(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1.  2023 warmest on record, temperatures 1.48°C above preindustrial level READ MORE

2.  National Birds Day: The various moods & colours of Indian city birds, through the eyes of an amateur ornithologist READ MORE

3. Palaeolithic tool discovery adds to understanding of human settlements in Telangana READ MORE

4. ‘Deep tech’ policy to be sent to Cabinet for approval, says scientific adviser READ MORE

5.  Cabinet nod for PRITHVI initiative for ease of research in earth sciences READ MORE

6.  PMI signals December performance was a three-month high READ MORE

7.   India India’s real GDP growth for 2023-24 estimated at 7.3% READ MORE  

8.  Centre’s Digi Yatra enrolment takes off as airport security staff sign up flyers without their consent READ MORE

9.  China’s Kuafu-1 probe records massive solar flare READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Deciphering barriers, leveraging opportunities READ MORE

2. Domestic violence: An untamed evil READ MORE

3. Weather anomalies driven by climate change cause scanty rain, snow in post-monsoon India READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Simultaneous Elections in Plural Societies: Overlapping Social Cleavages and Democratic Stability in India READ MORE

2. There Is No Lack of Judicial Power in India. Just a Refusal to Act on It. READ MORE

3. Modi govt, criminal laws and new India READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Quality education needs quality teachers READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. The evolving role of the Colombo Security Conclave READ MORE

2. Global implications of the Sino-Russian biotechnology collaboration READ MORE

3. S.-China Competition: Perspectives from South Asia READ MORE

4. Evolution of the BRICS: Has It Served as an Institution of the South? READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. A case for inclusive wealth assessment of Indian states READ MORE  

2. Illegal Immigration and Institutional Failures READ MORE

3. An Elusive Take-off READ MORE

4. Did the Implementation of GST Hurt Municipal Finances? READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Are the COPs Just and Equitable? READ MORE

2. Loss & damage: 85% of costliest climate-linked disasters in 2023 were floods & storms; mostly affected poor READ MORE

3. IISc study in Arunachal Pradesh reveals how logging and climate change impact montane birds READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Drug war: On use of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Cybercrime surge: Need to strengthen cybersecurity system READ MORE  

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Understanding and Tackling Urban Floods in India READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. The evolving landscape of philanthropy READ MORE

2. Crafting your life’s symphony with IQ, EQ, SQ READ MORE

3. Feeling of compassion READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Challenges for India in Indo-pacific regions are high as China is not only strengthening its naval capabilities but maintaining strong defence relationships with states in the Indian Ocean region and conducting regular maritime exercises. In the light of statement discuss how revival of SAARC can be gamechanger for India?

2. Creating a collaborative bilateral alliance between India and the USA in the field of biotechnology growth and innovation can help counter the potential of the Sino-Russian biotechnology collaboration. Discuss.

3. India’s rapid GDP growth has lifted millions out of poverty but it neglects the environmental costs of growth, the social value of natural resources, and the widening chasms of socio-economic inequalities. Examine.

4. The BRICS grouping has strived to democratise the global financial system by reforming the functioning of the Bretton Woods institutions; moreover, against the trends towards an increasingly unequal world order, reforming multilateral institutions remains the primary focus of the group. Discuss in the light of recent developments.

5. Indian Constitution is a binding legal document not a statement of political intent to be enforced at the discretion of the government of the day. Comment.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• To befriend the one who regards himself as your enemy is the quintessence of true religion.
• China is not only strengthening its naval capabilities; it also maintains strong defence relationships with states in the Indian Ocean region and also conducts regular maritime exercises in the Ocean.
• The Sino-Russian biotechnology collaboration, augmented by its strategic focus on pharmaceuticals and economic growth, has called for a global concern on the future of globalization.
• Creating a collaborative bilateral alliance between India and the USA in the field of biotechnology growth and innovation can help counter the potential of the Sino-Russian biotechnology collaboration.
• India’s rapid GDP growth has lifted millions out of poverty, yet the accompanying environmental degradation and resource stress pose significant threats to long-term prosperity.
• India’s quasi-federal structure post-independence has evolved to include the concepts of cooperative and competitive federalism.
• The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has been the shorthand for economic success for decades, yet its focus on short-term output obscures more than it reveals. It neglects the environmental costs of growth, the social value of natural resources, and the widening chasms of socio-economic inequalities.
• India has seen storms and hurricanes increase in severity, heatwaves and cold waves, and harsh droughts and floods, and its cities remain vulnerable.
• To prepare and mitigate instances of urban floods, states must ensure proper synchronisation between their own agencies and those of the Indian government.
• The BRICS grouping has strived to democratise the global financial system by reforming the functioning of the Bretton Woods institutions and reforming multilateral institutions by reversing the trends towards an increasingly unequal world order, which has remained the primary focus of the group.
• Consistently, the COPs are, at best, inadequate and, at worst, insincere in addressing the climate concerns.
• The goods and services tax has adversely affected municipal finance. The extent of loss due to implementing GST is examined and ways to streamline municipal finance in India are proposed.
• Indian Constitution is a binding legal document not a statement of political intent to be enforced at the discretion of the government of the day.

ESSAY TOPIC

• The truly happy ones, understand life.

50-WORD TALK

• It’s always good to hear our economy is doing well, as the latest UN report says. But tags like ‘fastest-growing’ shouldn’t encourage complacency. In fact, further acceleration is needed. Just government-led investment won’t address India’s needs. Unless private sector pitches in, large parts of India will remain unemployed and poor.

Things to Remember:

• For prelims-related news try to understand the context of the news and relate with its concepts so that it will be easier for you to answer (or eliminate) from given options.
• Whenever any international place will be in news, you should do map work (marking those areas in maps and exploring other geographical locations nearby including mountains, rivers, etc. same applies to the national places.)
• For economy-related news (banking, agriculture, etc.) you should focus on terms and how these are related to various economic aspects, for example, if inflation has been mentioned, try to relate with prevailing price rises, shortage of essential supplies, banking rates, etc.
• For main exam-related topics, you should focus on the various dimensions of the given topic, the most important topics which occur frequently and are important from the mains point of view will be covered in ED.
• Try to use the given content in your answer. Regular use of this content will bring more enrichment to your writing.

THE CONTEXT: A fundamental purpose of democracy is to establish processes to negotiate differences among a diverse population that coexist. India’s leadership has put it above other countries in the international scenario but facing certain challenges. In this context, with the upcoming elections near the corner, India needs to set an example for the world to reset and bring back good faith in its politics.

ISSUES:

• Behaviour of ruling regime: The ruling regime has recently behaved impatiently in the Parliament even for democratic formalities. It has wielded state power in wholly undemocratic ways to neutralise the Opposition and clampdown on dissent.
• Stand of opposition: There is a section of the Opposition, especially civil society, which has pursued a strategy of embarrassing the government. It is not just that there is ideological opposition to the government but it is very clear that this section refuses to acknowledge the very legitimacy of the government.
• Erosion of faith: Decline of good faith in politics has resulted in a mindless rivalry where only the most partisan can prosper as opposed to those motivated by the public interest. This status quo, if left unaddressed, would be tragic for country.
• Issue of anti-defection law: There is another concern of anti-defection law which subverts representative democracy by constraining legislators to party leadership’s order. There has not been enough discussion on the effects of the anti-defection law on inner party democracy and issue-based mobilisation across parties.
• Lack of intra party transparency: It is a common knowledge that power in all political parties has concentrated in the hands of a few individuals. While political parties are notionally democratic, in-house elections lack transparency.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Acknowledge the behaviour on both sides: There are a range of behaviours by the government but also those opposed to the government which need to be acknowledged from the both sides. There is no need for more explanation on the government’s misuse of state power, which includes defections, imprisonment, and intimidation.
• Role of individuals: Individuals of all ideological inclinations, who value civility and moderation in the politics, can play a crucial role. Many of these individuals wield influence within politically relevant institutions, either officially or through their networks. This group can play a pivotal role in restoring basic democratic principles in our public life by exerting influence.
• Reform with party system: Though partisanship is an important driver of multi-party democracy but constant demands for a blind, aggressive allegiance will only make partisanship and cynicism worse. Instead, party members must use their influence to restrain their own party’s excesses and reorient focus towards substantive issues.
• Address anti defection: There is a need to develop consensus of individuals across party lines on getting rid of the anti-defection law to limit potential instability in political parties. Also, dispersal of power to party’s elected representatives can create avenues for internal negotiations as well as horizontal issue-based mobilisation.
• Media’s role needs scrutiny: The mass media plays a pivotal role in opinion-making and instead of informing the electorate, the media often contributes to polarisation. It is in the interest of every citizen to promote responsible journalism and rebuild trust in the media. Individuals with influence over their party or media institutions can help create an environment to support a more public-interest media.

THE CONCLUSION:

India, like many other liberal democracies, is at a similar crossroads of ideological diversities. Therefore, concerned citizens across the ideological divide needs to come together to restore trust in our political institutions and preserve our democratic framework.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q. Parliament’s power to amend the constitution is limited power and it cannot be enlarged into absolute power”. In light of this statement, explain whether parliament under article 368 of the constitution can destroy the basic structure of the constitution by expanding its amending power? (2019)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q. Faith in India’s political institutions seems at its lowest with the erosion of its credibility. Critically examine the statement and suggest ways to restore trust in politics.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/bringing-back-faith-in-indias-politics/article67710670.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the Principal Scientific Advisor announced plans to present the ‘deep tech’ policy to the Union Cabinet for approval in the upcoming weeks during a public event.

EXPLANATION:

• This policy, initially unveiled as a draft in July 2023 for public feedback, has undergone refinements based on industry input, now awaiting final approval.

‘Deep Tech’:

• The term ‘deep tech’ remains somewhat nebulous within tech and startup domains, lacking a precise definition.
• However, these startups are typically characterized by the development of intellectual property grounded in new scientific breakthroughs.
• Contrary to easily replicable ideas, deep tech ventures promise substantial impacts yet to be realized.

State of ‘Deep Tech’ Startups in India

• India’s draft policy references Startup India’s database, indicating 10,298 recognized startups under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, distributed across various sub-sectors within the ‘deep tech’ space as of May 2023.
• However, a Prof. expressed concern about the low representation of ‘deep tech’ startups in India, constituting only about 10% of the total startup landscape.
• This calls for increased support and nurturing efforts.

Initiatives by DSIR, CSIR, and NRDC

• The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), affiliated with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), aims to bridge the gap between scientific and technological advancements in CSIR labs and industry.
• DSIR will focus on technology transfer to medium and small-scale industries, while CSIR will target a broader spectrum of industries.
• Additionally, the National Research and Development Corporation (NRDC), also a CSIR entity, will concentrate on supporting startups in alignment with India’s science and technology ecosystem.

Challenges and Funding Needs

• Funding remains a significant obstacle for ‘deep tech’ startups.
• Compared to fintech or retail software startups, these ventures require substantially larger amounts of capital.
• The funding disparity and the considerable financial requirements for ‘deep tech’ initiatives have been highlighted, emphasizing the need for enhanced funding mechanisms and support.

Conclusion

• The ‘deep tech’ policy’s imminent submission to the Union Cabinet indicates the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and scientific breakthroughs in India’s startup ecosystem.
• However, the current underrepresentation of ‘deep tech’ startups and funding challenges highlight the necessity for comprehensive support mechanisms to nurture and promote these ventures for impactful technological advancements and economic growth.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/deeptech-policy-to-be-presented-for-approval-soon-science-advisor/article67710467.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The Union Cabinet has granted approval for ‘Prithvi Vigyan’ (PRITHVI), an extensive initiative aimed at facilitating research and utilizing funds allocated to five sub-schemes within the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) over a five-year period.

EXPLANATION:

• This initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to earth sciences research, pooling together a total allocation of Rs 4,797 crore for various sub-schemes.

Sub-Schemes Under ‘PRITHVI’

• The PRITHVI initiative encompasses five sub-schemes, namely:
  • Atmosphere and Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems and Services
  • Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources, and Technology
  • Polar Science and Cryosphere Research
  • Seismology and Geosciences
  • Research, Education, Training, and Outreach
• These sub-schemes cover a spectrum of earth science domains, aiming to streamline research efforts and utilize funds more flexibly across disciplines.

Objectives of the ‘PRITHVI’ Scheme

• The overarching goal of the PRITHVI initiative is to consolidate earth system sciences into a cohesive unit, transcending individual domains like atmosphere, cryosphere, geosphere, and ocean science.
• This consolidation allows for interdisciplinary projects and the combined utilization of allocated funds, fostering ease of research collaboration and resource allocation across different verticals.

Focus Areas and Integrated Efforts

• The PRITHVI scheme aims to integrate multi-disciplinary earth science research efforts across MoES institutes.
• These consolidated research and development endeavors seek to address significant challenges in weather, climate, oceans, cryosphere, seismology, and the exploration of living and non-living resources for sustainable utilization.

Specific Objectives of ‘PRITHVI’

The objectives of the PRITHVI initiative include:

• Augmentation and maintenance of long-term observations of earth’s vital signs and changes in the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth.
• Development of modeling systems for predicting weather, ocean behavior, and climate-related hazards.
• Exploration of polar regions and high seas for discovery of new phenomena and resources.
• Technology development for sustainable harnessing of oceanic resources for societal applications.
• Translation of insights from earth systems science into services for societal, environmental, and economic benefit.

Collaborative Efforts and Research Institutes

• The PRITHVI scheme fosters interdependency among its various components, encouraging an integrated approach through collaborative efforts among MoES institutes.
• The Ministry comprises ten research institutes specializing in meteorology, oceanography, seismology, and earth sciences, among others.

Support and Research Infrastructure

• To facilitate research under the PRITHVI initiative, the Ministry possesses a fleet of oceanographic and coastal research vessels.
• These vessels provide essential research support for various facets of earth sciences, enhancing the initiative’s ability to undertake comprehensive studies across different domains.

Conclusion

• The ‘PRITHVI Vigyan’ initiative underscores a holistic approach to earth sciences research, consolidating resources and efforts to tackle significant challenges in understanding the earth system’s dynamics, climate change, natural hazards, and sustainable resource utilization.
• Through an integrated multi-disciplinary approach, the initiative aims to drive advancements in earth sciences and translate research findings into practical applications for societal and environmental benefit.

SOURCE: https://theprint.in/india/cabinet-nod-for-prithvi-initiative-for-ease-of-research-in-earth-sciences/1912169/

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the China’s first comprehensive solar probe, the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S), has successfully recorded a massive solar flare that erupted from the sun.

EXPLANATION:

• This comprehensive solar probe, also known as Kuafu-1, has achieved a breakthrough by capturing a potent X-class solar flare, accompanied by coronal mass ejections.
• This event marks the most powerful flare recorded in Solar Cycle 25, which commenced in 2019.

ASO-S Capabilities and Payloads

• ASO-S, launched by China in October 2022, represents the country’s pioneering venture into solar observation.
• Equipped with three payloads, it tracked and recorded the recent X-class solar flare, providing crucial data to solar physicists.
• These payloads have the capability to monitor solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and the sun’s magnetic field concurrently, contributing significantly to solar research.

Significance of the Recorded Solar Flare

• The solar flare recorded by ASO-S is of utmost importance due to its classification as an X-class flare, denoting the highest category of solar eruptions based on intensity.
• Solar physicists and researchers are particularly interested in the information about accelerated high-energy electrons provided by ASO-S, which is pivotal in understanding solar dynamics and space weather.

Future Scientific Research and Insights

• The data transmitted by Kuafu-1 will pave the way for further scientific investigation into the solar flare.
• Solar physicists anticipate conducting in-depth analyses based on this valuable data.
• Moreover, the availability of multi-band data from both domestic and international observation equipment will complement the insights garnered from ASO-S, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of this solar event.

Contribution to Solar Cycle 25 Studies

• As the sun is expected to approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25 in early 2024, ASO-S is poised to record and study more solar bursts and activities.
• This is particularly significant for researchers aiming to comprehend the sun’s behavior during this active phase of the solar cycle.

The solar cycles and latest sunspot number prediction.

Conclusion and Global Implications

• China’s ASO-S represents a pioneering achievement in solar observation, becoming the world’s first near-Earth satellite telescope capable of simultaneously monitoring various solar phenomena.
• The successful recording of the potent X-class solar flare, along with the probe’s multifaceted capabilities.
• It promises substantial contributions to solar physics, space weather forecasting, and global scientific advancements.
• It helps in understanding solar dynamics and their implications for space-based activities and technologies.

SOURCE: https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-01-04/China-s-Kuafu-1-probe-records-massive-solar-flare-1q5jOw2HfNu/p.html

TAG: GS 1: ART AND CULTURE

THE CONTEXT: The recent floods in the Mulugu district of Telangana has led to a fresh discovery of paleolithic quartzite tools.

EXPLANATION:

• In the aftermath of the floods that ravaged Mulugu district in Telangana, a significant discovery of Paleolithic quartzite tools has been made.
• Sriramoju Haragopal, leading a team of amateur historians, reported the discovery of these tools in the dried-up bed of a stream that emerged after the floodwaters receded.
• This unexpected exposure of the tools unveiled vital archaeological artifacts.
• The hand axes were specifically unearthed in the stream between Gurrevula and Bhupatipuram villages in Mulugu district.
• A researcher, discovered a stone axe measuring 15.5cm in length, 11cm in width, and 5.5cm in thickness, further solidifying the historical significance of the findings.

Historical Context and Significance

• Paleontologist sheds light on the historical period to which the stone axe belongs, identifying it as part of the Lower Paleolithic period, dating back approximately 30 lakh (3 million) years ago.
• This period corresponds to the Early Stone Age, also known as the Old Stone Age, and spans around 33 lakh (3.3 million) years BC, persisting for about 10,000 years.
• The identification of these tools is based on various characteristics, including chipping style, material, and size.
• The heavy quartzite material and the large size of these tools align with the typical implements used by Paleolithic hunter-gatherers.
• Such hand axes, globally discovered, were primarily utilized for activities such as cutting wood and hunting animals for sustenance.

Comparative Analysis with Previous Discoveries

• This discovery in Telangana augments the understanding of human settlements in the region and central India, significantly pushing back the timeline.
• Reference is made to the Paleolithic site at Attirampakkam near Madras (Chennai), where bifacial hand axes made of stone by early humans were found in 1863.
• These tools, estimated to be about 15 lakh (1.5 million) years old, are attributed to the Madras Hand-Axe Industry or Madrasian Culture.

Implications and Contributions to Archaeology

• The discovery in Mulugu district holds immense significance in expanding the historical narrative of human habitation in Telangana and central India.
• Understanding the tools used by early humans provides insights into their lifestyles, including hunting practices and tool-making technologies.
• Moreover, the comparative analysis with similar discoveries worldwide offers valuable connections in the study of human evolution and cultural development during the Paleolithic era.
• This finding adds to the growing body of evidence shedding light on ancient human settlements.
• It enriches our understanding of prehistoric communities and their interactions with the environment, tools, and resources available during that epoch.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/the-recent-floods-in-mulugu-district-telangana-dried-up-a-stream-which-exposed-old-stone-age-tools-this-pushes-back-the-understanding-of-human-habitations-in-the-state-and-central-india/article67709084.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: January 5 is observed as National Birds Day in some parts of the world. It is aimed at raising awareness for the conservation of avian species that have been adversely affected by habitat destruction, reducing food choices and climate change.

EXPLANATION:

• It serves to raise awareness about the conservation of avian species impacted by habitat loss, reduced food sources, and climate change.
• India, a country rich in biodiversity, faces challenges in preserving its bird populations, especially in urban areas.
• The Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change emphasized the importance of preserving wetlands to protect bird populations.
• These areas serve as vital habitats for various bird species, particularly those migrating to India during winter.
• Despite declining numbers, Indian cities host diverse bird species.
• Amateur ornithologist Gargi Mishra’s columns in Gobar Times during 2021-22 beautifully document the vivid colors, behaviors, and significance of several Indian urban birds, shedding light on their conservation needs.

Understanding Indian City Birds through ornithologist’s Insights

• The Angry Bird: Jungle Babbler
  • It describes the Jungle Babbler’s argumentative nature, their essential role in pest control, and their remarkable adaptation to urban environments.
  • The name ‘saath bhai’ or ‘Seven Sisters’ in various regional languages captures their social dynamics.
  • However, the bird faces challenges from brood parasitism.

• The Versatile Creature: Oriental Magpie-Robin
  • The Oriental Magpie-Robin’s mimicry, expressive behavior, and preference for human settlements are highlighted.
  • It notes their striking appearance, vocal abilities, and their dual nature of gentleness and fierceness, especially during territorial defense.
• Aimed to Amaze: Common Hoopoe
  • The Common Hoopoe’s distinctive appearance, migratory habits, foraging behavior, and unique nest-defense mechanisms are detailed.
  • Their elegant appearance and their critical role in controlling agricultural pests has been portrayed.

• Rolling with Every Punch: Indian Roller
  • The Indian Roller’s cultural significance as a harbinger of happiness and its aerobatic displays are emphasized.
  • Their susceptibility to anthropogenic threats like traffic collisions and electrocution despite being beneficial for pest control in agriculture has been highlighted.

• When Beauty Lies in the Eyes of the Beholder: Indian White-Eye
  • The Indian White-Eye’s distinctive eye ring and its role as a pollinator are highlighted.
  • It narrates their sociable nature, nesting behaviors, and the challenges they face due to habitat degradation and increased predation.
• Hold No Bars: Brown-Headed Barbet
  • The Brown-Headed Barbet’s loud calls, unique appearance, foraging habits, and vulnerability to habitat degradation and pet trade, contributing to their population decline has been described.
• House of Sparrows
  • The significance of house sparrows in human habitats, their adaptations, decline due to changing environments, and human-induced threats are illuminated.
  • The need for conservation efforts to protect these familiar yet declining species has been emphasized.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/national-birds-day-the-various-moods-colours-of-indian-city-birds-through-the-eyes-of-an-amateur-ornithologist-93751