Rau's MAY Magazine - 2024 Final

CONTENTS
Part-1: CURRENT AFFAIRS 4 INSURANCE REGULATORY AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF

INDIA (IRDAI) 23
#InclusiveGrowth #PrelimsSnippets 23
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 5
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main) 5 CONSTITUTION, POLITY AND GOVERNANCE 25
BOOSTING PRODUCTION OF PULSES 5 # GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II (Main) 25
#Agriculture #FoodSecurity 5
RIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE IS A FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT
BORROWING LIMITS ON STATE GOVERNMENTS 6
25
#FiscalPolicy #MobilisationofResources 6
#Fundamental Rights 25
STATE OF EMPLOYMENT IN INDIA 8
HALTING THE DEMOCRATIC RECESSION 27
#Employment 8
#Constitution & #Polity 27
DOUBLE TAXATION AVOIDANCE AGREEMENT (DTAA) 11
ORIGINAL JURISDICTION OF SUPREME COURT 28
#ExternalSector 11
#Judiciary 28
HOUSEHOLD SAVINGS AND ITS IMPACT 12
SUPREME COURT ENDORSES EVMS 29
#MobilisationofResources 12
#Elections 29
FOUR TAILWINDS THAT ARE LIFTING THE RUPEE 13
PREVENTIVE DETENTION 30
#ExternalSector 13
#Fundamental Rights 30
INDIA NEEDS A LONG-TERM INTEGRATED ENERGY POLICY 15
#Energy #Infrastructure 15
SMALL FINANCE BANKS 16 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS & SECURITY 33
#Banking #PrelimsSnippets 16
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II & III (Main) 33
ANGEL TAX 17
#FinancialMarkets #FiscalPolicy 17 WEST ASIA: A REGION OF POWER STRUGGLE 33
GIFT (GUJARAT INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL TECH) CITY 17 #Extended Neighborhood 33
#ExternalSector #FinancialMarkets 17 ANDAMAN & NICOBAR: INDIA’S STRATEGIC ISLAND 34
REER & NEER 18 #Maritime Security 34
#ExternalSector #PrelimsSnippets 18 ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR, THROUGH A STRATEGIC LENS 37
IMPORTED INFLATION 19 #Maritime Security 37
#Inflation #ExternalSector #PrelimsSnippets 19 WADGE BANK 37
SPICE BOARD OF INDIA 20 BALTIMORE 38
#Agriculture #PrelimsSnippets 20 INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY (IAEA) 39
GAS EXPORTING COUNTRIES FORUM (GECF) 20 ISLAMIC REVOLUTIONARY GUARD CORPS (IRGC) 39
#Energy #PrelimsSnippets 20 NAGORNO KARABAKH 40
ELECTRIC MOBILITY PROMOTION SCHEME 2024 (EMPS 2024) PERMANENT STATUS 40
21 SHANGHAI COOPERATION ORGANISATION (SCO) 40
#Infrastructure #PrelimsSnippets 21
MUSTARD 21
#MajorCrops #Agriculture 21 SOCIETY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE 43
ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ON SODIUM CYANIDE 22 # GS Paper I & GS Paper II (Main) 43
#ExternalSector #Liberalisation 22
AYUSHMAN BHARAT HEALTH ACCOUNTS (ABHA) 43
#Health #Government Scheme 43 #Environment and Ecology 70
NATIONAL ONE HEALTH MISSION 44 GOVT WORKING ON GREEN STEEL POLICY 72
#Health 44 #Indian Economy 72
MALAS AND MADIGAS 46 AGRI GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS MUST DROP 30% TO
#Issues related to SCs & STs 46 ALIGN WITH PARIS PACT’. 73
FOOD SAFETY AND STANDARDS AUTHORITY OF INDIA (FSSAI) #Environment and Ecology 73
46 INDIA SECOND LARGEST IMPORTER OF ETHANE FROM THE US
#Health 46 IN 2023 73
MURIA TRIBE 47 #Environment and Ecology 73
#Issues related to SCs & STs 47 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE IN NORTH AMERICA 74
CLIMATE CRISIS IS NOT GENDER NEUTRAL 48 #Geography 74
#Women 48 INDIA’S DEDICATED FREIGHT CORRIDOR 75
MOST INDIANS BELIEVE IN COUNTRY’S PLURALITY: CSDS #Infrastructure 75
SURVEY 49 INNOVATIVE TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES 76
CASTE AND URBANISATION 51 #Indian Agriculture 76
#Caste System 51 HEATS AFFECTS INDIA’S AIM TO MOVE FROM COAL TO
RISE OF INDIA’S ELDERLY POPULATION 52 RENEWABLES 76
#Vulnerable population #Elderly Population 52 #prelimsnuggets #Environment and Ecology 76
DISABILITY AS A BASIS FOR DISCRIMINATION 54 TAIWAN EARTHQUAKE: PACIFIC RING OF FIRE 77
#Vulnerable Section 54 #Earthquakes 77
FEMALE LABOUR FORCE PARTICIPATION (FLFPR) RATE: INDIA DIRECT SEEDED RICE 79
CAN LEARN FROM JAPAN’S ‘WOMENOMICS’ REFORMS 56 #Indian Geography 79
#Women 56 CARDAMOM 79
#Indian Geography 79
LAVENDER 80
GEOGRAPHY, ENVIRONMENT, BIODIVERSITY & #Agriculture 80
DISASTER MANAGEMENT 61 KALA NAMAK RICE 81
#Agriculture 81
# GS Paper (Prelims) and GS Paper I & III (Main) 61
ASHWAGANDHA 82
SOLAR SURGE 61 #Agriculture 82
#Renewables 61 INDIA REJECTS REPORT ON ABUSIVE CONDITIONS AT SHRIMP
VOLCANIC VORTEX RINGS 62 HATCHERIES 83
#prelimsnuggets #World Geography 62 #Agriculture 83
MARINE CLOUD BRIGHTENING (MCB) 63 REDUCE LIONS’ COLLISION 84
#Environment and Ecology 63 #Flora & Fauna 84
RSWM AND RECYCLING 64 FIRE DESTROYS NEARLY 100 HECTARES OF WAYANAD
#Environment and Ecology 64 SANCTUARY 84
GREEN CREDIT PROGRAMME 65 #Flora & Fauna 84
#Environment and Ecology 65 INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES THREATEN NATURAL ECOSYSTEM 85
SINGLE USE PLASTICS & PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT RULES #Biodiversity 85
AMENDMENT, 2021 66 BLACK SOFTSHELL TURTLES 86
#Waste management 66 #Flora & Fauna 86
PLASTIC OVERSHOOT DAY REPORT 68 PARADIP PORT 87
#Environment #Pollution 68 #Infrastructure 87
HYDROGEL 69 KALESAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 88
#Environment #Pollution 69 #prelimsnuggets #Environment and Ecology 88
FOURTH GLOBAL MASS CORAL BLEACHING 70 NILGIRI TAHR 89
#prelimsnuggets #Environment and Ecology 89 REMEMBERING AMBEDKAR 111
HEALING THE SOIL 90 #Personalities #ModernHistory 111
#mainscomprehensive #Environment and Ecology 90 BOSE, BARKATULLAH, A HISTORY OF INDIAN GOVERNMENTS
GAPE LIMITATION 91 BEFORE FREEDOM 112
#Environment #Basics of Ecology & Environment #Prelims #ModernHistory #Personalities #Indianfreedomstruggle 112
Nuggets 91 FORT EMMANUEL 113
#Modernhistory #AdventofPortuguese 113
BHOJSHALA COMPLEX 115
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 93 #HeritageandCulture #Architecture 115
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main) 93 GARUDAN THOOKKAM 115
#HeritageandCulture #Religion #ArtformsinIndia 115
CANCER-CAUSING CHEMICALS FOUND IN INDIAN PRODUCTS
INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE FORMS 116
93
#ArtandCulture #Classicaldance #Mohiniattam 116
#Biology&Biotechnology 93
KASHAN STYLE CARPET OF KASHMIR 118
ISRO’S ‘ZERO ORBITAL DEBRIS’ MILESTONE 94
#ArtandCulture 118
Astronomy & Space Technology 94
PALACE TO UNVEIL TRUE COPY OF RAVI VARMA’S INDULEKHA
OZONE ON JUPITER’S MOON 95
118
#Artandculture #Modernart 118
HIGGS BOSON 96
Astronomy &Space Technology 96
DESI UNVEILS NEW 3D MAP OF UNIVERSE 97 PART-2: ETHICS, INTEGRITY &
RISING CASES OF DIABETES IN INDIA 98 APTITUDE 121
Biology & Biotechnology 98
HEPATITIS INFECTION 99 JAINA ETHICS 122
#Biology & Biotechnology 99 #Ethics integrity and Aptitude #Moral thinkers and
INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD) 100 Philosophers 122
Biology & Biotechnology 100 CASE STUDIES FOR PRACTICE 124
SUPERSONIC MISSILE-ASSISTED RELEASE OF TORPEDO MAINS GS PAPER IV 124
(SMART) SYSTEM 101
#Defence Technology 101
AKASHTEER COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEM 101 PART-3: ESSAYS OF THE MONTH 126
#Defence Technology 101
EVERYTHING WE HEAR IS AN OPINION NOT A FACT.
EVERYTHING WE SEE IS A PERSPECTIVE, NOT THE TRUTH. 127
HISTORY, HERITAGE & CULTURE 104 #PHILOSOPHICAL 127
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper I (Main) 104 WASTE ISN'T A WASTE UNTIL WE WASTE IT 128
#PhilosoPhical 128
HARAPPAN CIVILISATION 104 THE FUTURE BELONGS TO THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN THE
#Ancienthistiory #IVC 104 BEAUTY OF THEIR DREAMS 129
TUGHLAQ-ERA DAM STRUCTURE 106
#Philosophical 129
#MedievalIndianhistory #Tughlaqs #DelhiSultanate
#Architecture 106
HISTORY OF SULTHAN BATHERY 108
#Religion #Culture #TemplesinIndia #Mysorestate
#ModernHistory 108
THE BATTLE OVER ADIVASI IDENTITY 110
#MedievalHistory #Personality #Tribes 110
PART ONE
Current Affairs
logical .simple .targeted
analysis & explanation
of all relevant news of the month
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main)
BOOSTING PRODUCTION
• Rainfed Agricultural Practices: The extent of area
irrigated for sugarcane, wheat and rice stood at 96%,
OF PULSES 95% and 65%, respectively, while that of pulses is only

about 23%. As a result, the yields and output of
#Agriculture #FoodSecurity pulses have remained low.
• Post-Harvest Losses: Pulses are vulnerable to post
harvest loss which has been estimated to be about
India has been facing a problem of persistent shortage in 20%-30% of traditional dal mills resulting in low dal
pulses production which is about to worsen with the recovery etc.
significant fall in output during the 2023-24 crop year. As a
• Demand-Supply Mismatch: As highlighted in
result, inflation in pulses has gained momentum. The Household Consumer Expenditure Survey (HCES) data
persistent deficit in domestic production and the for 2022-23, rising incomes and fall in poverty
consequent rise in prices are making pulses unaffordable combined with greater health consciousness, the
for the poor. demand for pulses has run ahead of production.
ABOUT PULSES IN INDIA • Net Importer: The domestic production of pulses,
• India is the world’s largest producer of pulses with 23 despite a significant increase during the past decade
million tonnes from an acreage of 30 million hectares. (from 171 lakh tonnes in 2014-15 to 234 lakh tonnes in
2023-24) continues to lag demand. As a result, India has
• The country accounts for 35% of global area and 27%
remained dependent on pulses imports (averaging 25
of global production.
lakh tonnes per annum during the last five years) to
• Pulses are commonly grown under rainfed condition all meet domestic consumption demand. Therefore, India
over India (77% rainfed) during two principal seasons accounts for 25% import of pulses across the world.
of the year, namely, kharif rainy season.
• Limited Import Sources: The scope for augmenting
PRODUCTION OF PULSES supplies of pulses through imports in the short-term is
• Top Pulses: Top six pulses grown in India are chickpeas limited as India is the largest producer as well as
(chana), pigeon pea (Arhar/tur dal), urad beans (urad consumer of pulses in the world. Prices in pulses
dal), mung beans (moong), lentils (masoor) and peas. exporting countries are influenced by the shortages in
India and hence imports may become much costlier
• Top States: Production of pulses has largely shifted
than the domestically produced pulses.
from northern India to central and southern parts.
• Low Value Addition: Despite India being the largest
More than 90% of total pulses production is realised in
pulse producer globally, value addition is low.
10 states namely, MP, Rajasthan, UP, Karnataka, AP,
Currently, only 20% of pulses undergo processing,
Gujarat, Jharkhand, CG and Telangana.
compared to the global average of 80%.
CHALLENGES WITH RESPECT TO PULSES
GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES
• Shifting Cropping Pattern: There has been a
• National Food Security Mission (NFSM)- Pulses: Aims to
significant shift in cropping pattern from cereal-pulse
Increase Pulses production by 3 Million tonnes
to cereal-cereal, particularly in irrigated areas across
• Increase in MSP
the country. This sluggish growth in production since
the 1960s has reduced the per-capita availability of • Price Support Scheme (PSS) under PM-AASHA
pulses from about 25 kg (1961) to 16 kg (2021). • Creation of Buffer Stock of Pulses by NAFED.
FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 5

Economic Development
• Price Stabilisation Fund Scheme to check volatility in product innovation. From pulse flours and protein
the prices. concentrates to ready-to-eat meals and snacks,
WAY FORWARD catering to diverse consumer segments creates
exciting avenues for growth. Strategic branding can
Pulses are an indispensable part of the Indian food basket
elevate pulses from staple commodities to premium
both among the rich and the poor alike. While a number
health foods, both domestically and internationally.
of steps have been taken by the government to augment
open market supplies in the short-term with imports and ○ Additionally, climate-resilient agronomic
limitations on stock-holding, it is imperative to raise practices such as drip irrigation, which reduces
production in the long-run. water use by 40-50% and increases yields by 20-30%
• Changing Cropping Pattern: (World Bank, 2022), are essential for mitigating risks
and optimising resource utilisation.
○ Bridge the yield gap between Pulses and other
cereal crops to incentivise farmers to take up pulses • Promoting Awareness:
production. ○ Cultivation of pulses can promote sustainable
○ Diversification: Replacement of less remunerative agriculture by enriching soil fertility and
crops with pulses. conserving water, with minimal irrigation and short
crop duration. Towards this, the agricultural
○ Promotion of inter-cropping.
extension system needs to create awareness among
○ Utilisation of potential areas of rice-fallow lands: the farmers regarding the positive externalities of
About 30-40% of the area currently left fallow after pulses cultivation.
paddy harvest can be converted into productive
○ A Pulses Board can play a crucial role in promoting
farmlands; Additional 3 Mha of pulses and 1 Mha of
the crop through consumer awareness campaigns
oilseeds can be brought under cultivation through
and market linkages, working along with NAFED and
"Targeting Rice Fallow areas" sub-scheme under
NCCF.
RKVY.
CONCLUSION
• Increasing Productivity:
By embracing a holistic demand-driven strategy that
○ Bringing down duration of pulse crops through
addresses both production and market-side challenges,
technological interventions: There is an urgent
India’s pulses sector can overcome its hurdles and grow.
need to expand pulses production through
Doing this will help India augment domestic production to
development and cultivation of high-yielding
reduce dependence on imports and achieve atmanirbhar
varieties disease-resistant varieties through
or self-sufficiency in pulses by 2027.
genomic technologies is pivotal.
○ Redesign of NFSM-Pulses: Two categories of
districts for coverage under NFSM for pulses - NFSM BORROWING LIMITS ON
Pulses for general districts and NFSM Pulses+ for
districts where yield levels are lower than STATE GOVERNMENTS
state/national averages.
#FiscalPolicy #MobilisationofResources
○ Investing in Bio-Fortification Programmes, like
HarvestPlus’ iron-enriched lentil varieties, will
address nutritional deficiencies, notably of iron Kerala Government has challenged the Centre’s decisions
which affects 53% of Indian women (NFHS-5, 2019- curtailing its borrowings. The Supreme Court of India has
21). referred this matter to a Constitution Bench.
• Increasing Farmers’ Income: MORE ABOUT THE ISSUE
○ In addition, it is essential to enhance post-harvest • Article 293:
management and direct market linkages to
○ At the heart of this dispute is Article 293, which
ensure remunerative prices for farmers.
confers executive power on the States to borrow
○ Promoting Value Addition: The sector needs to money within limits prescribed by the State
invest in modern processing facilities and foster new legislature.

○ It also allows the Union to extend loans and • Crowding out of Private Investment: If the
guarantees to the States, and requires the Centre government borrows excessively, it competes with
to give its consent and impose conditions for private borrowers for available funds in the financial
States to raise further loans while earlier ones are market. This leads to higher interest rates for
outstanding. borrowing and may discourage the private sector from
○ Kerala contends that the Article 293 does not confer taking loans.
on the Centre any power to regulate all State loans • Downgrading of Credit Rating: Affects investor
and that it can impose conditions only on confidence leading to Capital Flight: High-level of public
borrowings from the Centre.
debt can erode investor confidence and this may lead
• Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, to reduction in both Foreign Institutional and Foreign
2003: A 2018 amendment to the FRBM Act capped the Direct Investments.
‘general government debt’, or the sum total of the
• Inflationary Pressures: Excessive borrowing from the
debts of the Central and State governments, at 60% of
Central bank can lead to increase in money supply
the GDP.
which in turn can cause inflationary pressures.
• Extra-Budgetary Borrowings:
• Fiscal Repression of Commercial Banks: When a
○ Kerala also challenged the Union’s decision to
commercial bank invests more in GSecs (where it earns
include borrowings by State-owned enterprises and
lesser interest than commercial loans)
the liabilities on its public account under its ‘Net
Borrowing Ceiling’ (quantified as 3% of its projected IMPORTANCE OF SPENDING BY STATE GOVERNMENTS
Gross State Domestic Product for 2023-24, or Rs. • Social Services: When it comes to spending on sectors
32,442 crore). which affect people’s daily lives, the overwhelming
○ Union government argues that public finance being responsibility lies on the shoulders of the State
a national issue, it wanted to prevent the use of off- governments. On social services, the expenditures of
budget borrowings to bypass the borrowing ceiling. all the States put together was bigger than the
WHY TO LIMIT THE BORROWINGS OF STATE expenditure of the Union by 8.6 times in social services
GOVERNMENTS? as a whole; 2.6 times in education; and by 3.8 times in
While Government borrowing is necessary to stimulate health.

growth and aggregate demand by spending in welfare • Developmental Expenditures:
measures and capital asset development, high debt-to-GDP ○ It is important to note that developmental
ratio isn’t good for long term macroeconomic stability of the expenditures (includes expenditures on social
country services and economic services), and within that, the
• Statutory Obligation: FRBM Act, 2018 recommended expenditures on social services incurred by the State
ratio to be 40% (Centre) & 20% (States) by 2024-25, governments have risen significantly over the last
which is consistent with international best practices. two decades.
• Interest Burden: Using substantial resources for ○ As a proportion of the country’s GDP, the combined
interest payment of previous debt reduces government developmental expenditures by all State
funds available for investment in infrastructure and
governments increased from 8.8% in 2004-05 to
critical public services. Excessive debt can impact the
12.5% in 2021-22. On the other hand, the social and
government's fiscal capacity and can lead to trade-off
developmental expenditures by the Union
between Revenue Expenditure and Capital
government remained somewhat unchanged over
Expenditure.
the two-decade period.
• Cost of Borrowing: Accumulation of large amounts of
• Generate Demand: Hence, it was the spending by the
debt can erode government's credibility in financial
State governments that has helped to alleviate the
markets and lead to higher interest rates on new
borrowings. livelihood crisis in the country, caused due to the slow
growth of rural incomes and employment.

STATE OF EMPLOYMENT IN
WHY SOUTHERN STATES SPEND MORE ON REVENUE
EXPENDITURES?
• Higher Proportion of Expenditure on Social Sectors: INDIA
Ranged between 40% and 50% for four decades, from
#Employment
the 1960s until the end of the 1990s.
• Financial Devolution: A substantial part of their
budget (>5% in 2022-23) are now devolved to Local
The India Employment Report 2024 is a publication by the
Self-Governments (LSGs).
Institute for Human Development (IHD) undertaken in
• Salaries & Expenses: A sizable chunk of the partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO).
government expenditure on social services is in the This report on labour and employment issues examines the
revenue account, paid as salaries and for covering challenge of youth employment in the context of the emerging
day-to-day expenses. In fact, the large body of economic, labour market, educational and skills scenarios in
teachers, nurses, and other government employees , India and the changes witnessed over the past two decades.
majorly women — have been a key driver of their social WHAT IS UNEMPLOYMENT?
achievements over the decades. • Unemployment refers to the situation when an
• Older Demography: The pensions paid to retired individual who actively seeks employment is
unable to secure a job. In this context, someone who
government employees as well as to members of
has lost a job but isn't actively seeking another is not
the disadvantaged sections (such as the elderly,
considered unemployed.
agricultural workers, widows) make up more than 15%
• The labour force comprises individuals aged 15 or older
of all budgeted expenditures by these state
who are either employed or actively seeking
governments. This is markedly higher than the average
employment.
proportion allotted for pensions by all Indian States
• The unemployment rate is calculated as the
(9.7%).
percentage of the labour force willing to work and
• Education & Research: For southern states to actively searching for a job.
translate their enormous advantage in the social
FINDINGS OF THE REPORT
sphere to advances in domestic income creation, there
• Employment Conditions:
need be more government spending, especially on
○ The ‘employment condition index’ has improved
higher education and research that will help build a
between 2004-05 and 2021-22.
facilitative environment for a knowledge-driven
• The index is based on seven labour market outcome
economy.
indicators: (i) percentage of workers employed in
CONCLUSION regular formal work; (ii) percentage of casual labourers;
• The concerns about debt-financed government (iii) percentage of self-employed workers below the
expenditures are often exaggerated. Economists in the poverty line; (iv) work participation rate; (v) average
Keynesian tradition have shown that government monthly earnings of casual labourers; (vi)
borrowing can generate a virtuous cycle if the unemployment rate of secondary and above-educated
youth; (vii) youth not in employment and education or
borrowed resources are deployed effectively to create
training.
new incomes and jobs.
• Employment Quality:
• Many of the development dilemmas that Southern
○ Self-employment remains the primary source of
states face today - an ageing population, the large
employment – 55.8% in 2022.
outgo for pensions, outmigration of its youth - are
○ Casual and regular employment accounted for
problems that most other States will also face in the
22.7% and 21.5% respectively.
coming years.

○ Regular employment is generally seen as providing have been employed for more than a total of six-
better-quality jobs due to the regularity of months will be treated as employed
employment and associated social security benefits. ○ Usual Principal and Subsidiary Status (UPSS): All
• Participation of Women: individuals who are either unemployed or outside
○ The trend of declining female labour force the labour force, but have worked for a minor period
participation rate (LFPR) reversed in 2019, the of not less than 30 days during the reference year
female LFPR of 32.8% in 2022, remains among the are classified as subsidiary-status workers.
world’s lowest. ○ Current Weekly Status (CWS): Current activity

status relating to the week preceding the date of
• Structural Transformation:
survey and those persons who did not have gainful
○ The share of agriculture in total employment fell to
work even for an hour on any day in the preceding
around from 60% in 2000 to 42% in 2019.
week, are classified as unemployed.
○ This shift was largely absorbed by construction and • The UPSS relies on an individual's primary activity over
services, whereas the share of manufacturing in a more extended period (usually the previous year),
employment has remained almost stagnant at 12- while the CWS considers a shorter reference period of
14%. a week.
○ There has been a reversal as since 2018-19, this slow • This distinction results in UPSS unemployment rates
transition has stagnated or reversed with the rise in typically being lower than CWS rates because it's more
the share of agricultural employment. likely that someone will find work over a year compared
• Youth Employment: to a week.
○ There has been a rise in youth employment, but the • Additionally, the Centre for Monitoring Indian
quality of work remains a concern, especially for Economy (CMIE) employs a daily reference period,
qualified young workers. resulting in a higher estimated unemployment rate but
lower labour force participation rates due to the
○ The unemployment rate among educated youths
unpredictability of daily work in the informal sector.
grew to 30.8% in 2019 from 23.9% in 2000, but fell to
18.4% in 2022. However, unemployment among WHAT ARE MAJOR CAUSES BEHIND UNEMPLOYMENT
youths, especially those with secondary-level or IN INDIA?
higher education, has intensified over time. • Shift Away from Agriculture: Many workers are
HOW IS UNEMPLOYMENT MEASURED IN INDIA? leaving farming, but there has not been a
commensurate increase in non-farm employment
• Assessing unemployment in India is challenging
opportunities, especially in the manufacturing sector.
due to the informal nature of many jobs as over 90% of
• Traditional Factors: Disguised unemployment in
workers in India are informal workers.
agriculture and economic slowdowns due to events like
• Unlike developed economies, where individuals
the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, regressive social
typically hold year-round positions, Indian workers norms that discourage women from joining or
often engage in various roles throughout the year. continuing to work.
This makes it difficult to categorise them as employed
• Infrastructure and Manufacturing: Inadequate
or unemployed consistently.
growth of infrastructure and low investments and
• To address this complexity, Periodic Labour Force limited focus on labour-intensive sectors like textiles
Survey (PLFS) conducted by the National Statistical and leather in the manufacturing sector.
Office measures unemployment status using Usual
• Lack of Skills and Education: Only 16% of India’s
Status and CWS annually.
labour force have undergone some form of skill
○ Usual Principal Status (UPS) measures status of training. Hence, insufficient vocational skills and low
activity on which a person has spent relatively longer education levels among the workforce reduces their
time preceding 365 days prior to the date of labour- employability. Only 45% of graduates are considered
force survey. E.g., An individual who is reported to employable according to the India Skills Report.

• Women's Participation: Low participation of women MEASURES TO ADDRESS TRADITIONAL

in the workforce, influenced by mechanisation in UNEMPLOYMENT FACTORS
agriculture and the nature of India's manufacturing • National Employment Policy: Developing a
sector. Additionally, as per NITI Aayog’s 2017-20 comprehensive national employment policy that links
agenda, women tend to be paid less, work in less economic growth strategies with job creation.
productive jobs and are overrepresented in unpaid
○ Social Security: Strengthening social security
care work and engaging in vulnerable forms of
measures for workers in the informal sector,
employment
especially the ones employed in the gig economy.
• Quality of Jobs: While there has been a strong job
○ Vocational Training: Promoting vocational training
creation in some ICT- intensive services, a significant
by formalising the skill development ecosystem.
portion of them are in traditional low value-added
○ Transition to Formal Sector: Facilitating the
services, where informality & vulnerable forms of
employment (gig work) are dominant. transition of the economy from informal to formal
sectors.
• Shrinking Public Sector: A decline of 89% in direct
recruitment in central government ministries and • Rural Economy Transformation: Shifting from
departments. traditional agriculture to value-added activities like
horticulture.
CHALLENGES IN REDUCING UNEMPLOYMENT
• Infrastructure Improvement: Enhancing rural
• Impact on Employment: The rise of artificial
infrastructure to promote sustainable growth in rural
intelligence (AI) could have an impact on employment
industries.
as the outsourcing industry in India could be disrupted
because some back-office tasks would be taken over by • Entrepreneurship Promotion: Encouraging
AI. entrepreneurial opportunities and investment in
traditional manufacturing sectors.
• Lack of Job and Income Security: Investment and
regulations are required in the emerging care and • Women's Participation: Increasing government
digital economies, which could be an important source procurement from women-led enterprises, providing
training in new technologies, and addressing access to
of productive employment. Lack of job security,
irregular wages and uncertain employment status for capital and childcare.
workers pose significant challenges for gig or platform • Informal Economy Enhancement: Building a more
work. productive informal economy through reskilling and
• Rising Informality in Employment: Informal upskilling of workers.

employment has risen as around half the jobs in the • Unemployment Insurance: Introducing a centralised
formal sector are of an informal nature. Almost 82% of unemployment insurance scheme for all unemployed
the workforce is engaged in the informal sector, and individuals and addressing existing benefit scheme
nearly 90% is informally employed. Casual work is bottlenecks.
linked with relatively poor-quality jobs due to its • Other Measures:
irregular nature and lower daily earnings.
○ There are five key policy areas for further action:
• Low Female Labour Force Participation: India’s low (a) promoting job creation; (b) improving
LFPR is largely attributed to the low female LFPR, which employment quality; (c) addressing labour market
was much lower than the world average of 47.3% in inequalities; (d) strengthening skills and active
2022, but higher than the South Asian average of labour market policies; and (e) bridging the
24.8%. knowledge deficits on labour market patterns and
• Unemployment Among Youth: In 2022, the share of youth employment.
unemployed youths in the total unemployed ○ Economic policies are required to boost productive
population was 82.9%. The share of educated youths non-farm employment, especially in the
among all unemployed people also increased to 65.7% manufacturing sector, with India likely to add 7-8
in 2022 from 54.2% in 2000.

million youths annually to the labour force during The amendment of the Double Taxation Avoidance
the next decade. Agreement (DTAA) by India and Mauritius signals a paradigm
○ More support needs to be provided to micro, shift from promoting bilateral investment flows to preventing
small and medium-sized enterprises, especially by tax evasion.
providing tools such as digitalisation and AI and a WHAT IS THE CRITERIA FOR TAX INCIDENCE?
cluster-based approach to manufacturing.
CONCLUSION
• By adopting these suggested improvements, India can
better understand and tackle its unemployment
challenges with tailor-made solutions, ultimately
achieving inclusive economic growth and development.
DOUBLE TAXATION WHAT IS A DOUBLE TAXATION AVOIDANCE

AGREEMENT?
AVOIDANCE AGREEMENT • Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) is an

agreement that is signed between two countries to
(DTAA) avoid double taxation on individuals/companies for the
same income earned in one country while being a
#ExternalSector
resident of another country.
• India has signed DTAA with more than 80 countries.
WHY IS MAURITIUS IMPORTANT? Mauritian tax resident and exempting investments

• Mauritius has been a preferred jurisdiction for made until March 31, 2017 from such taxation.
investments in India due to the non-taxability of • Even today, Mauritius remains India’s fourth
capital gains from the sale of shares in Indian largest source of FPI investments, after the US,
companies until 2016. Singapore, and Luxembourg. FPI investment from
• The DTAA was a major reason for a large number of Mauritius stood at about 6% of the total FPI
foreign portfolio investors (FPI) and foreign entities to investments in India.
route their investments in India through Mauritius. WHAT KIND OF AMENDMENTS WERE MADE?
• The treaty was last amended in May 2016 allowing • The two nations have now also amended the
the right to tax capital gains arising from sale or preamble of the treaty to incorporate the thrust on
transfer of shares of an Indian company acquired by a tax avoidance and evasion.

• The earlier objective of ‘mutual trade and investment’ • Under the provisions of DTAA, the company would be
has now been replaced with an intent to “eliminate liable to pay tax only in the tax haven country, even for
double taxation”. This was done to prevent tax evasion the profits which it makes in India. This causes
or avoidance including through “treaty shopping significant revenue loss for India.
arrangements” by the residents of third jurisdictions. Note: There is no universally acceptable definition of a tax
• A Principal Purpose Test (PPT) has been incorporated haven country. However, a Tax Haven Country has certain
into the agreement under which the tax administration peculiar features such as:
can deny the tax treaty benefit if it is established that • Nil or Nominal Tax rates.
obtaining the duty benefit was the principal
• Does not share Tax related Information with other
purpose of any transaction or arrangement.
Countries
MISUSE OF DTAA
• Presence of large number of Shell Firms. These Firms
• India has signed DTAA with the tax havens such as are legally registered in a tax haven country, but do not
Mauritius, Singapore, Cayman Islands etc. have substantial presence there. Most of its activities
• These DTAAs have been misused by the MNCs to are carried out through its subsidiaries based in other
reduce their tax liability in India. For example, if a countries. This is mainly done because under Terms of
company (Shell Company) is registered in a tax haven DTAA, firms would be required to pay tax only in a tax
and carries out the operations through its subsidiary haven country and not in other countries. Since the tax
based in India. rates are either Nil or Nominal in a tax haven country,
the shell firm significantly reduces its tax liability.
HOUSEHOLD SAVINGS
The recent Household Consumption Expenditure Survey has
highlighted an alarming scenario for the Indian economy in
AND ITS IMPACT terms of declining savings and investment in the economy.
SAVINGS IN INDIAN ECONOMY
#MobilisationofResources
• Gross Domestic Savings is contributed by the (i)
Household sector, (ii) Private (iii) Corporate and
Public Sector.

is the interest income of the financial sector. So, failure

to repay the debt by the household can have a
cascading effect on the macroeconomy as it will
deteriorate the balance sheets of the lending
institutions and in turn make them reduce their
credit disbursement to the non-financial sector or
the household.
• Impact on Consumption Demand: Majority of the
consumption in the Indian economy is driven by the
household sector. Now, in the present scenario of
declining wealth of the households, the consumption
○ Decline in Gross Domestic Savings in the last decade
expenditure of the households may decline further
from 37% to 31.5%.
as they may attempt to preserve their wealth
• The Household Sector contributes the largest share of
through savings.
Savings in India.
• Declining Investment in the Economy: The declining
• The Household Savings is categorised into (a) Net
savings on the part of the household can lead to the
Financial Savings & (b) Physical Savings.
decline in the overall savings in the economy with the
• Net financial savings = Gross financial savings - banks and government and in turn the bring down
borrowing. overall savings and investment in the economy.
• Financial assets include bank deposits, currency,
financial investments in mutual funds, pension funds,
etc. FOUR TAILWINDS THAT
• Household borrowing includes credit from non-bank
financial corporations and housing corporations, credit
ARE LIFTING THE RUPEE
from commercial banks. #ExternalSector
• Now, there has been a reduction in household net
financial savings, as the household net financial
savings/GDP ratio has attained a four-decade low. There are four fundamental shifts underway in India’s
balance of payment equation which has prevented the
THREE FACTORS FOR REDUCTION IN NET FINANCIAL
depreciation of Indian Rupee.
SAVINGS
WHAT ARE THESE FUNDAMENTAL SHIFTS?
• Financing of Additional Consumption Expenditure:
But this is not a major factor as consumption/GDP ratio • Surging Services Export:
has remained largely unchanged. (60.95% in 2021-22 to ○ The primary factor that keeps India’s demand for
60.93% in 2022-23). dollars higher than supply is the merchandise trade
• Investment in Physical Assets: This is also not a deficit. After re-opening, imports ballooned while
major factor as the household physical merchandise exports remained sluggish. This saw
investment/GDP ratio has increased by only 0.3% the goods trade deficit rocket to $265 billion in FY23.
between 2021-22 to 2022-23. ○ However, India’s services export worth $143
• Increase in the Interest Payment of Households: billion in FY23 has helped narrow down India’s
This has been the major factor as interest payment of Current Account Deficit (CAD) to $67 billion or 2%
the household has increased considerably. This of GDP.
indicates the higher debt burden on the household. Changing picture on Dollar flows
IMPLICATION OF HIGHER DEBT BURDEN (in $ billion)
• Issue of Debt Repayment and Financial Fragility: If Goods Services Private
FDI FPI
the households fail to meet their debt repayment trade Trade Transfer
commitments, then it reduces the income of the FY13 -195.6 64.9 64.3 19.8 26.8
financial sector as the interest paid by the households

FY14 -147.6 73.0 65.4 21.5 4.8 material shift in profile of Indian emigrants as
FY15 -144.9 76.5 66.2 31.2 42.2 India saw a decline in blue-collar emigration to the
FY16 -130.1 69.6 63.1 36.0 -4.1 GCC region, and an increasing number of emigrants
FY17 -112.4 68.3 56.5 35.6 7.6 from the metros headed to white collar work in the
FY18 -160.0 77.6 62.9 30.2 22.1 US, UK and Singapore.
FY19 -180.2 81.9 70.6 30.7 -0.1 ○ As a result, India’s remittance flows post 2020
FY20 -157.5 84.9 76.2 43.0 1.4 have been originating more from white collar
FY21 -102.1 88.5 74.4 43.9 36.1 workers in the advanced economies than lower-
- income workers in the GCC region, imparting
FY22 -189.5 107.5 81.2 38.6
16.8 greater resilience to these flows. The US has been
FY23 -265.3 143.2 101.7 27.9 -5.1 the top source, followed by UAE, UK and Singapore.
FY24
-117.6 75.6 48.8 4.8 20.6 ○ Given that Indian parents continue to send large
6M
cohorts of teenagers abroad to pursue higher
• Diversification of India’s Services Export:
education in the advanced economies, this shift in
○ Our services exports are no longer reliant only remittances may be here to stay.
on IT services. RBI data show that exports of
• Foreign Portfolio Investment in Bonds:
business, financial and communication services
netted $24 billion in FY23, up from $9 billion in FY22 ○ The dollar shortfall that India runs up with its CAD is
and $3 billion 10 years ago. usually financed by its capital account surplus. Two
○ This is because many MNCs are setting up Global heavyweight contributors to the capital account
Capability Centres (GCCs) to source operations, surplus are foreign direct investment (FDI) and
product and research services from India have foreign portfolio investment (FPI).
sparked off a boom in ‘business services’ exports. ○ Until FY22, with ample global liquidity, India
○ Business services exports may prove resilient to attracted a large influx of FDI into its thriving start-
global crises, as they provide both cost savings ups. But with liquidity reversing, FDI flows have
during downturns and value-added services during
dwindled.
boom times. Hence, these business services have
added a new leg to India’s services trade surplus, ○ But new FPI flows seem to be rushing in to fill this
which can cushion against slowing IT exports. gap as FPIs have poured $41 billion into Indian
stocks and bonds in FY24.
● Resilient Remittances:
○ Further, as global bond index providers like JP
Morgan and Bloomberg decided to include
Indian gilts in their indices, Indian government
bonds have become all-set to attract regular passive
flows.
○ High Indian interest rates and mending
government finances have made a sound case for
global funds to allocate to Indian bonds.
CONCLUSION
The rate of depreciation of Indian Rupee has come down
from about 3-3.5% per annum to 1.5% in the past decade
due to increase in service exports, diversification of
○ It is traditionally believed that, with the bulk of
exports, resilience in remittances flow and foreign
remittances flowing in from oil-reliant GCC nations.
portfolio investments in Indian Government bonds.
However, RBI’s research has highlighted a

INDIA NEEDS A LONG-

LNG in FY 2022-2023, of which 10.74 million tonnes, or
54%, came from Qatar.
TERM INTEGRATED • Building Transnational Pipelines: Transnational

pipelines could have been an alternative for India, but
ENERGY POLICY certain political reasons have hindered their success.
#Energy #Infrastructure ○ Myanmar-Bangladesh-India gas pipeline did not
fructify because the Bangladesh side, due to
domestic political compulsions, wanted certain
India's energy security challenges may escalate in future, bilateral matters to be included in the tripartite gas
particularly, due to the recent geopolitical tensions in the agreement which were not acceptable to the Indian
Middle East, which may cause volatility in crude oil prices and side.
pose a risk of supply-chain disruption.
○ Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project, despite
INDIA’S CRUDE OIL DEPENDENCE agreement on several technical and commercial
• India is the world's third-largest importer of crude issues, did not progress due to political instability in
oil, and the third-largest consumer of oil overall, Pakistan.
behind the US and China. ○ Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan- India
• According to the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (TAPI) gas pipeline project had problems due to civil
(PPAC) of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, conflict in Afghanistan.
India imported 232.5 million tonnes of crude oil in the
NEED FOR A LONG-TERM INTEGRATED ENERGY POLICY
financial year 2023-24.
• Energy Security Concerns: Over 40% of India's oil
• India's crude oil import dependence increased to
comes from the volatile Middle East. Geopolitical
87.7% in 2023–2024, up from 87.4% in the previous
tensions and sanctions can disrupt supplies, impacting
year. This is due to a combination of high demand and
prices and economic stability.
stagnant domestic production.
• Meeting Growing Demand: India's energy demand is
• Russia is India's top oil supplier, accounting for more
than 30% of India's imports in 2023. Before the Ukraine projected to surge by 1.8% annually until 2040. A
conflict, Iraq was India's top supplier of crude oil, comprehensive policy ensures sufficient and reliable
followed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. energy supplies to fuel this growth.
However, after the invasion, Russia climbed to the top, • Domestic Resource Potential: India has an immense
driven by substantial discounts on oil prices. potential for renewable energy sources like solar and
• Nevertheless, over 40% of India’s oil at present is wind. A well-integrated policy can unlock this potential,
sourced from the Middle East region, and the recent reducing dependence on imports and fostering energy
geopolitical tensions in the region may pose supply independence.
disruptions. • Environmental Sustainability: India is the world's
INDIA’S PRESENT OPTIONS third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. An
• Increasing supply from Russia: India is exploring integrated policy that prioritises renewable energy and
options to increase purchase from Russia through energy efficiency is vital to meet climate change
the Chennai-Vladivostok route (which passes commitments and ensure a sustainable future.
through the Sea of Japan, the South China Sea and WAY FORWARD
Malacca Strait), in case the traditional route through
The Indian government drafted a National Energy Policy
the Red Sea cannot be used.
(NEP) in 2017, which aimed to achieve goals like universal
• Importing Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG): India, the
energy access, energy security, environmental
world's fourth-largest LNG importer, seeks to diversify
sustainability, and economic growth through a diversified
its LNG import options to ensure stable and secure gas
energy mix. However, India still has not finalised the draft
supplies. India imported a total 19.85 million tonnes of
NEP. India’s integrated energy policy should focus on:

• Energy Mix Diversification: Overreliance on any ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR AN SFB TO TRANSITION
single source of energy can pose risks to energy INTO A UNIVERSAL BANK
security. A diversified energy mix can enhance • Scheduled status with a satisfactory track record of
resilience and mitigate supply disruptions. India needs performance for a minimum period of five years;
a balanced approach that optimises fossil fuel use, • Shares of the bank should have been listed on a
promotes renewable energy integration, and explores recognised stock exchange;
cleaner options like Nuclear Energy and Hydrogen.
• Having a minimum net worth of ₹1,000 crore as at the
• Renewable Energy Promotion: India has made end of the previous quarter (audited);
significant progress in renewable energy, particularly in • Meeting the prescribed CRAR requirements for SFBs;
solar and wind power. A long-term energy policy
• Having a net profit in the last two financial years; and
should prioritise the promotion and expansion of
• Having GNPA and NNPA of less than or equal to 3
renewable energy sources. This can be achieved
percent and 1 percent respectively in the last two
through incentives, subsidies, and supportive
financial years.
regulations to encourage investments in renewable
energy projects. ABOUT SMALL FINANCE BANKS
• Infrastructure Development: India needs to upgrade Small Finance Banks in India

the power grid infrastructure for integration and
Criteria Details
management of renewable energy sources. The policy
should prioritise investments in grid modernisation, Registered under Companies
including the development of smart grids and energy Registration and Act, 2013
storage systems. Licensing Licensed under Banking
• Energy Conservation: Promoting energy conservation Regulation Act, 1949
across sectors (industries, buildings, and
Resident Indians, Private
transportation) can significantly reduce India's overall
Eligibility Companies, Societies, NBFCs,
energy demand. MFIs, Local Area Banks
• Research and Development: Encouraging research
Min. Capital Rs 100 crores. (To be increased
and development in clean energy technologies can
Requirements to Rs 200 crores within 5 years)
ensure long-term sustainability, reduce reliance on
imported technologies and foster innovations that FDI allowed? Yes. Up to 74%
reduce energy cost.
Accept Deposits Yes.
CONCLUSION: India needs a long-term and integrated
energy policy that projects the country's energy
Restrictions on
requirements over the next 25 years, while taking into No Restrictions
Deposits
account domestic production, import requirements of
fossil fuels, and our commitments to transition towards Deposit Insurance
Yes
clean energy. Available?
Yes. At least 50 per cent of its
SMALL FINANCE BANKS Can Lend Loans

loan portfolio should constitute
loans and advances of up to Rs
#Banking #PrelimsSnippets 25 lakh
Issue Debit/ Credit

Both can be issued
Card
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on April 26th invited
applications from Small Finance Banks (SFBs) meeting
specified criteria for becoming regular or universal banks.

company, at a value which is higher than fair market

Set up based upon
value and to restrict round tripping of cash.
recommendations Nachiket Mor Committee
of ISSUES WITH ANGEL TAX
• Assessment of Fair Market Value: Calculating a start-
Committee to
up’s fair market value is very subjective and is often
evaluate
Usha Thorat Committee based on negotiations between the startup and the
applications for
investor. Often differences occur between the tax
Licence
authorities and start-ups over the methodology used to
SLR and CRR calculate the “Fair Market Value(FMV)”.
CRR and SLR Applicable
applicable
Discounted Cash Flow Net Asset Value (NAV)
BASEL Norms (DCF) Valuation Method
Yes. 15% of RWAs
applicable
It is a method that It represents the market
PSL Norms determines whether an value per share for a
Yes. Target: 75%. investment is worthwhile particular company. It is
applicable
based on future cash calculated by deducting
Examples Ujjivan, Utkarsh, Jana, Au etc. flows. It is based on the the liabilities from total
idea that a company's asset value divided by the
value is determined by number of shares.
ANGEL TAX how well the company can

generate cash flows for its
#FinancialMarkets #FiscalPolicy investors in the future.
Exemptions: Start-ups which are registered with the

Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
The Delhi High Court has upheld that taxpayers can choose
are excluded from the purview of angel tax provisions.
an option for Angel Tax valuation. However, The Income Tax
However, there are many unregistered start-ups and
Department can doubt or reject the valuation report adopted
hence this tax has a potential to significantly impact
by the taxpayer, but it cannot independently evaluate the face
capital flows to start-ups and foreign direct investments.
value of shares by using a valuation method other than the
one chosen by the taxpayer.
WHAT IS ANGEL TAX? GIFT (GUJARAT
• Angel tax refers to the income tax (30.6 %) imposed
on any unlisted company (usually startup INTERNATIONAL
enterprises) in receipt of investment which is
above the fair market value. Such investment is
FINANCIAL TECH) CITY
treated as income from other sources for the tax #ExternalSector #FinancialMarkets
purpose.
• This tax was introduced in 2012 in the form of Section
56 (2) of the Income Tax Act to plug money laundering The role of the International Finance Securities Center (IFSC)
practices. at Gujarat International Finance and Tech (GIFT) city is vital in
• Earlier, angel tax provisions were applicable only for overcoming trade finance challenges.
investments received from resident investors. ABOUT GIFT CITY
However, the Budget for FY2023 has extended its • GIFT City has two zones, one is “Domestic” and the
applicability to non-resident investors as well. other is “SEZ”.
• Purpose: The objective of introducing this tax was to ○ In the domestic zone, Domestic transactions
deter the generation and use of unaccounted money denominated in Rupee can be undertaken.
through subscription of shares of a closely held

REER & NEER

○ The SEZ zone (GIFT-SEZ) has been declared as
“International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)”. GIFT-
SEZ is the only place in India designated as IFSC. All #ExternalSector #PrelimsSnippets
transactions are in foreign currency.
• GIFT SEZ is India’s first International Financial
The rupee has depreciated by 27.6% against the US dollar
Services Centre (IFSC) set up under Special Economic
between April-end 2014 and now, from Rs 60.34 to Rs 83.38.
Zones Act, 2005. This is marginally higher than the 26.5% from April-end 2004
○ An IFSC is a jurisdiction that provides financial to April-end 2014, where the rupee had fallen from 44.37 to
services to non-residents and residents, to the 60.34.
extent permissible under the current regulations, in HOW DO WE MEASURE A CURRENCY’S STRENGTH?
any currency except Indian Rupee. • India trades not only with the US. It exports goods and
○ Units (entities) related to Banking, Insurance and services to other countries as well, while also importing
Capital Markets are considered as IFSC units and from them.
hence Banks, Insurers and Capital Market • The strength or weakness of the rupee is, hence, a
related companies can set up their units in the function of its exchange rate with not just the US dollar,
IFSC (GIFT-SEZ). but also with other global currencies.
• In this case, it would be against a basket of currencies
LIMITS OF TRANSACTIONS
of the country’s most important trading partners –
• Therefore, RBI ODI (Overseas Direct Investment, which what’s called the rupee’s “effective exchange rate” or
means investments outside India) Rules are applicable EER.
on investments in IFSC. • The EER is measured by an index similar to the
• Accordingly, Indian parties are allowed under consumer price index (CPI).
Automatic route to make investment in IFSC ○ The CPI is the weighted average retail price of a
entities and that shall be treated as ODI. representative consumer basket of goods and
• Individual persons resident in India are allowed to services for a given month or year, relative to a fixed
base period.
invest up to USD 2,50,000 per financial year under the
Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) outside India or in ○ The EER is an index of the weighted average of
IFSC. the rupee’s exchange rates vis-à-vis the
currencies of India’s major trading partners.
SIGNIFICANCE
○ The currency weights are derived from the share of
• The IFSC in GIFT-City seeks to bring to the Indian the individual countries to India’s total foreign trade,
shores, those financial services transactions that just as the weights for each commodity in the CPI are
are currently carried outside India by overseas based on their relative importance in the overall
financial institutions to a centre which has been consumption basket.
designated for all practical purposes as a location NOMINAL EFFECTIVE EXCHANGE RATE (NEER)
having the same ecosystem as their present offshore • The NEER is a summary index that captures
location (like London, Singapore etc.), which is movements in the external value of the rupee
physically on Indian soil. against a basket of global currencies.
• IFSC (GIFT-SEZ) is the only place in India which • The Reserve Bank of India has constructed NEER
allows offshore transactions (i.e., it is treated as indices of the rupee against a basket of 6 and 40
outside India transactions) currencies respectively.
• IFSC is deemed to be a foreign territory and entities ○ The former is a trade-weighted average rate at which
approved as IFSC units are treated as non-resident in the rupee is exchangeable with a basic currency
India. basket, comprising the US dollar, the euro, the

Chinese yuan, the British pound, the Japanese yen

and the Hong Kong dollar.
○ The latter index covers a bigger basket of 40
currencies of countries that account for about 88%
of India’s annual trade flows.
• The NEER indices
are with reference
to a base year
value of 100 for
2015-16.
• Increases indicate
the rupee’s
effective
IMPORTED INFLATION
appreciation #Inflation #ExternalSector
against these #PrelimsSnippets
currencies and
decreases point to
overall exchange rate depreciation. The Asian Development Bank recently warned that India
could face imported inflation as the rupee could depreciate
• However, the NEER does not factor in inflation, which
amid the rise in interest rates in the West. In this context, let
reflects changes in the internal value of the rupee.
us understand the WHAT, WHY and HOW of the imported
REAL EFFECTIVE EXCHANGE RATE (REER)
inflation.
• The REER is basically the NEER that is adjusted for
WHAT IS IMPORTED INFLATION?
the inflation differentials between the home
• Imported inflation refers to the rise in the prices of
country and its trading partners.
goods and services in a country that is caused by an
• If a country’s nominal exchange rate falls less than its increase in the cost of imports into the country.
domestic inflation rate – as with India – the currency
• It is believed that a rise in input costs pushes
has actually appreciated in “real” terms. producers to raise the price they charge from their
○ A decrease in REER denotes depreciation in local customers, thus boosting inflation.
rupee’s value, whereas an increase reflects • It is a variant of cost-push inflation which states that
appreciation. a rise in the cost of inputs can lead to an inflation in the
○ REER above 100 denotes that the home currency prices of final goods and services.
is overvalued and more expensive compared to its WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?
competitors. • Depreciation of Domestic Currency: Rise in interest
• Implications: rates in the West tends to cause the currencies of
○ The rupee is overvalued today in terms of its developing countries to depreciate against western
REER. currencies, which in turn can lead to higher import

costs for these countries.
○ Any increase in REER means that the costs of
• Increase of Money Supply in Domestic Economy:
products being exported from India are rising more
The value of a currency depreciates against a foreign
than the prices of imports into the country. That
currency when its supply becomes relatively more
translates into a loss of trade competitiveness –
abundant than the foreign currency in the forex
which may not be quite a good thing in the long run.
market.

• Without Depreciation of Domestic Currency: For ○ Registration and licensing of all spice exporters.
example, rise in international crude oil prices due to fall ○ Processes and forwards foreign trade enquiries to
in oil output is expected to cause prices to rise across reliable exporters.
an economy which imports oil to produce goods and
○ Organises a common platform for interaction
services.
between Indian exporters and international buyers
HOW DOES IT HAPPEN? through the World Spice Congress.
• When a country’s currency depreciates or prices of ○ Examines each complaint from importers for
imports rise → People need to shell out more of their corrective and preventive action.
local currency to purchase the necessary foreign
○ Spearheads the quality improvement programme
currency required to buy any foreign goods or services
for Indian spices.
→ They will effectively be paying more for anything
that they import.
GAS EXPORTING
SPICE BOARD OF INDIA COUNTRIES FORUM (GECF)
#Agriculture #PrelimsSnippets #Energy #PrelimsSnippets
The Spices Board held consultations with the industry on

As per the latest annual report of Gas Exporting Countries
recall by Hong Kong and Singapore of certain spice mixes sold Forum (GECF), India will be the world’s largest growth market
by Everest and MDH due to concerns of potential Ethylene for natural gas in the next decade with China claiming the top
Oxide (ETO) contamination and examine possible corrective
spot till 2030.
measures.
ABOUT GAS EXPORTING COUNTRIES FORUM (GECF)
ABOUT SPICE BOARD OF INDIA
• The GECF is an intergovernmental organisation that
• Nature of Body: It is a regulatory and export
provides a framework for exchanging experience and
promotion agency for Indian spices and was information among its member countries.
constituted in 1987 under Spices Board Act 1986.
• With its current number of member countries, the
• It is the flagship organisation for the development and
GECF enjoys a dominant position on global energy
worldwide promotion of Indian spices. markets and among international energy
• Nodal Ministry: It is functioning under the Ministry of organisations.
Commerce & Industry.
• Members:
• It is headed by a chairman, a rank equivalent to Joint ○ Full Members: Algeria, Bolivia, Egypt, Equatorial
Secretary to the Government of India.
Guinea, Iran, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, Russia, Trinidad
• HQ: The board is headquartered in Kochi. and Tobago, UAE and Venezuela.
• Functions: Promotion of exports of spices and spice ○ Observers: Angola, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Malaysia,
products Mauritania, Mozambique, Peru and Senegal.
○ Maintenance and monitoring of quality of exports • Together, they represent 69% of the world’s gas
○ Development and implementation of better reserves, 39% of the marketed production, and 40%
production methods, through scientific, of global gas exports.
technological and economic research. • As the gathering of the world's leading gas exporting
○ Guidance to farmers on getting higher and better countries, the GECF seeks to build a mechanism for a
quality yields through scientific agricultural meaningful dialogue between gas producers and
practices. consumers in order to improve the stability and
○ Provision of financial and material support to security of supply and demand in gas markets around
growers. the world.

ELECTRIC MOBILITY
○ For the purchase of small 3-wheelers support of
up to ₹25,000 will be given and over 41,000 such
PROMOTION SCHEME 2024 vehicles will be provided incentives under the

scheme.
(EMPS 2024) ○ The financial support will be up to ₹50,000 in case

of a large three-wheeler, as per the scheme.
#Infrastructure #PrelimsSnippets
• Significance: The Scheme promotes an efficient,
competitive and resilient EV manufacturing industry in
the country thereby promoting the vision of Atma-
The Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS
Nirbhar Bharat.
2024), a ₹500 crore scheme to promote electric mobility in
India will come into force from April 1. The scheme will ○ For this purpose, Phased Manufacturing
continue till the end of July. Programme (PMP) has been adopted which
encourages domestic manufacturing and
ABOUT ELECTRIC MOBILITY PROMOTION SCHEME
strengthening off EV supply chain. This shall also
2024 (EMPS 2024)
create significant employment opportunities along
• Launched in: 2024
the value chain.
• Extended till: July 2024
• Nodal ministry: Ministry of Heavy Industries
• Aim: For faster adoption of electric two-wheeler (e-2W)
MUSTARD
and three-wheeler (e-3W) to provide further impetus to #MajorCrops #Agriculture
the green mobility and development of EV
manufacturing ecosystem in the country.
Central Government plans to raise the area under Mustard
• Eligibility: Scheme will be applicable mainly to those e- cultivation from the current 4 lakh hectares and yield from 8
2W and e-3Ws (including e-rickshaws, e-carts and L5 quintals per hectare to help achieve the larger objective of
category vehicles) registered for commercial self-sufficiency in edible oils.
purposes.
ABOUT MUSTARD AND RAPESEED
○ Further, in addition to commercial use, privately or
• Rapeseed and mustard comprise several oilseeds such
corporate owned registered e-2W will also be eligible
as rai, sarson, toria and taramira. These are subtropical
under the scheme.
crops cultivated during rabi season in north-western
• Components: and central parts of India.
○ Subsidies/Demand Incentive: Incentive for electric • These are frost sensitive crops and their yields
2W (e-2W) and electric 3 W including registered e- fluctuate from year to year. But with the expansion of
rickshaws & e-carts and L5 (e-3W) irrigation and improvement in seed technology, their
○ Administration of Scheme: Including IEC yields have improved and stabilised to some extent.
(Information, Education & Communication) activities • About two-third of the cultivated area under these
and fee for Project Management Agency crops is irrigated.
• Key features: The second phase of Faster Adoption • These oilseeds together occupy only about 2.5% of
and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India (FAME- total cropped area in the country.
II) programme, ends in 2024. Subsidies under the FAME
MAJOR CULTIVATING STATES
scheme will be eligible for e-vehicles sold till March 31,
or till the time funds are available. • Rajasthan contributes about one-third production
while other leading producers are Haryana and
○ Under the scheme, customers will be provided with
Madhya Pradesh.
a support of up to ₹10,000 per 2-wheeler with the
aim is to provide support for about 3.33 lakh two- • Yields of these crops are comparatively high in Haryana
wheelers. and Rajasthan.

CROPPING CONDITIONS Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has now

• Climatic Requirements: Require cool and dry recommended imposition of anti-dumping duty on sodium
weather and a fair supply of soil moisture during cyanide (NaCN) imported from China, the European Union,
the growing period and dry clear weather at the Japan and Korea.
time of maturity. In India they are grown in Rabi WHAT IS ANTI-DUMPING DUTY?
season from September-October to February-March. • Dumping occurs when the goods are exported by a
• Soil: Sandy loam to clay loam soils but thrive best on country to another country at a price lower than its
light loam soils. Do not tolerate water logging normal value. This is an unfair trade practice which can
conditions or heavy soils. Soil having neutral pH is have a distortive effect on international trade.
ideal for their proper growth and development. • Anti-dumping is a measure to rectify the situation
• Rotations & Mixed Cropping: Rape and mustard are arising out of the dumping of goods and its trade
grown in rotation with other crops like maize, cotton, distortive effect. Thus, the purpose of anti-dumping
bajra, pulses, etc. and should never be grown in fields duty is to rectify the trade distortive effect of
which were sown with the same crops in previous dumping and re-establish fair trade.
two years. • The use of anti-dumping measures as an instrument of
• Field Preparation: A clean and well pulverised fair competition is permitted by the WTO.
seedbed of good tilth is needed for better germination. • It is an instrument for ensuring fair trade and is not a
The land should be well prepared first by ploughing measure of protection for the domestic industry. It
deep, followed by two cross harrowings. Care should provides relief to the domestic industry against the
be taken to see that weeds and stubbles are well injury caused by dumping.
removed from the field and the soil contains adequate
ABOUT DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF TRADE REMEDIES
moisture.
(DGTR)
• Time of Sowing: Toria should be sown from the mid to
• It is an integrated single window agency for providing
the last week of September. Sowing of sarson and rai
comprehensive and swift trade defence mechanisms in
must be completed in the first fortnight of October.
India.
• Manures and Fertilisers: Split application of
• It deals with anti-dumping, countervailing duty
nitrogen has been found useful for rape and mustard
(CVD) and safeguard measures. It also provides trade
crop.
defence support to our domestic industry and
• Water Management: Good yields can be achieved if exporters in dealing with increasing instances of trade
the fields are bunded and levelled before the monsoon remedy investigations instituted against them by other
and ploughed 2-3 times during the monsoon season. countries.
Inter-cultivation or mulching on the soil surface
• It provides a level playing field to the domestic
reduces moisture evaporation. Two irrigations at
industry against the adverse impact of the unfair
pre-bloom and pod filling stages are beneficial.
trade practices like dumping and actionable subsidies
• Weed Control: Weeds cause approximately 20-30 from any exporting country, by using Trade Remedial
percent reduction in yield. The most common weeds methods under relevant framework of WTO
are Chenopodium album (bathua), Lathyrus arrangements, Customs Tariff Act & Rules and other
spp.(chatrimatri), Melilotus indica (senji), Cirsium relevant laws and International agreements, in a
arvense (kateli), Fumaria parviflora (gajri) and Cyperus transparent and time bound manner.
rotundus (motha).
• Nodal Ministry: It functions as an attached office of
ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ON the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce

and Industry.
SODIUM CYANIDE • The Functions of DGTR:
#ExternalSector #Liberalisation ○ Conducting anti-dumping investigations and

recommendation to government of India (GoI).

○ Conducting anti-subsidy/CVD investigations and • HQ: Hyderabad, Telangana.

recommendation to GoI. • Ministry: Ministry Of Finance, Department of Financial
○ Conducting safeguard investigations and Services.
recommendation to GoI • Composition: The Authority is a ten member team
○ Handling Litigation matters before Customs Excise consisting of (a) a Chairman; (b) five whole-time
And Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), High members; (c) four part-time members, all appointed by
Courts and Supreme Court of India. the Government of India.
○ Conducting Outreach programmes to create and WHAT DOES IT DO?
spread conceptual awareness and explain the • Grants licences to Insurance companies and
working of DGTR. Insurance intermediaries.
○ Exchange of information with WTO. • Protect the interests of policyholders.
• Regulates the investment of funds by Insurance
INSURANCE REGULATORY companies, professional organisations connected with

the Insurance business.
AND DEVELOPMENT • Undertakes the inspection of, conducts enquiries
and investigations of the entities connected with the
AUTHORITY OF INDIA Insurance business.
(IRDAI) • Adjudication of disputes between insurers and

intermediaries or insurance intermediaries
#InclusiveGrowth #PrelimsSnippets ENTITIES REGULATED BY IRDAI
• Life Insurance Companies - Both public and private
In the last 24 years, IRDAI steered the industry on the growth sector Companies
path in the post-reforms era by safeguarding consumer • General Insurance Companies - Both public and private
interests and propelling industry advancement. sector Companies.
ABOUT THE BODY • Reinsurance Companies
• Type of Body: Formed as a statutory body under an Act • Agency Channel
of Parliament, i.e., IRDAI Act 1999. • Intermediaries like Corporate Agents, Brokers etc.
Practice questions
MCQs
Q1. With reference to India’s Double Taxation (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with Mauritius, (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
consider the following statements:
1. The agreement was amended to prevent “treaty Q2. Consider the following statements about Angel
shopping arrangements” by the residents of third Tax:
jurisdictions. 1. It is a tax levied on the capital raised through issue
2. As per the agreement, tax benefits are extended in of shares above the fair market value by listed
case obtaining the duty benefit was the principal companies.
purpose of any transaction. 2. The tax is applicable for investments received from
Which of the above statements is/are correct? both resident and non-resident investors.

3. Start-ups registered with the Department of Q4. With reference to GIFT (Gujarat International
Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade are Financial Tech) City, consider the following
exempted from the angel tax. statements:
How many of the statements given above is/are correct? 1. All financial transactions undertaken in the GIFT
(a) Only one (b) Only two City are denominated in foreign currency.
(c) All three (d) None 2. GIFT-SEZ is the only place in India which allows
offshore transactions.
Q3. With reference to Insurance Regulatory and Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Development Authority of India (IRDAI), (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
consider the following statements: (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. It is a statutory body under the jurisdiction of the
Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Q5. Consider the following statements:
2. The headquarter of IRDAI is situated in Hyderabad. 1. Priority Sector Lending targets of universal banks
3. It regulates the investment of funds by professional are higher than the small finance banks.
organisations connected with the insurance 2. The minimum paid-cup capital requirement for an
business. universal bank is higher than the small finance
How many of the above statements are correct? banks.
(a) Only one (b) Only two Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(c) All three (d) None (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Descriptive Questions
Q1. How has the emphasis on certain crops has led to reduction in production of pulses? Elaborate the emphasis on
pulses production and consumption.
Q2. Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the methodology adopted to compute
unemployment in the country and suggest improvements.
Answers: 1-a, 2-b, 3-b, 4-b, 5-b

CONSTITUTION, POLITY AND
GOVERNANCE
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II (Main)
RIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE

● Habitat and Species Status: Desert National Park in
Rajasthan shelters the critically endangered Great
CHANGE IS A Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican.

● Threats to Species: Overhead cables, particularly in
FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT solar parks, pose a significant threat to the survival of
these birds.
#Fundamental Rights
● Mortality Statistics: Power Line Mitigation, 2018
report highlighted that around 1 lakh birds die annually
The Supreme Court in MK Ranjitsinh v. Union of India has
due to collisions with power lines, necessitating urgent
ruled that people have a “right to be free from the adverse
action to prevent the extinction of the Great Indian
effects of climate change”, which should be recognized by the
Bustard.
combined reading of Article 14 and Article 21. The court
further said that the environment-related aspects of the ● Ministry of Power’s Statement: Ministry of Power
Directive Principles of State Policy, must be read together with acknowledged the vulnerability of Great Indian
the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21. Bustards to power lines due to their lack of frontal
vision, emphasizing the risk of collision and
MK RANJITSINH V. UNION OF INDIA
electrocution.
● History of this case: A writ petition filed in 2019 (MK
● Article 14 and climate change: Supreme Court held
Ranjitsinh And Ors. v. Union of India) sought
that climate change affects the right to equality, the
conservation directives amid the declining population
Court reasoned that “If climate change and
of Great Indian Bustards.
environmental degradation lead to acute food and
● Court Orders: In April 2021, the Supreme Court
water shortages in a particular area, poorer
ordered all power lines be buried in Bustard habitat.
communities will suffer more than richer ones. The
However, the court later agreed to review its order due
right to equality would be impacted in each of these
to practical challenges highlighted by the centre and
instances”.
considering the importance of renewable energy and
climate commitments. ● Article 21 and right to clean environment: Article 21
of the constitution states that “no person shall be
● Revision by Supreme Court: In 2024, while the
deprived of his life or personal liberty except according
Supreme Court underscored the importance of
to procedure established by law”. Article 21 has
protection of Bustard, it modified its order with respect
to conversion of overhead transmission line to received liberal interpretation from time to time after
underground transmission lines. Court has further said the decision of the Supreme Court in Maneka Gandhi
that other factors such as low fecundity, fragmentation, vs. Union of India. Article 21 guarantees fundamental
habitat loss, predators, and loss of prey must be right to life, Right to an environment, free of danger of
addressed. disease and infection is inherent in it.
OBSERVATIONS ENVIRONMENTAL JURISPRUDENCE IN INDIA

Constituti0n, Polity and
Governance
● In the 1980s, SC read the right to a clean environment of India (1995), the Supreme Court held that the right to
as part of Article 21. A bundle of rights, including the health is a fundamental right under Article 21, and the
right to education, the right to shelter (in the context of government has a duty to provide adequate medical
slum dwellers), the right to clean air, the right to facilities to its citizens.
livelihood (in the context of hawkers), and the right to ● Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board vs C
medical care have all been subsequently included Kenchappa, 2006: Supreme Court took note of the
under the umbrella of Article 21. adverse effects of rising sea levels and rising global
● Rural Litigation and Entitlement Kendra vs. State: temperatures.
Right to a healthy environment is an important attribute ● Bombay Dyeing & Mfg. Co. Ltd. v. Bombay
of the right to live with human dignity. The right to live Environmental Action Group, 2006: Supreme Court
in a healthy environment as part of Article 21 of the recognized that climate change posed a “major threat”
Constitution was first recognized in the case of Rural to the environment.
Litigation and Entitlement Kendra vs. State. It is the first
OUTCOMES OF THE JUDGMENT
case of this kind in India, involving issues relating to
environment and ecological balance in which the ● Impact of climate change on health: The right to
Supreme Court directed to stop the illegal mining under health (which is a part of the right to life under Article
21) is impacted due to factors such as air pollution,
the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
shifts in vector-borne diseases, rising temperatures,
● M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India: Supreme Court treated
droughts, shortages in food supplies due to crop failure,
the right to live in a pollution free environment as a part
storms, and flooding. The inability of underserved
of fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the
communities to adapt to climate change or cope with its
Constitution.
effects violates the right to life as well as the right to
● Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar (1991): the Supreme equality. The judgment acknowledged the right to a
Court held that the right to life includes the right to a healthy environment, safe from the ill-effects of climate
healthy environment, and it is the duty of the change, was a “fundamental human right”.
government to protect and improve the environment.
● Expanded scope of Article 14: Judgment has
The court observed that the right to life and personal
expanded the purview of Article 14. It was observed that
liberty cannot be enjoyed in the absence of a clean
if climate change and environmental degradation lead
environment.
to acute food and water shortages in a particular area,
● Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum vs Union of India: poorer communities will suffer more than richer ones.
The Supreme Court held that though industries are vital
● Important legal precedent: This judgment will set an
for the country’s development, having regards to the
important legal precedent and will influence the
pollution caused by them, the principle of ‘sustainable
broader public discourse on environmental matters
development’ has to be adopted as the balancing
and has the potential to shape future government
concept.
policies.
● M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath (1996) & Virender Gaur v.
● Importance of solar power: Judgment also highlighted
State of Haryana: Recognized the right to a clean
the importance of solar power for arresting ills of
environment as a part of Article 21 of the Constitution.
climate change.
However, the Court underlined that “it is yet to be
articulated that the people have a right against the ● Increased energy demand: 25%of global energy
demand is likely to be from India in the next two
adverse effects of climate change.” Observing how
climate change is increasing year by year, the Court decades.
underscored the need to recognize this right as a ● Enhanced energy security: Renewable energy
distinct one. provides enhanced energy security by reducing reliance
● Consumer Education and Research Centre v. Union on fossil fuels.
of India (1995): The right to health has also been ● Improved public health: adoption of renewable
recognized as a part of the right to life under Article 21. energy technologies helps in curbing air pollution,
In Consumer Education and Research Centre v. Union

Governance
thereby improving public health and reducing suffrage, freedom of expression, freedom of
healthcare costs. association.
● Liberal democracy: Requirements of electoral
HALTING THE democracy are met; judicial and legislative constraints

on the executive along with the protection of civil
DEMOCRATIC RECESSION liberties and equality before the law.
#Constitution & #Polity
A Pew Research Centre’s global survey has highlighted that the

globally there has been a declining trend in democracy and its
aspects like liberalism, freedom of speech and expression, etc.
WHAT IS DEMOCRACY?
It is seen in terms of rule by the people, for the people and
of the people.
TYPES OF DEMOCRACY
● Electoral Democracy: Whether elections were free and
fair, as well as the prevalence of a free and independent
media.
● Liberal Democracy: It incorporates measures of rule of
law, checks and balances and civil liberties.
FINDINGS OF THE PEW RESEARCH CENTRE’S GLOBAL
● Participatory Democracy: Degree to which citizens SURVEY
participate in their own government through local
● 70% endorsement of direct democracy, wherein
democratic institutions, civil society organizations,
officials directly influence major decisions,
direct democracy.
circumventing elected leaders.
● Deliberative Democracy: Degree to which decisions
● Increased inclination towards rule by experts (58%) and
are made in the best interest of the people as opposed
a growing acceptance of authoritarian government
to due to coercion or narrow interest groups, in
models (26%).
addition to the basic electoral democracy index.
● Rationale behind this shift lies in the perception that
● Egalitarian Democracy: The level of equal access to
democracies, with their need for discussions and
resources, power, and freedoms across various groups
consensus-building, lead to delays, while concentrated
within a society, in addition to the level of electoral
power facilitates prompt decision-making and quicker
democracy. economic development.
TYPES OF DEMOCRACY LEVEL ● Situation in low income countries-respondents from
● Closed autocracy: No multiple elections for the countries with lower incomes and less education tend
executive; absence of fundamental democratic to endorse such ‘strong’ leaders. A noteworthy segment
components such as freedom of expression; freedom (15%) also supports military rule, particularly in middle-
of association and free and fair elections. income countries
● Electoral autocracy: Multi-party elections for the INDIAN CASE
executive exists; insufficient levels of fundamental ● In 2017, 44% of Indians favoured representative
requisites such as freedom of expression and democracy, which has since decreased to 36% in 2023
association and free and fair elections.
● The inclination towards a powerful leader with
● Electoral democracy: Multiparty elections for the significant authority rose from 55% in 2017 to 67% in
executive are free and fair; satisfactory degree of 2023.

Governance
● Support for rule by experts exhibits an upward
trajectory, soaring from 65% to an impressive 82%.
● Positive response from Indians towards military rule or
governance by an authoritarian leader, with a
staggering 85% preferring it .
● Global democracy rankings have characterised
contemporary India as a “hybrid regime”, ranging from
“free to partly free” to “electoral autocracy,” and even
termed it a “flawed democracy”
VARIOUS DEMOCRACY RANKINGS
● Freedom in the World Report by Freedom House.
● Democracy Index by Economic Intelligence Unit.
● Worldwide Governance indicators by World Bank.
● Democracy Report by V-Dem Institute.
FINDINGS OF THE DEMOCRACY REPORT BY V-DEM
INSTITUTE
ORIGINAL JURISDICTION
OF SUPREME COURT
#Judiciary
Increasing number of states have been filing cases against the

Central Government in the Supreme court under the
provisions of original jurisdiction of Supreme Court as
provided for in Indian Constitution.
ABOUT ORIGINAL JURISDICTION OF SUPREME COURT
● Article 131 of Indian Constitution provides for original
jurisdiction of Supreme Court in following cases of
dispute:
a) Between the Centre and one or more states

Governance
b) Between the Centre and any state or states on one
side and one or more other states on the other side
The Supreme Court recently upheld the electronic voting
c) Between two or more states.
machine (EVM) system of polling and dismissed a plea to
● In the above federal disputes, Supreme Court has revert to paper ballots.
exclusive original jurisdiction. Exclusive means, no
SUPREME COURT RULING
other court can decide such disputes and original
● The court declined the request to provide electors with
means, the power to hear such disputes in the first
paper slips from Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail
instance, not by way of appeal.
(VVPAT) units for leisurely examination before insertion
CONDITIONS FOR FILING CASES UNDER ORIGINAL into the ballot boxes. It also rejected the proposal for
JURISDICTION OF SUPREME COURT:
100% cross-verification of EVMs and VVPATs
● One, the dispute must involve a question (whether of nationwide.
law or fact) on which the existence or extent of a legal
● Currently, only five percent of EVM-VVPAT counts are
right depends. Thus, the questions of political nature
randomly verified in each Assembly constituency.
are excluded from it.
Additionally, the court instructed the Election
● Two, any suit brought before the Supreme Court by a Commission of India (ECI) to "seal and secure" the
private citizen against the Centre or a state cannot be Symbol Loading Unit (SLU) for 45 days post-election
entertained under this. results declaration.
● Further, this jurisdiction of the Supreme Court does not ● Presently, only the three main components of the EVM
extend to the following: — the ballot unit, control unit, and VVPAT — are stored
o A dispute arising out of any pre-Constitution treaty, for this duration. The court permitted candidates to
agreement, covenant, engagement, Sanad or other scrutinize the one-time programmable software in the
similar instrument. Ballot Unit (BU), Control Unit (CU), and VVPAT for
o A dispute arising out of any treaty, agreement, etc., tampering, if any doubts arise regarding the result. This
which specifically provides that the said jurisdiction inspection involves examining the burnt
does not extend to such a dispute. memory/microcontrollers of these three components.
o Inter-state water disputes. UNDERSTANDING ELECTRONIC VOTING MACHINES

(EVMs)
o Matters referred to the Finance Commission.
● EVMs are devices utilized to electronically record and
o Adjustment of certain expenses and pensions
count votes cast in elections.
between the Centre and the states.
● Introduced in 1982 in the Paravur Assembly
o Ordinary dispute of Commercial nature between the
constituency of Kerala, EVMs consist of a 'control unit'
Centre and the states.
and a 'balloting unit' connected by a 5-meter cable.
o Recovery of damages by a state against the Centre.
● The control unit, managed by an Election Commission-
Note: In 1961, the first suit, under the original jurisdiction appointed polling officer, serves as the EVM's brain.
of the Supreme Court, was brought by West Bengal against
● The balloting unit, located in the voting compartment,
the Centre. The State Government challenged the
enables voters to cast their votes in secret by pressing
Constitutional validity of the Coal Bearing Areas
a button against the name and symbol of their chosen
(Acquisition and Development) Act, 1957, passed by the
candidate. It is activated only after the polling officer
Parliament. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the
presses the 'Ballot' button.
suit by upholding the validity of the Act.
VOTER VERIFIED PAPER AUDIT TRAIL (VVPAT)
● VVPAT serves as an independent verification system for
SUPREME COURT voting machines, allowing voters to confirm that their
votes were recorded accurately.
ENDORSES EVMs ● It contains the candidate's name and symbol for whom
#Elections the vote was cast. When a vote is cast, the VVPAT

Governance
machine, attached to the Ballot Unit (BU) of the EVM, ● Punitive detention, on the other hand, serves to
prints out a paper slip displaying the voter's choice for penalize an individual for an offense committed
seven seconds, visible through glass. subsequent to trial and conviction in a court of law.
● The slip then falls into a box underneath. The VVPAT CONSTITUTIONAL SAFEGUARDS
concept emerged in 2010 and was first implemented in ● To curb the arbitrary use of preventive detention, the
the Noksen Assembly constituency of Nagaland in 2013, Constitution incorporates several safeguards under
following amendments to the Conduct of Elections Article 22:
Rules, 1961.
o Individuals can only be held in preventive custody for
SYMBOL LOADING UNIT (SLU) a maximum of three months initially. If the detention
● The SLU is utilized to load candidate symbols onto the extends beyond this period, it must be referred to an
VVPAT. Symbol loading occurs between five to two days Advisory Board.
before voting commences.
o Detainees are entitled to be informed of the grounds
● After symbol loading, the SLUs are transferred to the for their detention, although the state may withhold
district election officer for safekeeping until the day this information if it deems it in the public interest to
after voting. do so.
● While the VVPAT system represents a significant o Detaining authorities must afford the detainee the
advancement in transparency and accountability in earliest opportunity to make representations against
Indian elections, it continues to face criticism and their detention.
scrutiny regarding its efficacy, cost, and implementation
ARGUMENTS SUPPORTING PREVENTIVE DETENTION
challenges.
● Detaining individuals involved in activities like sedition
● Nevertheless, unwarranted scepticism and "blind
or espionage helps safeguard the integrity and
distrust" hinder progress. Addressing these concerns
sovereignty of the nation.
necessitates efforts to enhance the reliability,
accessibility, and public acceptance of the VVPAT ● Given the array of internal and external security
system. threats confronting India, such as terrorism and
insurgency, preventive detention is deemed essential to
address these challenges effectively.
PREVENTIVE DETENTION ● Preventive detention serves as a means to quell civil
#Fundamental Rights unrest, communal tensions, and public
disturbances, thereby preserving public order.
● The existence and occasional use of preventive
Recently, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court ruled in favor of detention laws act as a deterrent to those
releasing Jaffar Ahmad Parray, who had been detained under contemplating unlawful activities, dissuading them
the state’s Public Safety Act, 1978 (PSA). from proceeding with their plans.
UNDERSTANDING PREVENTIVE DETENTION ARGUMENTS AGAINST PREVENTIVE DETENTION
● Preventive detention is the act of detaining an
● The roots of preventive detention laws in India trace
individual to forestall potential criminal activity. It is a
back to the colonial era, where they were often
measure employed by the administration based on the
employed to suppress freedom fighters, raising
suspicion that the person in question may engage in
questions about their compatibility with democratic
actions detrimental to the state.
principles.
● The grounds for preventive detention include ensuring
● Unlike in countries like Britain, the United States, and
the security of the state, maintaining public order,
Canada, where preventive detention is typically
safeguarding essential services and defense, and
reserved for wartime, India permits its use during
protecting foreign affairs or the security of India.
peacetime, raising questions about its necessity
DISTINGUISHING PUNITIVE DETENTION and proportionality.

Governance
● Granting the state the discretion to withhold grounds To address concerns surrounding preventive detention,
for detention may pave the way for arbitrary actions enhancing safeguards is imperative to minimize the risk of
by authorities. misuse. Judicial oversight can play a crucial role in ensuring
● The Constitution’s provision for preventive detention that the government adheres to legal procedures when
seemingly contradicts the fundamental rights exercising preventive detention powers. In conclusion,
enshrined in Part III, which could potentially lead to while preventive detention may be deemed necessary
abuse of power. under certain circumstances, striking a balance between
safeguarding national security and upholding individual
● Allowing authorities to arrest individuals based solely
liberties is essential.
on reasonable suspicion without a warrant raises
concerns about the arbitrary nature of such actions.
practice questions
MCQs
Q1. Consider the following statements: 3. Participatory Democracy: It incorporates
1. Climate change might affect the right to equality. measures of rule of law, checks and balances and
2. Climate change might affect everyone’s Right to life. civil liberties.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Which of the above are correctly defined?
(a) 1 Only (b) 2 Only (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) All 3 (d) None
Q2. Which of the following Supreme Court cases deal Q4. Consider the following statements regarding
with the protection of Environment: Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)
1. Rural Litigation and Entitlement Kendra vs. State 1. It serves as an independent verification system for
voting machines, allowing voters to confirm that
2. M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India
their votes were recorded accurately.
3. Subhash Kumar v. State of Bihar
2. It contains the candidate's name and symbol for
Choose the correct answer from the code given below:
whom the vote was cast.
(a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
3. When a vote is cast, the VVPAT machine, attached to
(c) All 3 (d) None the Ballot Unit (BU) of the EVM, prints out a paper
slip displaying the voter's choice for seven seconds,
Q3. Consider the following well accepted definition visible through glass.
of Democracy: Choose the correct answer from the code given below:
1. Electoral Democracy: Whether elections were free (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2
and fair, as well as the prevalence of a free and (c) All 3 (d) None
independent media.
2. Liberal Democracy: Degree to which citizens
Q5. Consider the following statements:
participate in their own government through local
Statement-I: A person arrested under Public Safety Act,
democratic institutions, civil society organizations,
1978 (PSA) will not get the procedural protection under
direct democracy.
Article 22.

Governance
Statement-II: Protection against arrest and detention is (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and
available to all the persons except those who are arrested Statement-II is not the correct explanation for
under a preventive detention law or they are enemy alien. Statement-I
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement- II is incorrect
above statements? (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and
Statement-II is the correct explanation for
Statement-I
Q1. Highlight the extent of environmental jurisprudence of the Supreme Court of India. Highlight the significance of
recently proclaimed right against the adverse effects of climate change.
Q2. What is preventive detention? What is the position of preventive detention in the Indian Constitution?
Answers: 1-c, 2-d, 3-a, 4-c, 5-a

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS &
SECURITY
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper II & III (Main)
Mains Exhaustive
WEST ASIA: A REGION OF
WHAT IS HAPPENING IN WEST ASIA?
● West Asia is currently experiencing significant
POWER STRUGGLE turbulence. What began as a direct clash between
Israel and Hamas has escalated into a broader
#Extended Neighborhood regional security crisis.
● Various actors such as Hezbollah, Kataib Hezbollah,
Hashad al-Shabi, the Houthis, Iran, Pakistan, and
The Iran-Israel conflict has engulfed the entire West Asia
the United States are now involved, expanding the
region and heightened concerns about the potential for a
conflict’s scope. As Israel’s conflict with Gaza persists,
broader conflict.
resulting in a tragic loss of over 24,000 lives within 100
Iran launched a series of drone and missile strikes on Israel days, the broader security crisis in the region is
following an Israeli air strike that targeted the Iranian deepening.
embassy compound in Damascus. Iran’s attack on Israel ● And on the other hand, the Houthis, Yemen’s Shia
marks a new chapter in the ties between the two countries. militias, have initiated assaults on commercial ships in
Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the relationship the Red Sea, purportedly in support of the Palestinians.
between the two changed drastically with Tehran at one point With significant control over Yemen, particularly its Red
calling the Jewish nation ‘Little Satan’. Sea shoreline, the Houthis have consistently employed
maritime obstruction strategies, resulting in the
targeting of numerous vessels.
● Consequently, several major shipping companies have
opted to halt their operations in the Red Sea, a crucial
maritime passage linking the Mediterranean Sea with
the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean via the Suez
Canal and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
● These significant issues have engulfed the whole West
Asia into the war situation and region is experiencing a
serious security threat at multiple fronts.
● The current situation is marked by instability.
Historically, West Asia has been a hotspot for conflicts,
involving both nation states like Iran and Iraq, and
Israel and Arab nations, as well as state and non-state
actors such as Hezbollah and Hamas.

International Relations & Security
● However, the region is currently facing a widespread in neighbourhood, which could directly or indirectly
security crisis, with powerful states and non-state affect India’s security.
actors all playing a role. INDIA’S APPROACH TOWARDS WEST ASIA
WEST ASIA CRISIS AND ITS IMPACT ON INDIA ● Look West Policy: India's Look West Policy is a
For New Delhi, a potential escalation as a result of the strategic approach aimed at strengthening ties with the
tension means an impact on mainly three accounts: countries of West Asia. It focuses on energy security,
economic opportunities, diaspora welfare, security
People:
cooperation, and enhancing India's strategic influence
● Diaspora: The Indian diaspora in West Asian countries,
in the region.
estimated to be around 8 to 9 million, could indeed
● I2U2: The I2U2 Group is a grouping of India, Israel, the
face heightened security concerns and disruptions in
United Arab Emirates, and the United States which aim
their daily lives due to escalating conflicts in the region.
to cooperate on joint investments and new initiatives in
● Remittances: Considering the significant role that
water, energy, transportation, space, health, and food
remittances (around $40 Billion annually) play in security.
Indian economy, any disruption in the flow of
● IMEC: The India-Middle East Corridor is another
remittances from the West Asian region could have far-
connectivity initiative to stimulate economic
reaching consequences. Any decline in these
development through enhanced connectivity and
remittances could impact the livelihoods of millions
economic integration between Asia, Arabian Peninsula
of families across the country. and Europe.
Economic interests:
● Trade and commerce: The recent Houthi’s attack on
the commercial ships in Red Sea poses a threat to the
maritime trade routes, considering the substantial
volume of merchandise trade passing through this
strategic waterway.
● Impact on Investments: The crisis may impact India’s
investments, particularly in projects like the Chabahar
India must prioritize fostering trust among West Asian
port, which holds strategic importance for India’s
nations, demonstrating a clear stance on various matters,
connectivity with Central Asia and beyond. Further, it
proactively addressing the challenges faced by its
will also dent the prospects of multilateral architecture
significant expatriate community in the region, securing
laid down by I2U2 (India, United States, Israel and
its trade and energy needs, all while exercising caution to
United Arab Emirates)
avoid entanglements in potentially contentious
Strategic needs: international alliances.
● Energy security: India heavily relies on the West Asian
region for its oil (80% of total supplies) and natural ANDAMAN & NICOBAR:
gas (45% of the total supplies) with Iraq and Saudi
Arabia as major contributors. Any conflict will impact INDIA’S STRATEGIC ISLAND
India’s energy security by eventually increasing the #Maritime Security
prices of oil and gas.
● Security concerns: As West Asia has been a breeding
The Indian government established a joint and unified
ground for various extremist groups (Hezbollah,
operational command in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Houthis etc.) it can lead to the proliferation of terrorism aimed at bolstering maritime security.

● During World War II, the Japanese occupied the islands

with plans to invade India. However, the British took
back control after the war.
● Before India’s independence, there was a debate about
the fate of these islands. British military leaders
suggested keeping them as British territory due to their
strategic location. However, British Prime Minister
Clement Atlee decided to give them to India, especially
after the Partition plan was accepted.
● In 1962, when the Indian Navy reported a possible
Chinese submarine sighting near the islands, the
government finally acted. They stationed 150 sailors
there to form a naval garrison for security.
● During the 1965 India-Pakistan war, Pakistan tried to
get Indonesia's support. Indonesia even considered
taking over the Andaman Islands, seeing them as part
of Sumatra and in a strategic location between East
Pakistan and Indonesia. However, the war ended
before any action was taken.
ANDAMAN & NICOBAR: HISTORICAL BACKGROUND Further in 1976, the A&N naval garrison, bolstered by
army reinforcements, was elevated to the status of
● After the 1857 War of Independence, the British set up
Fortress Andaman & Nicobar. Following a security
a prison colony in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
reassessment after the Kargil War in 2001, India
and sent many Indian freedom fighters there for life.
inaugurated its inaugural joint/unified operational
● These islands gained a grim reputation, known as command — the Andaman Nicobar Command (ANC)
kalapani, and were largely ignored by the Indian (i.e., Theatre Command) situated in Port Blair.
government in Delhi due to their remote location.
THEATRE WARFARE AND THEATRE COMMAND

● The word ‘theatre warfare’ means the entire land, sea ● The proposal for integrated theatre commands raises
and air areas are involved directly in war operations. concerns about the potential diminishment of the
● Theatre command refers to unified command under authority of the three service chiefs. The Indian Air
which all the resources of the Army, the Navy and the Force has voiced apprehensions regarding this
Air Force are pooled, depending on the threat concept, fearing a potential relegation to a supporting
perception. role if theatre commands are implemented. Moreover,
● There will be one commander who will control all the there is a perception that the establishment of theatre
assets and forces of Air Force and Army which will lead commands could result in an imbalance of power,
to greater jointness and coordination in response. potentially favoring the Army over the other
● The commands could be geographical — like looking at branches of the armed forces.
a border with a particular country — or thematic, like a
SIGNIFICANCE OF MARITIME SECURITY
command for all maritime threats.
● Freedom of Navigation: Many nations rely heavily on
NEED FOR THEATRE COMMAND
maritime routes for the transportation of goods,
● Enhanced coordination between the armed forces for
energy resources, and raw materials. Unimpeded
prompt and effective military response during conflict
navigation allows ships to move efficiently and safely
or war.
across the oceans, avoiding unnecessary delays and
● Having a unified approach during defence acquisition
costs.
will reduce the cost of procurement. E.g., Army and IAF
acted in silos during procurement of Apache ● Trade & Commerce: Secure shipping lanes facilitate
helicopters which increased their cost. the movement of goods between nations, contributing
● The theatre command system will help remove to economic growth and stability. Threats such as
redundancies, reducing duplication of resources and piracy, terrorism, and illicit activities can disrupt trade
bring greater focus in the allocation of resources. routes, leading to increased costs, supply chain
● Unified approach to fighting any future war: A potential disruptions, and economic losses. E.g., Houthis attack
conflict with a major military power like China may in Red Sea impacted trade and commerce.
extend well beyond the typical theatres into the ● Humanitarian assistance during disasters: Secure
domains of cyber, space and nuclear, which requires a maritime routes allow humanitarian organizations and
more integrated response from the Indian armed governments to deploy relief supplies, medical
forces. assistance, and personnel to disaster-stricken regions
● Moreover, all major countries globally have already efficiently. E.g., during cyclones, tsunami etc.
restructured their armed forces on the lines of ● Search & rescue operations: Maritime security
Integrated Theatre commands. E.g., China, USA, UK, encompasses the protection of vessels and individuals
Russia etc. at sea, including search and rescue operations for
CONCERNS AGAINST THEATRE COMMAND distressed ships and mariners. Timely and effective
● Lack of consensus over basic structure of Theatre

search and rescue efforts are essential for saving lives
and preventing it from escalating into humanitarian
command itself, that is, who reports to whom and how
does the chain of command flow. These involve issues crises.
of operational command and control over assets. ● Countering piracy and smuggling: Piracy and
● Existing mismatch between the assets of the army,

smuggling pose significant threats to maritime security,
endangering the lives of crew members, disrupting
navy and air force. With fewer perceived resources, the
trade routes, and undermining regional stability.
Indian Air Force has concerns about its limited assets
getting spread out thinly over the different theatre Maritime security efforts involve the deployment of
naval patrols, surveillance systems, and international
commands.

cooperation to detect and deter piracy, smuggling, and STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF THE ANDAMAN AND
other illicit activities at sea. NICOBAR ISLANDS
As the primary security provider in the region, the ● Located: 700 nautical miles southeast of the Indian
Andaman & Nicobar Command is tasked with preventing mainland.
potential interference from a range of state and non-state ● The Malacca Strait, connecting the Indian Ocean to the
actors. To fulfill this role effectively, it must maintain a Pacific, is situated nearby.
comprehensive awareness of maritime activities across ● Sabang in Indonesia is 90 nautical miles southeast
three dimensions, employing a diverse array of resources of Indira Point (on Great-Nicobar Island), and Coco
including radars, aircraft, satellites, and unmanned Island (Myanmar) is barely 18 nautical miles from
the northernmost tip of the Andamans.
vehicles.
o Myanmar has leased Coco Islands to China for the
purpose of setting up a listening post.
ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR, ● Share four of India's international maritime zone
THROUGH A STRATEGIC delimitations with Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia,

and Bangladesh.
LENS ● Give India substantial ocean space under the

United Nations Conference on the Laws of the Sea
#Maritime Security (UNCLOS) in terms of exclusive economic zone and
continental shelf.
● These islands dominate the Bay of Bengal and the
The transformation of India's Look East policy into a robust
Six Degree and Ten Degree channels which more
Act East policy and the critical importance of ocean power,
than 60,000 commercial vessels traverse each year.
have brought a degree of seriousness to the imperative of
developing Indian island territories in general, and the ● Other countries, notably China, have expanded their
Andaman and Nicobar group in particular. presence in the region.
o Naval vessels camouflaged as fishing boats have
been sighted.
● Serious challenge: Build-up of Chinese maritime
forces at the eastern choke points of the Indo-
Pacific.
o Malacca (between Sumatra and the Malay
peninsula),
o Sunda (between Java and Sumatra),
o Lombok (between Bali and Lombok),
o Ombai- Wetar (off East Timor) straits.
● Against such challenges, A&N Islands should be the
first line of offence against any attempt from the East
to undermine India's maritime security.
Prelims Nuggets
WADGE BANK Indian diplomats, with previous experience in engaging with
Sri Lanka, emphasized that Delhi successfully gained access
to Wadge Bank and its abundant resources.

ABOUT WADGE BANK ● The India-Sri Lanka agreement of 1976 recognised

the Wadge Bank as part of India’s exclusive
economic zone, granting India sovereign rights over
the area and its resources. Under the agreement, Sri
Lankan fishing vessels and personnel were not allowed
to engage in fishing activities in the Wadge Bank.
BALTIMORE
The March 26 collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has
brought attention to the Port of Baltimore, one of the busiest
● The Wadge Bank, located south of Kanyakumari, is a harbours in the U.S. Consequently, shipping activities were
resource-rich submarine plateau. halted, and all vessel traffic in and out of the port was
immediately suspended.
ABOUT PORT OF BALTIMORE (UNITED STATES) ● The Port handles one-fourth of the country's coal
● The Port of Baltimore is a shipping port along the tidal exports.
basins of the three branches of the Patapsco River in ● It is a major hub for the import and export of
Baltimore, Maryland, on the upper northwest shore of motorized vehicles.
the Chesapeake Bay. ● 5 terminals of Baltimore: Dundalk Marine Terminal,
● It is one of the nation’s largest port facility for Seagirt Marine Terminal, Fairfield Marine
specialized cargo and passenger facilities.

Automobile Terminal, North Locust Point, South ● It significantly increases the IAEA’s ability to verify the
Locust Point. peaceful use of all nuclear material in States with
comprehensive safeguards agreements.
● As a non-signatory to the NPT, India lacks
INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC comprehensive safeguards that NNWS signatories to
ENERGY AGENCY (IAEA)

NPT have. India’s Additional Protocol stipulates that
only certain facilities are placed under safeguards.
Context: The U.N. nuclear watchdog’s Board of Governors will ● India’s Additional Protocol applies many of the
hold an emergency meeting to discuss attacks on the voluntary safeguards provisions that exist for nuclear
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. weapon states, although India is not recognized by
the IAEA as a nuclear weapon state.
Note: As of 31 March 2023, Additional Protocols are in force
with 141 States and Euratom. Another 13 States have signed
an Additional Protocol but have yet to bring it into force.
INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY (IAEA)

● It was created in 1957 in response to the deep fears and ISLAMIC REVOLUTIONARY
expectations generated by the discoveries and diverse
uses of nuclear technology. GUARD CORPS (IRGC)
● The Agency was set up as the world’s “Atoms for Peace” Context: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has
organization within the United Nations family. claimed the responsibility of missile attack on Israel.
● It is the world’s central intergovernmental forum for

scientific and technical cooperation in the nuclear field.
● It works for the safe, secure and peaceful uses of
nuclear science and technology, contributing to
international peace and security and the United
Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
● Though established independently of the United
Nations through its international treaty, the IAEA
Statute, the IAEA reports to both the United Nations
General Assembly and Security Council.
● India is a founding member of the IAEA.
● Signature and ratification of Nuclear Non-Proliferation

Treaty (NPT) are not preconditions for membership in
ABOUT THE ISLAMIC REVOLUTIONARY GUARD CORPS
the IAEA.
(IRGC)
● North Korea is not a member.
● The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also called
● IAEA has 178 members.
Sepah or Pasdaran, is a multi-service primary branch
● Headquarters: Vienna, Austria. of the Iranian Armed Forces.
ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL ● It was officially established by Ruhollah Khomeini as a
● Additional Protocol is not a stand-alone agreement. military branch in May 1979, in the aftermath of the
● Each of the safeguard agreements may be Iranian Revolution.
complemented with an Additional Protocol that ● Whereas the Iranian Army protects the country's
includes provisions for information about, and access sovereignty in a traditional capacity, the IRGC’s
to, all parts of a State's nuclear fuel cycle, from mines constitutional mandate is to ensure the integrity of
to nuclear waste. the Islamic Republic.

● Currently, the IRGC is designated as a terrorist and, in the judgment of the Organization, can carry out
organization by Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Sweden and these obligations.
the United States. ● States are admitted to membership in the United
Nations by a decision of the General Assembly upon
the recommendation of the Security Council.
NAGORNO KARABAKH RECOGNITION BY UNITED NATIONS
Russian peacekeepers have commenced their withdrawal ● The recognition of a new State or Government is an act
from Nagorno-Karabakh after Azerbaijan’s recapture of the that only other States and Governments may grant or
disputed territory from Armenian separatist control last year. withhold. It generally implies readiness to assume
ABOUT NAGORNO-KARABAKH REGION diplomatic relations.
● It is a landlocked mountainous region, encircled by ● United Nations is neither a State nor a government, and
Azerbaijan. therefore does not possess any authority to recognize
either a State or a Government.
● The region is majorly inhabited by ethnic Armenians.
● As an organization of independent States, it may admit
● The region has been subject of territorial dispute
a new State to its membership or accept the credentials
between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
of the representatives of a new Government.
● Nagorno-Karabakh region has been under the self-
Note: There are two non-member observer states: the Holy
declared Republic of Artsakh.
See and Palestine.
SHANGHAI COOPERATION
ORGANISATION (SCO)
Context: In the recent SCO Defence Ministers’ meet, India
emphasized the need to adopt a zero-tolerance approach
towards terrorism in all its forms for prosperity and
development of the SCO member states.
● In 2023, Azerbaijan attacked the Nagorno-Karabakh

region. The attack resulted in the removal of
institutions of Republic of Artsakh. Nagorno-Karabakh ● It is a permanent intergovernmental international
was connected to Armenia by a small corridor known organization established in 2001, in Shanghai (PRC) by
as Lachin Corridor. the Republic of Kazakhstan, the People’s Republic of
China, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the
● More than half the population of Nagorno-Karabakh
Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Uzbekistan.
region has fled to Armenia. Armenia has accused
Its predecessor was the mechanism of the Shanghai
Azerbaijan of committing ethnic cleansing in the region.
Five.
● Internally, the SCO adheres to the “Shanghai spirit”,
PERMANENT STATUS namely, mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality,
consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations and
Algeria moves the resolution advocating for Palestine’s full
pursuit of common development; and externally, it
membership at United Nations.
upholds non-alignment, non-targeting at other
MEMBERSHIP AT UNITED NATIONS
countries or regions and the principle of openness.
● It is open to all peace-loving States that accept the
● The supreme decision-making body of the SCO is the
obligations contained in the United Nations Charter
Council of Heads of States (CHS). It meets once a

year and decide upon all the important issues of the c) to jointly ensure and maintain peace, security and
Organization. stability in the region.
● The Organization has 2 standing bodies: the d) to promote a new democratic, fair and rational
Secretariat in Beijing and the Executive Committee of international political and economic international
the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in order.
Tashkent. DECISION TAKING PROCEDURE IN SCO
● Current members of SCO: The Republic of India, the ● The SCO bodies shall take decisions by agreement
Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of Kazakhstan, without vote and their decisions shall be considered
the People’s Republic of China, the Kyrgyz Republic, adopted if no member State has raised objections
the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Russian during its consideration (consensus), except for the
Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan, the Republic of decisions on suspension of membership or expulsion
Uzbekistan. from the Organization that shall be taken by
● The goals of the SCO are: “consensus minus one vote of the member State
a) to strengthen mutual trust, friendship and good concerned”.
neighborliness between the Member States ● Any member State may state its opinion on aspects
b) to encourage the effective cooperation between and/or concrete issues of the decisions taken which
the Member States in such spheres as politics, shall not be an obstacle to taking the decision. This
trade, economy, science and technology, culture, opinion shall be placed on record.
education, energy, transport, tourism,
environmental protection, etc.
practice questions
MCQS
Q1. With reference to the Shanghai Cooperation 1. The membership to UN is open to all peace-loving
Organisation (SCO), consider the following States that are ruled by a sovereign government.
statements: 2. States are admitted to membership in the UN by a
1. It is a permanent intergovernmental organisation decision of the General Assembly upon the
established in 2001. recommendation of the Security Council.
2. The Council of Heads of State (HSC) is the highest 3. The United Nations possess the authority to
decision-making body in the SCO which meets once recognize either a State or a Government.
every year. How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
3. Decisions by council shall be considered adopted if (a) Only one
no member State has raised objections during its (b) Only two
consideration. (c) All three
How many of the statements given above is/are correct? (d) None
(a) Only one
(b) Only two Q3. Consider the following pairs:
(c) All three Regions often seen in news Location
(d) None 1. Nagorno Karabakh Armenia
Q2. With reference to the United Nations (UN), 2. Mogadishu Somalia
consider the following statements: 3. Amhara Iran
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(a) Only one 1. India is one of the founding member of the IAEA.
(b) Only two 2. Country must sign and ratify the Treaty on the Non-
(c) All three Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to become
(d) None member of IAEA.
3. A country must sign and ratify IAEA’s additional
Q4. The terms ‘Sepah’ or ‘Pasdaran’ are sometimes protocol after becoming a member.
appearing in news, are used in relation to How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) communication networking (a) Only one
(b) terrorist groups (b) Only two
(c) measurement of land (c) All three
(d) Border gateway (d) None
Q5. With reference to the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA), consider the following
statements:
Q1. In the contemporary security paradigms, to what extent do you believe the implementation of Theatre Commands
could enhance national security and optimize operational effectiveness? (Answer in 150 words)
Q2. To what extent, in your opinion, have the present complexities in South Asia influenced the bilateral relations
between India and Nepal? Also discuss the key factors shaping the dynamics of India-Nepal ties in the contemporary
geopolitical arena. (Answer in 250 words)
Answers : 1-c, 2-a, 3-a, 4-b, 5-a

SOCIETY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE
# GS Paper I & GS Paper II (Main)
AYUSHMAN BHARAT
Aadhaar card, they can also use their driver's
license or mobile number.
HEALTH ACCOUNTS o It intends to create a digital health ecosystem &

aims to promote digitization of healthcare.
(ABHA) o Any individual can enrol in Ayushman Bharat Digital
#Health #Government Scheme Mission (ABDM) to generate a Health ID or ABHA,
free of cost.
o It integrates electronic health records, facilitating
Central government employees enrolled in the Central the storage and retrieval of patient information.
Government Health Scheme (CGHS) are required to link o The accounts are designed to be portable across
their CGHS beneficiary ID with their Ayushman Bharat various healthcare providers empanelled under
Health Account (ABHA) ID. the ABS, allowing beneficiaries to access services
seamlessly, regardless of their location.
o It incorporates real-time monitoring mechanisms
to track the utilization of funds and ensure that
resources are allocated efficiently.
o By promoting digital transactions and
maintaining electronic records, enhances
transparency and accountability in the healthcare
system, reduces the scope for corruption and
ensures that funds are utilized for their intended
purpose.
• Components:
o Beneficiary Identification: It involves the
AYUSHMAN BHARAT HEALTH ACCOUNT (ABHA)
identification and registration of eligible
• Nodal ministry: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare beneficiaries and each beneficiary is assigned a
• Component of: Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan unique health identification number (UHID) to
Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) facilitate tracking and management.
• Aim: To facilitate cashless transactions and manage o Funds Management: It manages the allocation and
financial aspects related to healthcare services under disbursement of funds for healthcare services
the Ayushman Bharat scheme (ABS). availed by beneficiaries, and ensures that funds are
• Key features: It is a 14 digit account/ number used transferred to healthcare providers promptly and
to link all the health records of a person. securely.
o There are two ways to get an ABHA health ID. Users o Claim Settlement: It processes and settles claims
can use their Aadhaar number along with some submitted by healthcare providers for services
basic information like your name, birthday, rendered to beneficiaries by verifying the
gender, and address. If users don't have an authenticity of claims and disbursing payments
accordingly.

Society and Social Justice
o Audit and Oversight: It incorporates audit and One Health Mission for integrated disease control and
oversight mechanisms to monitor the utilization of pandemic preparedness
funds and detect any irregularities or discrepancies. ABOUT ONE HEALTH
• Benefits: Reduces out-of-pocket expenses for • One Health is an integrating idea that brings different
beneficiaries and enhances access to quality sectors together to solve the health, productivity, and
healthcare. conservation challenges and has major implications
o By facilitating cashless transactions and electronic for India.
health records, it minimizes administrative • India with its diverse wildlife, one of the largest
hassles and delays, allowing healthcare providers livestock populations and high density of human
to focus on patient care. population, carries heightened risks for inter-
o Through data generation, it helps in addressing compartmental spread of diseases.
healthcare challenges effectively and improving ABOUT NATIONAL ONE HEALTH MISSION
the overall quality of care.
• Launched in 2022.
• The goal is to develop strategies for integrated
NATIONAL ONE HEALTH disease surveillance, joint outbreak response,

coordinated research and development (R&D) and
MISSION ensure seamless information sharing for better control
of routine diseases as well as those of a pandemic
#Health nature.
• It will help India to achieve integrated disease control
The union cabinet approves creation of post of Director of and pandemic preparedness by institutionalizing the
National Institute of One Health to spearhead National One Health approach

• Under the mission, a national network of high-risk Ministries of Health, Animal Husbandry and
pathogen (Biosafety level or BSL 3 and BSL 4) Environment as well as Defence came together to
laboratories has been created. shape the mission, taking one of the most holistic
• Under the mission, efforts are being made to apply approaches to one health and pandemic preparedness
artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning and in the world.
disease modelling to address these issues and • While diseases that affect humans such as COVID-19,
coordinate capacity building in epidemiology across diseases that affect animals such as foot and mouth
sectors. disease or lumpy skin disease can hit productivity
• Emerging approaches such as genomic surveillance and trade. Similarly, these and other diseases such as
from wastewater showed promise during the COVID- canine distemper affect wild animals and their
19 pandemic. This will be expanded to other sentinels conservation. Only a coordinated approach is essential
such as places where animals (livestock or wildlife) to enhance readiness for prevalent diseases and
congregate for a broader set of diseases to be taken potential pandemic threats like avian influenza or
up so that we mainstream these approaches to be a Nipah.
part of routine surveillance across human, livestock • Pandemic preparedness is incomplete without there
and environmental sectors. being a focus on strong R&D. Focused R&D efforts are
• 13 Ministries and Departments as well as science crucial for enhancing preparedness against emerging
funding agencies such as Department Of Science and diseases by creating essential tools like vaccines,
Technology, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), therapeutics, and diagnostics, which are vital for
the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), both India and the global community.
the Department of Pharmaceuticals, and AYUSH, the
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ONE HEALTH (NIOH) approach is crucial for tackling zoonotic diseases,
which can jump from animals to humans.
• It is being set up in Nagpur, Maharashtra.
• The director of NIOH will serve as the mission
• It is part of a National One Health Mission.
director for the multi-ministerial and multi-sectoral
• The institute will focus on a ‘One Health’ approach,
National One Health Mission for integrated disease
recognizing the interconnectedness between control and pandemic preparedness by bringing
human, animal, and environmental health. This human, anima, plant and environmental sectors
together.

MALAS AND MADIGAS

Goods (FMCG) companies. This follows recent claims that
Nestle’s baby food products in India, as well as those in Africa
#Issues related to SCs & STs and Latin America, contain excessive sugar levels.
ABOUT FAST MOVING CONSUMER GOODS (FMCG)
• FMCGs are products that sell quickly at relatively low
The rivalry between Malas and Madigas, sub-castes among
cost. These goods are also called consumer packaged
Scheduled Castes (SCs) in Telangana, has come to the fore yet
goods.
again after political parties announced candidates for the
general elections. • They have a short shelf life because of high consumer
demand such as soft drinks and confections or
MADIGA
because they are perishable (e.g., meat, dairy
• Madiga community is a Telugu caste, mainly living in products, and baked goods).
the southern states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and
• There are several types of FMCGs such as:
Karnataka. However, they also live in Tamil Nadu,
Maharashtra and Odisha. o Processed foods such as cheese products, cereals,
and boxed pasta
• As per the 2011 census, the Madiga community in the
undivided Andhra Pradesh and Telangana constituted o Beverages such as bottled water, energy drinks, and
more than 48 per cent of the SC population juices
• They have their own classes; the priestly class is known o Fresh foods, frozen foods, and dry goods
as Madiga Dasari. o Medicines such as aspirin, pain relievers, and other
• The occupation of this community is primarily medication that can be purchased without a
associated with tanning leather, making footwear, prescription
belts, pouches, toddy-containers, and bags. o Cleaning products such as baking soda, oven
• This community is known for their expertise in crafting cleaner, and window and glass cleaner
the traditional drum called the Dappu. o Cosmetics and toiletries such as hair care products,
MALA concealers, toothpaste, and soap
• Mala is a Telugu caste from the Indian states of Andhra o Office supplies such as pens, pencils, and markers
Pradesh and Telangana. They are also present in • The FMCG sector, as India's fourth-largest industry,
smaller numbers in the states of Karnataka and employs about 3 million people, making up 5% of the
Maharashtra. country's total factory employment.
• According to 2001 census data, Malas constituted 41.6 ABOUT FSSA
percent (51.39 lakh) of the Scheduled Castes
• Body: Statutory body has been established
population in the then state of Andhra Pradesh, which
under Food Safety and Standards, 2006.It works as
also included the present state of Telangana.
an independent authority and attained a special
status. The FSS Act took 7 older acts into one
FOOD SAFETY AND umbrella.

o Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.
STANDARDS AUTHORITY o Fruit Products Order, 1955
OF INDIA (FSSAI) o Meat Food Products Order, 1973

o Vegetable Oil Products (Control) Order, 1947
#Health
o Edible Oils Packaging (Regulation) Order 1998
o Solvent Extracted Oil, De- Oiled Meal and Edible
The Union Consumer Affairs Ministry has asked the Food Flour (Control) Order, 1967
Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to investigate o Milk and Milk Products Order, 1992
the allegations against the leading Fast Moving Consumer

• Nodal ministry: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare,

is the Administrative Ministry for the
implementation.
• Headed by: Non-executive chairperson, appointed
by the Central Government, either holding or has
held the position of not below the rank of Secretary.
• Objective: To establish a single reference point for
all matters relating to food safety and standards, by
moving from multi- level, multi- departmental
control to a single line of command.
• They practise a hybrid of animistic and Hindu
doctrines. They execute religious rites and offerings at
MURIA TRIBE village shrines in order to worship a variety of gods and
spirits.
#Issues related to SCs & STs
• They observe a number of holidays throughout the
year, including the harvest festival of Dandari and
Muria tribe custom mandates that a man weaves a the new year festival of Narayanpur.
bamboo cradle (vookada) for his newborn baby as a • The Muria people also have a tradition of making and
lifetime memory for both the father and the child. The father drinking "handia," a hand-crafted rice beer.
must go into the forest, collect the bamboo, dry it, and weave • Language: The primary tongue is the Muria language,
the cradle with his own hands, with no help from anyone. which belongs to the Gondi linguistic family. One of the
largest indigenous tribal communities in India, the
Gond people speak a Dravidian language called Gondi.
• Style & attire: Their fashion sense and garb are a
reflection of their voluminous cultural heritage. Muria
men and women wear basic yet distinctive traditional
clothing that symbolises their rural and agrarian way
of life.
ABOUT GOND TRIBE
• They are one of the largest tribal groups in India,
predominantly residing in Madhya Pradesh,
ABOUT MURIA TRIBE Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Location: An adivasi (scheduled tribe) of the Bastar • The name Gond comes from Kond (means green
district of Chhattisgarh, India. They are part of the mountains).
Gondi people, and also have a large presence in the
• Main occupation is Agriculture or daily wages
nearby states of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.
• Their native language, Gondi, belongs to the
• Economic activity: They are predominantly agrarian
Dravidian family.
people, and farming and other forest-based activities
provide the majority of their income. • They believe in animistic belief system, where they
worship nature spirits and deities. They also revere
• Culture: They have a strong cultural history and
ancestors and have a rich tradition of folk worship
adhere to their own customs, rituals, and practices.
They have a unique system of social structure, and an • They have subdivided into various tribes such as
elder council oversees each of their settlements. raj gonds, madia, dhurve etc.
• They are renowned for their vibrant Gaur dance, • Rice is a celebratory food enjoyed during festivals,
which is performed during festivals and celebrations, millets like kodo and kutki form the foundation of
as well as their musical customs and dance forms. the Gond diet.

Mains Exhaustive
o Within households with small and marginal
CLIMATE CRISIS IS NOT landholdings, men often face social stigma from
GENDER NEUTRAL unpaid loans, leading to migration, distress, and

sometimes suicide, while women bear heavier
#Women domestic workloads, worsened health, and more
intimate partner violence.
• Water and sanitation: Extreme weather events
According to the United Nations Development Programme
disrupt water cycles, making access to safe drinking
(UNDP), women and children are 14 times more likely than
water difficult, increasing the burden on women and
men to die in a disaster.
girls responsible for water collection, thereby
reducing their time for productive work and
healthcare.
o A report from the Council on Energy,
Environment and Water (CEEW) in 2021 found
that 75% of Indian districts are vulnerable to
hydromet disasters (floods, droughts and cyclones).
NFHS 5 data showed that over half of women and
children living in these districts were at risk.
• Food and nutritional insecurity: Climate change-
induced food insecurity leads to poor physical and
IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON VULNERABLE mental health among women, who bear the brunt of
GROUPS increased domestic workloads and intimate partner
• Disproportionate health risks and mortality: violence due to resource scarcity.
Women and girls, especially in poverty, face o Data from NFHS 4 and 5 indicate that women in
significantly high health risks due to societal roles, drought-prone districts are more likely to be
responsibilities, and cultural norms. underweight, suffer from intimate partner violence,
o Prolonged heat is particularly dangerous for and experience higher rates of girl marriages. These
conditions, stemming from food and nutritional
pregnant women (increasing the risk of preterm
insecurity, increased workloads, and income
birth and eclampsia), young children, and the
uncertainty, detrimentally affect women's physical
elderly.
and mental health.
o Exposure to pollutants in the air (household and
WAY FORWARD
outdoor) affects women’s health, causing
• Empowering women in climate solutions:
respiratory and cardiovascular disease, and also
Recognizing and empowering women as key agents in
the unborn child, impairing its physical and
climate solutions can significantly improve outcomes.
cognitive growth.
As tribal and rural women have been key in
• Agriculture and livelihood vulnerabilities: environmental conservation efforts. Equipping
Agriculture, a vital livelihood source for women, women and their collectives such as Self-help Groups
especially in rural India, is severely affected by climate and Farmer Producer Organisations with
change. Climate-driven crop yield reductions lead to knowledge, tools, and resources can foster local
increased food insecurity, affecting nutritional climate solutions.
intake and exacerbating health and domestic • Addressing heat waves and water shortages:
challenges for women. Immediate actions include protecting priority groups

(outdoor workers, pregnant women, infants and young In a pre-election survey carried out by CSDS, 79% of people
children and the elderly) from heat. voted that India belongs to all religions. The belief in plurality
o Urban authorities need to implement heat wave and diversity of India is more pronounced in urban areas
plans(based on local temperature plus (84%) and higher among educated classes (83%).
humidity), including altering work and school About pluralism: Pluralism refers to the country's rich
timings, providing cooling facilities, and improving diversity in terms of cultures, religions, languages,
public drinking water access to prevent heat-related and traditions coexisting within one nation. India is
deaths. celebrated as a pluralistic society where various
o Long-term strategies involve improving tree cover, communities with different backgrounds and beliefs live
minimising concrete, increasing green-blue spaces together harmoniously.
and designing housing that is better able to CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS WITH RESPECT TO
withstand heat are longer-term actions. PLURALISM
CASE STUDY: ON URBAN PLANNING • Preamble: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution
declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, and
• The Mahila Housing Trust in Udaipur showed that
democratic republic. It further gives liberty of thought
painting the roofs of low-income houses with
expression belief faith and worship to all; this reflects
reflective white paint reduced indoor temperatures
the respect towards the ideal of secularism and
by 3° C to 4° C and improved quality of life.
religious pluralism from the outset.
• On water scarcity, leveraging India's traditional • Article 25 - Freedom of Religion: Article 25
rainwater harvesting expertise is vital. Work done by guarantees the freedom of conscience and the right to
the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation in a few freely profess, practice, and propagate religion. This
districts of Tamil Nadu showed that using geographic ensures that individuals have the right to follow any
information systems, the panchayat could map key religion of their choice without discrimination.
water sources, identify vulnerabilities and climate
• Article 26 - Freedom to Manage Religious Affairs:
hazards and develop a local plan to improve water
Article 26 grants every religious denomination or
access by directing government schemes and
section thereof the right to establish and maintain
resources.
institutions for religious and charitable purposes,
• Community-led resilience: Building resilience manage its own affairs in matters of religion, and own
through community-led initiatives, empowering local and acquire movable and immovable property.
bodies like panchayats and Self-Help Groups (SHGs),
• Article 27 - Freedom from Taxation for Religious
through devolution of powers and finances and
Purposes: Article 27 ensures that no person can be
investing in building the capacity of panchayat and
compelled to pay taxes for the promotion or
SHG members.
maintenance of any particular religion or religious
• Revising policy with a gender perspective: The institution.
National and State Action Plans on Climate Change
• Article 28 - Freedom from Religious Instruction in
(NAPCC & SAPCC) need to evolve beyond portraying
Educational Institutions: Article 28 provides that no
women merely as victims, acknowledging them as vital
religious instruction shall be provided in any
agents of change. This requires a shift towards gender-
educational institution wholly maintained by state
transformative strategies and a comprehensive
funds. However, it allows educational institutions
approach to climate adaptation.
established by religious minorities to impart religious
instruction to students of that religion.
MOST INDIANS BELIEVE IN • Article 29 - Protection of Interests of Minorities:

Article 29 protects the interests of minorities by
COUNTRY’S PLURALITY: granting them the right to conserve their distinct
language, script, or culture. This ensures the
CSDS SURVEY preservation of religious and cultural diversity in India.

• Article 30 - Right of Minorities to Establish and • Social Pluralism: Indian society comprises various
Administer Educational Institutions: Article 30 social groups based on factors such as caste,
provides religious and linguistic minorities with the ethnicity, and economic status. Despite historical
right to establish and administer educational challenges like the caste system, efforts towards social
institutions of their choice. This protects their equality and inclusivity have been undertaken (Article
autonomy in educational matters and allows them to 17, Protection of Civil Rights Act 1955, SCs and STs
impart education in accordance with their religious Prevention of atrocities act 1989), which are aimed
and cultural beliefs. at creating a more equitable society.
ASPECTS OF PLURALISM IN INDIA: • Artistic and Intellectual Pluralism: India has a rich
• Cultural Diversity: India is home to multiple cultures, tradition of art, architecture, literature, music, and
each with its own distinct traditions, art forms, philosophy, with contributions from diverse cultural
cuisines, and languages. Cultural diversity can be seen backgrounds. This plurality is reflected in classical
in festivals of Holi, Diwali, Eid, and Christmas to the dance forms, literary traditions, philosophical
varied cuisines of different regions, Indian culture schools of thought etc.
reflects a variety of influences. • Regional diversity: India has regions such as the
o Cultural pluralism ensures a state in which minority snow-capped mountains of Himalayas, to deserts of
groups maintain their own cultural identities Rajasthan to Evergreen forests of Northeast India to
while participating actively in all aspects of the the great plains of Northern India to the coastal plains
dominant society. of south India, all this contributes to distinct
o In a culturally pluralistic society, different groups subcultures and diversity of India.
are tolerant and can coexist without major CHALLENGES TO PLURALITY AND DIVERSITY OF INDIA
conflict, but minorities are encouraged
• Globalization: Globalization has been held
to maintain their ancestral customs.
responsible for creation of a monoculture which has
• Racial diversity: 1931 census classified India’s racial led to the erosion of social identity. Globalization
diversity in the following groups- Negrito, Proto- leads to homogenization of culture, where people
Australoid, Mongoloid, Mediterranean, Western consume the same cultural products regardless of
Brachycephals and Nordic. Representatives of all the their location. This has led to a loss of cultural
three major races of the world, namely Caucasoid, diversity and a weakening of local cultural
Mongoloid, and Negroid, are found in the country. identities.
• Religious Pluralism: India is birthplace to several • Exclusionary Nationalism: Exclusionary nationalism
major religions like Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, and
is a product of interwar period in Europe, but its impact
Jainism, among others. People of various faiths coexist
can be seen in 21st century as well, Exclusionary
peacefully, and religious tolerance is a fundamental
nationalist believe that country belongs to one
value enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
community or religion which is antithetical to the idea
• Linguistic Diversity: India has over 1,600 languages of diversity.
and dialects, which make it one of the most
• Regionalism: Regionalism highlight interests of a
linguistically diverse countries in the world. Linguistic
particular region/regions over national interests. It
diversity of India has been given constitutional
can also adversely impact national integration.
protection under Article 343-351 and Eighth
Overall law and order situation is hampered due to
schedule of Indian Constitution.
regional demands and socio-political agitations.
• Political Pluralism: India is a federal parliamentary
• Communal and divisive politics: At the time of
democratic republic, where power is shared between
elections, ascriptive identities such as caste, religion
the central government and individual states. Our
etc. are evoked by politicians to garner votes. This
democratic system allows for diverse political
type of divisive politics results in violence, feeling of
ideologies and parties to participate in elections and
mistrust and suspicion among minorities.
governance, enhancing our country's pluralistic ethos.

• Development deficit: Uneven pattern of socio- o Ambedkar said that an Indian village is “the
economic development, inadequate economic policies working plant of the Hindu social order” and
and consequent economic disparities can lead to argued that it is the ideal place to understand
backwardness of a region. Consequently, this can caste.
result in violence, migration and demands of o Ambedkar believed that the idealisation of Indian
separatism. For instance, economic backwardness was village life emerged either from the colonial
one of the reasons for the demand of Uttarakhand as romanticisation of the rural population or from the
a separate State. desire of Hindus to retain caste domination.
• Son of soil theory: This doctrine is exclusionary in VIEWS ON URBANISATION
nature. It ties people to their place of birth and
• Ambedkar: In the process of urbanisation, Ambedkar
confers some benefits, rights, roles, and
saw an opportunity for Dalit liberation. He believed
responsibilities on them, which may not apply to
that the systems of caste oppression that thrive in
others. (Discrimination against migrants from Bihar in
Indian villages become weaker in cities. These included
Maharashtra)
segregation of Dalits into ghettos, restrictions on
• External factors: Terrorism and armed militancy in economic activities, and denial of land ownership.
Kashmir region and Northeast region are responsible
• Jyotirao Phule: He had also admired city life for being
for destroying the interfaith and ethnic harmony in the
liberal and enabling him to earn a living. Cities offer an
regions.
opportunity to become a stranger among a sea of
Despite the challenges, there is no denying its essential strangers and transition from a caste-based order to a
role in sustaining and evolving Indian society. The real class-based order. One defined not by genealogy but
issue lies in how diversity is managed. Problems like by accumulation of resources or capital.
regionalism, communalism, and ethnic conflicts arise
CASTE DISCRIMINATION IN URBAN INDIA
when development benefits are unevenly distributed,
and certain cultural groups are not given proper • Language of purity-pollution: Caste translates into a
recognition. Therefore, addressing these disparities city’s spatiality through the language of ‘purity-
pollution’. A consumer survey in 2021 revealed that
through equitable development and fostering cultural
understanding is vital to mitigating such challenges and eating non-vegetarian food is the biggest deal-breaker
building a more inclusive and harmonious society. in finding rental housing in India.
o Gopal Guru (Indian political scientist) says that
the ghetto is not merely a space but also forms the
CASTE AND constitution of the body of the ghetto dweller. The
language of purity-pollution that identifies the
URBANISATION savarna space as ‘pure’ and one that can be polluted
#Caste System by the Dalit body, extends to the logic of the city.
o Ghettoisation of caste: Urban governance policies
and housing crises have also sustained caste-based
While transition to city life might have weakened some segregation.
structures of caste oppression, they have morphed through
o A large-scale study found that public services and
language, state sanction and policy, and have evolved to
access to municipal infrastructure such as clean
allow caste to thrive in Indian cities.
drinking water are the worst in Dalit and Muslim
VIEWS ON VILLAGE LIFE ghettos.
• Mahatma Gandhi saw the Indian village as a self- o Research in regions marked for severe
reliant, equitable and just non-violent order, and environmental pollution such as landfills shows that
argued for the decentralisation of power to the such areas are overwhelmingly inhabited by Dalits
villages through Gram Swaraj. and Muslims.
• B.R. Ambedkar rejected village life and encouraged o A recent report by the Housing and Land Rights
Dalits to move to the city. Network on forced evictions in India also shows that

Dalits and Muslims are the most impacted by slum including inter-caste dialogue, cultural exchange
demolition drives. programs, and community-building activities.
• Apartmentisation: In some cities, caste • Promote inter-caste interactions: Platforms can
discrimination still affects how people live. For encourage users to connect with potential partners
example, in residential areas, Dalits often have from different castes.
separate access to facilities like elevators and toilets. • Tenant support services: Establish tenant support
Domestic workers who live with their employers services to assist those facing caste discrimination in
usually have small rooms and bathrooms, or just a bed finding housing and enforcing their rights.
in a corner. Sometimes, they even have their own
separate entrances.
• Employment opportunities: OBCs and SCs end up RISE OF INDIA’S ELDERLY
working in the informal sector due to a combination of
limited job options and societal pressures linked to
POPULATION
caste. E.g. Some occupations are linked to caste such #Vulnerable population #Elderly
as manual scavenging. Population
• Economic discrimination and school choice: Lower
castes often face economic hardship, making private
schools with higher fees out of reach. This limits their There is a need for improved home-based care policies in
access to potentially better educational resources. India to support its ageing population, emphasising
standardised care, trained caregivers, and comprehensive
o Students from backward castes might be ostracized
regulatory frameworks.
by classmates or teachers due to their caste
RISE OF INDIA’S ELDERLY POPULATION: CHALLENGES
background. e.g. Dalit students shunned during
midday meals in Gujarat’s Morbi district. 1. Demographic Shifts and Their Implications: India is
witnessing a significant demographic shift as its elderly
• Caste based matrimonial: In urban areas, caste-
population (aged 60 years and above) is projected to rise
based matrimonial practices such as Rajput
sharply.
matrimony, Baniya Matrimony contribute significantly
to sustaining caste discrimination, despite the modern • From 100 million in 2011, this number is expected
and cosmopolitan facade of cities. Such matrimonial to more than double to 230 million by 2036, and
preferences reinforce caste identities and boundaries, reach nearly 319 million by 2050. This will constitute
limiting social interaction and integration across about one-fifth of the total population.
different caste groups. This perpetuation of caste lines • The catalysts for this trend are the declining fertility
through marriage not only entrenches social and rates and increased life expectancy, reflecting a
economic inequalities but also normalizes the broader global pattern of aging populations but
preference for intra-caste relationships, thereby presenting unique challenges for India.
obstructing efforts towards social cohesion. 2. Reduction in average household size :
WAY FORWARD • The reduction in average household size from 5.94
• Economic empowerment: Provide more economic in 2011 to 3.54 in 2021 signifies fewer younger family
opportunities, fair employment practices and skill members to care for the elderly.
development programs to uplift marginalized caste • This shift necessitates a comprehensive re-
communities in urban areas. evaluation of the health and social care systems to
• Housing policies: Develop housing policies that address the growing need for senior care, which
promote mixed-caste neighbourhoods and discourage blurs the lines between social care and healthcare due
segregation based on caste. to chronic illnesses prevalent among the elderly.
• Social inclusion initiatives: Support community-led 3. Home-Based Care: Expanding Needs and Services
initiatives that foster social cohesion and inclusion, • Home-based care in India has evolved significantly,
now encompassing not only assistance with daily

living activities but also routine and specialized • This requires regulatory changes, such as those
nursing care. proposed by the Insurance Regulatory and
• According to a report by NITI Aayog, home Development Authority of India (IRDAI), which
healthcare could potentially replace up to 65% of acknowledges home hospitalisation under specific
unnecessary hospital visits and reduce associated conditions.
costs by 20%. • Policymaking must also address the need for
standardized training and career paths for
WHAT IS HOME HEALTH CARE?
caregivers, along with establishing a
At its most basic level, home health care is exactly what
comprehensive registry of providers to ensure
the name suggests: “It’s care for someone within their
transparency and accountability.
home,”.
• Moreover, grievance redressal mechanisms and
DIFFERENT TYPES OF HOME HEALTH CARE
insurance coverage must be robust to safeguard all
There are two primary types of home health care: stakeholders involved.
• Medical Care This type of home health care—often 5. Special Considerations for Vulnerable Groups
called skilled care—is provided by a medical • The policy framework should specifically address the
professional, such as a physician, registered nurse needs of older women, who are more likely to outlive
or physical therapist. Services they could provide their male counterparts and spend a significant
include wound care and physical, occupational and portion of their lives as widows.
speech therapy. Other potential services include
• Tailored support for these women is crucial to
patient and caregiver education, injections and
ensure they live dignified and independent lives in
nutrition therapy. Medical home health care is
their later years.
prescribed by a doctor.
6. Legislative and Collaborative Efforts
• Non-Medical Care Non-medical care includes
• The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and
“assistance with activities of daily living—so, things
Senior Citizens (Amendment) Bill, 2019, is a
like bathing, dressing, meal preparation,
legislative step towards regulating home-based care,
transportation to and from physician appointments,
although it remains pending in Parliament since its
running errands, shopping and housekeeping,”. It’s
introduction.
provided by home health or home care aides.
• Enhanced cooperation among the Ministry of
CHALLENGES IN CAREGIVING Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of Social
• Despite this potential, home care practices lack Justice and Empowerment, and Ministry of Skill
standardization and formal recognition as Development and Entrepreneurship is critical to
professional service, leading to challenges in caregiver drive the necessary reforms and ensure that the
availability and quality. policies effectively address the needs of India's aging
• The market for home-based care is burgeoning, population.
with expectations to grow from approximately USD 6- CONCLUSION

7 billion in 2021 to USD 21 billion by 2027 at an While India continues to focus on its youth, it is imperative
annual growth rate of 15-19%. This growth, however, not to neglect the elderly, a growing demographic that
is predominantly driven by the private sector, requires equal attention and care. Learning from
emphasizing the need for greater regulatory oversight countries with advanced elderly care systems like
and support. Japan can help India build a robust framework that
4. Policy Interventions and Government Role supports its aging citizens while enabling the younger
population to contribute effectively to the nation's
• Recognizing "home" as a place of care and a formal
economy. The challenge is not only economic but also
workplace can protect and empower both caregivers
deeply rooted in social, ethical, and moral
and care recipients.
responsibilities towards the elderly.

o When poverty, physical neglect and social

DISABILITY AS A BASIS FOR marginalization intersect, the impact on the
DISCRIMINATION disabled can be devastating.

o Differently abled children are kept hidden away at
#Vulnerable Section their home, denied basic rights of mobility,
education, and employment. As a result of such
discrimination the differently abled children face
Election manifestos frequently neglect the rights of persons
chronic ill health, socio-economic burden, and
with disabilities. Currently, the Constitution only specifies
destitution.
discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or
• Denial of disability: Predominantly in the cases of
place of birth, omitting disability. This demand was also
mental or intellectual disability, the family members
underscored by the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons
are reluctant to accept the disability or refer to it as a
with Disabilities in 2019.
physical illness and treatable condition. This denial
Further, the Supreme Court of India, in its 2018 decision in becomes a hurdle for early identification and
Navtej Singh Johar vs Union of India, expanded Article 15's treatment.
protection to include 'sexual orientation.' This precedent
• Physical restraints: Superstitions in some
suggests that disability could also be considered under Article
communities lead to mistreatment of individuals with
15 by analogy. disabilities. People are often harmed by unqualified
WHAT IS A DISABILITY? practitioners who impose physical pain or dietary
Right of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016: Defines restrictions, falsely promising to cure their disabilities
“Person with disability” means a person with long • Social boycott: Children with disabilities (CWDs) are
term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory often excluded from social events, which also affects
impairments which, in interaction with barriers, their family members. This exclusion extends to
hinders his full and effective participation in society education and employment opportunities,
equally with others. contributing to feelings of being unwanted in society.
• Disabled Population in India as per census 2011 • Denial of property rights: Children with disabilities in
(2016 updated) – In India out of the 121 Cr population, India often face denial of their inheritance rights,
with families presuming their incapacity to
2.68 Cr persons are disabled which is 2.21% of the total
manage property and thus making them
population.
dependent on their able-bodied siblings.
• Among the disabled population 56% (1.5 Cr) are males
• Decreased marital life prospects: In India, having a
and 44% (1.18 Cr ) are females. In the total population,
family member with a disability can severely limit
the male and female population are 51% and 49%
marriage prospects due to stigma, often leading to
respectively.
concealing the disability, post-marriage conflicts, or
• Majority (69%) of the disabled population resided in pressured marriages within the family.
rural areas (1.86 Cr disabled persons in rural areas and • Implications on sexuality of a person with
0.81 Cr in urban areas). In the case of total population disability: Sexual identity, crucial for self-esteem and
also, 69% are from rural areas while the remaining 31% development, is often suppressed in children with
resided in urban areas. disabilities due to parental overprotection and
COMMON CHALLENGES societal views that see them as childlike and asexual
• Differently abled children are subjected to ugly • Women with disabilities: Disabled girls in India are
forms of discrimination: often denied education due to gender biases and
are more likely to drop out than boys. Post-puberty,
o Due to stigma associated with disabilities, families
they face increased protectionism and travel risks, and
become victims of discrimination and human rights
are viewed as non-earners, leading to less educational
abuse.
investment.

• Lack of investment in developing alternative schools various services to Persons with Disabilities, like
for disabled; Disabilities lack easy access to special schools, vocational training centres,
correctional and support devices especially in rural community based rehabilitation, pre-school and early
areas. Most public spaces are not disabled friendly. intervention etc.
o Education: There are various issues such as • Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase /
availability special schools, access to schools, fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP): Aims at helping
trained teachers, and availability of educational disabled persons by bringing suitable, durable,
materials for the disabled. scientifically manufactured, modern, standard aids
o Employment: Even though many disabled adults and appliances within their reach.
are capable of productive work, disabled adults WAY FORWARD
have far lower employment rates than the general There are several unmet challenges, which need to be
population. addressed among disability sector in India.
o Accessibility: Physical accessibility in buildings,
• Prevention
transportation, access to services etc still remain a
o A lot of disabilities are preventable: (Example
major challenge.
wasting of muscles due to Polio)
• Unavailability of data and statistics: due to difficult
to define disability  large number of disabilities are preventable,
including those arising from medical issues
o Coverage: Different purposes require different
during birth, maternal conditions, malnutrition,
disability data
as well as accidents and injuries.
o Reluctance in reporting disability as disability is
considered to be a stigma in many places/societies  However, the health sector especially in rural
India has failed to react proactively to disability
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS ON DISABILITY
o Preventive health programs need to be
• Article 41 of Constitution of India declares that the
strengthened and all children need to be screened
State shall, within the limits of its economic capacity
at a young age.
and development, make effective provision for
securing the right to work to education and to public o Case Study: Kerala has already started an early
assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness prevention programme. Comprehensive Newborn
and disablement and in other cases of undeserved Screening (CNS) programme seeks early
want. identification of deficits in infants and reduce the
• Article 46 lays down an obligation on the State to state’s burden of disability.
promote with special care the educational and • Awareness:
economic interests of the weaker sections of the
o People with disabilities need to be better integrated
people and protect them from social injustice and all
into society by overcoming stigma.
forms of exploitation.
o There should be awareness campaigns to educate
INITIATIVES TAKEN FOR DIFFERENTLY ABLED
and aware people about different kinds of disability.
• Right of persons with disabilities Act 2016
o Success stories of people with disabilities can be
• Accessible India Campaign: Creation of Accessible
showcased to inculcate positive attitude among
Environment for PwDs: A nation-wide flagship
people.
campaign for achieving universal accessibility that will
enable persons with disabilities to gain access for • Employment: Disabled adults need to be empowered
equal opportunity and live independently and with employable skills. Private sector needs to be
participate fully in all aspects of life in an inclusive encouraged to employ them.
society. • Better measurement: The scale of disability in India
• Deen Dayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme: needs to be better understood by improving the
Financial assistance is provided to NGOs for providing measurement of disability.

• Education: ABOUT FEMALE LABOUR FORCE PARTICIPATION

o State-wise strategies on education for children with (FLFPR) RATE IN INDIA
special needs need to be devised. There should be • It refers to women who are either working or looking
proper teacher training to address the needs of for a job, is below the global average of 47 percent for
differently abled children and facilitate their several years.
inclusion in regular schools. • The Periodic Labour Force Survey for 2022-23
o Further there should be more special schools and highlights that the FLFPR for prime working age group
ensure educational material for differently-abled (15 years & above) has increased considerably and
stood at 37%.
children.
o In Rural areas: 36.6% of females aged 15 years &
• Access: Safety measures like road safety, safety in
above are participating in the labour force, as
residential areas, public transport system etc, should
against 78.2% male in 2021-22.
be taken up Further, it should be made legally binding
to make buildings disabled-friendly
• Policy Interventions:
o More budgetary allocation for welfare of the
disabled. There should be a disability budgeting on
line of gender budget.
o Proper implementation of schemes should be
ensured. There should be proper monitoring
mechanisms and accountability of public funds.
FEMALE LABOUR FORCE

o In Urban areas : 23.8% of females aged 15 years &
PARTICIPATION (FLFPR) above are participating in the labour force, as
RATE: INDIA CAN LEARN against 74.7% male in 2021-22.
FROM JAPAN’S
‘WOMENOMICS’ REFORMS
#Women
India’s Female labour force participation (FLFPR) rate has

begun showing a rising trend, increasing from 23 per cent in
2017-18 to 37 per cent in 2022-23.
• From 2017 to 2022, women’s LFPR increased relative to

men, in rural areas because of the larger engagement
of rural women in agriculture and allied activities.
• Only four states, namely Assam, Bihar, Haryana, and
Delhi, have a FLFPR below 25%, with Delhi recording
the lowest rate at 14.8%.

REASONS FOR LOW FLFPR IN INDIA • Limited job opportunities: Women often face
• Unpaid care work: Women in India often have to bear discrimination in the job market, and there are fewer
the burden of unpaid care work, such as taking care of job opportunities available to them compared to men.
children, elderly family members, and household For example, the technology and finance sector.
chores. It is often undervalued and not recognized as • Safety concerns: Women in India often face safety
work, which limits women’s ability to participate in paid concerns and harassment in the workplace and while
employment. commuting to and from work. It discourages them
• Societal norms and cultural expectations: In India, from seeking employment outside of the home.
traditional gender division of labour dictate • Lack of supportive policies: India lacks supportive
that women should focus on household duties and policies, such as flexible work arrangements, which can
raising children, while men are the primary enable women to balance work and family
breadwinners. responsibilities.
• Continuing education: More women are pursuing GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES TO IMPROVE FEMALE
higher education, which can delay their entry into the WORK PARTICIPATION
workforce. However, research suggests the link 1. For Survival and Education of Females
between education and FLFPR in India is complex.
• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme: For creating
While education can empower women, societal
awareness among the people to educate all girl
expectations may still lead them to leave the workforce
children in the country. The initiative intends to tackle
after education [ILO on Women's Labour Force
the issue of the diminishing sex ratio in recent years,
Participation in India].
raise social awareness, and improve the effectiveness
of welfare benefits for girls.
• National Education Policy (NEP), 2020: The policy
prioritises gender equity and envisions ensuring
equitable access to quality education to all students,
with a special emphasis on Socially and Economically
Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs).
2. For Safe and Convenient Accommodation
• Working Women Hostel: One of the main difficulties
faced by working women is lack of safe and
conveniently located accommodation. The objective of
the scheme is to promote availability of safe and
conveniently located accommodation for working
women, with day care facilities for their children,
wherever possible, in urban, semi urban, or even rural
areas where employment opportunities for women
• Lack of access to education: Girls are often denied
exist.
access to education, or they drop out of school early
due to poverty or familial responsibilities. This lack of 3. For Supporting Women affected by violence
education and skill development limits their • One Stop Centre (OSC) and Universalization of
employment opportunities and earning potential. Women Helpline: To provide 24 hours immediate and
• Health/age-related issues: Especially for older emergency response to women affected by violence
women or those facing health challenges. However, it's through referral (linking with appropriate authority
important to consider that a significant portion of the such as police, One Stop Centre, hospital) and
FLFPR gap exists in the prime working age group (15- information about women related government
64 years old) [Directorate General of Employment schemes programs across the country through a single
on Female Labour Utilization in India]. uniform number. Women Helpline (WHL) will be
integrated with One Stop Centre Scheme (OSC) under

which one OSC shall be established in every State/UT MEASURES TO IMPROVE FEMALE WORK
to provide integrated support and assistance to PARTICIPATION
women affected by violence, both in private and public • Need of National Women’s Urban Employment
spaces under one roof. Guarantee Act (WUEGA): Women should form at least
4. Codification of the Labour Laws for harmonizing 50% of the programme management staff, with a
the needs of job seekers, workers and employers vision for decentralized management and local
• Labour Codes: The four Labour Codes namely, the community involvement. Includes provisions for
Code on Wages, 2019, the Industrial Relations Code, childcare at work sites, free public transportation for
2020, the Code on Social Security, 2020 and the women, and work availability within a 5-km radius.
Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions CASE STUDY OF WUEGA
Code, 2020. Codification of the Labour Laws provides
• Women-led waste management in Karnataka,
a policy framework for harmonizing the needs of job
demonstrates the feasibility and success of women-
seekers, workers and employers.
centric programs: In this initiative women handle
• The Labour Codes will, inter-alia, reduce multiplicity of end-to-end waste management in gram panchayats
definitions & authorities, facilitate implementation and of selected districts including collection and driving
use of technology in enforcement of labour laws and of the ‘Swacch’ vehicles.
bring transparency and accountability in enforcement,
promote setting up of more enterprises, catalysing the • Ensure high participation of women in
creation of employment opportunities in the country. MGNREGS: Recommendations given
by Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural
5. Equal Opportunity and Congenial Work
Development and Panchayati Raj:
Environment
o Government must take measures for better
• Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017: The Act
promotion of “women-centric works” through
increased the paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to
creation or linking of existing livelihood projects
26 weeks, also made a provision for mandatory crèche
under the scheme.
facility in establishments having 50 or more
employees, permitting women workers in the night o Ministry of Rural Development needs to bridge the
shifts with adequate safety measures, etc. wage disparity among states by notifying a
uniform wage rate structure.
• The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace
Act, 2013: To provide protection against sexual • Identification of niche sectors: There is need for
harassment of women at workplace and for the identification of niche sectors like countries like the
prevention and redressal of complaints of sexual United States initiative like Girls Who Code in the
harassment and for matters connected therewith or USA aim to close the gender gap in technology, Japan
incidental thereto. and Italy are focusing on the healthcare and social
work sectors as areas of potential job growth for
4. Promoting Entrepreneurship
women.
• Female Entrepreneurship: To promote female
• Accounting for care work: There is a need to capture
entrepreneurship, the Government has initiated
the value of care in the GDP calculation.
schemes like MUDRA, Stand Up India and Mahila e-
Haat. • Flexible Work Options as like Netherlands: Promote
work models like part-time work, remote work, and
• Rashtriya Mahila Kosh: Provides micro-credit at
parental leave policies, empowers women to manage
concessional terms to poor women for various
work-life balance effectively.
livelihood and income generating activities.
• Invest in a wide range of care infrastructure and
• Prime Minister’s Employment Generation
services solutions: Covering not only childcare, but
Programme (PMEGP): Under the scheme, women
also elder care, domestic work, and long-term care for
entrepreneurs are provided 25 per cent and 35 per
highly dependent adults to reduce dependency and
cent subsidies for the project set up in urban and rural
access the silver economy. For instance, Japan has
areas respectively.

leveraged some private sector partnerships for JAPAN’S ‘WOMENOMICS’

investments in affordable senior living and care
• Japan was grappling with falling fertility rates, a
services. As the share of elderly persons in India’s
declining population, and stagnant growth, a series
population is expected to rise from 10 per cent
of reforms on “womenomics” were introduced as
currently to 20 per cent by 2050, India, too will need to
part of the “Abenomics” era.
prioritise elder care infrastructure and service
investments. • Women’s labour force participation rate (WLFPR) in
Japan has grown by ten percentage points, from
Conclusion: These strategies can contribute to meeting
64.9 percent in 2013 to 75.2 per cent in 2023.
goals of SDG 1 (end poverty); SDG 3 (ensure healthy lives);
SDG 4 (ensure inclusive and equitable quality education); • Majority of the “womenomics” reforms have been
SDG 5 (achieve gender equality); SDG 6 (ensure linked to investments in the care economy and
availability and sustainable management of water and rebalancing gender norms.
sanitation) etc.
practice questions
MCQS
Q1. With reference to the Food Safety and Q3. With respect to the muria tribe, consider the
Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), consider following statements:
the following statements: 1. They are part of the Gondi people.
1. It is a statutory body under the Food Safety and 2. They are predominantly agrarian people.
Standards, 2006.
3. They practices a hybrid of animistic and Hindu
2. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the doctrines.
administrative ministry of FSSAI.
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
3. It is headed by the non-executive chairperson in the
(a) Only one (b) Only two
rank of Secretary to Government of India.
(c) All three (d) None
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) Only one (b) Only two
(c) All three (d) None Q4. With reference to the National One Health
Mission, consider the following statements:
1. Its objective is to develop strategies for integrated
Q2. With reference to the Madiga community,
disease surveillance.
consider the following statements:
2. Under the mission, a national network of high-risk
1. They are an indigenous Scheduled Tribe
pathogen laboratories has been created.
community of the Odisha.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
2. The primary occupation of this community is
associated with agriculture. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
3. Dappu is an annual festival of this community. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
How many of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) Only one (b) Only two Q5. With reference to the Ayushman Bharat Health
Accounts (ABHA), consider the following
(c) All three (d) None
statements:

1. It is a 10-digit number used to link all the health Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
records of a person. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
2. It incorporates real-time monitoring mechanisms (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
to track the utilization of funds and ensure that
resources are allocated efficiently.
Q1. Gender gap in the labour force participation rate has significant consequences on the overall economic progress
of the nation. Discuss.
Q2. Early identification and providing comprehensive support throughout life to disabled persons is essential to
overcome the challenges faced by them. Discuss.
Answers: 1-b, 2-d, 3-c, 4-c, 5-c

GEOGRAPHY, ENVIRONMENT,
BIODIVERSITY & DISASTER
MANAGEMENT
# GS Paper (Prelims) and GS Paper I & III (Main)
SOLAR SURGE
capacity falls short, with only 13 GW added in the last
five years due to various challenges, including the
#Renewables COVID-19 pandemic.
IMPLEMENTATION
• The government, after delays, has announced the
The Approved Models and Manufacturers of Solar
enforcement of the approved list from April 1,2024
Photovoltaic Modules (Requirement for Compulsory
granting certified manufacturers eligibility to compete
Registration) Order, 2019, requires module makers to submit
for government tenders, including the PM solar
to an inspection of their manufacturing facilities by the
rooftop scheme.
National Institute of Solar Energy.
YARDSTICK OF SUCCESS
MODELS AND MANUFACTURERS OF SOLAR
• Success will be measured by India's ability to meet its
PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES (REQUIREMENT FOR
2030 commitments while ensuring affordability for
COMPULSORY REGISTRATION) ORDER, 2019
consumers.
• The Indian government has initiated a policy to
• Stringent quality checks are essential for domestic
discourage the reliance on imported solar panels as the
manufacturers, who must not compromise on quality or
new financial year commences.
cost merely on nationalistic grounds.
• This policy, outlined in the Approved Models and
While aspiring to become a high-quality exporter in the
Manufacturers of Solar Photovoltaic Modules
solar sector, the Indian industry must acknowledge that
(Requirement for Compulsory Registration) Order,
achieving self-reliance will require dedication and
2019, mandates manufacturers to undergo inspection
adherence to global standards, emphasizing the
by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) to be
importance of a sustainable and robust approach to
included in the 'approved' list.
growth.
OBJECTIVE
• The primary aim of this policy is to promote domestic NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SOLAR ENERGY
manufacturing of solar panels, thereby reducing National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) is an
dependence on imports, particularly from China, which autonomous Institution under the Ministry of New
currently dominates 80% of the global supply. and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India
TARGET AND CHALLENGES and is committed to advance research in Solar Energy.
• India aims to source 500 GW of electricity from non- NISE, a leader in Solar Energy practices established with
fossil fuel sources by 2030, with solar power a clear mandate for research and development, aligned
contributing 280 GW. However, the domestic industry's

Geography, Environment, Biodiversity & Disaster Management
with the various objectives of MNRE towards the • These rings, observed above Mount Etna since April 2,
promotion of Solar Energy in the country. 2024, are nearly perfect in shape due to the circular
vent opening in the volcano's crater.
• A study suggests that the cold atmosphere above
VOLCANIC VORTEX RINGS the hot volcano causes water vapour to condense,
rendering the rings visible.
#prelimsnuggets #World Geography
Mount Etna, the largest volcano in Europe, and among the

world’s most active and iconic volcanoes, has been sending up
almost perfect rings of smoke into the air. The rings are a rare
phenomenon that scientists refer to as volcanic vortex rings,
which are produced roughly in the same way as the smoke
rings that some cigarette smokers are able to blow out of their
mouths.
MOUNT ETNA
• Mount Etna, situated on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, is
the largest volcano in Europe and one of the most active
worldwide.
o Sicily is the largest and most populous island in the
OCCURRENCE OF VOLCANIC VORTEX RINGS
Mediterranean Sea and one of the 20 regions of Italy.
• In more recent times, volcanic vortex rings have been
• With its summit boasting five craters and numerous observed at volcanoes such as Redoubt in Alaska,
flank vents, Etna has been continuously active for Tungurahua in Ecuador, Pacaya in Guatemala,
centuries, with frequent eruptions both at its summit Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla in Iceland, Stromboli in Italy,
and along its slopes. Aso and Sakurajima in Japan, Yasur in Vanuatu,
• Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since Whakaari in New Zealand, and Momotombo in
Nicaragua.
2013.
EXPLANATION AND FREQUENCY OF RINGS
• Etna's eruptive history spans back over 500,000 years,
• The rings are formed by the explosion of gas bubbles
with documented activity for at least 2,700 years.
within a narrow conduit, which propels the gas upward
VORTEX RINGS
at high speeds.
• Volcanic vortex rings, a rare phenomenon, occur when • While not as rare as commonly believed, Etna's
gas, primarily water vapor, is rapidly released frequency of producing these rings surpasses that of
through a vent in a volcano's crater. any other volcano on Earth.

• Despite their impressive appearance, the presence of • Clouds reflect sunlight, cooling temperatures locally and
these rings does not necessarily indicate an imminent globally.
volcanic eruption. • Aerosol particles, from natural and human sources, can
brighten clouds, enhancing sunlight reflection and
MARINE CLOUD cooling the Earth's climate.

• Changes in cloud cover or sunlight reflection can
BRIGHTENING (MCB) influence climate dynamics significantly.
ROLE OF AEROSOL
#Environment and Ecology
• Aerosols from both natural sources (like biological
emissions and sea spray) and human activities (such as
Context: Scientists are experimenting with a wild idea to burning fossil fuels) mix with low clouds, especially over
fight global warming — brightening up marine clouds by the ocean, brightening them and thereby increase
aerosol sprays so that they reflect more sunlight back into albedo. This in turn leads to cooling of climate.
the atmosphere. • Uncertainty remains about the overall cooling effect of
MARINE CLOUD BRIGHTENING aerosols on the climate.
• The Marine Cloud Brightening Program involves Aerosol air pollution has made the planet about 0.7° F
atmospheric scientists and experts collaborating to (0.4 °C) cooler than it otherwise would be, according to
study how aerosols affect clouds. the 2021 report by the Intergovernmental Panel on
• It is a programme of the Department of Atmospheric Climate Change (IPCC). For comparison, greenhouse gas
Sciences, University of Washington, USA emissions have added 2.7°F (1.5°C) of warming.
Objective: To understand these interactions and explore
the feasibility of reducing climate warming by enhancing
sunlight reflection from marine clouds. AEROSOL AND PRECIPITATION
Technique: In clean oceanic air, clouds mostly form from • Aerosols serve as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN),
sulfates and sea salt crystals, which are not abundant. This providing surfaces on which water vapor can
results in larger droplets that reflect less light. condense to form cloud droplets.
• Marine cloud brightening (MCB) aims to increase the • The presence of aerosols affects cloud properties such
brightness of marine clouds by enhancing their as droplet size, number, and distribution, which in
reflectivity. It achieves this by releasing tiny sea water turn influence precipitation formation.
droplets into the atmosphere using water cannons or EFFECTS ON CLOUD DYNAMICS
special ships. • Increased aerosol concentrations can lead to the
• When these droplets evaporate, they leave behind salt formation of a larger number of smaller cloud
particles. These particles act as nuclei for cloud droplets, altering cloud dynamics.
formation, leading to denser and brighter clouds. • Smaller droplets may reduce the efficiency of raindrop
SIGNIFICANCE OF AEROSOL-CLOUD INTERACTIONS formation and growth, potentially delaying or
suppressing precipitation.
PRECIPITATION ENHANCEMENT OR SUPPRESSION
• In some cases, aerosols can enhance precipitation by
increasing the number of cloud droplets and
promoting coalescence and raindrop formation.
• However, in polluted conditions with high aerosol
concentrations, clouds may exhibit reduced
precipitation efficiency, leading to suppressed rainfall.

POTENTIAL ACCELERATION OF CLIMATE WARMING INITIATIVES TAKEN

• Reductions in atmospheric aerosols since 2010 may Renewable Energy:
have accelerated global warming. • Operates a 20 MW wind power unit and a 40 MW wind
• Recent declines in particulate pollution emissions from power facility.
ships, coinciding with rising ocean surface and global • Utilizes a 32 MW solar facility to supply green power to
temperatures, emphasize the need to understand these its units.
effects.
Biofuel Usage:
UNDERSTANDING MARINE CLOUD BRIGHTENING
• Aiming to convert all six boilers from coal to biofuels by
(MCB)
2025-end.
• MCB proposes using sea salt particles to brighten
• Three boilers already running on biofuel.
clouds over the ocean, reducing climate warming.
PET Bottle Recycling:
• Scientific studies suggest that specific aerosols can
• Converts six lakh PET bottles into polyester fiber.
significantly increase cloud reflectivity.
• Recycled polyester constitutes 50% of total polyester
• Sea salt particles would be sprayed from ships into low-
production.
lying clouds, remaining in the atmosphere for a few
days within localized areas. Waste Management:
UNCERTAINTIES AND CONSIDERATIONS • Plans to establish a recycled polyester facility in Jammu.
• Specific regions of the ocean may be more suitable for • Ensures no waste fiber is discarded; utilizes waste
MCB, but the extent of brightening and its effectiveness generated in spinning and fabric units.
in different regions are uncertain. Water Recycling:
• Implementation decisions, such as which areas to • Adopts zero liquid discharge policy in all facilities.
brighten and to what extent, will determine the climate • Recycles every drop of water for production, processing,
cooling achieved and its broader impacts. or other purposes.
• Changes in clouds induced by MCB and pollution Organic Manure Usage:
aerosols can affect atmospheric circulation,
• Converts waste into organic manure.
weather patterns, and precipitation in both local
and distant regions. • Mandates 50% organic manure usage in plants; some
plots use 100% organic manure.
CRITICAL ASPECTS AND RESEARCH NEEDS
ABOUT PET BOTTLE
• Improving understanding of MCB and aerosol effects is
crucial for projecting long-distance effects and
associated risks.
• Further research is needed to assess the feasibility,
potential consequences, and optimal implementation
strategies of MCB in addressing climate change.
RSWM AND RECYCLING

• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is one of the most
widely used plastics today.
RSWM, formerly Rajasthan Spinning and Weaving Mills group, • PET bottles are ubiquitous in our day-to-day lives–
is a prominent Indian yarn and knitted fabric manufacturer containing mineral water or soft drink or used for other
focusing on sustainability and green initiatives. applications.

• It is made from a thermoplastic polymer originating worldwide are being affected by plastic pollution and
from petroleum, which when heated can easily be 700 species are at risk of becoming extinct.
shaped into any form. • Humans consume microplastics, too, when they enter
• With such wide usage (in 2015-16, ~ 900 KT of PET was drinking water or the food chain via edible fruits and
used in India). vegetables.
PET BOTTLE RECYCLING SCENARIO OF PET BOTTLE USES
• PET bottles are entirely recyclable, making them • More than one million bottles of water are sold around
valuable resources rather than waste. the world every minute.
• Through recycling, used PET bottles can be melted • While the Asia-Pacific region is the largest regional
and molded into various shapes. market, both in dollar terms and litres (consumption),
• PET packaging is clean, safe, and convenient, favoured North America and Europe come in second and third.
for its durability and lightweight nature. • Over 97 percent of bottled water containers are made
• Compared to alternatives like glass and aluminium, PET of plastic and almost 80 percent of this plastic is PET, as
has a lower melting temperature. per the International Bottled Water Association.
• This characteristic facilitates easy and sustainable • Most are also single use.
recycling, contributing to a circular economy or closed- • Plastic materials, however, take up to 1,000 years to
loop system. degrade.
• In a closed-loop system, PET packaging can be • It is estimated that 85 percent of the total PET water
recycled repeatedly without losing its quality, bottles produced are subsequently disposed of in
promoting environmental sustainability. landfills or as unregulated waste.
TECHNIQUES OF RECYCLING
• PET bottles can be recycled in 2 different ways: Via
chemical and mechanical recycling. Mechanical
GREEN CREDIT
recycling is the most widely used, as this does not pose PROGRAMME
a risk of releasing toxic substances from chemical
agents that can potentially harm the environment.
• When recycling PET mechanically, the goal is to obtain
clean PET flakes that can be used directly or mixed with The Environment Ministry issued further guidelines on its
virgin polymer to produce new products. Green Credit Programme (GCP), two months after it had
PET BOTTLE POLLUTION prescribed rules governing the first initiative, afforestation.
• PET bottles are a source of pollution and environmental Modifying the rules, an official said, will prioritise the
damage. restoration of ecosystems over mere planting of trees.
• They produce toxic emissions during manufacturing, GREEN CREDIT INITIATIVE

such as nickel, ethylbenzene, ethylene oxide, and
benzene.
• They also contribute to climate change by generating
millions of tons of CO2.
• Moreover, they are unsafe for repeated use as they can
leach chemicals into the water, such as DEHA and
BBP, which can cause cancer and hormone
disruption.
• A 2019 study by the Royal Society for the Prevention
of Cruelty to Animals found that over 267 species

• It envisions the issue of Green Credits for plantations on planting in restoring ecosystems and the ambiguity
waste/degraded lands and river catchment areas, to surrounding carbon storage calculations.
rejuvenate and revive natural eco-systems. GOVERNMENT'S RESPONSE
• Fully digital and tradable instrument for environmental • The Ministry has issued guidelines for States to calculate
sustainability. restoration costs for degraded forests, allowing
GREEN CREDIT PROGRAMME flexibility in tree density requirements.
• Initiative within the government's broader Lifestyle for • Indigenous species are preferred, and the program is in
Environment or LIFE Movement. a pilot phase, with ongoing discussions on quantifying
• Market-based instrument to encourage voluntary shrubs and grasses for green credits.
environmental actions across various sectors, involving • The Ministry clarified that green credits cannot fully
individuals, industries, and local bodies. offset compensatory afforestation obligations but can
• It utilizes green credits as distinctive units assigned to cover a portion.
specific environmental activities which function as
tradable commodities, which can be sold on a domestic
market platform.
SINGLE USE PLASTICS &
• While the domestic carbon market focuses solely on PLASTIC WASTE
CO2 emission reduction, the Green Credit System aims
to meet other environmental obligations as well, MANAGEMENT RULES
incentivizing sustainable actions by companies,
individuals, and local bodies. Those earning it will be AMENDMENT, 2021
able to put these credits up for sale on a proposed #Waste management
domestic market platform.
• The program identifies eight specific activities: tree
plantation, water conservation, sustainable agriculture, Ahead of week-long negotiations involving 192 countries that
waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove are expected to begin in Toronto, Canada, on getting the globe
conservation and restoration, Eco Mark (a government to progress on eliminating plastic pollution, India is in favour
scheme for identifying environmentally friendly of “regulating”, and not eliminating, single-use plastic,
products), and sustainable building and infrastructure. according to an analysis of various countries’ public
negotiating positions by the Centre for Science and
• Afforestation Initiative: Companies and individuals
Environment (CSE), a not-for-profit based in New Delhi.
can invest in afforestation projects on degraded forest
land, with State Forest departments overseeing tree While 19 Single Use Plastic (SUP) items, including spoons
planting. Each planted tree, evaluated after two years, and cups, were prohibited on July 1, 2022, a ban on plastic
could earn one green credit. bags thinner than 120 microns came into force later.
However, many of these prohibited items are still used
• Administered by the Indian Council of Forestry Research
openly across the Capital.
and Education (ICFRE), the program involves defining
methodologies for calculating green credits and ABOUT SINGLE-USE PLASTICS
managing a trading platform for credit exchange. • They are goods that are made primarily from fossil
PARTICIPATION fuel–based chemicals (petrochemicals) and are
meant to be disposed of right after use—often, in mere
• Several public sector companies, including Indian Oil
minutes.
and Coal India, have shown interest in the program.
• They are most used for packaging and service-ware,
CONTROVERSIES SURROUNDING GCP
such as bottles, wrappers, straws, and bags.
• Critics argue that GCP commodifies environmental
• Pollution due to single use plastic items has become an
conservation and could potentially weaken forest
important environmental challenge confronting all
conservation laws, leading to deforestation.
countries.
Concerns also exist regarding the effectiveness of tree

• India imposed a nationwide ban on plastic bags,

PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT RULES AMENDMENT,
cups and straws on Oct 2nd, 2019, in its most
2021
sweeping measure yet to stamp out single-use plastics
• Prohibition: The manufacture, import, stocking,
from cities and villages that rank among the world’s
distribution, sale and use of following single-use
most polluted.
plastic, including polystyrene and expanded
IN THIS BACKGROUND LET US UNDERSTAND VARIOUS polystyrene, commodities shall be prohibited with
ASPECTS OF THE SINGLE USE PLASTICS ISSUE effect from the 1st of July 2022.
Consequences of using single use plastic • Compostable plastic: The provisions will not apply to
• Non-renewable: Only 1-13% of the plastic items are commodities made of compostable plastic.•
recyclable, the rest ends up either buried in the land Timeline: The government has given industry ten
or water bodies, eventually reaching the oceans, leading years from the date of notification to comply with any
to polluting of water bodies and killing of marine life. future bans on plastic commodities other than those
• Pollution: One of the biggest threats about plastic bags included in this notification.
is that they threaten the environment. Plastic bags • Thickness of plastic bags: The allowable thickness of
pollute the land and water, since they are lightweight, plastic bags will be increased from 50 mm to 75
plastic materials can travel long distances by wind and microns on September 30, 2021, and to 120 microns
water. on December 31, 2022.
• Energy intensive: Production of plastic material are • Monitoring agency: The Central Pollution Control
very energy intensive. They require a lot of water for Board, along with state pollution bodies, will monitor
their production. Thus, using plastic bags is not the ban, identify violations, and impose penalties
advisable. already prescribed under the Environmental
Protection Act, 1986.
• Threat to aquatic life: Being non-recyclable, plastic
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): According
bags end up in the oceans. While they reach, they break
to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, the
up into tiny little pieces and are consumed by wildlife.
plastic packaging waste that is not covered under the
Thereby leading to health issues or even death. Many
phase out of identified single-use plastic items must
animals also get entangled or trapped in plastic bags.
be collected and managed in an environmentally
• Harmful to human health: Toxic chemicals from sustainable manner through the Extended Producer
plastic bags can damage the blood and tissues. Responsibility (EPR) of the Producer, Importer, and
Frequent exposures can lead to cancers, birth defects, Brand Owner (PIBO).
impaired immunity, hormone changes, endocrine
disruption and other serious ailments. GOVERNMENT AND GLOBAL INITIATIVES
Hence, with climate and environment becoming a rising • India has announced its commitment to eliminate
global concern, plastic pollution and plastic waste single-use plastic by 2022 at Confederation of Indian
management have become the point of worry. Industry’s (CII) Sustainability Summit in New Delhi.
CHALLENGES TO PHASE OUT SINGLE-USE PLASTIC • India piloted a resolution on combating pollution
caused by single-use plastic products at the fourth
• Effective waste collection: India lacks systems for
United Nations Environment Assembly in 2019.
effective waste separation, collection, and recycling.
• India has received international praise for its “Beat
• National Policy for recycling plastics: There is no
Plastic Pollution” resolution, which was announced on
policy in place for recycling plastics. There are also
World Environment Day last year and committed to
difficulties in establishing a recycling plant due to
eliminate single-use plastic by 2022.
environmental concerns voiced by various state
• Project REPLAN (REducing PLastic in
Pollution Control Boards.
Nature) launched by Khadi and Village Industries
• Attitudinal change: Changing one’s behaviour to avoid Commission (KVIC) aims to reduce consumption of
using single-use plastic is difficult. plastic bags by providing a more sustainable alternative.

• The Group of 20 (G20) environment ministers, agreed biodegradable bioplastics are polylactic acid (PLA) or
to adopt a new implementation framework for actions polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs).
to tackle the issue of marine plastic waste on a global
scale.
• Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 state that
PLASTIC OVERSHOOT DAY
every local body has to be responsible for setting up
infrastructure for segregation, collection, processing,
REPORT
and disposal of plastic waste. #Environment #Pollution
• Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules
2018 introduced the concept of Extended Producer
The Plastic Overshoot Day report said global plastic waste
Responsibility (EPR).
generation has risen by 7.11 per cent since 2021.
WAY FORWARD
KEY FINDING OF THE REPORT
• Effective waste management: India lacks a well-
• The Plastic Overshoot Day report by Swiss non-profit
organized system for managing plastic trash, resulting
EA Earth Action
in widespread littering. To strengthen processing, there
said global plastic
is a need to invest extensively in increasing waste
waste generation
source segregation and supporting end-to-end waste
has risen by 7.11
segregation.
per cent since
• Sustainable products: The government should put 2021.
money into fostering the formation of businesses that
• The world is
supply sustainable products as an alternative to non-
estimated to
recyclable ones.
have generated
• Need for a new international legally binding 220 million tons of plastic waste this year, 70 million
agreement that addresses the entire life cycle of tons of which will end up polluting the environment.
plastics, from extraction of raw materials to legacy
• 12 countries are responsible for 60 per cent of the
plastic pollution.
world's mismanaged plastic waste: China, India,
• Chemical recycling and upcycling of Russia, Brazil, Mexico, Vietnam, Iran, Indonesia, Egypt,
polymers: Hitherto management of plastic waste was Pakistan, the United States and Turkey.
focused on mechanical recycling of plastic waste.
• India as a "low-waste-producing" polluter due to its
• However, strategies have been developed for chemical low per capita plastic waste production (8 kg per
recycling of plastics into its constituent monomers and capita per year). India's expected mismanaged waste in
subsequently restructured into new polymers used for 2024 will be 7.4 million tons, which is "very high".
new plastic production. This will lead to circularity of the
• India's mismanaged plastic waste will be less than
plastic ecosystem.
one-fifth of China and one-third of the US.
• Promoting use of waste plastics: Waste plastics are
• India is estimated to release an average of 4 lakh tons
useful as a structural material and can be utilized as a
of microplastics into the environment and 32 thousand
binder for laying roads, making of blocks, table-tops etc.
tons of chemical additives into waterways.
For example, Plastone is a structural material
developed which is synthetic granite. • Belgium are the top generators of plastic waste, with
a yearly waste production of 147.7 kg per person. This
• Promoting biodegradable bioplastics: Bioplastics are
is 16 times higher than in India.
a broad category of materials encompassing bio-based
plastics that can be both biodegradable and non- • Oman tops the list of countries in terms of
biodegradable. They are manufactured from diverse mismanaged plastic waste, with a projected 111 kg of
sources such as crops and crop waste, wood pulp, fungi mismanaged plastic per person in 2024. This is 30 times
etc. with the help of algae or microbes. Examples of higher than Norway. India is in the bottom 12 countries.

• On September 5, 2024 , that the plastic waste produced Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have
worldwide will surpass the planet's waste management developed a sustainable hydrogel that effectively removes
systems and will be called "Plastic Overshoot Day". microplastics from water, addressing a significant
• Each country has its own "Plastic Overshoot Day", environmental and health challenges.
determined by the amount of plastic waste generated
and the country's capacity to manage it. India will reach
its Plastic Overshoot Day on April 23,2024.
• The amount of plastic produced is expected to double
by 2040, which will triple the volume of plastic pollution.
The underlying issues with plastic pollution are the
excessive production and use of plastic across the
planet and the lack of sufficient waste management
systems to properly process plastic after it has been
used.
HYDROGEL MORE ABOUT THE NEWS
#Environment #Pollution • Microplastics, small plastic debris, pose significant

health risks as they can enter the human body through
the water, potentially leading to various illnesses.

• These particles are pervasive, found even in remote or light, makes them useful for controlled drug delivery
areas such as polar ice caps and deep ocean trenches, applications.
threatening both aquatic and terrestrial life. • It is also used in some contact lenses to help keep them
• The IISc team created a hydrogel with a complex comfortable and moist.
structure called an interpenetrating polymer • It can be added to soil to help retain moisture.
network (IPN), composed of three different
polymers: chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol, and
polyaniline. FOURTH GLOBAL MASS
• This structure was combined with copper substitute
polyoxometalate (Cu-POM) nanoclusters, which act as
CORAL BLEACHING
catalysts under UV light to degrade microplastics. #Environment and Ecology
• The hydrogel is capable of adsorbing and breaking
down large amounts of microplastics. Testing showed
that the hydrogel could remove approximately 95% and The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
93% of two different types of microplastics in water at a (NOAA) declared the onset of the fourth global mass coral
near-neutral pH of about 6.5. bleaching event due to extraordinary ocean temperatures
• This process was enhanced by the inclusion of a recently. This event carries significant implications for marine
fluorescent dye in the microplastics, allowing the ecosystems and the millions reliant on reefs for sustenance,
researchers to track the efficiency of the hydrogel under livelihoods, and coastal defence.
various conditions such as different pH levels, CAUSES OF ELEVATED OCEAN TEMPERATURES
temperatures, and concentrations of microplastics.
• Since mid-March 2023, average sea surface
ABOUT HYDROGEL temperatures (SST) have been unusually high, reaching
• It is a biphasic material, a mixture of porous, permeable a record monthly high of 21.07 degrees Celsius in
solids and at least 10% by weight or volume of March.
interstitial fluid composed completely or mainly by
• Rising emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases
water.
(GHGs), such as carbon dioxide and methane, are the
• It is three-dimensional (3D) cross-linked natural or primary contributors to soaring temperatures.
synthetic polymers polymer networks and a fluid,,
• Nearly 90% of the additional heat trapped by GHGs
which can absorb and retain large amount of water.
has been absorbed by the oceans.
• Because of their tunable properties as well as their
IMPORTANCE OF CORALS AND CORAL REEFS
versatile fabrication methods, hydrogel materials have
been applied in a wide range of biomedical and • Corals are essentially animals, which are sessile,
engineering applications, ranging from tissue meaning they permanently attach themselves to the
engineering and regenerative medicine to ocean floor.
wastewater treatment and soft robotics. • They use their tiny tentacle-like hands to catch food
• They are often described as a jelly-like material, and can from the water and sweep into their mouth.
be found naturally or synthesized in a lab.
• Each individual coral animal is known as a polyp, and it
• It is generally non-toxic and non-immunogenic, lives in groups of hundreds to thousands of genetically
meaning they don't trigger an immune response in the identical polyps that form a ‘colony’.
body, makes them ideal for biomedical applications
• Corals are largely classified as either hard coral or
such as drug delivery, tissue engineering, and wound
soft coral.
healing (due to water retention, that can help to keep
tissues hydrated and promote healing). • It is the hard corals that are the architects of coral reefs
• Some hydrogels can change their properties in — complex three-dimensional structures built up over
response to external stimuli such as temperature, pH, thousands of years.

• “Unlike soft corals, hard corals have stony skeletons • Coral bleaching doesn’t immediately lead to the death
made out of limestone that are produced by coral of corals. They rather go under more stress and are
polyps. subject to mortality.
• When polyps die, their skeletons are left behind and • Coral bleaching reduces the reproductivity of corals and
used as foundations for new polyps,” according to makes them more vulnerable to fatal diseases. If the
NOAA. bleaching is not too severe, corals have been known to
• Coral reefs, also referred to as “rainforests of the sea”, recover.
have existed on the Earth for nearly 450 million years. INCIDENCES OF CORAL BLEACHING
• Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is the largest in the world, • Global mass bleaching of coral reefs is when significant
stretching across 2,028 kilometres. coral bleaching is confirmed in the Atlantic, Indian and
SIGNIFICANCE OF CORAL REEFS Pacific oceans, according to a report published by The
Conversation. Such events are a relatively new
• Coral reefs harbour immense biodiversity, supporting
phenomenon.
over 400 coral species, 1,500 fish species, and
numerous other organisms. • The first one took place in 1998 in which 20% of the
world’s reef areas suffered bleaching-level heat stress.
• They provide economic benefits valued at about $375
billion annually and offer coastal protection from • The next two global bleaching events occurred in 2010
storms and floods for over 500 million people (35% of reefs affected) and between 2014 and 2017
worldwide. (56% of reefs affected).
• Coral reefs can absorb up to 97% of the energy from CURRENT STATUS OF GLOBAL BLEACHING EVENT
waves, storms, and floods, which prevents loss of life,
property damage, and soil erosion.
UNDERSTANDING CORAL BLEACHING
• Most corals contain algae called zooxanthellae — they

are plant-like organisms — in their tissues.
• Corals and zooxanthellae have a symbiotic relationship.
• While corals provide zooxanthellae a safe place to live,
zooxanthellae provide oxygen and organic products of
photosynthesis that help corals to grow and thrive.
• Zooxanthellae also give bright and unique colours to
corals.
• Corals are very sensitive to light and temperature and
even a small change in their living conditions can stress
them.
• When stressed, they expel zooxanthellae and turn
entirely white. This is called coral bleaching. • NOAA has confirmed the fourth global bleaching event,
with widespread bleaching reported across 54

countries, territories, and localities from Florida, the US, • This usually involves using renewable energy
Saudi Arabia to Fiji. sources, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, and
• The Great Barrier Reef is experiencing its most severe minimizing and recycling waste during the
bleaching event, with approximately one-third of production process.
surveyed reefs showing extreme bleaching. • In layman terms green steel refers to steel made
• Bleaching was also confirmed in the Western Indian with low-carbon emissions.
Ocean, including Tanzania, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles,
and off the western coast of Indonesia. GREEN STEEL POLICY DEVELOPMENT
Development
• The key driver behind the current event is higher ocean
temperatures. However, the situation has been • A 14th task force was set up to explore the option of
exacerbated by El Niño, a weather pattern which is using biochar or biomass (as an alternative in blast
associated with warmer oceans. furnace) in steelmaking, thereby bringing down carbon
IMPACT OF THE EVENT emissions during the manufacturing process.

Emissions of Steel Industry
• The full impact of the ongoing bleaching event is yet to
be determined, but scientists anticipate severe • The domestic steel sector accounts for 12 per cent of
consequences. India’s greenhouse gas emissions with an emission
intensity of 2.55 tonnes of CO2 per tonne of crude
• With global temperatures rising, such events are
expected to become more frequent and prolonged, steel produced, compared with the global average
posing a grave threat to coral reefs worldwide. of 1.9 tonnes of CO2.
Pilot project for Green Steel
RESPONSE AND OUTLOOK
• To curb global warming and mitigate the loss of coral • India is also exploring the process of having its own pure
reefs, countries must reduce greenhouse gas emissions hydrogen based DRI (direct reduction of iron)
technology.
to net zero by 2050, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
• However, achieving this goal remains challenging due to • Industrial-scale hydrogen-iron making, also known as
continued record levels of GHG emissions. direct reduction of iron (DRI), is where the oxygen is
removed from the iron-ore.
• The fourth global mass coral bleaching event
underscores the urgent need for concerted global • But instead of using high carbon emitting fossil
action to mitigate climate change and preserve coral fuels, it is done through the use of hydrogen with
the waste gas being water.
reef ecosystems, upon which millions depend for their
well-being.
Direct reduced iron (DRI), also called sponge iron, is
produced from the direct reduction of iron ore (in the
GOVT WORKING ON GREEN form of lumps, pellets, or fines) into iron by a reducing
gas which either contains elemental carbon (produced
STEEL POLICY from natural gas or coal) or hydrogen. When hydrogen is
used as the reducing gas there are no greenhouse gases
#Indian Economy produced. Many ores are suitable for direct reduction.
3 CO + Fe2O3→ 2Fe + 3CO2 4 CO + Fe3O4→ 3Fe + 4CO2
The Steel Ministry has begun work on formulating a

comprehensive green steel policy that includes defining the
manufacturing process, the skill set required and availability
of funding support.
Green steel refers to steel produced using

environmentally friendly and sustainable methods.

There are two prominent avenues of hydrogen-usage Financial Costs: The reports analyse the financial costs
in steel making. and benefits of implementing mitigation solutions,
• The first involves injection of hydrogen in a nozzle estimating sector-wide costs of $205 billion annually,
through which air is forced into a smelter of the blast manageable considering sector revenues.
furnaces as partial substitution of pulverized coal Opportunities: Investments in new markets could yield
injection. potential additional returns, and on-farm solutions may
• The second involves mixing or blending or partial use of lead to savings and increased yields.
hydrogen with natural gas or fossil fuel-based Call to Action: Businesses must take ambitious action to
reductants in the DRI furnace. support producers and ensure equitable sharing of costs
Funding Support and benefits across the value chain to meet net-zero
targets.
• The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has
allocated ₹455 crore for piloting the use of hydrogen in EMISSIONS SHARE OF DIFFERENT SECTORS
steel making and has already formulated a scheme.
Pollution from Steel Industry
• Steel production has several impacts on the
environment, including air emissions (CO, SOx, NOx,
PM2.5), wastewater contaminants, hazardous
wastes, and solid wastes. The major environmental
impacts from integrated steel mills are from coking and
ironmaking.
AGRI GREENHOUSE GAS

EMISSIONS MUST DROP
30% TO ALIGN WITH PARIS
PACT’. INDIA SECOND LARGEST
IMPORTER OF ETHANE
A series of reports by the Food and Land Use Coalition, the FROM THE US IN 2023
World Business Council for Sustainable Development, and the #Environment and Ecology
We Mean Business Coalition emphasize the importance of
urgent action in cutting emissions and scaling up nature
protection. India has emerged as the second largest importer of ethane
Target: Greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural from the US, following China. This surge in import is attributed
production must decrease by 30% by 2030 to align with the to various factors such as increasing demand for
Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C petrochemicals, competitive prices of ethane in the US, and
by 2050. expanded tanker capacity.
Investment Needed: The agri-food sector requires UTILIZATION OF ETHANE
investments of up to $205 billion annually between 2025
Ethane finds application in the production of plastics, anti-
and 2030 to achieve significant emission reductions.
freeze, and detergents.
Implications: Agrifood companies need to play a critical
role in reducing emissions and promoting sustainability US ETHANE EXPORT TRENDS
across their value chains.

• The US has been exporting ethane since 2014, with On April 8,2024 a total solar eclipse will cross North America,
exports reaching a record average of 471,000 barrels passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This type
per day (bpd) in 2023, marking a significant increase of solar eclipse is a rare event for any particular spot.
from previous years. According to Royal Museums Greenwich, once a place on Earth
• This export surge is primarily driven by global witnesses a total solar eclipse, it will be about 400 years before
demand growth in the petrochemical sector and that part sees the next one.
enhanced tanker capacity. WHAT EXACTLY IS A SOLAR ECLIPSE?
INDIAN IMPORT SCENARIO A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the
• India's import of ethane from the US witnessed Earth and the Sun, blocking sunlight and casting a shadow
fluctuations due to market dynamics. on certain parts of the Earth.
• Despite a dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, imports THERE ARE FOUR MAIN TYPES OF SOLAR ECLIPSES:
remained substantial, reaching 74,000 bpd in the
previous year.
PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY EXPANSION
• Indian oil and gas companies are expanding their
petrochemicals business to diversify revenue streams.
• This expansion is propelled by rising domestic demand
from industrial, construction, and manufacturing
sectors.
COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS
• Recent agreements between GAIL (India), ONGC, and Total Solar Eclipse: When the Moon completely covers the
Shell Energy India highlight the growing interest in Sun, darkening the sky and revealing the Sun's outer
importing ethane and developing necessary atmosphere, called the corona.
infrastructure in India.
Annular Solar Eclipse: The Moon passes in front of the
INCREASING USAGE Sun but doesn't completely cover it, leaving a ring of
• Ethane serves as a crucial feedstock in the sunlight visible around the Moon's edges.
petrochemical industry, particularly in the production of Partial Solar Eclipse: When only a part of the Sun is
ethylene for plastics and resins. obscured by the Moon, creating a crescent shape.
• Its high ethylene yield, low cost, and minimal co- Hybrid Solar Eclipse: This rare type of eclipse shifts
products make it increasingly preferred over naphtha, between being total and annular as the Moon's shadow
especially in regions like Asia and Europe. moves across the Earth.
The rise in ethane imports underscores its significance as HOW OFTEN DO SOLAR ECLIPSES OCCUR?
a preferred petrochemical precursor in India. With
collaborative efforts and expanding usage, ethane is
poised to play a pivotal role in the country's petrochemical
industry growth.
TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE IN

NORTH AMERICA
#Geography
• A solar eclipse is witnessed only during the new moon
— when the Moon and Sun are aligned on the same side
of Earth., which occurs approximately every 29.5 days.

However, not every new moon leads to a solar eclipse.

They typically occur between two to five times a year.
• The reason for their infrequency is due to the alignment
of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. The Moon's orbit around
the Earth is tilted about five degrees compared to the
Earth's orbit around the Sun. This tilt means that most
of the time, the Moon's shadow either falls above or
below the Earth, missing it entirely.
• The points where the Moon's orbit intersects with the
Earth's orbit are called nodes. Solar eclipses occur when
the new moon aligns with one of these nodes.
WHY ARE TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSES SO RARE?
• Despite the potential for multiple solar eclipses each
year, total eclipses are exceptionally rare events. A
particular location on Earth may only experience a total
solar eclipse once every 400 years.
• Total eclipses are rare because the Moon's umbral
shadow—the dark central portion of its shadow—
covers only a small area of the Earth's surface, less than
• East Coast Corridor: Starting from Kharagpur (West
one percent. Additionally, much of the Earth's surface is Bengal) and extending to Tenali (Andhra Pradesh), this
either uninhabited or covered by water, further limiting corridor aims to connect mineral-rich states like Bengal
the number of people who can witness a total eclipse. and Odisha. Initially planned to end at Vizag port, it was
• So, while solar eclipses are relatively common, total extended to Tenali for improved port connectivity with
solar eclipses are extraordinary events that captivate Chennai. The corridor targets transporting coal,
fertilizer, iron ore, steel, and other commodities.
those fortunate enough to witness them, making them
a truly rare and awe-inspiring sight. • North-South Corridor: Stretching from Itarsi (Madhya
Pradesh) to Tenali, passing through Itarsi-Nagpur-
Vijayawada, this corridor will serve states like Madhya
INDIA’S DEDICATED Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
It will handle various goods including coal, cement,
FREIGHT CORRIDOR fertilizers, petroleum, and lubricants.
#Infrastructure • East-West Corridor: Proposed to connect Andal (West

Bengal) with Palgar (Maharashtra), passing through
West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and
Master plan. Rlys to take final call on funding, alignment Maharashtra. This corridor, covering around 2,100 km
of ₹2-lakh crore project, spanning 4,300 km; expected to with additional spur lines, will facilitate the
boost freight traffic, free up regular tracks. transportation of coal, iron ore, bauxite, manganese,
steel, and other commodities.
The Indian Railways is planning to implement three new
dedicated freight corridors to enhance freight movement Currently, Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India
and ease congestion on existing tracks for passenger Ltd is preparing network alignment reports for these
trains. These corridors, spanning a total length of 4,300 km corridors. While two reports have been submitted, the
and estimated to cost ₹2-lakh crore, will cover the east third is expected by the end of the month. The Ministry of
coast, north-south, and east-west routes. Railways will decide on funding and project execution
details after discussions.

INNOVATIVE TRADITIONAL
Agricultural expert Chiranji Lal Maharia highlights a
substantial increase in average farmer income, attributed
AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES to innovative practices and technological applications,

such as drip irrigation and solar power utilization.
#Indian Agriculture
• The adoption of hi-tech methods results in a 1.5-fold
increase in the sowing area of crops, driving economic
In the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, farmers are growth and sustainability in the region.
implementing ground-breaking agricultural techniques to ADDRESSING WATER SCARCITY
address challenges posed by declining groundwater levels and
• Advocacy efforts led by Mr. Maharia emphasize the
unpredictable rainfall patterns.
importance of canal water allocation and repair of
These innovative methods are transforming traditional
existing infrastructure like the Indira Gandhi Canal to
farming into lucrative ventures, boosting yields, and
alleviate water scarcity issues.
significantly enhancing annual incomes per hectare of
land. • Calls for the appointment of expert panels and
formulation of water allocation rules are made to
KEY TECHNOLOGIES
ensure equitable distribution and efficient utilization of
Drip Irrigation System: Neat rows of vegetable and fruit
water resources.
plants are sustained through the use of slim polyethylene
hoses for drip irrigation. This efficient water management GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AND POLICY ADVOCACY
system ensures optimal water usage while mitigating the • The Agriculture Department offers subsidies for the
impact of water scarcity. construction of farm ponds, encouraging rainwater
Solar Power Panel: Adoption of a 3.3-KV solar power collection for irrigation purposes.
panel powers pumps and other electrical appliances, • The Sikar Collector promotes the adoption of new
reducing reliance on conventional energy sources and cropping patterns and facilitates farmer-producer
promoting sustainability in agricultural operations.
organizations to enhance market accessibility and boost
Rainwater Harvesting Pond: Farmer Bhanwar Lal Meel farmer incomes.
utilizes a pond constructed on his field, facilitated by
Innovative agricultural practices, supported by
subsidies under the Prime Minister’s Krishi Sinchayee
technological advancements and policy initiatives, are
Yojana.
revolutionizing farming in Shekhawati, Rajasthan. These
• This innovative approach aids in storing rainwater,
efforts not only address existing challenges such as water
providing a supplementary water source for farming
scarcity but also pave the way for sustainable and
activities.
profitable agriculture in the region.
SUCCESS STORIES
Mahesh Pachar in Jheegar Bari village embraces
rainwater harvesting techniques and establishes a climate- HEATS AFFECTS INDIA’S
controlled polyhouse for year-round vegetable cultivation,
optimizing production and diversifying income streams. AIM TO MOVE FROM COAL
Sundaram Verma of Danta village pioneers 'dryland TO RENEWABLES
agroforestry,' conserving water in arid regions and
promoting tree plantation efforts, recognized with a
#prelimsnuggets #Environment and Ecology
Padma Shri award.
Bhanwar Lal of Sarwari village establishes a processing On April 1, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned
plant for gooseberries, introducing value-added products of increased heat waves this summer. This forecast raises
like candy and powder, significantly boosting profits. concerns amid water crisis, elections, and food inflation.
ECONOMIC IMPACT

• Outdoor work, like construction, becomes hazardous.

• Health services strain due to effects on vulnerable
populations.
• Access to clean water, ventilation, and indoor facilities
becomes crucial.
CHALLENGES IN RENEWABLE ENERGY
• Solar power contributes significantly but faces storage
limitations.
• Battery-based and pumped hydro storage are
promising solutions.
• Water shortage affects hydroelectric and pumped
hydro storage facilities.
CONCERNS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE
• Climate change complicates predictions and impacts.
• Dams in sub-Himalayan regions face performance
concerns during heat and water stress.
• Water shortage affects thermal power generation,
leading to energy loss.
TAIWAN EARTHQUAKE:
TEMPERATURE PREDICTIONS PACIFIC RING OF FIRE
• IMD predicts above-normal temperatures for April-June #Earthquakes
2024.
• Probability of high temperatures ranges from 55%-65%
Nine people died, and more than 800 were injured in Taiwan
to over 65% across the country.
(lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire”), after the island was
ELECTRICITY DEMAND AND GENERATION struck by its most significant earthquake (7.2 magnitude) in at
• March 2024 saw a record peak power demand of 190 least 25 years on the morning of April 4th.
GW.
• Coal-fired plants remain significant in meeting peak
demands.
• Government aims for 500 GW renewable energy
capacity by 2030.
IMPACT ON AGRICULTURE AND WORKERS
• Higher temperatures adversely affect crop yield and
agricultural productivity.
• Agricultural workers' efficiency decreases, exacerbating
water scarcity issues.
CONSEQUENCES ON VARIOUS SECTORS
• Increased heat raises power demand in urban and
industrial areas.

ABOUT TAIWAN EARTHQUAKE Australian, Philippine, and other smaller plates, which all
• Taiwan is prone to earthquakes as it lies along the encircle the large Pacific Plate.
Pacific “Ring of Fire” where 90% of the world’s • The frequent earthquakes and abundant volcanoes
earthquakes take place. along the Ring of Fire result from plate tectonic
• Taiwan experiences earthquakes due to the interactions movement in the region. These tectonic plates end up
of two tectonic plates the Philippine Sea Plate and overlapping at convergent boundaries, referred to as
the Eurasian Plate. subduction zones.
ABOUT PACIFIC RING OF FIRE EARTHQUAKES
• It is also known as Ring of Fire, Circum-Pacific Belt, or • It witnesses so many earthquakes due to constant
Girdle of Fire. sliding past, colliding into, or moving above or below
each other of the tectonic plates.
• It is known as the “Ring of Fire” because of the loop of
volcanoes that lies around the Pacific. Around 75 • As the edges of these plates are quite rough, they get
percent of the world's volcanoes are in this area, stuck with one another while the rest of the plate
with a large number of them lying under water. keeps moving.
• It is an underwater region on the edges of the Pacific • An earthquake occurs when the plate has moved far
Ocean where numerous earthquakes and volcanic enough and the edges unstick on one of the faults.
eruptions take place. VOLCANOES
• It is a U-shaped or semicircle or horse shoe in shape
belt of approximately 40,250 kilometres long and 500
kilometres wide, with a chain of over active 450
volcanoes.
• Indonesia, New Zealand, Papa New Guinea, Philippines,
Japan, United States, Chile, Canada, Guatemala, Russia,
Peru, Solomon Islands, Mexico and Antarctica are some
countries are some of the important places located
in the ring of the fire. The existence of volcanoes in the Ring of Fire is also due
to the movement of tectonic plates. Many of the
REASON FOR VULNERABILITY OF THE RING OF FIRE TO
volcanoes have been formed through a process known as
EARTHQUAKES AND VOLCANOES
subduction. It takes place when two plates collide with
each other and the heavier plate is shoved under another,
creating a deep trench, like the Mariana Trench, the
world’s deepest spot.
• Basically, when a ‘down going’ oceanic plate (like the
Pacific Plate) is shoved into a hotter mantle plate, it
heats up, volatile elements mix, and this produces the
magma. The magma then rises up through the overlying
plate and spurts out at the surface, which leads to the
formation of volcanoes.
• Most of the subduction zones on the planet are located
in the Ring of Fire and that’s why it hosts a large number
of volcanoes.
• The volcanoes in Indonesia are among the most active
of the Pacific Ring of Fire. They are formed due to
The Ring of Fire traces the meeting points of numerous
subduction zones of three main active tectonic plates,
tectonic plates, including the Eurasian, North American,
namely the Eurasian Plate, Pacific Plate, and Indo-
Juan de Fuca, Cocos, Caribbean, Nazca, Antarctic, Indian,
Australian Plate.

DIRECT SEEDED RICE

• Challenges in DSR cultivation include weed and pest
management, proper irrigation practices, and the need
#Indian Geography for farmer training.
• DSR techniques include dry and wet methods,
adaptable based on local water resources and
As rice is grown in India’s 45 per cent rain-fed area, as well as environmental conditions.
55 per cent irrigated area, the average usage of water to • Successful DSR requires high-quality seeds, proper
produce one kilogram of rice is not 4,000-5,000 litres, rather it field preparation, irrigation, weed and pest
is about 1,500 litres, Director-General of Indian Council of management, fertilization, and regular monitoring.
Agricultural Research (ICAR).
• DSR reduces water consumption compared to
DIRECT SEEDED RICE traditional flooded rice fields, conserving water and
minimizing environmental impact.
• Economic benefits of DSR include cost savings for
farmers and potential yield increase, while
environmental benefits include reduced methane
emissions and carbon footprint.
• Future trends in DSR cultivation include the
development of drought-tolerant varieties,
precision agriculture techniques, and integrated
weed and pest management systems.
• In conclusion, DSR offers a sustainable approach to rice
cultivation, addressing water scarcity, labour
• Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) is a modern agricultural availability, and climate change challenges, contributing
to food security and eco-friendly agriculture practices.
technique where rice seeds are sown directly into the
field, eliminating the need for transplanting seedlings.
• DSR conserves water, reduces labour, and enhances CARDAMOM
crop productivity, contributing to sustainable
#Indian Geography
agriculture and food security.
• Steps involved in DSR include field preparation, seed
sowing, weed management, irrigation, fertilization, The ongoing drought situation in the cardamom-producing
and crop monitoring. centres of Idukki poses a threat to cardamom farmers.
• Benefits of DSR include significant water savings, Farmers say this is the first time in recent history that drought-
like conditions have occurred in the cardamom sector in
labour reduction, potential yield increase, and
Idukki.
environmental advantages such as reduced
methane emissions. CARDAMOM CROP
• At least 30 per cent water is saved when DSR • Cardamom

technique is followed in place of conventional (Elettaria
cardamomum
nursery and transplanting method.
Maton) is one of
• By eliminating the need for nursery cultivation,
the oldest known
farmers save approximately 30 days in the crop
spices in the
cycle. world.
• This allows them to start the rabi season early and • Evergreen
avoid untimely rains during the harvesting phase. forests of Western Ghats of South India are

LAVENDER
considered as the centre of origin as well as natural
habitat of cardamom.
• Cardamom is commercially cultivated for its dried fruits #Agriculture
(capsules), which is also referred as cardamom of
commerce.
Lavender turned small farmers into big businessmen in J-K’s
TYPES/CULTIVARS Doda.
• Based on adaptability, nature of panicle, shape and size LAVENDER CULTIVATION
of capsules, the cultivars are categorized into
• The Union
Malabar, Mysore and Vazhukka.
Ministry of
• The cultivar Malabar with a prostrate panicle
Science and
(panicles spreading on ground) is widely grown in
Technology
Karnataka.
initiated the
• The cultivar Mysore, characterized with erect panicles Purple or
is extensively cultivated in Kerala and parts of Tamil Lavender
Nadu. Revolution
• The cultivar Vazhukka, a natural hybrid between through the
Malabar and Mysore types with a distinct semi-erect Council of Scientific and Industrial Research's (CSIR)
(pendent) panicle, is the most popular cultivar in Kerala. Aroma Mission.
CLIMATE AND SOIL o The revolution as well as the mission aimed to
• The crop thrives well in regions which receive a well- increase lavender planting in Jammu and Kashmir.
distributed annual rainfall of 1500-2500 mm with a o The goal was to take advantage of the location's
mean temperature of 15°C to 35°C and 600-1200 m assets in order to boost the homegrown market and
above MSL (mean sea level). farmers' revenue.
• Cardamom grows luxuriantly in forest loam soils, CSIR AROMA MISSION
which are generally acidic in nature with a pH range
• The CSIR Aroma Mission aims to bring about
of 5.5-6.5.
transformational change in the aroma sector by
• Growth of cardamom is enhanced, when planted in
implementing targeted interventions in agricultural,
humus rich soils with low to medium available
processing, and product development in order to boost
phosphorous and medium to high available
the aroma industry's growth and rural employment.
potassium.
• The mission will encourage the development of
PROPAGATION
aromatic crops for the production of essential oils,
• Propagation by vegetative means through suckers is which are in high demand in the aroma sector.
considered to be the most preferred method.
• Within the ambit of this mission, it is anticipated that
• Production of planting materials from seeds and Indian farmers and the aroma business will be able to
through tissue culture are alternative methods of
become worldwide leaders in the production and
propagation.
export of various essential oils in the menthol mint
• Seedling propagated plants may not be true to its pattern.
parent.
• CSIR assisted in the cultivation of 6000 hectares of land
Production of Cardamom in 46 Aspirational districts across the country during
• Kerala is the largest producer of cardamom in India Phase I.
(Share 58.6%), followed by Sikkim and Nagaland. • In addition, almost 44,000 employees were trained.

• The CSIR has started Phase-II of the Aroma Mission, • Lavender plants should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart
which will include over 45,000 skilled human resources to allow for good air circulation and prevent
and help over 75,000 farming families. overcrowding.
LAVENDER • When planting, ensure the root ball is level with the soil
• Lavender (Lavandula) is a flowering plant in the mint surface and firm the soil around the plant to remove
family (Lamiaceae) known for its fragrant aroma, any air pockets.
beautiful flowers, and various uses in culinary, Fertilizing:
medicinal, and ornamental applications. • Lavender generally does not require heavy fertilization.
• It is native to the Old World, primarily found across the • Too much nitrogen can result in excessive foliage
drier, warmer regions of mainland Eurasia, with an growth at the expense of flowers.
affinity for maritime breezes.
• A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring is
CONDITIONS REQUIRED usually sufficient.
Climate: Pests and Diseases:
• Lavender thrives in sunny, warm climates with well- • Lavender is relatively resistant to pests and diseases,
drained soil. but it can occasionally be affected by issues such as root
• It prefers a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, rot, powdery mildew, and aphids.
dry summers and mild winters. • Proper cultural practices such as good air circulation
• Lavender does not tolerate excessive humidity or wet and well-drained soil can help prevent these problems.
conditions, so regions with high rainfall or humidity may • In cases of severe infestation or disease, organic or
not be suitable unless proper drainage and air chemical treatments may be necessary.
circulation are provided.
Soil:
• Lavender prefers well-drained, alkaline soil with a pH
KALA NAMAK RICE
between 6.5 and 8.5. #Agriculture
• Sandy or loamy soils are ideal as they provide good
drainage, preventing waterlogging which can cause root
rot. A Finance Ministry notification said that the export of Kala
Namak rice will be permitted through 6 customs stations.
• If your soil is heavy clay or compacted, consider
amending it with sand or gravel to improve drainage. KALA NAMAK RICE
Sunlight: • Kala Namak rice is grown in the Tarai area of

Siddharth Nagar
• Lavender requires full sun to thrive, typically needing at
and ten
least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
neighboring
• Plant your lavender in a location where it will receive
districts of eastern
plenty of sunlight throughout the day.
Uttar Pradesh.
Watering:
o Kalanamak Rice is
• While lavender is drought-tolerant once established, it approved for 11 districts of Zone 7 of UP. These 11
still requires regular watering during its initial districts are located in the divisions of Gorakhpur
establishment period (first year). (Deoria, Gorakhpur, Mahrajganj, Siddharth Nagar
• After that, it's best to water sparingly, allowing the soil districts), Basti (Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Siddharth
to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Nagar districts), and Devipatan (Bahraich, Balrampur,
• Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in Gonda, Shravasti districts).
lavender cultivation. • It is a scented rice variety which is generally offered at
Spacing and Planting: a better price as compared to other rice varieties to the
farmers.

• The name Kalanamk Rice has been derived due to its • Ashwagandha is renowned for its stress-relieving
black husk (kala = Black, & suffix 'namak' means salt). properties, aiding in the management of both physical
• It is famous for its taste, palatability, and aroma. and mental stress.
• Research suggests that Ashwagandha supplementation
• It is also featured in speciality rices of the world by
may help reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated
the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the
with stress, promoting a sense of calmness and
United Nations.
relaxation.
o Kala namak Rice is in cultivation since the Buddhist
Enhanced Cognitive Function:
period (600 BC).
• Studies indicate that Ashwagandha may support
• The grains were found from excavation of Aligarhwa
cognitive function, including memory, attention, and
(district Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh, India), located
learning abilities.
at Nepal border.
• Its neuroprotective properties may help protect against
• Kalanamak rice was granted the Geographical age-related cognitive decline and improve overall brain
Indication (GI) Tag in 2012 by the Government of health.
India.
Physical Performance and Endurance:
NUTRITIVE VALUE
• Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often use
• The Kala namak rice is rich in micronutrients like Iron Ashwagandha to enhance physical performance and
and Zinc, has a low glycemic index, thus better for endurance.
diabetic people and has higher protein content when • It is believed to improve stamina, strength, and muscle
compared to other paddy varieties. recovery, making it a popular choice among individuals
General Rice Kala namak Rice engaging in rigorous physical activities.
Particulars
1. Amylose 24% 19-20% Immune System Support:
2. Protein 5-6% 10% • Ashwagandha is recognized for its immunomodulatory

3. Fat 0.52 0.51 properties, which may help strengthen the immune
4. Iron 1 mg 3 mg system.
5. Zinc 0.1 mg 0.4 mg • By promoting immune function, it may assist the body
6. Carbohydrate 88% 87.96% in fighting off infections and illnesses, contributing to
overall well-being.
7. Glycemic Index 85% 49%
Anti-inflammatory and Anti-bacterial Effects:
• Withanolides, the active compounds found in
ASHWAGANDHA Ashwagandha, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-
#Agriculture bacterial properties.
• These properties may help reduce inflammation,
alleviate pain, and protect against bacterial infections,
• Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub found in parts of supporting overall health and wellness.
India, Africa, and the Middle East. Neuroprotective Benefits:
• It contains several bioactive compounds, including a • Research suggests that Ashwagandha may have
group of substances known as withanolides. neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting
• Ashwagandha has also been promoted for COVID-19, individuals with neurodegenerative diseases such as
but there is not sufficient high-quality evidence to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
support its use. • Withaferin A, a compound in Ashwagandha, has
BENEFITS OF ASHWAGANDHA been studied for its ability to combat Beta-amyloid
Stress Management: deposition in the brain, a characteristic of
neurodegenerative diseases.

Potential Aphrodisiac Properties: • The Ministry plans to advise exporters to conduct

• Traditionally, Ashwagandha has been used as an independent studies on working conditions to address
aphrodisiac to enhance sexual vitality and libido. concerns in key markets like the U.S. and the EU.
• Some studies suggest that Ashwagandha may improve • Additionally, the Andhra Pradesh government has been
sexual function and fertility in both men and women, urged to investigate the allegations raised by the CAL
although further research is needed to confirm these report.
effects conclusively. SHRIMP
Overall, Ashwagandha offers a range of potential health • Shrimp are crustaceans.
benefits, from stress reduction to immune support and • Shrimp are mainly found in three groups: Caridea,
cognitive enhancement. However, it's essential to use it
Procarididea, and Dendrobranchiata.
under medical supervision, considering potential
• Adult shrimp are filter feeding benthic animals that
contraindications and individual health conditions.
live close to the bottom.
• They can live in schools and can swim rapidly
INDIA REJECTS REPORT ON backwards.
ABUSIVE CONDITIONS AT • They have a high tolerance to toxins in polluted

areas and may contribute to high toxin levels in their
SHRIMP HATCHERIES predators.
#Agriculture • They play important roles in the food chain and are
important food sources for larger animals from fish to
whales.
India, a key player in the global shrimp export market, has SHRIMP EXPORT OF INDIA
rejected claims of human rights and environmental violations
made by a Chicago-based human rights organization. The
country's Commerce Ministry officials are set to meet seafood
exporters to counter these allegations and protect India's
reputation.
KEY POINTS
• India's seafood exports reached $8.09 billion in 2022-23,
with shrimp comprising a significant portion at $5.6
billion.
• India has become a leading shrimp exporter, capturing
40% of the U.S. market, surpassing competitors like
Thailand, China, Vietnam, and Ecuador. SEAFOOD SCENARIO OF INDIA
• Allegations from the Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) • India’s seafood exports touch an all-time high in FY
regarding poor working conditions in shrimp
2022-23; grow 26.73% in quantity terms and 4.31% in
hatcheries, ponds, and processing facilities have been
value terms over FY 2021-22
refuted by Indian authorities.
• 17,35,286 MT of seafood export worth US$ 8.09 billion
• The entire shrimp export value chain is certified by the
in FY 2022-23 is the highest both in value and volume
Marine Products Export Development Authority,
ensuring quality and safety standards. terms.
• Around 70% of India's shrimp production comes from • USA the largest importer of Indian seafood followed by
approximately one lakh farms in Andhra Pradesh, China, EU, Southeast Asia, Japan, and Middle East
providing jobs for approximately eight million people, • Frozen shrimp retains the top position as the major
with women occupying a significant portion of these export seafood item.
positions.

REDUCE LIONS’ COLLISION

Sanctuary and Mitiyal Wildlife Sanctuary account for
about 1,193 sq.km
#Flora & Fauna • The conservation initiatives taken so far have resulted
in arresting the trend of population decline of lions.
• IUCN Status: Endangered
A joint meeting of forest and railway officials was held on April
3 after the HC took note of three lion deaths in January, two of • State Animal of Gujarat.
them dying from train accidents.

SUMMARY FIRE DESTROYS NEARLY
The Gujarat High Court recently reprimanded the Railways
and Gujarat Forest department for failing to prevent lion 100 HECTARES OF
WAYANAD SANCTUARY
deaths due to train accidents in the Gir forest and
sanctuary.
Court Directive: Following the court's intervention, a joint #Flora & Fauna
meeting between forest and railway officials was convened
in April to address the issue.
Around 100 hectares of forest were destroyed in are in the
Revised Standard Operating Protocol (SOP): Railway
Sulthan Bathery forest range under the Wayanad Wildlife
counsel informed the court about a newly framed SOP,
Sanctuary in Kerala.
limiting train speed to below 40 kmph during the night
WAYANAD SANCTUARY
in identified lion hotspots along the Pipavav-
Surendranagar rail line.
Implementation: The revised SOP covers a 90-km stretch
of railway lines in Amreli district, aiming to reduce train
speeds and minimize the risk of collisions with lions.
Effectiveness: Authorities estimate the speed restrictions
could reduce train-lion collisions by 60 to 70 percent.
Past Incidents: Seven lions died from train collisions
between July 2023 and January 2024, prompting the court's
intervention.
Court's Dissatisfaction: The Chief Justice expressed
dissatisfaction with the need for court directives,
emphasizing the authorities' responsibility to proactively
address such issues.
Call for Action: The court ordered the chief conservator of
forest and divisional railway manager to file personal • It is a wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad, Kerala, India with
affidavits, highlighting their plans to address the issue. an extent of 344.44 km2 (132.99 sq. mi) and four hill
ASIATIC LION AND GIR FOREST ranges namely Sulthan Bathery, Muthanga, Kurichiat
and Tholpetty.
• GIR forest, a dry deciduous forest ecosystem in the
Saurashtra region of Gujarat, is the abode of the last • The sanctuary is separated into two disconnected parts
surviving population of the free ranging Asiatic Lion known as the North Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and
(Panthera leo persica). South Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
• The total distribution range of lion in this region is • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest
estimated to be around 9000 sq.km in three districts, wildlife sanctuary in Kerala.
i.e., Junagadh, Amreli and Bhavnagar, of which GIR • Wayanad is among the most beloved treasures of God's
National Park, GIR Wildlife Sanctuary, Paniya Wildlife Own Country and here it is that its eponymous wildlife
sanctuary was set up in 1973.

• Located in the southern part of the famous Western Fauna:

Ghats, it is ranked 8th in the list of the World's • Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, jungle cat,
Biodiversity Hotspots. dhole, gaur, sloth bear, Bengal monitor and a variety of
• The landscape usually consists of hilly terrains snakes are present.
interspersed with dense valleys, which have helped Birds:
build its reputation as one among the most picturesque • Indian peacock, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers, jungle
natural sites in the whole world. fowls are a few of the various birds.
• A variety of large wild animals such as gaur, Indian Tribal Communities
elephant, deer and Bengal tiger are found there. There • Various tribal communities inhabit this area, including
are also quite a few unusual birds in the sanctuary. Kuruma, Paniya, Kattunaicka, Urali, Kurichiar, and
• Indian peafowl tend to be very common in the area. Adiyar, contributing to the cultural diversity and
GEOGRAPHIC OVERVIEW heritage of the region.
• It spans the Wayanad Plateau, which is situated at the

confluence of three biologically distinct and diverse INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES
regions: the main Western Ghat Mountains, the Nilgiri
Hills, and the Deccan Plateau. THREATEN NATURAL
• The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve falls under
biogeographic region of the Malabar rain forest. The
the
ECOSYSTEM
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanaad Wildlife #Biodiversity
Sanctuary Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National
Park, Mukurthi National Park and Silent Valley are the
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration recently
protected areas present within this reserve.
sought help from the Wildlife Institute of India to manage the
• The plateau area mostly resides in Kerala, with small
teeming population of chital (spotted deer) in Ross Island,
parts in the neighbouring states of Karnataka and Tamil officially known as the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island.
Nadu.
• Introduction of Chital: Chital, native to mainland India,
• The plateau extends from Kerala and slopes gently were introduced to the tiny island (0.3 sq km small) by
eastwards towards the Deccan Plateau. the British in the early 20th century. Due to the absence
Surrounding Protected Areas of natural predators or competitors and their swimming
ability, chital swiftly spread across the Andamans.
• The protected areas within Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
share their boundaries with the protected area network UNDERSTANDING INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES (IAS)
of Nagarhole and Bandipur Tiger Reserves of Karnataka • Definition by CBD: Invasive alien species (IAS) are
in the northeast and Mudumalai Tiger Reserve of Tamil defined by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
Nadu in the southeast. as species whose introduction and/or spread outside
their natural past or present distribution threatens
Conservation Status and Reserves
biological diversity. They include animals, plants, fungi,
• The sanctuary is a component of the Nilgiri Biosphere
and microorganisms, and exhibit characteristics of
Reserve, covering an area of 5,520 km2, and is also part "arrive, survive, and thrive."
of Elephant Reserve of South India.
• Legal Definition in India: Under the Wildlife Protection
Flora: Act, 1972 (amended in 2022), invasive species are
• Moist deciduous forest consists of maruthi, karimaruthi, defined as species of animal or plant not native to India,
rosewood, venteak, vengal, chadachi, mazhukanjiram, whose introduction or spread may threaten or
bamboos, more, while the semi-evergreen patches adversely impact wildlife or its habitat. This definition
comprise veteria indica, lagerstroemia lanceolata, excludes species invasive to specific regions within
terminalia paniculata. India.

Examples of Invasive Wildlife in India • The endangered black softshell turtles face threats,
• Dominant Species: Examples of invasive wildlife in prompting locals to protect them fiercely, even
India include certain species of fish such as the African organizing protests against perceived governmental
catfish, Nile tilapia, red-bellied piranha, and alligator inaction.
gar, as well as turtle species like the red-eared slider. • Recognizing the community's bond with the turtles, the
COMMON INVASIVE SPECIES OF INDIA Election Commission has adopted "Mohan Babu" as its
FLORA FAUNA mascot to encourage voter turnout.

• Despite this, residents feel the government has not
• Prosopis juliflora • African apple snail
done enough to safeguard the turtles, leading to
• Water Hyacinth • Papaya Mealy Bug
concerns about their well-being.
• Snowflake Corals • Amazon Sailfin Catfish
Black Softshell Turtle
• Lantana
SCIETIFIC NAME: Nilssonia nigricans
• Impacts: These species, introduced for various reasons
IUCN STATUS: Critically Endangered
such as aquaculture and exotic pet trade, disrupt native
ecosystems through competition for resources and fast CITES: Appendix I
reproduction rates. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: No legal protection
IMPACTS OF INVASIVE SPECIES ON NATIVE FLORA AND
FAUNA
• Disruption in Ecosystems: Invasive species act as
disruptors in the food chain and disturb ecosystem
balance. In habitats lacking competition, they can
dominate, affecting native flora and fauna.
• Specific Examples: For instance, in Keoladeo Park,
Bharatpur, the African catfish preys on waterfowl and
migratory birds, impacting biodiversity.
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES
• Global Perspective: The Intergovernmental Platform
on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) reported • The black softshell turtle, also referred to as the Bostami
around 37,000 established alien species worldwide, turtle, holds a unique place in the realm of freshwater
with roughly 200 new species introduced annually. The
turtles.
global economic cost of IAS was over $423 billion
• Once considered a variant of other species such as the
annually in 2019.
Indian softshell turtle or the Indian peacock softshell
National Impact: The National Biodiversity Action Plan of
turtle, it has now been recognized as a distinct species.
2019 highlights the economic impact of specific invasive
species like the cotton mealybug, which severely affects • Indigenous to the regions of India, specifically
cotton crops in the Deccan, leading to yield losses. Assam and Tripura, as well as Bangladesh, notably
Chittagong and Sylhet, this species has a rich history
intertwined with cultural significance.
BLACK SOFTSHELL TURTLES ORIGINS AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
#Flora & Fauna • Legend has it that in 1800s, Hazrat Bayezid Bostami
brought these turtles from Iran to Chittagong shrine
pond.
• In the village of Baneswar, a historic Shiva temple
• These turtles, revered as sacred beings, garnered
houses not only the deity but also "Mohan," revered as
an incarnation of Vishnu, residing in the temple pond. respect and reverence from the local populace.

CONSERVATION EFFORTS AND DISCOVERIES • Fishermen express concerns about financial losses
• Declared extinct by the International Union for due to failed catches, high operating costs, and
Conservation of Nature in 2002, the black softshell restrictions on fishing areas.
turtle surprised researchers when populations were • Congestion in free water areas, violations leading to
found in the Hayagriva Madhava Temple Pond in trawler seizures, and industrialization along the
Assam and the Kalyan Sagar Lake in the Tripura coastline further compound the challenges faced by
Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura, India. marine fisherfolk.
• Through concerted conservation measures and habitat • The indiscriminate discharge of wastewater into the
protection, these turtles have managed to survive in the sea adversely affects fish populations, breeding,
wild. and the livelihoods of small fishermen, emphasizing
SCIENTIFIC INSIGHTS AND CONTINUED RESEARCH the need for empathetic government measures to avert
the collapse of the sector.
• Their mitochondrial genome reveals connections to 19
other turtle species. • The Odisha Marine Fish Producers’ Association
highlights the importance of making the fishing sector
• In phylogenetic trees, Nilssonia nigricans emerges as a
sustainable amid increasing unsustainability.
sister species to Nilssonia formosa, shedding light on
their evolutionary relationships.
BEHAVIOR
• Hibernation takes place during the late autumn season
until the spring for softshell turtles.
• They bury themselves at the bottom of a river/lake in
the mud.
• Food is not as essential as oxygen during this period.
• Oxygen is needed at a reduced rate than normal, and
the turtles practice a technique called “pharyngeal
breathing”.
• This means that they pump water in and out of their PARADIP PORT
throat (pharynx) that contain microvillus projections of
small blood vessels. • Paradip Port is a natural, deep-water port on the
East coast of India in Paradip in Jagatsinghpur
• This structure provides them with greater surface area
district of Odisha, India.
to absorb more oxygen.
• It is at the confluence of the Mahanadi River and
the Bay of Bengal, situated at south of Kolkata and
PARADIP PORT north of Visakhapatnam.
#Infrastructure • The port is administered by the Paradip Port Authority

(PPA) (formerly Paradip Port Trust), an autonomous
corporation wholly owned by the Government of
Challenges faced by fisherman along the Paradip port. India.
CHALLENGES FOR FISHERMAN History
• Government policies, unpredictable weather shifts, • Paradip is one of the major ports of India and the only
and sea pollution exacerbate the challenges for major port in Odisha.
fisherman along the coastline, especially in Odisha. • Biju Patnaik, the then Chief Minister of Odisha, is the
• Bans on fishing, including the upcoming one from founding father of Paradip Port.
April 15 to June 15, negatively impact the sector, which • Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India, laid
annually contributes significantly to the economy and the foundation stone of the port on 3 January 1962
supports numerous fishermen and their families.

near the confluence of the river Mahanadi and the Bay

of Bengal.
• Government of India took over the management of
the port from the Government of Odisha on 1 June
1965.
• Maiden berthing was by INS Investigator on 12 March
1966.
• Government of India declared Paradip Port as the
eighth major port of India on 18 April 1966 making
it the first major port in the East Coast
commissioned after independence.
• The Port of Paradip, an autonomous body under the
Major Port Trusts Act, 1963 functioning under
Ministry of Shipping is administered by a board of
trustees set up by the Government of India headed by
the chairman.
• The Trustees of the Trust Board are nominated by
Government of India from various users of the port
• Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary is in Yamunanagar, Haryana,
such as shippers, ship owners, Government
India.
Departments concerned and port labor.
• Found in the Shivalik foothills of the Himalayas.
Connectivity
• Named after the Kalesar forest and Kalesar Mahadev
• The port relates to Broad-gauge electrified Railway
temple within it.
system for the East-Coast Railway and is also served
by National Highway 53 and State Highway No.12. • Declared a national park on December 8, 2003.
• The port is well connected with Cuttack and • Historically used as hunting grounds by Mughal and
Bhubaneswar with bus & train both the services. British rulers, primarily for tigers.
• The port is also connected by bus routes to the steel • Houses historical Kalesar Fort, possibly built during
city of Rourkela, Kolkata and to the holy town of Puri & Aurangzeb's reign, offering panoramic views.
Konark.
• The tiger population significantly declined around 1892,
leading to a hunting ban in the early 20th century.
KALESAR WILDLIFE • Eastward lies the Yamuna River.

• Rajaji National Park is to the northeast, Simbalbara
SANCTUARY National Park to the north (bordering Himachal
Pradesh), and Morni Hills to the west.
#prelimsnuggets #Environment and Ecology
FLAURA AND FAUNA
• Kalesar has 53% dense forest, 38% open forest, 9%
Supreme Court stopped the building of four dams in Kalesar scrub. Total forest cover is about 71%.
Wildlife Sanctuary in Haryana. They asked the government for
• Home to various animals like leopards, deer, hyenas,
explanations and said the dams could harm wildlife and
jackals, porcupines, pangolins, and langurs.
people living there, as well as the environment. The court said
no construction should happen until they make a final • Diverse bird species including red junglefowl, grey
decision. partridge, peafowl, and kingfisher.
KALESAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY • Known for its scenic beauty with dense Sal tree cover.

NILGIRI TAHR
• There are smaller populations found in Palani hills,
Srivilliputtur, and Meghamalai and Agasthiyar ranges.
#prelimsnuggets #Environment and Ecology • Only two well-protected, large populations are
documented -- one from the Nilgiris and the other from
Anamalais, including the high ranges of Kerala.
With a resolve to remove the Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus
hylocrius) from the endangered status, the Tamil Nadu • Eravikulam National Park in Annamalai hills, Kerala, is
government will conduct a synchronised survey of the State home to the largest population of the Nilgiri tahr, with
animal. The three-day exercise is being done to estimate the more than 700 individuals.
population of the Tahrs, which once roamed the length and
REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR
breadth of the Anamalai and Nilgiris landscape
NILGIRI TAHR • A grown-up male is known as 'saddle back'.
• The male would be bigger and darker than the female

and has a silvery saddle like patch on its back.
• Mating takes place during the monsoon season and

calving is during January-February.
• The female gestates for about 180 days and usually

gives birth to one kid per pregnancy. Sexual maturity is
achieved at around three years of age.
• The average life expectancy for Nilgiri tahr in the wild is

estimated to be only three or 3.5 years although the
potential life span is at least 9 years.
THREATS TO NILIGIRI TAHR

IUCN Status: Endangered
• Habitat loss due to rampant deforestation, competition
Wildlife Protection Act 1972- Schedule I
with domestic livestock, hydroelectric projects in Nilgiri
Endemic to Western Ghats
tahr habitat, and monoculture plantations
• Nilgiri tahr is the only mountain ungulate in southern
• Occasional hunting for its meat and skin
India amongst the 12 species present in India.
As a result of extreme habitat fragmentation, its
• Also, the state animal of Tamil Nadu.
population has declined drastically in the last few years.
• Locally the animal is called ‘Varayaadu’.
Plantation activities affect the Nilgiri tahr habitat, which
• Nilgiri tahr, or Nilgiri ibex of southern India, is dark includes grasslands and sholas.
brown with a grizzled saddle-shaped patch on its back;
CONSERVATION MEASURES
its body size is comparable to that of the Himalayan
species. • WWF India initiated its conservation work on Nilgiri tahr
in 2008.
• The Arabian tahr is the smallest of the three species.
• In 2012, an assessment on Nilgiri Tahr’s status, threats
Distribution
faced, habitat, and population size was carried out in
• They inhabit the open montane grassland habitats at
the Western Ghats.
elevations from 1200 to 2600 m of the Southwestern
• WWF India published a report on the comprehensive
Ghats.
study of the Nilgiri tahr population and its habitat in the
• Currently, the Nilgiri tahr distribution is along a narrow
hills of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in 2015.
stretch of 400 km in the Western Ghats between Nilgiris
• It was the first time such a comprehensive report had
in the north and Kanyakumari hills in the south of the
region. been made.

HEALING THE SOIL

o India has the largest food subsidy programme in the
world, the PM-Garib Kalyan Yojana, under which 813
#mainscomprehensive #Environment and million people get free rice/wheat.
Ecology POLICY CHALLENGES

• The policy of heavily subsidising the use of chemical
fertilisers, especially urea, has led to skewed use of
Earth Day observed annually on April 22 since 1970, marked nitrogen (N), phosphate (P) and potash (K).
by millions supporting environmental conservation. • The soils have been damaged and are starving for
AGRICULTURE AND SUSTAINABILITY organic carbon.
• Earth day originated in the US under Senator Gaylord o The optimal level of soil organic carbon (SOC) as per
Nelson's leadership due to concerns about the World Food Laureate, Rattan Lal, should be
environmental damage from rapid development. between 1.5 to 2 per cent.
• Over 50 years later, numerous COPs held, including COP o The reality of Indian soils, however, is that more than
28 in Dubai (Nov-Dec 2023) where agriculture was 60 per cent have SOC of less than 0.5 per cent.
included. o Our soils are literally in the ICU, but our policymakers
• For the first time, agriculture was brought into this appear to be blind to it.
agreement. SUGGESTIONS TO REFORM POLICIES
o But India did not sign it, unlike most G20 countries • A simple directional change from heavily subsidising the
like the US, and China. pricing of N, P and K to direct income transfer to farmers
o The reason behind India not signing it was that the and then letting the prices of N, P and K be decided by
government thought it would involve significant the market forces can change a lot.
changes in agricultural policies and farming • But this needs advance preparations in terms of land
practices. records of farmers, the crops they are growing,
CHALLENGES IN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY irrigation, etc.
• Rising human population's demand for food GROUNDWATER DEPLETION

contributes to biodiversity loss. • In Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan, the situation is
o It took homo sapiens more than 2,00,000 years to particularly serious, largely because free power for
become one billion in 1804. But the next billion was irrigation, minimum support prices and open-ended
added in just 123 years by 1927. procurement of paddy (rice) have encouraged rampant
groundwater exploitation.
o And now, within less than 100 years, humanity has
multiplied from two billion to more than eight billion. • All this has led to an ecological disaster in this belt with
the water table receding year by year, and paddy fields
• As Norman Borlaug, the father of the Green
emitting carbon at the rate of almost 5 tons/ha.
Revolution, once said, this planet can four billion
people at the most on its own. REDUCED CROP DIVERSITY
o If science had not come to rescue the situation, many • Focus on rice cultivation in Punjab displaces other
would have starved to death. crops, reducing crop diversity.
o Green Revolution increased food production but led o For example, in 1960 in Punjab, only 4.8 per cent of
to environmental consequences. the cropped area was under rice. Today, it is more
than 40 per cent, displacing maize, millets, pulses and
• In fact, as per FAO, 30 per cent of the food produced
many oilseeds. Successful high-yielding varieties of
never reaches our stomachs due to high food losses in
rice and wheat also lead to loss of varietal diversity.
the journey from harvest to retail and high waste at the
consumer end. Urgent need for policies balancing agricultural productivity
with environmental sustainability. Climate change and
o To ensure that people do not die of hunger, each
extreme weather events require resilient food systems
country has to devise its own policies.
and environmental conservation efforts. Call to action to

prioritize planet-positive policies to safeguard future • For example, small predators can only eat small prey,
generations. while bigger predators can eat bigger prey. From the
prey’s point of view, if a predator's mouth can't open
wide enough to eat them, they might be safe from that
GAPE LIMITATION predator.
#Environment #Basics of Ecology & • This barrier can in turn lead to evolutionary pressure
that selects the predator’s ability to eat smaller prey or,
Environment #Prelims Nuggets
conversely, adaptations in the predator’s behaviour to
overcome gape limitation.
In the study of predator-prey dynamics within ecosystems, • It also influence how animals evolve over time. Prey
understanding the physical constraints that influence feeding animals might get faster or grow bigger to avoid being
behaviours is crucial. One such constraint is the gape eaten by predators with smaller mouths.
limitation. It is significant because, it determines the size of • On the other hand, predators may evolve larger
prey the predator can consume, mouths to eat larger prey.
influencing their diet preferences
• Understanding gape limitations is essential to
and the structure of food webs.
predicting how changes in predator or prey
ABOUT GAPE LIMITATION populations, changes in habitats, and/or environmental
• In ecology, it stands for the disturbances could affect the structure and function of
idea that a predator can only ecosystems.
eat things that fit in its • The study of gape limitations also helps researchers
mouth. Like a snake trying to understand the intricate dynamics of animal
eat a rabbit. If the rabbit is too interactions and the cascading effects they have on
big to fit in the snake’s mouth, biodiversity.
gape limitation says the snake won’t be able to eat it.
Practice questions
MCQs
Q1. With reference to Steel sector, consider the 1. The greenhouse gas emission from agricultural
following statements: sector is more than industrial sector.
1. Green steel refers to steel produced using direct 2. Rice cultivation is the highest contributor to India's
reduced iron method. agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Emission intensity of the domestic steel sector is Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
less than the global average. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
3. Domestic steel sector accounts for 32 % of India’s (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
greenhouse gas emissions.
How many of the statements given above are incorrect? Q3. With reference to Kala Namak Rice, consider the
(a) Only one (b) Only two following statements:
(c) All three (d) None 1. It is mainly grown in the Terai region of West Bengal.
2. This variety of rice was introduced by Portuguese in
Q2. With reference to greenhouse gas (GHG’s) India.
emission, consider the following statements: 3. It is rich in micronutrients like Zinc and Iron.
How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one (b) Only two 3. North South Corridor will pass through West Bengal,
(c) All three (d) None Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra.
Q4. With reference to Solar Eclipse consider the How many of the above statements are correct?
following statements: (a) Only one (b) Only two
1. It occurs when sun moves in between moon and (c) All three (d) None
earth.
2. Solar eclipses only occur during the new moon, Q6. With reference to Lavender cultivation in India,
when the Moon and Sun are aligned on the same consider the following statements:
side of Earth. 1. It is native to India and grown in relatively wetter
Which of the above statements are correct? conditions.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 2. It prefers well drained and highly acidic soils for
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) None growth.
3. Ministry of Agriculture and farmer welfare initiated
Q5. With reference to India’s dedicated freight the purple revolution to boost lavender production
corridor, consider the following statements: in Jammu and Kashmir.
1. East Coast corridor of India’s dedicated freight How many of the above statements are correct?
corridor will connect Itarsi to Tenali. (a) Only one (b) Only two
2. East Coast corridor targets transporting coal, (c) All three (d) None
fertilizer, iron ore, steel, and other commodities.
Q1. Discuss the geophysical characteristic of the Circum- Pacific zone.
Q2. Discuss the multifaceted impacts of plastic pollution on the environment and human health and propose measures
to mitigate this global challenge.
Answers: 1-c, 2-d, 3-a, 4-b, 5-a, 6-d

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper III (Main)
CANCER-CAUSING
• Contamination usually occurs when food comes into
contact with faecal matter from infected animals or
CHEMICALS FOUND IN humans. This can happen due to lack of sanitary

practices during the production, processing, or
INDIAN PRODUCTS handling of food products and spices.

• Consuming food contaminated with Salmonella can
#Biology&Biotechnology lead to symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal
cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Various countries, including the US and European Union, ETHYLENE OXIDE CONTAMINATION
have found microbiological contamination (i.e. Salmonella • Ethylene oxide is often used as a sterilising agent to
contamination) and high amounts of ethylene oxide (a kill bacteria, fungi, and insects in spices, dried vegetable
pesticide) in spices originating from India being exported to products, and other food commodities susceptible to
the countries. contamination during processing and storage.
SALMONELLA CONTAMINATION Improper use or excessive application in the food
supply chain has led to significant contamination
• Salmonella is a rod-shaped gram-negative bacteria
issues.
which commonly causes food poisoning.
• Carcinogenic properties: Ethylene oxide is classified
• It can be found in a variety of foods, including raw or
as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for
undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products,
Research on Cancer. Chronic exposure, even at low
as well as fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. levels, can increase the risk of lymphoid cancer and
breast cancer, which can be further exacerbated by
consuming contaminated foods over an extended
period.
MEASURES TO ENSURE FOOD SAFETY
• Regulatory measures: Indian regulatory authorities,
such as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of
India (FSSAI), need to implement stringent
monitoring mechanisms and regular testing of
samples to detect and control the presence of
unwanted high-risk chemicals in food items and ensure
their compliance with safety standards.
• Good Manufacturing Practices and use of
Technology: Enhancing overall hygiene and storage
conditions in the production process can reduce the
need for chemical sterilant. Implementing Good
Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis
Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems can significantly
mitigate microbial contamination risks. Technologies
like cold plasma, pulsed light sterilisation, and high-

Science & Technology
pressure processing are innovative non-chemical • POEM is an experimental mission or space platform to
methods that can effectively reduce microbial load perform in-orbit experiments using the final, and
without leaving harmful residues. otherwise discarded, stage of ISRO’s PSLV.
• Explore alternatives in food processing: Exploring ○ PSLV is a four-stage rocket where the first three
safer chemical alternatives that have similar spent stages fall back into the ocean, and the final
antimicrobial properties without carcinogenic risks is stage (PS4) — after launching the satellite into orbit
crucial. Substances such as ozone, hydrogen peroxide, — ends up as space junk.
or heat treatments could serve as potential ○ In POEM, the spent final stage will be utilised as a
replacements for ethylene oxide in certain stabilised platform to perform experiments.
applications.
• POEM has a dedicated Navigation Guidance and
• Align with international safety regulations: Control (NGC) system which will act as the platform’s
Engaging with international food safety agencies to brain for attitude stabilisation with specified accuracy.
align safety regulations and standards can help reduce
• POEM will derive its power from solar panels mounted
the rejection rates of Indian exports and build trust in
around the PS4 tank, and a Li-Ion battery. It will
Indian food products globally.
navigate using four sun sensors, a magnetometer,
• Training and education programs: There should be gyros & NavIC.
comprehensive training and education programs for
producers and exporters on the dangers of
carcinogenic chemicals and the importance of adhering
to safe usage practices.
ISRO’S ‘ZERO ORBITAL

DEBRIS’ MILESTONE
Astronomy & Space Technology
Indian Space Research Organisation announced that its PSLV

Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3) re-entered the
Earth's atmosphere in March 2024, without leaving any
debris in orbit.
MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS
• Mission launch: PSLV-C58 mission was launched on
January 1, 2024.
• Primary Mission: The mission's main objective was to
deploy XPoSAT satellite into the intended orbit of 650
km, which it successfully accomplished.
• POEM-3: After deploying the satellite, the leftover part
of the PSLV rocket, the terminal stage (fourth stage),
was not discarded. Instead, it was ingeniously
repurposed into a stabilised platform named POEM-3 ZERO ORBITAL DEBRIS MILESTONE
(PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3).
• Deorbiting POEM-3: To ensure POEM-3 would not
PSLV ORBITAL EXPERIMENTAL MODULE (POEM) remain as space junk, its orbit was lowered from a
• Developed by: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) high altitude of 650 km to a much lower one at 350

km. This significantly reduced the time it took for ○ It leads to the ‘Kessler syndrome’ – creation of more
POEM-3 to re-enter Earth's atmosphere and burn up. debris due to cascading collisions resulting from one
• Passivation: To further minimise risks, any leftover collision.
fuel on POEM-3 was eliminated in a process called HOW ARE SPACE AGENCIES DEALING WITH DEBRIS?
passivation. This reduced the chance of an accidental • Currently, there are no international space laws
explosion during re-entry that could create debris. pertaining to LEO debris.
• Zero-Debris Goal Achieved: On March 21, 2024, • However, most space-exploring nations abide by the
POEM-3 re-entered the earth’s atmosphere, meeting its Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines 2002 specified by
fiery end. Due to the well-planned deorbiting and the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination
passivation manoeuvres, the PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission Committee (IADC), which the U.N. endorsed in 2007.
resulted in practically zero debris left behind in
• The U.S. Space Command tracks and catalogues space
Earth's orbit. This is a significant achievement in space
debris larger than 10 centimetres in LEO and larger
sustainability, reducing the potential hazards of space
than 0.3-1 metres in geosynchronous orbit (GEO).
debris for future missions.
SPACE DEBRIS PROJECT NETRA
• Space debris in the low earth orbit (LEO) mainly • Initiative by ISRO, an early warning system in space
comprises pieces of spacecraft, rockets, and defunct to detect debris and hazards to Indian satellites and
satellites, and the fragments of objects that have thus gaining capability in space situational
deteriorated explosively as a result of anti-satellite awareness (SSA).
missile tests. • NETRA will use telescopes, radars, data processing
• Threats: This debris often flies around at high speeds units, and other tools to spot and track objects as
of up to 27,000 kilometres per hour. Due to their small as 10 cm, up to a range of 3,400 km.
sheer volume and momentum, they pose a risk to
several space assets.
• With the rise in the number of satellites in orbit OZONE ON JUPITER’S
around the earth, space debris has become a pressing
issue, particularly in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO). MOON
○ Currently, there are 7,000 operational satellites Astronomy & Space Technology
orbiting the earth at different altitudes along with
millions of pieces of space debris.
○ According to ISRO’s Space Situational Assessment An international team of scientists, including from India, has
report 2022, the world placed 2,533 objects in space discovered strong evidence indicating the presence of ozone
in 179 launches in 2022, up from 1860 objects in 135 on Jupiter’s moon, Callisto. The Scientists modelled the
launches in 2021. surface of Callisto icy surface conditions in a lab, and
• As more communication satellites/constellations are analysed the chemical reactions occurring on the surface of
launched and more anti-satellite tests are conducted, Callisto when sunlight hits its surface (caused by ultraviolet
more on-orbit breakup and collisions occur, producing radiation). The ultraviolet absorption spectrum was recorded
smaller and smaller fragments in orbit. which revealed the formation of ozone.
○ The number of space objects (debris or functional IMPORTANCE OF OZONE

equipment) greater than 10 cm in size in LEO is • Ozone molecule is composed of three oxygen atoms
expected to be about 60,000 by 2030, as per ISRO bonded together.
estimates. • Ozone layer is found in the lower part of the earth’s
• Space debris leads to two major risks: stratosphere, around 15–35 km above ground, and
○ It creates unusable regions of the orbit due to serves as a shield as it completely absorbs
excessive debris. ultraviolet-B and ultraviolet-C radiation.

○ Ultraviolet-B (wavelengths 290–320 nanometres) molecules required for life such as amino acids. The
and ultraviolet-C (100-280 nanometres) can damage findings would help in understanding Callisto’s
DNA, trigger mutations, inhibit plant growth and environment and the potential habitability of icy
increase the risk of skin cancer and cataracts in moons in the Solar System.
humans.
○ Without the ozone layer, UV-radiation levels would
be much higher on Earth’s surface, rendering it
HIGGS BOSON
uninhabitable for many species and disrupting Astronomy &Space Technology
entire ecosystems.
• Rationale of the study: Scientists are currently
studying various celestial bodies in the Solar System Recently, the British physicist Peter Higgs passed away at the
that show signs of ozone, suggesting the existence of age of 94. He had come up with the idea of the Higgs Boson
stable atmospheric conditions and, by extension, their particle (also was known as the ‘God Particle’). After the
possibility of hosting life. experimental discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012, he was
awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2013.
HIGGS BOSON
• In 1964, Peter Higgs gave a theory related to how
subatomic particles (building blocks of matter) get their
mass. Here, he predicted the existence of a new
particle (later named Higgs boson) that granted mass
to fundamental particles.
• He suggested that just after the Big Bang, in the early
stages, the fundamental particles did not have any
mass. As the Universe cooled, an invisible force field
got formed which has been termed as Higgs Field. The
CALLISTO AND ITS UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT:
associated particles with the Higgs field are the Higgs
• Callisto is one of Jupiter’s largest moons and the third-
Bosons.
largest moon in the Solar System after Ganymede
• Any particle that interacted with the Higgs field got
(Jupiter’s moon) and Titan (Saturn’s moon).
mass, and those particles that were left out of the
• It is primarily composed of water ice, rocky materials,
Higgs field remained massless. The more a particle
sulphur dioxide, and some organic compounds. These
interacts with the Higgs field, the heavier it is.
substances make the moon a potential candidate for
supporting life in the solar system beyond the earth. ○ E.g., Photon (the particle that carries light) does not
interact with the Higgs field and therefore has no
• Its surface is heavily cratered, indicating a long history
mass.
of being struck by asteroids and comets.
• It lacks the extensive seismic activity, which is • As these Higgs bosons grant mass to particles like
present in some of Jupiter’s other moons like Europa. electrons, quarks, etc. (the primary condition for
existence of matter), they were termed as the ‘God
• It has relatively few geological features which
particle’.
suggest that Callisto’s surface is geologically inactive
or relatively stable for a long time. This stability could • Eventually, the Higgs boson was discovered by the
be vital to preserve any subsurface ocean or potential Large Hadron Collider in 2012. (LHC is the world’s
habitats beneath the icy crust. largest and most powerful particle accelerator
SIGNIFICANCE constructed by the European Organisation for Nuclear
Research) The discovery of the Higgs boson was a
• The discovery of ozone on Callisto suggests the
presence of oxygen, which in turn is a fundamental major validation of the Standard Model of Particle
ingredient required for the formation of complex Physics.

STANDARD MODEL OF PHYSICS • A quark exhibits confinement, which means that the
• The Standard Model describes the behaviour of six quarks are not observed independently but always in
types of quarks, six types of leptons, three combination with other quarks. This makes
fundamental forces (Strong force, Electromagnetic determining their properties (mass, spin, and parity)
force & Weak force) and their four associated impossible to measure directly.
particles (Bosons), plus the Higgs boson. 2. Leptons:
• As per the Model: • Leptons, alongside quarks, are fundamental building
○ All the known matter is made up of fundamental blocks of matter.
particles called quarks and leptons. • There are 6 known leptons - Electron, Muon, Tau, three
○ These particles interact with each other in types of Neutrinos.
accordance with rules known as the ‘fundamental Note: Fermions (Quarks + Leptons) are the particles
forces’. which have half-integer spin.
• Limitations: Currently, the Model is incomplete and 3. Bosons:
does not explain Gravitational force. (Graviton, the • Boson is a collective name given to particles that carry
force-carrying particle for gravity, has not been fundamental forces.
discovered yet) and does not explain the existence of • Each fundamental force has its own corresponding
dark matter and dark energy. force carrier (boson).
○ Strong force is carried by gluon
○ Electromagnetic force is carried by photon
○ W and Z bosons are responsible for the Weak force.
DESI UNVEILS NEW 3D

MAP OF UNIVERSE
Astronomy & Space Technology
Researchers have unveiled the most holistic three-

dimensional map of the universe from the observations by
the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI).
DARK ENERGY SPECTROSCOPIC INSTRUMENT
• DESI is a unique scientific instrument that is
mounted over the Mayall 4-Meter Telescope in Arizona,
FUNDAMENTAL PARTICLES United States. It is designed to peer into the distant
1. Quarks: universe and study dark energy.
• Quarks are elementary particles that are considered • DESI works by collecting the faint light from millions
fundamental constituents of matter. of galaxies and quasars, then splitting that light into
its component colours using a technique called
• They combine to form composite particles known as
spectroscopy.
hadrons (such as protons and neutrons), which are the
○ By analysing the spectrum of light from these distant
building blocks of atomic nuclei.
objects, astronomers can learn about their
• There are 6 principal quarks, and they interact through composition, motion, and distance from Earth.
the exchange of other elementary particles called
• Through it, the researchers have been able to collect
gluons.
light from six million galaxies (some of which were

present around 11 billion years ago) and were able to that this is happening due to a mysterious form of
measure the distances between these galaxies with energy called dark energy.
a very high degree of accuracy. Thus, they were able to CHARACTERISTICS OF DARK ENERGY
unveil a three-dimensional map of the Universe.
• Dark energy has been hypothesised as a repulsive
• DESI has so far discovered that the expansion rate of force or anti-gravity, i.e. while gravity tends to make
the universe was rising by 68.5 km per second after objects attract, dark energy would pull them apart by
every 3.26 million light-years of distance. increasing the space between them. Thus, dark energy
• Significance: has an expansionary effect. As our universe is
○ Knowing the precise distances of the galaxies is expanding, it indicates that dark energy has a greater
crucial because that allows us to calculate the abundance than dark matter.
expansion rate of the universe. This could provide • Dark energy is a property of space, so it does not get
insights into the secrets of dark energy and give diluted as space expands.
insights into new Physics. Eventually, it will offer a ○ Normally, as the universe expands the density of
vital perspective into the origin and evolution of the mass and radiation in it decreases.
universe.
○ However, the density of dark energy remains
DARK MATTER AND DARK ENERGY constant throughout. This means the dark energy
• Dark matter and dark energy together make up 95% of in the universe is ever increasing, in order to keep
the universe. Around 68% of the Universe is made of the energy-density constant. Thus, dark energy
dark energy while dark matter makes up 27%. should be energy inherent in the fabric of space
• Only the remainder (5%) is composed of fermionic itself.
matter, i.e., things on the Earth, planets, stars, etc.
RISING CASES OF DIABETES

IN INDIA
Biology & Biotechnology
A recent study published provides strong evidence linking

high glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL) diets to an
increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that
DARK MATTER consuming low GI and GL diets may help prevent diabetes,
• Dark matter is completely invisible and has not yet especially among individuals with a higher Body Mass Index.
been observed directly. It does not interact with matter, ABOUT DIABETES
emits no light or energy and thus cannot be detected • Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person's
directly by conventional sensors and detectors. blood glucose (sugar) level to become too high.
• Scientists are confident it exists because of the ○ The hormone insulin – produced by the pancreas –
gravitational effects it has on galaxies and galaxy is responsible for controlling the amount of glucose
clusters. in the blood.
DARK ENERGY • There are two main types of diabetes:
• The existence of dark energy was theorised 25 years ○ Type 1 – where the pancreas does not produce any
ago, when a team of researchers found that the insulin.
expansion of the Universe was speeding up or
○ Type 2 – where the pancreas does not produce
accelerating, instead of slowing down due to gravity
enough insulin or the body’s cells do not react to
(inwards pulling force). Scientists have hypothesised
insulin.

TYPE-1 DIABETES GLYCAEMIC LOAD (GL)

• Type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent) is a • GL is a measure that takes into account both the GI of
condition/autoimmune disease in which the body’s a food and the amount of carbohydrates in a serving. It
immune system mistakenly destroys insulin-making is calculated by multiplying the GI of a food by the
cells (beta cells) in the pancreas. amount of carbohydrates in a serving and then dividing
• The exact cause of this autoimmune response is not by 100.
fully understood, but it is thought to involve a • GL provides the impact of carbohydrates on blood
combination of genetic and environmental factors. sugar levels, which help inform dietary guidelines and
• The condition is usually diagnosed in children and public health interventions. It is particularly useful for
young people, also called juvenile diabetes. diabetics as it can provide a more accurate idea of how
Characterised by deficient insulin production, it much a food will affect blood sugar levels compared to
requires daily administration of insulin. GI.
• Symptoms: Excessive excretion of urine, thirst, • Comparison with GI: While GI focuses on the quality
constant hunger, weight loss, vision changes, and of carbohydrates, GL considers both the quality and
fatigue. quantity of carbohydrates consumed. GL may be a
TYPE 2 DIABETES better predictor of blood sugar response than GI alone.
• Type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent) results from INDIA AND DIABETES

the body’s ineffective use of insulin. It occurs when • India has the second-highest number of people with
the body does not produce enough insulin to function diabetes in the world with over 101 million people
properly, or the body's cells become less responsive to (around 11.4% of India’s population) formally
the effects of insulin (insulin resistance). This means diagnosed with diabetes.
glucose stays in the blood and is not used as fuel for • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has
energy. projected that the number of people with diabetes in
• This type is often linked to lifestyle factors like India will reach 134.2 million by 2045.
overweight/obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy • There is an urgent need for effective strategies to
diet and tends to be diagnosed in older people. prevent and manage type 2 diabetes in the country.
However, it is now frequent in the population with any This can be done by promoting low GI and GL diets,
age group. targeting high-risk groups, integrating GI and GL into
dietary guidelines and public health programs, and
fostering collaboration among stakeholders to reduce
the burden of diabetes in India.
HEPATITIS INFECTION
#Biology & Biotechnology
GLYCAEMIC INDEX (GI)
• GI is a measure of how quickly a food can raise blood
According to the World Health Organisation’s 2024 Global
sugar levels. It ranks carbohydrate-containing foods on
Hepatitis Report, 254 million people were infected with
a scale from 0 to 100 based on their effect on blood
Hepatitis B and 50 million with Hepatitis C in 2022. India
glucose levels after consumption.
accounted for the second-highest number of cases of
• Factors influencing GI: The GI of a food depends on
Hepatitis B and C in 2022 after China, with 35 million (3.5
several factors, such as the type of carbohydrate, the
crore) infections.
amount of fibre, and the processing and cooking
methods used.

HEPATITIS INFECTION needles. It can also be transmitted through sexual

• Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, caused by contact, but this is less common.
Hepatitis virus, that can cause a range of health • Many people with hepatitis C may not experience
problems and can be fatal. symptoms initially, but over time, it can lead to chronic
• There are five main strains of the Hepatitis virus, liver disease and, in some cases, liver cancer.
referred to as types A, B, C, D and E. While other strains • Antiviral medications are available for the treatment of
cause acute non-serious infections, types B and C lead Hepatitis C, however, no vaccine exists till date for
to chronic disease and are the most common cause of it.
liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and viral hepatitis-related
deaths. INFLAMMATORY BOWEL
• Common symptoms: Fatigue, nausea, vomiting,
abdominal pain and Jaundice.
DISEASE (IBD)
• India has launched the National Viral Hepatitis
Biology & Biotechnology
Control Program in 2018 with the aim to eliminate
viral hepatitis as a public health threat by the year 2030.
The rising incidence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
across the globe has become a concern for doctors.
ABOUT INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD)
HEPATITIS B • IBD is the common name used to describe two chronic

• It is transmitted through contact with infected blood, diseases of the intestinal tract: Crohn’s disease and
semen, or other body fluids. This can occur through ulcerative colitis that cause inflammation in the
sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to intestines.
child during childbirth. ○ Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the
• Hepatitis B can lead to chronic liver disease, including gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the
cirrhosis and liver cancer. anus but most commonly affects the end of the
• Hepatitis B vaccine is widely available in India and small intestine (the ileum) and the beginning of the
is an integral part of the National immunisation colon.
program (Universal immunisation program). ○ Ulcerative colitis can affect any part of the large
HEPATITIS C intestine or colon.
• Primarily transmitted through contact with infected ○ Both diseases involve chronic inflammation of the
blood, commonly through sharing contaminated digestive tract, which can lead to a variety of
abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhoea.

• IBD is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s diet therapy such as curd and buttermilk, and less milk,
immune system attacks healthy tissues. It is not yet more rice and millets, fruits, and vegetables.
known what triggers these attacks and why IBD
develops in some people and not in others. Even the
exact cause of IBD is not known, but it is believed to SUPERSONIC MISSILE-
result from a complex interplay
environmental, and immune factors.
of genetic,
ASSISTED RELEASE OF
• Diagnosis typically involves a combination of TORPEDO (SMART) SYSTEM
endoscopic procedures (such as colonoscopy), imaging
#Defence Technology
studies, and biopsies, along with blood and stool tests
to confirm inflammation and rule out infections.
• There is no cure for IBD, but there are treatments that Defence Research and Development Organisation tested a
can help to control the inflammation and improve next-generation Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of
symptoms. Treatment for IBD may include medication, Torpedo (SMART) system aimed at boosting the Navy’s anti-
submarine warfare capabilities.
ABOUT SUPERSONIC MISSILE-ASSISTED RELEASE OF • The system is mobile and can be used both from
TORPEDO (SMART) SYSTEM coasts as well as from sea for immediate action when
• SMART is a missile-based system designed to an enemy submarine is detected.
significantly extend the range of lightweight torpedoes
that can target submarines hundreds of kilometres
away far beyond the conventional range of lightweight
AKASHTEER COMMAND
torpedoes (around 20-40 km).
AND CONTROL SYSTEM
• The canister-based missile system carries an advanced
lightweight torpedo missile as a payload along with
#Defence Technology
a parachute-based release mechanism.
• The system comprises several advanced subsystems Indian Army has started the induction of control and
including two-stage solid propulsion and precision reporting systems under 'Project Akashteer' to bolster its air
inertial navigation system, among others. defence capabilities.
Significance: PROJECT AKASHTEER
• It will enhance anti-submarine warfare capability far • Akashteer Command and Control Systems are
beyond the conventional range. designed to automate air defence control and
reporting processes by digitising them.

○ The system integrates radar and communication • Developed by: Bharat Electronics Limited
systems into a unified network to deliver an SIGNIFICANCE
unprecedented level of situational awareness and
• The automated air defence control and reporting
control against aerial threats.
system will allow the army’s air defence units to
○ It will facilitate complete automation of air operate in an integrated manner, swift engagement
defence operations and enhance the operational of hostile targets, reduce the risk of fratricide, and
efficiency and integration of the Army's air defence ensure the safety of friendly aircraft in contested
mechanisms. airspace.
• The system's Control Centres, designed to be vehicle- • It will also enable forces to monitor low-level airspace
based and mobile, can maintain operational over battle areas and effectively control the ground-
capabilities even in challenging communication based air defence weapon systems.
environments.
practice questions
MCQs
Q1. Consider the following statements with 1. Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children
reference to the Jupiter’s Moon Callisto: and young people.
1. Callisto is the largest moon in our Solar System. 2. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune
2. Callisto is primarily composed of Methane and system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of
Carbon dioxide. the pancreas.
3. Callisto is geologically inactive and lacks extensive Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
seismic activity. (a) 1 only
How many of the statements given above are correct? (b) 2 only
(a) Only one
(c) Both 1 and 2
(b) Only two
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) All three
(d) None
Q4. Consider the following statements with
reference to Hepatitis Infection:
Q2. Consider the following statements:
1. Hepatitis is an acute inflammation of the small
1. The Higgs boson is a fundamental particle
intestines caused by a virus.
responsible for the existence of gravitational field.
2. Vaccines for Hepatitis B and C are provided under
2. Particles which do not interact with the Higgs field
the Universal immunisation program of India.
are massless.
3. The National Viral Hepatitis Control Program of
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
India aims its elimination by the year 2030.
(a) 1 only
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (a) Only one
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (b) Only two

(c) All three
Q3. Consider the following statements with (d) None
reference to Diabetes:

Q5. With reference to the Supersonic Missile- Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system, (a) 1 only
consider the following statements: (b) 2 only
1. It is a canister-based system that can deliver (c) Both 1 and 2
torpedoes far beyond their conventional range. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
2. It has a two-stage liquid propulsion system.
Q1. While highlighting the challenges faced by the increasing space debris, mention the significance of the 'Zero orbital
debris milestone’ achieved by India.
Q2. What is the Standard Model of Physics? Highlight how the discovery of the Higgs boson added to the validity of the
Standard Model. What are the limitations of the Model?
Answers: 1-a, 2-b, 3-a, 4-a, 5-a

HISTORY, HERITAGE & Culture
# GS Paper (Prelims) & GS Paper I (Main)
Ancient History
HARAPPAN CIVILISATION
• The research indicated that the people coming from
the bordering areas and distant regions were absorbed
#Ancienthistiory #IVC in the Indian society.
• At no stage, the genetic history of the Indians was
either discontinued or broken.
A. NEAR KUTCH HARAPPAN GRAVEYARD, A • This implies unbroken continuity for 5000 years in this
SKELETON & THE KEY TO A PUZZLE region.
Archaeologists have found a human skeleton at a Harappan
site (Padta Bet) in Gujarat.
MORE INFORMATION
• In 2018, archaeologists had unearthed a mass burial
site with 500 graves on the outskirts of Khatiya
village in Gujarat's Kutch district.
• In the recent excavations, the finding of the skeleton,
along with pottery artefacts and animal bones, from,
nearby Padta Bet site, point to the presence of a
5,200-year-old Harappan settlement that was
nearby the mass burial ground of Juna Khatiya, an
Early Harappan necropolis (a cemetery, especially a
large one belonging to an ancient city).
ABOUT RAKHIGARHI
B. RAKHIGARHI FINDINGS IN NCERT BOOKS
• It is one of the five biggest townships of Harappan
Among the latest set of revisions that the National Council of
Civilization, located in Hisar in Haryana.
Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has proposed in
• It is the largest site in terms of area among the
school textbooks are additions about findings from the DNA
Indus Valley Civilisation Sites.
analysis of skeletal remains found at the archaeological site
of Rakhigarhi in Haryana. • Five interconnected mounds spread in a huge area to
form the Rakhigarhi’s unique site.
MORE INFORMATION FROM THE NEWS
• This site was excavated by Amarendra Nath of the
• NCERT has stated that study of ancient DNA from
Archaeological Survey of India.
archaeological sources in Rakhigarhi, Haryana suggests
that the genetic roots of the Harappans go back to • It presents existence of civilisation from the early
10,000 BCE. phase, mature phase and late phase of Indus Valley
Civilisation.
• The DNA of the Harappans has continued till today and
a majority of the south Asian population appears to • The site has both mudbrick as well as burnt-brick
be their descendants. houses with a proper drainage system.

History, Heritage & Culture
• The ceramic industry represented by red ware, which o Abundance of terracotta female figurines
included dish-on-stand, vase, jar, bowl, beaker, discovered across various sites, symbolizing the
perforated jar, goblet and ‘handis’ (pans). respect of the Great Mother Goddess.
• Necropolis: The excavations have yielded a few • Garments within the IVC were crafted from diverse
extended burials, which certainly belong to a very materials such as cotton, silk, and wool.
late stage, may be the medieval times. A rare grave o Furthermore, the presence of woven cloth at
having double burial of a male and female has been Great bath in Mohenjodaro suggests a
found here. sophisticated understanding of spinning and
• Ritual system: Animal sacrificial pit lined with mud weaving among the inhabitants.
brick and triangular and circular fire altars on the mud • The Civilization IVC relied predominantly on copper and
floor have also been excavated pointing to the ritual bronze, with no knowledge of iron usage at the
system of Harappans. time.
• A cylindrical seal with 5 Harappan characters on o Copper was primarily sourced from the Khetri
one side and a symbol of an alligator on the other copper mines in Rajasthan, while tin likely originated
side is an important find from this site. from Afghanistan.
• A site has been found which is believed to be jewellery • Harappans possessed minimal armaments and
making unit. weaponry. Instead, their focus lay on technological
ABOUT HARAPPAN CIVILISATION and cultural pursuits.
• The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus • The presence of massive brick structures across
Valley Civilization, is considered the beginning of Indian various sites indicates a specialized class of masons
history. It can be divided into three phases: and underscores the significance of brick-laying as
o Early Harappan Phase from 3200 to 2600 BCE. a vital craft in the civilization.
o Mature Harappan Phase from 2600 to 1900 BCE. • People engaged in a diverse area of crafts, including
boat-making, bead-making, and seal-making.
o Late Harappan Phase from 1900 to 1700 BCE.
o Excavations at sites such as Chanhudaro and
• By 2600 BCE, early Harappan villages had developed
Lothal have revealed workshops dedicated to
into major urban centres, signalling the beginning of
bead-making.
the mature Harappan phase.
• Seals, primarily crafted from steatite were a prominent
• Northern most site: Manda-Jammu and Kashmir
feature of IVC culture.
• Southern most site: Daimabad-Maharashtra
o While many seals were fashioned from steatite,
• Eastern most site: Alamgirpur-Uttar Pradesh others were crafted from materials such as gold,
• Western most site: Sutkagendor-Pakistan-Iran ivory, chert, and agate.
Border. o Played a crucial role in trade activities, serving as
Societal features: markers of authenticity and authority in commercial
• Displayed distinct urban characteristics, organized transactions.
into three primary segments: POLITY
o an affluent elite residing in the fortified citadel • Conclusive evidence is lacking.
region. • Some scholars suggest that the absence of clear
o a prosperous middle class consisting of merchants. evidence implies a society where all individuals
o a less privileged segment comprising laborers enjoyed equal status, without centralized
dwelling in the lower areas of the cities. rulership.
• Indus Valley Civilization had a significant reverence • Conversely, another perspective explains the presence
for the feminine aspect of divinity, indicative of a of multiple rulers, each representing different
matriarchal influence. urban centres, rather than a single overarching
authority.

• However, the remarkable uniformity in tools, and evidence of barley cultivation in Banawali
weapons, brickwork, seals, and urban architecture (Rajasthan) underscore the significance of
hints at the potential existence of a centralized agriculture in the civilization.
political authority. o The Indus people were pioneers in cotton cultivation
o The planning evident in street layouts, sophisticated and employed bulls and oxen for ploughing.
drainage systems, and citadels suggests the • The Harappans engaged in extensive trade
presence of a robust central government involving stone, metals, and shells, both within and
overseeing urban planning and administration. beyond their region.
o This authority might have been wielded by a class of o Unlike metal currency, trade relied on a barter
merchants, which is supported by notable absence system.
of temples in Indus Valley Civilization sites.
o The IVC maintained maritime trade routes along the
• However, it's essential to acknowledge that without any Arabian Sea coast, with a trading outpost
conclusive evidence, precise nature of political established in northern Afghanistan, facilitating
organization in the Indus Valley Civilization open to trade with Central Asia.
interpretation.
o Economic ties were also established with regions
ECONOMY such as Tigris and Euphrates, Mesopotamia, and
• Agriculture thrived in the IVC due to favourable Persia, as evidenced by Mesopotamian records
climatic conditions and fertile land. mentioning trade relations with 'Meluha' (the
o Cultivated: rice, wheat, cotton, barley, dates, melons, ancient name for the Indus region) and trading ports
peas, lentils, mustard, linseed, sesamum, ragi, bajra, like 'Dilmun' and 'Makan'.
and jowar. Mesopotamians imported copper, ivory, pearls, and
o Agricultural artifacts: wooden plough in Kalibangan ebony from Meluha and exported garments, perfumes,
(Rajasthan), the granary in Mohenjodaro (Pakistan), leather goods, and silver to the IVC.
Medieval History
TUGHLAQ-ERA DAM
o Served as a boundary wall for Jahapanah, the
fourth city of Delhi.
STRUCTURE
#MedievalIndianhistory #Tughlaqs
#DelhiSultanate #Architecture
Satpula is located east of the Khirki Masjid, that is integral to

the compound wall of the medieval fourth city of the
Jahanpanah in Delhi.
ABOUT SATPULA
• Built in 1340 by Mohammad Bin Tughlaq (1325-1351) • The dam got its name from the seven arches through
of the Tughlaq dynasty, the dam served two which water used to flow from a canal originating from
purposes: the Aravalli.
o Providing a reliable source of water for • During the British rule, the stream over which the
irrigation, and acting as a defence against dam was built was diverted, which reduced the water
possible intruders (such as Mongol invasions). body to a mere drain flowing on one side.

• Spiritual significance: • It connected four principal cities: the Qila Rai

o Sufi saint Nasiruddin Mahmud (popularly known Pithora, Siri, Tughlaqabad, and Jahanpanah.
as Chirag Dehlavi/Chirag-e-Dilli) used to live ABOUT KHIRKI MASJID
nearby. • Built by Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah, the prime
o People used to believe that the canal water had minister of Firoz Shah Tughlaq (1351–1388).
healing properties. • It is constructed in the Jahanpanah city.
o For centuries, the area used to host a Diwali mela. • There are no specific inscriptions on the Mosque on its
• Why was the dam built? construction date. The name of the builder is
o During the rule of Mohammad Bin Tughlaq, the inscribed on the eastern gate of the Mosque as
economic conditions of the Delhi Sultanate was in 'Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah'.
distress: • Structure:
 Due to very high expenses incurred on the war o There are four open courtyards encircled by
campaign in Deccan. arcades.
 Also, due to the Sultan establishing his southern o The main gate, leading to the qibla on the western
capital at Daulatabad (in 1329). wall, has a projecting mihrab.

 Qibla wall is the wall in a mosque that faces
 Between 1334 and 1344, repeated droughts
Mecca.
caused famines, adding to the suffering of the
people.  Mihrab is a niche in the qibla wall indicating the
direction of Mecca.
o Urgent solutions had to be found.
 One of the viable options planned was of building

the Satpula, the seven arches bridge or gate-
controlled dam, to tap the water resources of
the local stream feeding the Yamuna River.
 This brought large areas of land under controlled
irrigated agriculture to grow food crops.
• Structure:
o Built using quartz (stone found in the Aravalli).
o It has been constructed in stone masonry.
o The eleven bays consist of eleven water tunnels and

these are located at different levels, with seven main
bays at the lowest level.
o Arch windows with perforated screens

or jalis known as ‘Khirkis’, are seen on second floor.
o The mosque's walls are
of rubble masonry construction with plastered
surface on the outside.
o When built, wooden vertical gates made of heavy SEVEN CITIES OF DELHI
boards were operated by a rope and pulley • Qila Rai Pithora:
arrangement to control flow of water. o Anangpal Tomar founded Delhi or Lalkot in 1052.

o Chauhan kings of Ajmer conquered Lal Kot in 1180 o Famous monuments: Red Fort and the Jama Masjid.
and renamed it Qila Rai Pithora.
• Siri:
o It was built by Alauddin Khilji and expanded by
HISTORY OF SULTHAN
subsequent rulers. BATHERY
o He constructed Siri between 1297 and 1307 to
#Religion #Culture #TemplesinIndia
defend India and Delhi against Mongol raids.
o Structures inside the Siri fort: Hauz Khas reservoir;
#Mysorestate #ModernHistory
Hazar Sutan palace.
o Subsequent rulers expanded the city with other Sulthan Bathery in Wayanad, Kerala, is home to a temple
urban centres like Tughlaqabad, Jahanpanah, and that was partly destroyed by Tipu Sultan and used as a
Firozabad. store for arms in the 1700s. There have been political
• Tughlaqabad: debates going on regarding the question of changing its name
o Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq founded the fortified city of to Ganapathyvattam.
Tughlaqabad in the 14th century. ABOUT GANAPATHYVATTAM TEMPLE
o Walled city included seven rainwater tanks.
• Jahanpanah:
o The fourth city of Delhi established in 1326–1327
by Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
o To address the constant threat of the Mongols, the
Sultan, built the fortified city of Jahanpanah, which
subsumed the Adilabad fort and also all the
establishments lying between Qila Rai
Pithora and Siri Fort.
o Partially surviving structures: Bijay Mandal,
Begumpur Mosque, Serai Shaji Mahal, Lal Gumbad, • Sulthan Bathery has a Jain stone temple that was once
Baradari. known as Ganapathyvattam.
o The accounts of Ibn Battuta’s mention that, Lal Kot • Built in the Vijaynagara architectural style, it was
(Qutb complex) was then the urban area and Siri was constructed by Jains who migrated to Wayanad from
the military cantonment. areas in present-day Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in the
• Firozabad: 13th century.
o Built by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, near the Yamuna River. • The temple was partly destroyed during the invasions
o Included Firoz Shah Kotla. of Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysuru in the second half
of the 18th century.
• Sher-garh or Purana Qila:
• The temple is part of Jain circuit of Kerala.
o Humayun built the city of Dinpanah.
• Presently, it is under Archaeological Survey of India
o But he was ousted by the Suri Dynasty in the Battle
as a monument of national importance.
of Chausa and the Battle of Kannauj
• The erstwhile Hindu temple:
o Sher Shah Suri demolished it and renamed it
Shergarh or Dilli Sher Shahi o During the time of Kulashekara (an Indian dynasty
ruling over parts of Kerala from 9th to 12th
o It is known as Purana Qila now.
century), the Ganapathyvattam temple was
• Shahjahanabad:
situated here.
o Shahjahanabad was founded by Emperor Shah
o There are beliefs that the kings of Purakizha
Jahan in the 17th century. completed the construction of the temple.

• 1610 AD: Udaiyar Raja Wadiyar of Mysore drove out

Vijayanagara and became the ruler of Bayalnad.
• Under Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan:
o Between 1750 and 1790, northern Kerala was
invaded several times by the rulers of Mysuru, Hyder
Ali and Tipu.
o The armies of Tipu destroyed temples and churches.
o Tipu Sultan used Maha Ganapathy temple in

Sulthan Bathery as a battery or store for weapons
for his army in the Malabar region.
o This led to the British recording
Ganapathyvattam as Tipu Sultan’s Battery, and
the name survived as Sulthan Bathery.
• Under British rule:
o East India Company (EIC) seized Wayanad from
Pazhassi Raja.
o EIC administered the district until it was superseded
by the British Raj in 1858.
ABOUT MYSORE KINGDOM
• Independent state created as a result of the Mughal
Empire’s fall.
• Wadiyars were in charge of this region.
• Became a never-ending battleground as a result of
o Later, the temple came under the rulers of several powers’ interest in this land.
Kottayam. • Haider Ali gained control over the state.
o Tipu destroyed the Temple and used the stones for HAIDER ALI
building a Fort. • Nanjaraj (the sarvadhikari) and Devaraj Dulwai),
o The remains or site of this fort is does not exist reduced Krishnaraja Wadiyar to the status of a
now. puppet.
o Chief deity: Ganapathi (Lord Ganesh) • Under the leadership of the ministers Nanjaraj and
o Other dieties: Baghavathi, Ayyappan, Nagaraja and Devaraj, Haidar Ali began his career in the Mysore
Shiva. army.
HISTORY OF SULTAN BATHERY • Introduced Western training techniques for his army.
• 930 AD: ruler Erayappa of the Ganga dynasty led his • Enlisted assistance of the French to establish a
troops to the south-west of Mysore and, after weapons factory in Dindigul (now in Tamil Nadu).
conquering it, called it Bayalnad, meaning the land • Involved in the First and Second Carnatic Wars in South
of swamps. India.
• 12th century AD: Gangas were dethroned by • Mysore sided with the French in the Carnatic Wars.
the Kadamba dynasty of North Canara. • Nizam of Hyderabad, the Marathas, and the English
• 1104 AD: Vishnuvardhana of Hoysala invaded formed an alliance against Haider Ali, the king of
Bayalnad followed by the Vijayanagara dynasty in Mysore, in the first Anglo-Mysore war (1767–69).
the 16th century. English had to sign the humiliating Treaty of Madras in
1769.

• Treaty of Mangalore, signed in 1784: ended the • Administrative innovations: a new coinage system.
Second Anglo-Mysore War (1780–1784). • Deployed rockets during Anglo-Mysore Wars, including
• Tipu Sultan succeeded his father Haider Ali after his the Battle of Pollilur and Siege of Seringapatnam.
death. • Third Anglo Mysore war (1790-92): Defeated by EIC
ABOUT TIPU SULTAN and the Treaty Seringapatam was concluded. Under
• Last Muslim ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. the treaty, Tipu lost half of Mysore’s territory.
• Navy: • Fourth Anglo-Mysore war (1799): conclusive; led to

falling of Seringapatam. English chose a Hindu boy
o Defeat in Third Anglo-Mysore War convinced Tipu to
from the earlier ruling royal family i.e., Wadiyars, as the
take measures to build a navy.
Maharaja and imposed subsidiary alliance on him.
o Issued a Hukmnanah (ordinance) in 1796 for a
strong naval force.
o Navy was put under command of 11 Mir Yam (Lords THE BATTLE OVER ADIVASI
of Admiralty), with headquarters at Seringapatam.
o Naval divisions or Kachehris at Jamalabad
IDENTITY
(Mangalore), Wajidabad and Majidabad. #MedievalHistory #Personality #Tribes
• Ammunitions: munitions industry in Nagar, which
were regarded as equal in quality to those produced in
In the tribal regions of Rajasthan, tribal parties such as
Europe.
Bharat Adivasi Party, are aiming to frame a broader ideology
• Rocket technology: Pioneer of rocket technology;
to creaking awakening among the tribes. Signboards with
expanded iron cased Mysorean rockets; commissioned
drawings of the 16th century tribal icon Rana Punja Bhil
a military manual Fathul Mujahidin.
have been placed the several
• Economy: places.
o Attempted to revive commerce and forged ABOUT RAJA PUNJA BHIL
commercial linkages with other parts of India and
• Rana Punja Bhil or Poonja,
West Asia
was a tribal leader belonging
o Built a public sector company with state finance. to Bhil tribe.
o Introduced sericulture. • Rana Punja became king of
• Member of the Jacobin club; planted a liberty tree at Bhomat region in southern
Seringapatam. region of Rajasthan.
• Agriculture and Revenue Settlement: • In 1576 he fought alongside
o Modified land revenue management. Rana of Mewar, Maharana
Pratap against the Mughal emperor Akbar's forces,
o Laid down rules for distribution of arable land
led by Man Singh I in the Battle of Haldighati.
among old and new ryots;
o Punja brought a contingent of Bhil tribesmen and
o Preference given to hereditary ownership of land
himself led a crucial role in Haldighati.
and rent was fixed.
o Note:
o These became basis for Ryotwari Settlement
introduced by East India Company in South India.  The battle of Haldighati was fought in 1576
between the Mewar forces led by Maharana
o Captain Alexander Read first introduced Ryotwari
Pratap, and the Mughal forces led by Man Singh
Settlement in Baramahal district surrendered by
I of Amber.
Tipu after his defeat in 1792.
 Maharana Pratap was defeated in this battle.
• Calendar: Introduced a new calendar in 1784; known
as Mauludi Era and had 354 days; first year from the  After Akbar ascended the throne he started
year of birth of Prophet Muhammad. acquiring Rajputana States by using his diplomacy
skills.

ABOUT BHIL TRIBE • Language: Bhili, throughout their geographic

• Listed as tribal people in: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, distribution.
Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan as well as in • Bhil Rebellion:
Bengal and Tripura. o The rulers of princely states in southern Gujarat
• Classified as Scheduled Tribes in Rajasthan. were Bhils.
• Term ‘Bhil’ was used to refer to various ethnic o The Bhils rebelled on several occasions during
communities living in the forests and hills the British colonial era, notably in 1846, 1857–58
of Rajasthan's southern parts and surrounding regions and 1868.
of western India, highlighting the popularity of the o The Bhils were designated as a criminal tribe by
bow and arrow as a weapon among these groups. the British colonial government under the Criminal
Tribes Act 1871.
Modern History
REMEMBERING AMBEDKAR
• He led several social movements to secure and
safeguard human rights for the oppressed and
#Personalities #ModernHistory miserable sectors of society.
• He became the first Indian to get a Doctorate (PhD)
degree in Economics from abroad and is the only
The President of India led the nation in paying homage to the Indian whose statue is attached to Karl Marx in the
architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar London Museum.
on his 133th birth anniversary (14th April). IMPORTANT LIFE EVENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS
• Ambedkar was against caste-based discrimination and
untouchability in society and advocated for Dalits to
organize and demand their rights.
• He condemned Hindu scriptures that he thought
propagated caste discrimination.
• He was part of the Bombay Presidency
Committee that worked with the Simon
Commission in 1928.
• Ambedkar entered the Bombay Legislative Council as
a nominated member in 1927 and as an elected one
in 1937.
• Established Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha in 1924 to
promote education and socio-economic improvements
among the Dalits.
DR. B R AMBEDKAR
• In December 1927 he led a Satyagraha to establish
• He was born in 1891.
the civic rights of the untouchables to draw water
• Popularly known as Baba Saheb, he was the Principal from a public tank in Mahad, Maharashtra.
Architect of Indian Constitution. He was the Chairman • Ambedkar conducted another Satyagraha in March
of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent 1930 to establish the rights of the untouchables to
Assembly. enter the famous temple of Kalaram at Nasik
(Bombay Presidency).

• He started magazines like Mooknayak ,Bahishkrit o 1932: British government formalized a separate
Bharat and Equality Janta. electoral process for Muslims, Sikhs and Dalits in
• Advocated separate electorates for ‘Depressed Round Table Conference.
Classes’.  Only members from communities would be
o However, Gandhi was against a separate electorate
eligible to vote and elect a representative to
legislative assemblies.
for Depressed classes.
o Gandhi in response started fast unto death in
o Later, an agreement was signed between Gandhi
Yerwada Central Jail in Pune to pressurise the British
and Ambedkar, whereby it was agreed to
for abandoning the idea of separate electorates.
give reserved seats to the depressed classes within
o Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru, MR Jayakar, Madan
the general electorate. (Poona Pact 1932).
Mohan Malviya led negotiations with Ambedkar
• Founded the Independent Labour Party (later
on Gandhi’s behalf.
transformed into Scheduled Castes Federation) in
o The Poona Pact was finally signed on September
1936.
24, 1932. Madan Mohan Malaviya signed it on behalf
• Ambedkar was one of eight Indians nominated by the of Hindus and Gandhi, and Ambedkar on behalf of
Viceroy on the 13-member Defence of India Council the depressed classes.
in 1941.
o The pact introduced the concept of reserved seats
• Ambedkar considered the Right to Constitutional for the Dalits in provincial and central legislative
Remedy as the soul of the Constitution. bodies. These reserved seats were to be filled
• Being the Law Minister, Dr Ambedkar fought vigorously through a joint electorate system, where all
for the passage of the Hindu Code Bill, the most communities would vote together.
significant reform for women’s rights to marriage and o After signing the Poona Pact, Ambedkar felt that the
inheritance. Poona Pact did not go far enough in addressing the
social and economic injustices faced by the Dalits
GANDHI-AMBEDKAR DEBATE ON CASTE ISSUE
and was a compromise.
• Gandhi denounced untouchability, however, he did
o The pact laid the foundation for the development of
not condemn the varna system. He believed in
India’s reservation system, which has since been
reforming the caste system through the abolition of
expanded to include various communities to
untouchability and by giving equal status to each
promote social justice and equality.
occupation.
• On the other hand, BR Ambedkar argued that the caste
system disorganised and demoralised Hindu BOSE, BARKATULLAH, A
HISTORY OF INDIAN
society and he completely denounced the Vedas and
scriptures.
• He worked for the ‘annihilation of caste’, believing GOVERNMENTS BEFORE
that anything built on caste would inevitably
create inequality. FREEDOM
• Poona Pact of 1932: #ModernHistory #Personalities
o Ambedkar believed that a separate electoral process #Indianfreedomstruggle
for Dalits was essential to ensure their political
representation and protect their interests in
legislative bodies. Recent political discussions have focused on the
o Gandhi was opposed to the idea of a separate establishment of the Provisional Government in 1943 by
electoral process, fearing it would perpetuate Subash Chandra Bose, which marked a significant moment in
India's political history.
divisions among Indians.

AZAD HIND GOVERNMENT • The purpose of the committee was to promote the
• Subhas Chandra Bose proclaimed the formation of the cause of Indian Independence.
Provisional Government of Azad Hind (Free India) in • Members: Virendranath Chattopadhyaya,
Singapore on October 21, 1943. Chempakaraman Pillai, Jnanendra Das Gupta,
• Bose was the Head of State of this provisional and Abinash Bhattacharya.
government, and held the foreign affairs and war • During World War I, Indian nationalists abroad (mostly
portfolios.
in Germany and the US), as well as revolutionaries,
• A. C. Chatterjee was in charge of finance, S. A. Ayer attempted to further the cause of Indian
became minister of publicity and propaganda, and independence with aid from the Central Powers.
Lakshmi Swaminathan was given the ministry of
• The IIC, with the help of the Ottoman Caliph and the
women’s affairs.
Germans, tried to bring insurrection in India, mainly
• A number of officers from Bose’s Azad Hind Fauj were
among Muslim tribes in Kashmir and the British India’s
also given cabinet posts.
northwestern frontier.
• The Azad Hind government claimed authority over all
• IIC established a government-in-exile in Kabul under
Indian civilian and military personnel in Britain’s
the presidency of Raja Mahendra Pratap, and prime
Southeast Asian colonies (primarily Burma,
ministership of Maulana Barkatullah, revolutionary
Singapore, and Malaya) which had fallen into Japanese
freedom fighters.
hands during World War II.
• To give legitimacy to his government, Bose chose the
Andamans. The Azad Hind government obtained de FORT EMMANUEL
jure control over a piece of Indian territory when the
Japanese handed over the Andaman and Nicobar
#Modernhistory #AdventofPortuguese
Islands in 1943, though de facto military control
was not relinquished by the Japanese admiralty.
Historians are seeking steps to conserve the laterite-brick
• The government also handed out citizenship to Indians
remnants of Fort Emmanuel that was built by the Portuguese
living in Southeast Asia, and 30,000 expatriates
in 1503.
pledged allegiance to it in Malaya alone.
ABOUT THE FORT
• Diplomatically, Bose’s government was recognised by
• Fort Emmanuel, also known as Fort Manuel, is a
the Axis powers and their satellites: Germany, Japan,
ruined fort located in Kochi, Kerala.
and Italy, as well as Nazi and Japanese puppet
states in Croatia, China, Thailand, Burma, • It was a bastion of the Portuguese and a symbol of the
Manchuria, and the Philippines. strategic alliance between the Maharaja of Kochi and
the Kingdom of Portugal.
• Immediately after its formation, the Azad Hind
government declared war on Britain and the United o Named after Manuel I (King of Portugal), as the first
States. Portuguese fort in Asia.
OTHER PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENTS o In 1503, the King of Kochi granted permission

to Afonso de Albuquerque to build Fort Emmanuel
• In 1915, the Provisional Government of India was
near the waterfront of the Arabian Sea.
formed in Kabul by a group known as the Indian
Independence Committee (IIC). o The walls were made of double rows of coconut tree
stems securely fastened together and with earth
Note: rammed firmly between; it was further protected
• The Berlin Committee, later known as the Indian by a wet ditch.
Independence Committee after 1915, was an o The fortifications were reinforced in 1538.
organisation formed in Germany in 1914 during
o The Portuguese built their settlement behind the
World War I by Indian students and political
fort, including the St Francis Church.
activists residing in the country.

• Fort remained in Portuguese possession until 1663, o Goa was, thus, suited to be the principal centre of
when the Dutch captured the territory and Portuguese commercial and political activity in the
destroyed the Portuguese institutions. east.
• The Dutch held the fort in their possession until 1795, o The Portuguese were also able to extend their
when the British took control by defeating the possession on the mainland opposite Goa, and to
Dutch. blockade and sack the Bijapuri ports of Danda-
• By 1806 the Dutch, and later the British, had destroyed Rajouri and Dabhol, thus paralysing Bijapur’s sea-
most of the fort walls and its bastions. trade.
PORTUGUESE IN INDIA o From their base at Goa, the Portuguese further

strengthened their position by establishing forts at
• Vasco da Gama landed at Calicut in 1498, with
Colombo in Sri Lanka, at Achin in Sumatra, and
Gujarati pilots on board.
at the Malacca port which controlled the exit and
• Zamorin welcomed the Portuguese and allowed them
entry to the narrow gulf between the Malay
to take pepper, drugs, etc
peninsula and Sumatra.
• From the beginning, the Portuguese rulers were
• Forts were also built in Fort Kochi, Kollam, Kozhikode
determined to treat the eastern trade as a royal
and Kodungalloor, since their colonies were largely
monopoly, excluding not only rival nations in Europe
in coastal regions protected by forts.
and Asia, but also private Portuguese traders.
• Alarmed at the growing power of the Portuguese, the
sultan of Egypt sent a fleet towards India. The fleet
was joined by a contingent of ships belonging to the
ruler of Gujarat.
• After an initial defeat of the Portuguese, this
combined fleet was routed by the Portuguese in
1509.
• This made the Portuguese navy supreme in the
Indian Ocean, and enabled the Portuguese to extend
their operations towards the Persian Gulf and the Red
Sea.
BUILDING FORTS, AS PART OF STRATEGY
• Albuquerque succeeded as the governor of the
Portuguese possession in the east.
• He advocated and embarked upon a policy of
dominating the entire oriental commerce by
setting up forts at various strategic places in Asia
• They also had a formidable navy, with cannons fitted
and Africa. This was to be supplemented by a strong
atop the deck of ships. This gave them a decisive
navy.
advantage in battles with the forces of, among others,
• Albuquerque initiated his new policy by capturing Goa the Zamorin of Kozhikode, Chhatrapathi Shivaji, and
from Bijapur in 1510. The island of Goa was an the Sulthan of Bijapur.
excellent natural harbour and fort.
• From Kerala, they wanted to carry back to their
o It was strategically located, and from it the homeland the best of pepper and other spices, and
Portuguese could command the Malabar trade this type of fortification of colonies helped repel
and watch the policies of the rulers in the attacks.
Deccan.

PORTUGUESE SETTLEMENTS IN INDIA • Portuguese constructed military installations and

• Controlled areas in Goa, Mumbai, Daman and Diu, as towns at San Thome (near Chennai) and Nagapattinam
well as in Gujarat. (in Tamil Nadu).
• Established maritime strongholds and ports • In West Bengal, a settlement was established in
Mangalore, Cannanore, Cochin, and Calicut. Hooghly.
Art and CUlture

BHOJSHALA COMPLEX
o The carved pillars and the exquisitely carved ceiling
of the prayer hall were from Bhojshal.
#HeritageandCulture #Architecture • Inscriptions:
o In the rocks of complex , two hymns written in
Prakrit language of the Karmavatar or crocodile
The Madhya Pradesh High Court directed the Archaeological
incarnation of Vishnu are engraved.
Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a scientific survey of the
o Two Sarpabandha pillar inscriptions, one
Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Mosque complex.
containing the Sanskrit alphabet and the main
endings of nouns and verbs and the other
containing the individual declensions of the ten
tenses and moods of Sanskrit grammar.
o These inscriptions belong to the 11th-12th century.
o Two Sanskrit texts are engraved in Anustubha

verse.
o In one of these, Raja Bhoj's successors Udayaditya
and Narvarman have been praised.
ABOUT BHOJSHALA o In the second, it is told that these pillars were
• Located in: Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh installed by Udayaditya.
• Established in: 1034 AD

• Built by: Raja Bhoj of Parmar Dynasty (1000–1055 AD) GARUDAN THOOKKAM
• Key features of the temple:
#HeritageandCulture #Religion
o It was the University in which the statue of Vagdevi
(Mata Saraswati) was installed.
#ArtformsinIndia
o Bhojshala was first attacked by Alauddin Khilji in
1305 AD. Devotees at the Sarkara Devi Temple in
o In 1514 AD, Mehmudshah Khilji II attacked Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, participated in the ‘Garudan
Bhojshala and tried to convert it into dargah. He Thookkam’, which is a ritual art form.
encroached land outside Saraswati Temple and built ABOUT GARUDAN THOOKKAM
‘Kamal Moulana’ Makbara.
• Garudan Thookam (Eagle Hanging) is a form of dance
o In 1952, the Central Government gave up Bhojshala art performed popularly in some Bhadrakali (Goddess
to the Archaeological Survey of India. Kali) temples in central Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
• Architecture of the complex: PERFORMANCE OF THE RITUAL ART FORM
o It has a large open courtyard around which there is • The performers dress up as Garuda by wearing vibrant
a verandah decorated with pillars and a prayer costumes, and headgear along with make-up.
hall is located behind it in the west.

ABOUT SARKARA DEVI TEMPLE

• Situated: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
• Main deity: Bhadrakali (Goddess Durga).
• Historically important due to the introduction of the
famous Kaliyoot festival by Anizham Thirunal
Marthanda Varma, the Travancore sovereign, in
1748.
• Another festival, Meena Bharani mahotswavam, is
• Pattuvaal, Njori, Kacha, Mundi, Astimala (garlands conducted for ten days in the month of March-April
made from the wood of Mango Tree), every year.
Chiraku (wings), Uttareeyam (upper • Architecture:
garment), Kireedam (crown) are some of the elements
o Sanctum sanctorum is a two storied rectangular
used in the costume of Garuda.
structure.
• Traditional musical instruments are employed during
o Roof is polished with bronze.
the performance:
o Second storey is decorated with sculptures of Lord
o Chenda: cylindrical percussion instrument
Krishna, Lord Rama, Durga, Lord Ganapathy, Lord
originating in the state of Kerala);
Vishnu, Narasimhamoorthi and several other
o Elathalam: metallic musical instrument which deities.
resembles a miniature pair of cymbals; this
instrument from Kerala in southern India is
completely made out of bronze and has two pieces INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE
in it;
o Kombu/Kompu/Kombu Pattu: a wind instrument FORMS
in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. #ArtandCulture #Classicaldance
• Performance includes 18 thalavattam (rhythmic #Mohiniattam
patterns).
• The whole ritual is performed colourfully with these
Garudas taken in a procession on bullock carts or boats
or hand-pulled carts.
• Legend:
o As per the Hindu mythology, Goddess Kali, after
killing the demon king Darika in a fiercely-fought
battle, was insatiable and thirsty.
o At this time, Lord Vishnu sent his vahana Garuda to
Kali to quench her thirst.
o The dancing and bleeding Garuda is taken to Kali
who is pacified after consuming his blood.

INTRODUCTION • Costume is of special importance in Mohiniattam, with

• Distinct styles of dance have evolved in the different white and off-white being the principal colours and
regions of India. presence of gold coloured brocade designs.
• All these dance forms are governed by the basic rules • Musical instruments: Kuzhitalam/cymbals, Veena,
and guidelines laid down in the Natya Shastra. Drums, Flute, etc.
• Contribution of Mahakavi Vallatol:
o A poet laureate of Kerala gave a distinct classical solo
style.
o He established Kerala Kalamandalam (1930), a
pioneer institute for training in art forms.
2. Bharatanatyam, Tamil Nadu (Southern India):
• It has grown out of the art of dancers dedicated to
temples, and was earlier known as Sadir or Dasi Attam.
• It is the first of India's traditional dances to be
refashioned as a theatre art.
(Picture: Mohiniattam) 3. Manipuri Dance, Manipur (North-eastern India):
1. Mohiniattam, Kerala: • It is mainly practiced by Meiteis, or people of the
• Classical solo dance form. Manipur valley, having their faith in Vaishnavism.
• Traces its origin to temples of Kerala and was • Predominant theme: devotion, and the rich lore of
performed only by women. Radha and Krishna.
• References: Vyavaharamala written in 1709 by 4. Kathak (Uttar Pradesh, Northern India):
Mazhamagalam Narayanan Namputiri and • Widely practised in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi,
in Ghoshayatra, written later by great poet Kunjan Madhya Pradesh, and even parts of western and
Nambiar. eastern India today.
• Structured into its present-day classical form by • It is believed to be connected with the narrative art of
Travancore Kings, Maharaja Tirunal & Maharaja Swati Kathakaras or story-tellers.
Tirunal (18th – 19th century AD).
• This art possibly achieved its finest patronage under
• Early specimens: Nangiars (women of Nambiar Mughal rule.
community) and Dasiyattam. Their dance was called as 5. Odissi Dance, Orissa (Eastern India):
‘Dasiyattam’.
• Origins in Orissa in eastern India, where in its
• Existence of Dasiyattam is further corroborated in rudimentary form it was performed as part of temple
the epic ‘Silappadhkaram’, written by the Chera service by ‘maharis’ or female temple servants.
Prince-Monk Illango Adigal in 2nd-5th century C.E.
• Odissi in its performance appears sculpturesque,
• Movement technique: particularly in its ‘tribhanga posture’.
o Feminine movements (Lasya) and hand gestures. • Musical instruments: Pakhawaj, Flute and Sitar.
o Lasya aspect (beauty, grace) of dance is 6. Kathakali, Kerala:
dominant as it narrates the story of the feminine
• Kathakali or ‘story play’ took shape in Kerala in
dance of Vishnu. Hence, it is mainly performed by
southern India in the seventeenth century.
female dancers.
• Stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata provide
o There is a marked absence of thumping of footsteps
the content of most Kathakali plays.
and the footwork is gentle.
7. Kuchipudi, Andhra Pradesh:
o ‘Atavakul or Atavus’ is the collection of forty
• Largely originated as a product of Bhakti movement
basic dance movements.
beginning in the 7th Century AD.

• Kuchipudi derives its name from the village ninth Sultan of Kashmir, who reigned first from 1418
Kuchelapuram, where it was nurtured. to 1419 and then from 1420 to 1470.
8. Sattriya Dance, Assam: o He was famously called Budshah by his subjects.
• Refers to the combination of music, dance and drama. o The Mahabharata and Kalhana's Rajatarangini
• It developed in the Sattras or monasteries of Assam were translated into Persian by his order.
since the 16th century, when the Vaishnava faith was • There are different types of knots and in Kashmir the
propagated by the saint and reformer Shankaradeva Farsi baff and the Persian system known as Sehna,
(1449-1586) in Assam. or Sinneh, knot is originally used.
NOTE • Designs and patterns in Kashmir carpets continue to be
• The Sangeet Natak Academy recognises eight classical predominantly inspired by classical Persian and
dances in India, whereas the Ministry of Culture has Central-Asia rugs.
also recognized nine classical dances in India. o Thus, Kashmir has been creating Kashan and
• Along with the above mentioned eight dances, the Culture Kirman, Tabriz and Isfahan, Meshed and
Ministry also has given this recognition to ‘Chhau’ dance. Bokhara.
o Chhau (Eastern India) KASHAN RUGS
o Associated with Orissa, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. • Kashan rugs, renowned for their intricate designs and
cultural significance, originated in Iran.
o It is a blend of martial traditions, temple rituals, and
folk and popular performance. • Kashan rugs typically feature intricate medallion
designs (an oval or circular design, portrait, relief
carving, etc. resembling a medal in shape) at the
KASHAN STYLE CARPET OF centre.
KASHMIR • These rugs are renowned for their rich colour palettes.
Deep reds, blues, ivories, and earthy tones are
#ArtandCulture common.
• The combination of these colours adds to the rug's
allure and creates a vibrant masterpiece.
Kashan style is a historic design of the Iranian city of
• One hallmark of an authentic Kashan rug is its fine
Kashan, employed in carpet making in Kashmir. Kashmir is
knot density.
among the leading carpet-producing States in India and over
one lakh artisans are employed by the carpet industry here.
PALACE TO UNVEIL TRUE
COPY OF RAVI VARMA’S
INDULEKHA
#Artandculture #Modernart
HISTORY
The first true copy of the painting Indulekha by legendary
• The origin of hand knotted carpets locally known as artist Raja Ravi Varma will be unveiled at the Kilimanoor
‘Kal baffi’ dates back to 15th century. Palace, where the artist was born in 1848, on the occasion
• It is said that Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin brought carpet of his 176th birth anniversary celebrations.
weavers from Persia and central Asia in to Kashmir to • The unreleased painting of Indulekha, the protagonist
train the local inhabitants. of the first modern novel in Malayalam literature
o Shah Rukh Shahi Khan, popularly known by O. Chandu Menon published in 1889, emerged in
as Ghiyas-ud-Din Zain-ul-Abidin was the

the public domain in • Raja Ravi Varma was closely related to the royal
2022 and evoked a family of Travancore of present-day Kerala state in
great sense of India.
enthusiasm among the • Varma was patronised by Ayilyam Thirunal, the
art fraternity. next Maharaja of Travancore and began formal
• It is believed that the training. He learned the basics of painting in Madurai.
famous painting • Later, he was trained in water painting by Rama
Reclining Lady by Swami Naidu and in oil painting by British portraitist
Ravi Varma was Theodore Jenson.
modelled on
• Famous works: depicted episodes from the story
Indulekha.
of Dushyanta and Shakuntala, and Nala and
• The oil painting of Indulekha is shown holding a letter. Damayanti, from the Mahabharata. Other works
RAJA RAVI VERMA (1848-1906) include, Lady in the Moonlight, Mother India, etc. He
• His religious depictions of Hindu deities and works gained nationwide recognition for his paintings from
from Indian epic poetry and Puranas have received the epic Ramayana especially the one titled ‘Ravana
profound acclaim. Kidnapping Sita’.
• He is considered to be the originator of the school of • Varma received widespread acclaim after he won an
modern painting. award for an exhibition of his paintings at Vienna in
The school was called 1873.
‘modern’ because of • Varma's paintings were also sent to the World's
the heavy influence of Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893 and
western techniques he was awarded three gold medals.
and themes. • In 1904, Viceroy Lord Curzon, on behalf of the
• He was unique as he British King Emperor, bestowed upon Varma
brought together the Kaisar-i-Hind Gold Medal.
elements of South Indian painting with the western • The title Raja was conferred as a personal title by the
techniques of colour and style. Viceroy and Governor-General of India Lord Curzon.
practice questions
MCQs
Q1. Consider the following statements with (c) All three (d) None
reference the Harappan sites in India:
1. Padta bet, a recently discovered burial site, is Q2. Consider the following statements:
situated in Maharashtra. 1. ‘Kashan style’ employed in carpet making
2. At Dholavira in Gujarat, a water harvesting system originated in Jammu and Kashmir.
have been discovered. 2. Kirman and Mashed are well-known type of carpets
3. The evidence of ‘Ploughed fields’ has been found produced in the state of Gujarat.
from Kalibangan in Rajasthan. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
How many of the statements given above is/are incorrect? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q3. Consider the following statements with 2. Chenda and Kombu Pattu are the musical
reference to the ‘Classical Dance’ in India: instruments used in the performance of Garudam
1. ‘Atavakul’ is the collection of forty basic dance Thukkam.
movements in this dance form. 3. The performers in Garudam Thookkam employ
2. ‘Tandava’ aspect of dance is the dominant in the ‘Thalavattam’ rhythmic patterns.
performance. How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
3. It has found mentioned in ‘Ghoshayatra’ written by (a) Only one (b) Only two
Kunjan Nambiar. (c) All three (d) None
4. The dance form is mainly associated with the states
of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Q5. In the context of Medieval Indian history, ‘Raja
How many of the above given statements relate to the Punja Bhil’ was well known for:
Indian Classical dance form ‘Mohiniattam’? (a) In the Battle of Khanwa, he supported Rana Sangha
(a) Only one (b) Only two with his Bhil army.
(c) Only three (d) All four (b) He established the Garha-Mandla kingdom in the
central region of India.
Q4. Consider the following statements with (c) He fought alongside Maharana Pratap in the Battle
reference to the heritage and culture of India: of Haldighati against the Mughal forces.
1. Garudam Thookkam is a ritual dance form, (d) He provided his service to Maharana Raj Singh
performed in the Vishnu temples of Odisha. during Aurangzeb’s invasion of Mewar.
Q1. Discuss the socio-economic and political structure that developed during the Indus Valley Civilisation period. (10
marks; 150 words)
Q2. Critically analyse the different approaches followed by Gandhi and Ambedkar in dealing with the caste issues
prevalent during the colonial rule in India. (15 marks; 250 words)
Answers: 1-a, 2-d, 3-b, 4-b, 5-c

PART TWO
Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude
Coverage from varied sources

JAINA ETHICS
#Ethics integrity and Aptitude #Moral thinkers and Philosophers
Ethical doctrines of Jainism was recently in news because of Faith increases with meditation. It can be perfect faith
Mahavir Jayanti in April. only when complete knowledge has been obtained.
About Jainism: Jainism is one of the oldest religions in the • Right Knowledge (Samyag Jnana): In right faith, the
world, it is not only a spiritual tradition but also a knowledge is merely of the essence of Jaina preaching.
profound philosophical system with rich ethical principles. In right knowledge, there is specialized knowledge of
Jaina ethics provide a comprehensive framework for the rudiments of Jiva and Ajiva. It destroys ignorance.
leading a life of virtue, compassion, and non-violence. • Right Conduct (Samyak Caritra): It includes the
Let’s discuss the key principles of Jaina ethics, their adoption of beneficial activities and the abandoning of
significance, evolution, and application in contemporary harmful ones. This frees the Jiva from Karmas. Right
society. character includes forgiveness, softness, simplicity,
Historical Context and Evolution of Jain Ethics: The truthfulness in thoughts and speech, cleanliness,
ethical principles of Jainism find their roots in the sacrifice etc.
teachings of Mahavira, the twenty-fourth Tirthankara, PANCH VRATA (FIVE MORAL VOWS/VIRTUES)
who lived around the 6th century BC. Mahavira
• Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Ahimsa is the heart of Jain
emphasized the concept of Ahimsa, or non-violence, as
ethics, non-violence is advocated through thought,
the cornerstone of Jain ethics. Over the period, Jain ethical
word, and action. Jains believe in the sanctity of all life
philosophy evolved through the writings of various Jain
forms, practicing compassion and refraining from
scholars and thinkers, including Acharya Umasvati, who
causing harm to any living being, whether human or
composed the Tattvartha Sutra, a fundamental text
animal.
outlining the core principles of Jainism.
• Satya (Truthfulness): Truthfulness is another
Principles of Jaina Ethics: These are the principles of
essential virtue in Jainism, it emphasizes on honesty,
Jainism following which, individuals can cultivate a more
integrity, and sincerity in all aspects of life. Humans
ethical and fulfilling existence, contributing to the well-
should strive to speak the truth, avoid deceit, and
being of themselves and the world around them.
uphold the principles of transparency and
authenticity in their interactions with others.
Tri Ratna
• Asteya (Non-Stealing): Asteya orders Jains to refrain
• Right faith from stealing or coveting others' possessions. Beyond
• Right Knowledge material wealth, it encompasses respecting intellectual
• Right Conduct
property, avoiding exploitation, and promoting a
culture of generosity and sharing.
Panch Vrata
• Brahmacharya (Chastity): Brahmacharya advocates
• Ahimsa
self-restraint and moderation in physical and
• Satya
emotional desires. While traditionally associated with
• Asteya
celibacy, it also emphasizes ethical conduct in
• Brahmcharya
• Aparigraha relationships, promoting respect, fidelity, and harmony
in personal and social interactions.
TRI RATNA (THREE JEWELS) • Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness): Aparigraha
• Right faith (Samyagdarsana): Right faith implies faith teaches detachment from material possessions and
in knowledge imparted by Jaina enlightened beings. worldly attachments. Jains believe in living a simple and

minimalist lifestyle, free from greed, acquisitiveness, o By promoting dialogue, mediation, and
and the pursuit of excessive wealth or possessions. reconciliation, they can mitigate conflicts, address
Application of Jaina Ethics in Daily Life: Jaina ethics grievances, and build trust between communities.
provide practical guidance for individuals to lead a life of o Moreover, in policy-making and implementation,
virtue, compassion, and spiritual growth. In present civil servants can prioritize non-violent approaches
society, the principles of Jainism find application in various to address socio-economic disparities, promote
spheres of life, including: social justice, and ensure inclusive development for
• Environmental Conservation: Jainism advocate all sections of society.
environmental stewardship and sustainability, • Satya and Asteya: Pillars of Integrity and
practicing respect for nature and minimizing ecological Accountability: In the pursuit of truthfulness (Satya)
harm through vegetarianism, conservation efforts, and and non-stealing (Asteya), civil servants uphold the
eco-friendly lifestyles. principles of honesty, transparency, and ethical
• Social Justice: Jain ethics promote social harmony, conduct in their official duties. Transparency in
equality, and compassion for the marginalized and decision-making processes, accountability for
disadvantaged. Jains are actively involved in actions, and integrity in upholding the rule of law
philanthropy, charitable activities, and community are essential for maintaining public trust and
service to alleviate suffering and promote social confidence in governmental institutions.
welfare. • Aparigraha: The principles of Aparigraha (non-
• Business Ethics: In the business world, Jaina principles possessiveness) guide civil servants towards ethical
of honesty, integrity, and fair dealing serve as leadership and servant leadership. Aparigraha
guiding values for ethical conduct. Jains emphasize promotes detachment from power, privilege, and
ethical business practices, corporate social material possessions, encouraging civil servants to
responsibility, and sustainable development, prioritize public service over personal gain and to serve
prioritizing values over profits. with humility, compassion, and empathy.
Significance of Jaina ethics for a civil servant: Civil Thus, the principles of Jaina ethics hold relevance in the
services are swamped with ethical dilemmas and life of a moral citizen in general and civil servant in
decisions which impact the lives of millions of poor and particular, guiding them towards ethical conduct, moral
indigent. Jaina ethics offer a framework for civil servants leadership, and service-oriented governance. By
to navigate their roles with integrity, compassion, and embodying the above values civil servants can uphold the
non-violence. highest standards of integrity, compassion, and non-
violence in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities
• Ahimsa in Governance: Civil servants embodying the
towards society. Doing so, they contribute to the
spirit of Ahimsa contribute to fostering a culture of
advancement of ethical governance, social justice, and the
peace, harmony, and social cohesion within
common good, thereby embodying the true spirit of
society.
public service.

CASE STUDIES FOR PRACTICE

MAINS GS PAPER IV
• Seeking guidance from the seniors and acting

Case Study 1: You are posted as S.P. in a district where
accordingly: It will protect him from any mishap it will
liquor is prohibited for human consumption. One day 36
also promote the teamwork in the organisation but he
people died in a village in that district after consuming
may be misguided, in that case the very purpose of the
spurious liquor. The incident has pushed the state into
law may defeat.
swift action, with multiple agencies of the police working
• Leave the case: It may protect and promote his self-
on a joint investigation. Even the state government, set to
face an assembly poll in the next six months, is receiving interest, but it is against the foundational values of civil
services it is also against the principle of justice of John
a barrage of criticism from the opposition.
Rawls.
Your preliminary investigation revealed that a local mafia
is involved in manufacturing this spurious liquor, and he C) Course of action as an S.P.
is the relative of a minister in the government. You are • To prepare himself internally he takes help of
getting threats from the mafia and the minister both. Both emotional intelligence to cater the any kind of fear and
are offering a whole sum of money to remain silent. Your pressure and virtues of courage and justice of Aristotle.
promotion file is also pending before the same minister. • As a part of legal administrative system, he should
You may face many difficulties if you do not listen to them. follow the all-internal instruments like following the
a) What are the ethical issues involved in this case. law, senior’s advice, seeking intervention of other
higher authorities and whistleblowing at last.
b) What options are available to you? Analyse each of
them. • After exhausting of all these internal mechanism
c) What will be your course of action? without giving desired results he can go to media or
court with the help of NGO so that he ensures the
SOLUTION
justice to the victims for doing so he may need listen to
This case study deals with the ethical dilemma of following his conscience as court of conscience is the highest
the law to fulfil one’s duty or should surrender the court.
responsibility to protect self-interests.
Conclusion: Thus, we can say that SP should perform his
A) Ethical issues involved in this case are as follows: duty in letter and spirit so that menace of illegal acts can
• Commerce without morality: Selling of liquor in a be curtailed in society.
state where it is prohibited is not only illegal but
immoral too.
Case Study 2: A recently renovated footbridge collapsed,
• Breach of the social contract: Both state and subjects
sending tourists plunging into the river in the country’s
are breaching the contract because state failed to
western state. The accident took place in the town of a
implement the law of liquor prohibition and subjects
state, a riverside town known for its Victorian-era bridge.
are breaching it.
Tourists have been celebrating Diwali and the new year of
• Lack of good governance: The death of people in a the state. Some outlets, citing unnamed officials, reported
state where liquor is Prohibited shows that governance
that the death toll could be higher, exceeding 140. An
is not prompt. official list of fatalities compiled by police showed more
B) Options available than 50 children were among the dead, some as young as
• Following the law in letter and spirit: It will ensure rule 5. In addition to the dead, many people are still missing.
of law, which in turn will result into justice to the victims Some officials estimated up to 400 people were packed
but it may pose harm his self-interests of life and career onto the bridge — far more than the safe limit — when
which is not good as per hedonism. the suspension cables buckled and the 760-foot span gave
way. Some visitors clung to a crumpled bridge barely

above the waterline, crying for rescue. Others crawled 1. Crony capitalism: awarding the contract to a firm
along its railings back to shore. More were lost in the having no domain expertise.
water. 2. Lack of integrity: Not mentioning the name of a
It has been observed that corpses were laid in nearly every powerful businessman in FIR
corner of free space while hundreds of deceased relatives 3. Politics without principle: Politicians awarding
went from room to room, looking to claim the bodies of contracts to their relatives and protecting them from
their loved ones. In a 10-foot-by-10-foot room used for the law.
post-mortems, doctors were “overwhelmed”
B) Option available to me
Rescue operations were delayed because of the
1. Investigate the case properly.
unavailability of rescue teams at the local level. Scrutiny
turned to the company tasked with renovating and 2. Manipulating the case to protect the businessman.
operating the bridge. The contractor, Oreva, a large 3. Seeking guidance from seniors and acting accordingly.
manufacturer known for producing clocks and electric 4. Leaving the case.
bikes (with no experience in construction work), wrapped C) Critically examination of the options
up a six-month bridge renovation last week to coincide
• Investigating the case properly will ensure the rule of
with the New Year. The firm with no construction
law but may pose a danger to my life and career.
experience got the contract because of its political linkage.
• Manipulating the case to protect the powerful
The city official Sandeep Singh Zala told the media that the
businessman may prevent my troubles, but it will
bridge was reopened to tourists without obtaining
defeat foundational values of civil service like integrity.
clearance from the government. Zala also highlighted the
bridge operators for selling as many tickets as possible • Seeking guidance from seniors may help me in solving
without controlling the flow of people. After a day of the case in a requisite manner, and it will also improve
investigation, local police arrested nine people, including the teamwork and work culture in our organisation, but
two Oreva executives, two contractors, three security they may misguide me if they have vested interests.
guards and two ticket window clerks. • Leaving the case may prevent me from various
In their initial legal complaint, local police did not name tensions, but it shows lack of courage and dedication to
Oreva or any other firm. Still, they said they would file service.
culpable homicide charges against “the agency D) Course of action
responsible for maintaining the bridge” and the • As head of investigating team, one should be mentally
“management agency.” Because the owner of the firm has prepared and internally motivated; He should use
political links. As the head of investigating team of this emotional intelligence.
case, answer the following questions. (250 words)
• To ensure the rule of law, he should avoid any kind of
A) Which ethical issues may you face while solving this prejudices or rumours.
case?
• To ensure justice for the victims, he should ensure the
B) What are the options available to you? names of all real culprits in the charge sheet.
C) Critically examine the options listed by you. • He can seek guidance from seniors but must ensure
D) What will be your course of action? that they are not misleading him.
SOLUTION • If he finds that his efforts are enough to deliver justice,
This case deals with the rampant corruption in then can be a whistle-blower, or he can go to the media.
government contracts, administrative lacunae, poor mob Conclusion
management, promptness of rescue efforts and lack of This is how it can be concluded that to deal with issues of
awareness among the people. crony capitalism and to ensure the rule of law in society,
civil servants should follow the foundational values of civil
A) Ethical issues involved in the case
services.

PART THREE
Essays of the month
Selected essays from Rau’s GSI students

Essays OF THE MONTH
EVERYTHING WE HEAR IS AN OPINION NOT A FACT.

EVERYTHING WE SEE IS A PERSPECTIVE, NOT THE TRUTH.
#PHILOSOPHICAL
SUBMITTED BY: PRAGNA MOLDIREDDY
Disclaimer: The viewpoints in the topic are strictly personal Subjectivity & Perception
of the writer above. The role of Rau’s IAS Study Circle is to
Our senses, while powerful, are filtered through a lens of
present the write-up in its original form, hence the study
personal experiences, biases, and our own
circle neither endorses nor rejects any viewpoint in the
interpretations. What we hear, whether it’s through verbal
submission. The purpose is only to showcase the manner of
communication or media, is shaped through the speaker’s
writing.
viewpoint, colored by their beliefs, emotions, and
Therefore, it is the sole responsibility of the reader to use
intentions. Similarly, what we see is influenced by our own
his/her intellect to check the veracity of viewpoints.
cognition, filters, predispositions, and context.
“1984,” a novel by George Orwell, follows
For example, an accident happened on a busy road in a
the life of Winston Smith, who lives in a
city. There were multiple witnesses to this accident.
totalitarian regime led by Big Brother. In
However, when questioned by the police, each recounted
this dystopian society, truth and reality are
the incident differently based on his/her vantage point,
manipulated by those in power,
emotions, and prior experiences.
highlighting the subjective nature of information and the
control of perspectives. At the end of the book, Smith too Opinions vs. Facts
is brainwashed by the regime, underscoring the triumph
Facts are tangible, empirical observations that are
of totalitarianism over freedom and truth.
verifiable through logic. That the sun rises in the east is a
When I was younger and read this book, it scared me to fact. Death being inevitable is a fact. These facts exist
such an extent that I refused to believe something like this independently of one’s beliefs or perspective. On the
could even happen to people living in modern democratic other hand, opinions are subjective expressions shaped
societies. However, seeing what is going on in the world by personal viewpoints, values, and emotions. Yellow is a
around us, I can’t help but wonder how close to 1984 we happy color is an opinion. Smart people are not
are. hardworking is an opinion. Opinions often lack irrefutable
grounding of factual evidence, making them malleable
Unraveling Perception and Truth
and open to wide interpretation. For example, in the book
When the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, there was “The Life of Pi” by Yann Martel, there are multiple versions
too much going on for any of us to understand – of the story, leaving the reader to choose which
lockdowns, illnesses, lack of communication with our perspective to believe in. It challenges the idea of a single
loved ones, etc. But once the dust started to settle down, truth; thus, the opinions on the endings are too extreme
the trouble began. The war between the pro and anti- due to offering different accounts of the events.
vaxxers, maskers and anti-maskers, conspiracy theories
Subjective Lens of Media
about the origin of the virus, and the disinformation which
was spreading at an alarming rate on social media left me In today’s era of rapid information dissemination,
and most around me questioning what was the truth and navigating the dichotomy between perception and truth
what wasn’t. When we are inundated with information, it becomes increasingly challenging. News outlets, social
becomes hard for us to discern what is an opinion and media, and interactions with loved ones leave us with a
what is a fact without getting swept away. multitude of perspectives and opinions. This subjective
lens blurs the line of objective reality, leading to confusion

Essays OF THE MONTH
and polarization. It could be on issues like abortion, the world. We should not become like those who stand on
divorce, genetic editing, vaccines, political ideology, opposite sides of a number and argue if it’s a 6 or 9.
among others.
The Quest for Truth
What can we do?
This quest involves a process of continuous evaluation
All this calls for critical thinking and mindfulness. We need and willingness to revise our understanding based on new
to approach information with an open mind but need to information and diverse perspectives. Understanding the
acknowledge the inherent biases and subjectivity present distinction between opinions and facts prompts us to
in what we hear and see. By cultivating awareness of our approach information with a critical eye, acknowledging
own perspectives and being open to diverse viewpoints, biases and subjectivity in what we hear and see.
we can strive towards a more nuanced understanding of Embracing this understanding helps us navigate the
complexities of our world with greater awareness.
WASTE ISN'T A WASTE UNTIL WE WASTE IT

#PhilosoPhical
SUBMITTED BY: PRATEEK YADAV
Disclaimer: The viewpoints in the topic are strictly First and foremost, 'waste' is a human construct applied
personal of the writer above. The role of Rau’s IAS Study to anything in the material world considered devoid of
Circle is to present the write-up in its original form, utility for humans. Thus, things labeled 'waste' are
hence the study circle neither endorses nor rejects any typically discarded. For instance, households dispose of
viewpoint in the submission. The purpose is only to garbage, industries release effluents and emissions,
societies abandon outdated values (like feudalism), and
showcase the manner of writing.
nations discard ineffective policies.
Therefore, it is the sole responsibility of the reader to
use his/her intellect to check the veracity of viewpoints. From this understanding of 'waste,' we realize it's
essentially a utilitarian concept. However, Aristotle
In the Ramayana, it is well-known that two suggested that everything in the world has a 'telos' – a
ordinary monkeys – Nal and Neel – played potential, a purpose to fulfill. Only a few things achieve
key roles in building Ram Setu. Before Lord their 'telos,' often due to a supportive ecosystem. But
Rama delegated this crucial task to them, does this mean that things unable to reach their 'telos' are
society considered Nal and Neel wasted beings, owing to wasteful?
a sage's curse. Had Lord Rama not realized the potential
According to Aristotelian reasoning, not necessarily. A
even in a curse – that whatever these monkeys touched
thing is waste only insofar as the user fails to recognize its
would never sink in water – it would have been impossible
potential. For example, household care work, once
for him to reach Lanka. This illustrates that even what is
disregarded, is now acknowledged as a potential cure for
considered 'waste' can be useful, depending on
mental health issues.
circumstances and the ability to discern potential.
The increasing prevalence of health problems has
In this essay, we will explore the concept of 'waste,' why
compelled Western societies to reconsider women's
certain things are labeled as waste, philosophical aspects
caregiving roles within families. Care work, long deemed
of waste's potential, methods to realize this potential, and
wasteful, is now recognized for its importance in providing
more.
physical and emotional support to the sick and elderly.

Essays OF THE MONTH
Moreover, technological advancements often unlock the value from non-performing assets, while the Carbon
potential of previously considered wasteful things. For Credit Trading Mechanism, proposed in the Energy
instance, the development of technologies for solar power Conservation (Amendment) Act 2022, aims to create value
generation revealed the solar power potential of from carbon emissions by holding emitters accountable
Rajasthan's Thar Desert, once considered wasteland. for surplus emissions.
Similarly, advancements in Big Data Analytics and Artificial Considering something as waste and discarding it may be
Intelligence have transformed bulky databases, once damaging in various spheres of life, but its most
deemed incomprehensible, into valuable resources. We detrimental impact is on the environment. The massive
now live in a world where "data is the new oil." piles of garbage on the outskirts of Delhi, the direct
discharge of sewage waste into the River Ganga, and the
However, a question arises: why do people struggle to
deadly smog in North Indian cities during October-
recognize the potential in things around them? Why do
November are manifestations of humans' myopic and
they often label things as wasteful? The answer lies in
narrowly utilitarian views of waste.
attitude – the attitude of seeing the big picture, thinking
long-term, believing in an unknown future, and exercising Government programs promoting Circular Economy,
wisdom to recognize potential even in so-called waste waste-to-energy initiatives, and the GobarDhan Scheme
products. are steps toward transforming the conception of waste.
Gandhi realized the power of non-violence, once However, the notion of waste must be entirely eradicated.
considered a weapon of the weak, which became The idea of waste stems from humans' selfish, greedy, and
powerful enough to defeat the mighty British Empire. self-centered nature.
Credit goes to Gandhi for recognizing and harnessing this
If we truly desire a peaceful and harmonious social order,
power, previously unrecognized as waste.
we must respect all humans, transcend our ego, recognize
In addition to internal factors like attitude, enabling policy divinity in every small thing, adopt a futuristic vision and
frameworks also help realize value from waste. For approach, foster innovation and creativity to extract value
example, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code creates from so-called waste, and respect nature.
THE FUTURE BELONGS TO THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN THE

BEAUTY OF THEIR DREAMS
#Philosophical
SUBMITTED BY: LORI THAKUR
Disclaimer: The viewpoints in the topic are strictly personal Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru believed in the
of the writer above. The role of Rau’s IAS Study Circle is to power of our dreams and thus said in the
present the write-up in its original form, hence the study Constituent Assembly, “We have to labor
circle neither endorses nor rejects any viewpoint in the and work hard to give reality to our dreams
submission. The purpose is only to showcase the manner of that are for India but also for the world.” At the tense
writing. moment when the majority opinion sided with being
Therefore, it is the sole responsibility of the reader to use complacent with dominion status for India, the extremists
his/her intellect to check the veracity of viewpoints. believed in attaining Poorna Swaraj. Our generation owes
On the 15th of August 1947, at the stroke of midnight, our
our present and future to this great vision.
country made a tryst with destiny and achieved the
“Dreamers” can often be considered delusional as they
seemingly unachievable dream of computer
tend to dwell in the future. However, as Aristotle once
independence and sovereignty from the British crown.

Essays OF THE MONTH
said: “Hope is a waking dream.” It is this hope that springs women and backward castes. They walked in the
one into action. It is this hope that awakens in us the moonlight and saw “the dawn” before everyone else, and
imagination to come up with new ideas that can bind they were punished for it. However, they persevered
everyone together towards a cause. IAS officer Mr. through all these hardships because it was the power of
Armstrong Pame was faced with a lack of funds and their vision that gave them the courage to stand up for
functionaries while executing a road construction project what they believed in and persevere through hardships.
in Manipur. He then resorted to crowdfunding via social Many celebrated figures were, thus, chided once for their
media because he dreamt of achieving economic progress courage to change their reality to match up to their
in his district. Hope awakens the will to live for oneself and dreams. In Vincent Van Gogh’s words “I paint my dreams
for others. It awakens our conscience to rise up for the and I dream my paintings.” Dreams have the power to fuel
cause of shared humanity. This hope has manifested true the virtuous infinite loop of aspirations and inspirations.
and again in history as courage within great world leaders Those who challenge the status quo inspire others to
of the world, most prominently in Mr. Martin Luther King aspire in similar directions. If it weren’t for Galileo Galilei,
Jr., who fought for the Civil Rights Movement in the USA. we wouldn’t have known astronomy as it is today.
It is our ability to dream that has brought forth Thus, this firm belief in one’s values further strengthens
sociological as well as technological advancement in the one’s moral structure and in turn fuels the ability to
world. Who could have imagined in the 1920s that one day imagine. It is this ability that gives birth to leaders who can
the world would be at your behest with just a click away? guide others to the moral path in Buddha’s words “Appo
Or that a child in India could access speeches and lectures Deepo Bhava,” which broadly translates into Gandhiji’s
delivered by the brightest minds of the world while sitting idea of “Be the change you want to see in the world.” It is
thousands of miles away. The Internet, thus, is perhaps their unwavering faith in their dreams that makes one
among the greatest manifestations of this power to strive towards greatness and happiness. However, belief
dream. can often be seen as a double-edged sword.
Our capability for imagination and dreaming is only as John Mayer, in one of his songs, has rightly said: “Belief is
effective unless coupled with emotional intelligence and a beautiful armor but makes for the heaviest sword like
empathy. It is our ability to feel and emote that separates punching underwater you never can hit who you’re trying
us from other species. Imagination along with moral for?” At times holding onto one’s beliefs may make the
aptitudes can render one into an unstoppable force of person lose his way as he is not willing to adapt to social
nature. Take, for instance, Dr. William Halsted, the father realities and the changing winds of the world. This debate
of modern surgery. He was struck with grief when he saw was very effectively put forth by revivalists vs reformers
his wife’s hands being smothered with acts and bruises as during the socio-cultural reforms period of India. As
she encountered harmful chemicals while working as a beliefs are hollow without considering present realities,
nurse. It was his love, channelled by his ability to think dreams are equally hollow without the will for action.
outside the box, that introduced the practice of wearing
In J.K. Rowling’s words, “It doesn’t do to dwell on dreams
gloves during surgeries. Dreaming, thus, requires a force
and forget to live.” Our dreams can easily transport us into
of empathy and to sustain this, we need courage.
a utopian world that seems so ideal that we rarely want to
As Oscar Wilde once rightly said: “Yes, I am a dreamer. For exit it. However, it is important to spring into action to
a dreamer is one who can only find his way by moonlight. deliver upon the promises we have made to ourselves. It
And his punishment is that he sees the dawn before the is imperative to turn our dreams into reality and our
rest of the world.” One who dreams and dares to think empathy into compassion. If it weren’t for the foresight
tangentially to the laid-down norms can be easily targeted and vision of Dr. Manmohan Singh and the action and
by society. In our very own country, social reformers like execution of Dr. P.V. Narasimha Rao, the liberalization
Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidya Sagar, and economic reforms of 1991 wouldn’t have been as
Savitri Bai Phule were ousted by the elders of the society successful as they are today.
as they dared to challenge the oppressive norms against

Essays OF THE MONTH
Bruce Lee has aptly summed up this sentiment as dream and believe in things that are bigger than
“Knowing is not enough we must apply; willing is not themselves.
enough we must do.” No dream is too big to be achieved, It is important to never let the spark of hope within us die
and no dream is too small to be insignificant. History has because “Hope is a good thing and good things rarely die.”
been witness to great milestones that have sprung from a (Shawshank Redemption). As we dream away our time, we
tiny dream in a tiny town. In the larger scheme of things, will come to realize that all our aspirations stemming from
we all may just be tiny specks of dust in the universe, but goodwill are going to guide us all towards a shared goal of
we all encompass universes in ourselves as rightly shared humanity. Like John Lennon beautifully said: “You
proclaimed in the Upanishads. The past, present, and may say I’m a dreamer but I am not the only one someday
future have all belonged to those who have dared to you will join us and make the world live as one."

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CONTENTS

Part-1: CURRENT AFFAIRS 4 INSURANCE REGULATORY AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF

OF PULSES 95% and 65%, respectively, while that of pulses is only

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 5

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 6

While Government borrowing is necessary to stimulate health.

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 7

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 8

world’s lowest. ○ Current Weekly Status (CWS): Current activity

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 9

• Women's Participation: Low participation of women MEASURES TO ADDRESS TRADITIONAL

• Rising Informality in Employment: Informal upskilling of workers.

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 10

DOUBLE TAXATION WHAT IS A DOUBLE TAXATION AVOIDANCE

AVOIDANCE AGREEMENT • Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) is an

WHY IS MAURITIUS IMPORTANT? Mauritian tax resident and exempting investments

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 11

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 12

is the interest income of the financial sector. So, failure

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 13

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 14

INDIA NEEDS A LONG-

TERM INTEGRATED • Building Transnational Pipelines: Transnational

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 15

• Infrastructure Development: India needs to upgrade Small Finance Banks in India

Yes. At least 50 per cent of its

SMALL FINANCE BANKS Can Lend Loans

Issue Debit/ Credit

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 16

company, at a value which is higher than fair market

ANGEL TAX how well the company can

Exemptions: Start-ups which are registered with the

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 17

REER & NEER

India. basket, comprising the US dollar, the euro, the

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 18

Chinese yuan, the British pound, the Japanese yen

REER. currencies, which in turn can lead to higher import

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 19

The Spices Board held consultations with the industry on

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 20

PROMOTION SCHEME 2024 vehicles will be provided incentives under the

(EMPS 2024) ○ The financial support will be up to ₹50,000 in case

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 21

CROPPING CONDITIONS Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has now

ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ON the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce

#ExternalSector #Liberalisation ○ Conducting anti-dumping investigations and

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 22

○ Conducting anti-subsidy/CVD investigations and • HQ: Hyderabad, Telangana.

INSURANCE REGULATORY companies, professional organisations connected with

(IRDAI) • Adjudication of disputes between insurers and

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 23

Answers: 1-a, 2-b, 3-b, 4-b, 5-b

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 24

RIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE

CHANGE IS A Indian Bustard and Lesser Florican.

OBSERVATIONS ENVIRONMENTAL JURISPRUDENCE IN INDIA

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 25

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 26

HALTING THE democracy are met; judicial and legislative constraints

DEMOCRATIC RECESSION liberties and equality before the law.

#Constitution & #Polity

A Pew Research Centre’s global survey has highlighted that the

FOCUS | MAY 2024 | RAU’S IAS 27

Rau's MAY Magazine - 2024 Final

Rau's MAY Magazine - 2024 Final