
Tachyons
• Tachyons are hypothetical subatomic particles that move faster than the speed of light, coined by physicist
Gerald Feinberg in 1967.
• They are distinct from "bradyons," which travel at less than the speed of light.
• While bradyons are familiar and include protons, electrons, and neutrons, tachyons have never been
observed.
• Tachyons have imaginary mass, meaning their mass squared is a negative value, suggesting they could
potentially travel faster than light without violating physics laws. They would slow down if they gained energy
and accelerate if they lost it.
• Experiments have been conducted to find tachyons using a cerenkov detector, which measures the speed of
a particle traveling through a medium.
• Nothing can travel faster than the speed of light in a vacuum. However, in other mediums, particles can
potentially move faster than light.
• Cerenkov radiation occurs when a particle travels at a speed greater than light for that medium, similar to
the sonic boom produced by an airplane traveling faster than the speed of sound or the shock wave at the
bow of a ship.
• Physicists recently proposed the radical idea that our universe is dominated by tachyons.
Dragonfly Mission
• NASA has confirmed a Dragonfly rotorcraft mission to Saturn's organic compound-rich moon Titan, with a
budget of $3.35 billion and a launch date of July 2028.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 26
• Dragonfly is a "dual quadcopter", which will explore various locations on Titan, making scientific
measurements and using a radioisotope power system similar to the Curiosity rover on Mars.
• The mission will arrive in 2034 and fly to dozens of promising locations on the Titan (moon of Saturn), looking
for prebiotic chemical processes common on both Titan and early Earth before life developed.
• This marks the first time NASA will fly a vehicle for science on another planetary body, with eight rotors and
a large drone-like flight.
• Titan is Saturn’s largest moon, Titan has an earthlike cycle of liquids flowing across its surface. It is the only
moon with a thick atmosphere.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 27
• Experts suggest that this halving event could impact Bitcoin's price, causing upward pressure and attracting
new investors to the cryptocurrency market.
Biomarkers
• Biomarkers, or 'Biological Markers,' are physical, chemical, or biological characteristics present in the human
body and measurable.
• The World Health Organization defines biomarkers as "any measurement reflecting an interaction between a
biological system and a potential hazard, which may be chemical, physical, or biological. The measured
response may be functional and physiological, biochemical at the cellular level, or a molecular interaction."
• Biomarkers are also referred to as molecular markers and signature molecules.
• Biomarkers include various biomolecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, genes, DNA, RNA, platelets,
enzymes, and hormones.
• They play a crucial role in disease diagnosis, medication prescription, dosage determination, and drug design.
Classification of Biomarkers
Based on their Source/Location
Have biophysical properties measurable in biological samples like blood plasma,
Molecular serum, cerebrospinal fluid, bronchoalveolar lavage, biopsy, urinalysis, and fecal
analysis
Radiographic Obtained from imaging studies, such as bone mineral density
Reflecting biochemical or molecular alterations in cells, tissues, or fluids, for
Histologic
example, staging and grading of cancers
Physiologic Measures of body processes, including blood pressure, pulse rate, and heart rate
Based on their Roles/Functions
Susceptibility/ Indicate the person’s likelihood of developing a specific disease or condition in the
Risk future.
Diagnostic Used to detect or confirm a particular disease or condition.
Predict the likelihood of disease progression or relapse in individuals already
Prognostic
diagnosed with a disease.
Assess disease stage, measure drug exposure, or measure exposure to
Monitoring
environmental agents.
Identify individuals with a higher likelihood of experiencing strong outcomes when
Predictive
exposed to specific drugs.
Pharmacodynamic Indicate biological responses in patients exposed to a particular drug or
/Response environmental agent.
Voyager Spacecrafts
NASA's Voyager 1 probe is returning usable information to ground control following months of spouting gibberish,
the US space agency announced recently.
About Voyager 1 Spacecraft
• Voyager 1, a space probe launched by NASA on September 5, 1977, closely followed by its twin Voyager 2,
embarked on a mission to explore the outer reaches of the Solar System and beyond.
• Its objectives included studying Jupiter and Saturn, including their moons, rings, and magnetic fields.
• As per NASA estimates, Voyager 1's instruments are expected to remain operational until at least 2025, when
it will be approximately 13.8 billion miles (22.1 billion kilometers) away from the Sun.
• In a gesture to communicate with potential extra-terrestrial life, Voyager 1 carries a golden record containing
sounds and images depicting the diversity of life and culture on Earth.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 28
• Many Firsts:
o Voyager 1 holds the record as the farthest human-made object from Earth.
o First spacecraft to cross the heliosphere, the boundary where the influence of our Sun diminishes
compared to external forces.
o First human-made object to exit the solar system.
• Discoveries:
o Identifying a thin ring around Jupiter and two new moons, Thebe and Metis.
o At Saturn, it unveiled five new moons and a previously unknown ring called the G-ring.
About Voyager 2
• Voyager 2, launched by NASA on August 20, 1977, is a pivotal component of the Voyager program, alongside
its counterpart, Voyager 1.
• Its primary mission focused on exploring the outer planets and their moons within our solar system before
embarking on an interstellar journey.
• Voyager 2 became the second spacecraft to venture into interstellar space, following its predecessor. Like
Voyager 1, it carries a golden record intended to communicate with potential extraterrestrial life.
• Many Firsts:
o The only spacecraft to conduct close-range studies of all four of the solar system's giant planets.
o Becoming the first human-made object to pass Uranus
o First to fly by Neptune,
• Discoveries:
o It made several notable discoveries, including identifying a 14th moon at Jupiter
o Uncovered 10 new moons and two additional rings of Uranus
o Revealing five moons, four rings of Neputune, and a remarkable feature known as the "Great Dark Spot."
Pink Hydrogen
• Pink hydrogen, also known as
purple or red hydrogen, is
produced through electrolysis
powered by nuclear energy.
• Additionally, the high
temperatures from nuclear
reactors can enhance other
hydrogen production methods by
generating steam for more
efficient electrolysis or fossil gas-
based steam methane reforming.
• Nuclear power offers significant
advantages for pink hydrogen
production, including cost reduction and emissions reduction, making it a sustainable and economically viable
alternative to traditional methods.
• Applications: Pink hydrogen is a promising replacement for fossil fuels in the cement industry, steel industry,
aviation, and heavy transportation, as it can be used as a feedstock and energy source with no greenhouse
gas emissions.
• Electrolysis is the process of using electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. This reaction takes place
in a unit called an electrolyzer.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 29
Nephrotic Syndrome
Researchers from Kerala have reported a series of cases where the regular use of fairness creams has been linked
to nephrotic syndrome.
About Nephrotic Syndrome
What is it? It is kidney disorder causing excessive protein loss in urine due to damaged glomeruli
(kidneys’ filters).
Cause Inflammation of glomeruli leading to excessive protein leakage from blood into urine.
It can also result from various kidney diseases like nephritis, diabetes, and lupus.
Symptoms Severe swelling (edema), foamy urine, high fat and cholesterol levels
(hyperlipidemia), weight gain, fatigue, loss of appetite.
Complications Blood clots, increased infection risk, high blood pressure (hypertension), chronic
kidney disease, and kidney failure.
Treatment Addressing the underlying cause, reducing high blood pressure, cholesterol, swelling,
infection risks, medications, and dietary changes.
Auto-Brewery Syndrome (ABS)
• Auto-Brewery Syndrome (ABS), also
known as gut fermentation syndrome,
is a condition where the body converts
sugary and starchy foods into alcohol,
causing symptoms similar to a drunken
man.
• It is a condition in which ethanol is
produced through endogenous
fermentation by fungi or bacteria in the gastrointestinal (GI) system, oral cavity, or urinary system.
• The process converts sugars and starch into energy, but also produces waste in the form of carbon dioxide
and ethanol.
• Symptoms include being drunk without alcohol or getting very drunk with minimal alcohol, dizziness,
headache, and dehydration.
• People with diabetes, obesity, and Crohn's disease are more likely to experience ABS, but it can also affect
healthy individuals.
• medical reports suggest that people who suffer from ABS should avoid foods that are high in carbohydrates
and sugar.
Raman Spectroscopy
• Raman spectroscopy is a non-invasive laser technique that provides detailed information about the chemical
composition and structure of a wide range of materials.
• It involves illuminating a substance with a laser and analyzing the scattered light. It is based on the
interaction of light with the chemical bonds within a material.
• This method provides identification of substances through their characteristic Raman 'fingerprint'.
• Sir C.V. Raman introduced the "Raman effect" on February 28, 1928, for which he was awarded the Nobel
Prize in Physics in 1930.
What is the Raman Effect?
• The Raman effect is a change in the wavelength of light that occurs when a light beam is deflected by
molecules.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 30
• When a beam of light traverses a dust-free, transparent sample of a chemical compound, most of the
scattered light is at the same wavelength (or color) as the laser source and does not provide useful
information; this is called Rayleigh Scatter.
• However, a small amount of light (typically 0.0000001%) is scattered at different wavelengths (or colors),
which depend on the chemical structure of the analyte; this is called Raman Scatter.
Liquid Nitrogen
The commissioner of food safety in Tamil Nadu has directed to monitor use of liquid nitrogen in food items and
take action against those violating the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
About Liquid Nitrogen
It’s an Inert, colorless, odorless, noncorrosive, nonflammable cryogenic Liquid, which
Properties
has a boiling point of –320°F (–196°C)
• Can cause frostbite-like burns on contact
• Can damage lips, tongue, throat, lungs, and stomach
Health Impacts • Potential for tissue burns and lesions
• If it reaches the stomach, the organ could get perforated.
• In the lungs, it could produce CO2 and the person may become unconscious.
• Rapidly cools and freezes food
• Used in food production and industrial processes for cooling
Applications • Cryotherapy in wellness and sports using cryosaunas
• Tests performance and durability of materials and devices at extremely low
temperatures in technology and material sciences
Biohacking
• Biohacking is a term used to describe various methods and techniques aimed at enhancing the body's ability
to function at its optimal level and potentially extending one's lifespan.
• It involves the application of knowledge and practices from diverse fields such as biology, genetics,
neuroscience, and nutrition to improve physical or mental performance, enhance overall health and well-
being, or achieve specific health goals.
• There are currently no laws in India that specifically address biohacking.
Types of Biohacking
• Focuses on positive health and behavioural choices, including diet, breathwork,
Lifestyle meditation, and exercise.
• Most accessible form.
• Uses natural/synthetic molecules to shift biology.
Molecular
• Includes taking supplements.
• Utilizes biological products like cells, exosomes, or other entities to enhance biology.
Biologics
• They are ingested, injected, or delivered intravenously. Ex- Stem cells, IV transfusions etc.
• Uses devices like wearables and diagnostics like smartwatches or blood sugar monitors
Technology
to gather body data and optimize health strategies for improved performance.
TacticAI
• It is an AI system that can provide experts with tactical insights, particularly on corner kicks (football),
through predictive and generative AI.
• This AI tool can be used by football team managers as an assistant for tactics.
• It has incorporated both a predictive and generative component to allow coaches to effectively sample and
explore alternative player setups for each corner kick, and to select those with the highest predicted likelihood
of success.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 31
• It is developed by Google’s DeepMind in a multi-year research collaboration with experts from Liverpool
Football Club.
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that can leach out from plastics during use, raising serious health concerns.
About Bisphenol A (BPA)
• BPA is a synthetic chemical used to make plastics and resins, particularly polycarbonate plastics and epoxy
resins.
o Polycarbonates (PC) are strong, hard thermoplastics that remain rigid up to 140°C and tough down to -
20°C.
• Uses: PC is commonly used in baby bottles, sippy cups, water bottles, water gallons, metal food can liners,
ketchup containers, and dental sealants.
• Health Concerns:
o BPA can contaminate food, air, soil, and beverages, and it can accumulate in human organs.
o It is an endocrine disruptor that can alter hormonal and enzyme synthesis, potentially causing
reproductive disorders, obesity, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Salmonella Bacteria
The US government has implemented stringent measures in response to salmonella contamination in shipments.
About Salmonella
• Salmonella is a genus of rod-shaped, gram-negative bacteria responsible for causing salmonellosis, a common
foodborne illness worldwide.
• Transmission and Sources: Found in the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals. They can
contaminate food, water, and the environment, and can be transmitted through direct contact with infected
animals or their feces.
• Pathogenesis: After ingestion, Salmonella bacteria survive the acidic stomach environment and colonize the
intestines. They adhere to and invade intestinal epithelial cells, causing the symptoms of salmonellosis.
• Symptoms: Diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, headache, and blood in the stool.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnosis commonly involves culture-based methods, serological testing, and
molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
• Prevention & Control: Effective measures include food safety practices, hygiene measures, and public health
interventions.
Oxytocin
The Delhi High Court has expressed serious concerns over the continued use of Oxytocin in dairies across the
national capital, deeming it as ‘animal cruelty’. The Indian government banned the use of Oxytocin in 2018, citing
its misuse on milch cattle to increase milk yield.
Oxytocin as a Natural Hormone
• Oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter often referred to as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone"
due to its role in social bonding, attachment, and reproduction.
• It is primarily synthesized in the hypothalamus and released into the bloodstream from the posterior
pituitary gland in response to various stimuli, such as childbirth, breastfeeding, and social interactions.
• Oxytocin plays a crucial role in childbirth by stimulating uterine contractions and facilitating labor. It also
promotes milk secretion during breastfeeding, supporting maternal-infant bonding and lactation.
• Dysregulation of oxytocin signaling has been implicated in psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum
disorder, social anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, and depression.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 32
Oxytocin as a Synthetic Hormone
• Synthetic oxytocin is often used by dairy farmers in India to facilitate lactation after childbirth in cattle, as it
can improve milk ejection, especially in farms that lack optimal milk production practices.
• However, the use of synthetic oxytocin can have side effects, including allergic reactions such as skin rash,
itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Happy Hormones in Human Beings
Associated with the brain's reward system, dopamine produces pleasant sensations and is
Dopamine
linked to learning and memory.
Regulates mood, sleep, appetite, digestion, learning ability, and memory. It can alleviate
Serotonin
depression and anxiety, thus increasing happiness.
Often referred to as the "love hormone," it is crucial for childbirth, breastfeeding, and strong
Oxytocin parent-child bonding.
Oxytocin also promotes trust, empathy, and bonding in relationships.
Endorphins Natural painkillers in the body, endorphins can reduce stress and improve mood.
Chloropocrin
The US government has accused Russia of violating the Chemical Weapons Convention by allegedly using
Chloropicrin against the Ukrainian military.
About Chloropicrin
• Chloropicrin is a colorless to slightly yellow oily liquid synthetic chemical compound with a strong, irritating
odor. It can be absorbed through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact.
• Usage: It serves as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial, fungicide, herbicide, insecticide, and nematicide.
(Nematicides target nematodes to mitigate crop damage.)
• Applications: Primarily employed as a soil fumigant in agriculture, Chloropicrin was extensively utilized as a
chemical warfare agent in World War I by both the Allied and Axis Powers.
• Regulation: The Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) prohibits the
use and large-scale production of Chloropicrin, along with other chemical weapons globally.
• Health Effects: Chloropicrin causes irritation to the eyes, skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract upon
contact. Severe exposure can lead to pulmonary edema, potentially resulting in death.
Chemical Weapon Convention
• Objective: The Chemical Weapons Convention, in force since 1997 with 193 state-parties, prohibits the
development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons. It also monitors the elimination of
chemical weapons.
• India's Involvement: India is a signatory and party to the Chemical Weapons Convention and has enacted the
Chemical Weapons Convention Act of 2000 to comply with its provisions.
Goldene
For the first time, scientists have successfully crafted a free-standing 2D sheet of gold, aptly named 'Goldene'.
About Goldene
• Goldene represents a groundbreaking achievement, being a one-atom-thick sheet of gold.
• Since the introduction of graphene in 2004, researchers have identified numerous 2D materials. However,
Gold stands out as the first metal to be fabricated into freestanding 2D sheets (Goldene).
• Key Features
o Unique Allotrope: Goldene presents a 2D allotrope of gold, featuring a distinct arrangement of gold
atoms compared to the typical 3D structure found in gold jewelry or nuggets.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 33
o Independence: Unlike previous endeavors to produce ultra-thin metallic sheets, Goldene is self-
supporting, eliminating the need for additional materials to uphold its structure.
• Properties
o Exceptional Thinness: Goldene measures approximately 100 nanometers in thickness, making it roughly
400 times thinner than the thinnest commercially available gold leaf.
o Unforeseen Conductivity: Goldene exhibits unique conductive properties that differ from bulk gold.
• Applications
o Electronics Industry: Goldene holds promise for various applications in the electronics industry.
o Catalysis: It demonstrates potential in catalyzing reactions such as hydrogen conversion, carbon dioxide
capture, and water purification. Its economic viability surpasses that of thicker, three-dimensional gold,
making it an attractive option for catalytic processes.
Semi Cryogenic Pre-Burner Ignition Test Article (PITA)
ISRO recently achieved a significant milestone by conducting the first Pre-Burner Ignition trial for the Semi-
Cryogenic Engine (SCE)-200.
About PITA and Semi-Cryogenic Engines
• PITA is a crucial step in the development of liquid rocket engine systems, particularly the Semi-Cryogenic
Engine (SCE)-200.
• Semi-Cryogenic Engines utilize liquid oxygen (LOX) as an oxidizer and refined kerosene as fuel, with a target
thrust of 2,000 kilonewtons (kN).
• Compared to cryogenic engines, SCEs offer easier storage and handling, increased thrust capacity, and eco-
friendliness, making them more cost-effective and practical for various space missions.
• The SCE-200 is expected to power ISRO's existing LVM3 launch vehicles and upcoming Next Generation
Launch Vehicles (NGLV), as well as ISRO's future reusable rockets based on RLV technology demonstrations.
AlphaFold 3
AlphaFold 3 is a collaboration between Google DeepMind and Isomorphic Labs (both subsidiaries of Alphabet)
for revolutionizing protein structure prediction.
About AlphaFold 3
• AlphaFold 3 is an artificial intelligence tool that can predict the 3D structure of proteins with unprecedented
accuracy, surpassing some traditional methods in certain cases.
• Unlike its predecessors, AlphaFold 1 and 2, AlphaFold 3 is not limited to proteins but can also predict the
structures of other biomolecules like DNA, RNA, and small molecules (ligands) crucial in drug design.
• It relies on deep learning, a type of machine learning inspired by the structure and function of the brain.
• AlphaFold 3 is trained on massive datasets of known protein structures and their corresponding amino acid
sequences (the building blocks of proteins).
• By analyzing these patterns, AlphaFold 3 learns to predict how a protein's amino acid sequence folds into its
unique 3D structure.
• Applications: Protein Structure Prediction, Drug Discovery, Understanding Diseases, Biomaterial Design,
Genomics Research
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 34
About the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS)
• The HEPS is designed to be a diffraction-limited storage ring synchrotron light source that will produce high-
energy X-rays for various scientific applications.
• It is designed to accelerate electrons up to energies of 6 gigaelectron volts within its 36-kilometer
circumference storage ring with a 1.36 Km circumference.
What is a Synchroton?
• A synchrotron is a type of circular particle accelerator, where charged particles (electrons) move almost at
the speed of light to produce very bright light (mainly X-Rays), called synchrotron light, which is 10 billion
times brighter than the Sun.
• Photons are the fundamental particles of light and the carriers of electromagnetic radiation, possessing both
wave-like and particle-like properties.
Applications of the High Energy Photon Source
• Materials science: Studying the structure and properties of materials at the atomic level
• Chemistry & Nanotechnology: Investigating the mechanisms of chemical reactions
• Biology: Understanding the structure and function of biological molecules
• Environmental science: Analyzing environmental pollutants and contaminants
• Medical science: Developing new medical imaging techniques and treatments
India's Synchrotron Efforts
• India previously developed its own synchrotrons, Indus-1 and Indus-2 (third generation), at the Raja
Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) in Indore.
• India is an associate member of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 35
DEFENCE AND SECURITY
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 36
• Precision: Highly precise targeting
• Unaffected by Gravity or Drag: Beams are not influenced by gravity or atmospheric drag.
• Adaptability: Effects can be customized by adjusting the type and intensity of the energy.
Significance Potential to revolutionize warfare by enabling the development of advanced platforms,
weapons, sensors, and networks necessary for future combat.
Global Countries with similar systems include Russia, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Israel,
Context and China.
Test Firing of Crystal Maze 2 Missile by Indian Air Force (IAF)
Crystal Maze 2 (ROCKS)
Type Air-launched medium-range ballistic missile
Origin Israeli
Targeting high-value stationary and relocatable assets of potential adversaries, such as long-
Purpose
range radars and air defense systems
• Extended Stand-off Range: Capable of hitting targets over 250 kilometers away
• Warhead Options: Offers penetration or blast fragmentation warheads for destroying
above-ground or well-protected underground targets
• Effectiveness in GPS-denied Environments: Specifically effective in areas where GPS
Features
signals are obstructed
• Deployment Strategy: Involves releasing the missile well outside the surface-to-air-
defended area, followed by a high-velocity trajectory to minimize risk to aircraft and
missiles
SMART
DRDO has conducted a successful test of the Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedo (SMART), aimed at enhancing
the Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
About SMART
• SMART is a system developed by DRDO to launch torpedoes assisted by missiles.
• This innovative system enables torpedoes to achieve much longer ranges than before, with potential
distances of up to 1000 km.
• The system can be launched from both coasts and warships. The canister-based missile system comprises
several advanced subsystems including two-stage solid propulsion and precision inertial navigation.
• Canister enables smooth and safe launch of article. Also, canister serves the purpose of transportation, storage
and launching of missiles.
• These Canisters are filled with inert gases to provide protection from outside environment during Storage and
transportation.
• It carries an advanced lightweight torpedo missile as a payload along with a parachute-based release
mechanism.
Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel has replaced the 150 personnel of the Delhi Police, including
54 women personnel, who were deployed for the security of Parliament.
About CISF
• CISF is one of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) established in 1969 under the “Central Industrial
Security Force Act, 1968.
• CISF provides integrated security cover to certain sensitive public-sector undertakings with a strength of only
three battalions.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 37
• The force has since grown into a premier multi-skilled organization with a present strength of 1,77,713
personnel.
• It works under the administrative control of Ministry of Home Affairs and its headquarter is located at New
Delhi.
Operations of CISF:
• Critical Infrastructure: Providing security cover to 353 establishments throughout the country. Some of which
includes Atomic Power Plants, Space Installations, Defence Production Units, Mines, Oil Fields and Refineries
etc.
• VIP security: Mandated to provide protection to the VIP protectees of Z+, Z, Y and X category across the
country.
• Fire Protection: The CISF also has its own Fire Wing which provides services to 104 of the above
establishments.
• Airports: The specialized task of airport security was assigned to CISF in the year 2000 in the wake of hijacking
of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 to Kandahar.
• Private sector: The CISF Act was amended to enable the Force to provide security, on payment basis, to private
/ joint venture industrial undertakings, which are vital for the security and economy of the country. E.g. - The
Infosys campuses in Mysuru, Bengaluru and Pune, the Patanjali Food and Herbal Park in Haridwar and the
Reliance refinery in Gujarat's Jamnagar
• Overseas Deployment: CISF has contingents deployed at United Nations Stabilizations Mission in Haiti
(MINUSTAH).
• The CISF is the only Central Armed Police Force with a daily public interface; in the airports, in the Delhi Metro
and in the iconic monuments.
VAJIRAM AND RAVI Prelims Quick Revision [Part 3 – CA (16th April 24 to 20th May 24) Page 38