TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: In a significant milestone for wildlife conservation, India has recorded its first-ever confirmed sighting of the rare Tibetan brown bear in Northern Sikkim.

EXPLANATION:

• The discovery adds a new subspecies, Ursus arctos pruinosus, to India’s diverse mammal population.
• The sighting was made possible through camera traps set up by the Sikkim Forest Department in collaboration with WWF-India.
• The camera traps, strategically placed in the high altitudes of Mangan district, captured images of the elusive Tibetan brown bear in December 2023.
• The shared images highlight the distinctive yellowish scarf-like collar of the bear that broadens from the shoulders to the chest.

Historical Context and Folklore:

• The Tibetan brown bear has been a subject of folklore in the high-altitude areas of Tso Lhamo plateau and Muguthanga in Sikkim.
• Nomadic herders known as Dokpas have shared tales of unidentified animals stealing sugar and oil from their camps.
• Over the years, the folklore of the elusive Yeti gained prominence in the Himalayas.
• The recent confirmation of the Tibetan brown bear sighting dispels the mythical aura and brings a scientific understanding to the region’s rich biodiversity.

Distinctive Features and Rarity:

• Also known as the Tibetan blue bear, this subspecies stands out as one of the rarest bears globally.
• Adapted to the harsh conditions of the Tibetan Plateau, it is seldom encountered in the wild.
• Previous records from Nepal, Bhutan, and the Tibetan plateau affirm its existence, with the latest sighting in Sikkim.
• The Tibetan brown bear differs in appearance from the more commonly found Himalayan Black Bear.

Conservation Status and Protection Measures:

• The Tibetan brown bear holds the highest protection status under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, being listed under Schedule-I.
• Additionally, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) recognizes and protects this species.
• The documented sighting emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts to preserve and safeguard the habitats of rare and endangered species.

Parallel Discoveries in Indian Wildlife:

• The discovery of the Tibetan brown bear in Sikkim adds to a series of rare wildlife observations in India.
• Recent instances include the sighting of two rare white owls in Uttar Pradesh’s Badaun and the presence of a tiger in one of the highest altitude regions in the country.
• These findings underscore the significance of preserving diverse ecosystems and conducting vigilant wildlife monitoring initiatives.

Conclusion:

• The confirmation of the Tibetan brown bear in Sikkim signifies a breakthrough in wildlife observation and highlights the invaluable role of collaborative efforts between government agencies and conservation organizations.
• As India continues to unravel the secrets of its rich biodiversity, it reinforces the importance of sustainable conservation practices to ensure the survival of rare and endangered species.

SOURCE: https://www.livemint.com/science/news/chandrayaan3-lander-instrument-starts-serving-nasa-orbiter-pings-vikram-on-moon-experiment-explained-11705659487556.html

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The Supreme Court has directed the Indian government to reveal its comprehensive plans for the conservation of the critically-endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB) by February.

EXPLANATION:

• This directive underscores the urgent need to address the threats faced by the bird species, primarily arising from collisions with high transmission power lines in its natural habitats in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Endangerment of the Great Indian Bustard:

• The Great Indian Bustard faces the looming threat of extinction due to collisions with high transmission power lines, particularly in regions of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
• These areas, coincidentally, are vital habitats for the bustards.
• The court emphasizes the need for the government’s plan to strike a delicate balance between preserving the bird species.
• It honors global commitments to reduce carbon footprints by embracing alternative forms of energy, notably solar power.

GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD:

• GIBs are the largest among the four bustard species found in India – the other three being MacQueen’s bustard, the lesser florican and the Bengal florican.
• It is important to note that Great Indian Bustards are the State bird of Rajasthan.
• It is considered India’s most critically endangered bird, and it is considered the flagship grassland species, representing the health of the grassland ecology.

Threats:

• Among the biggest threats to the GIBs are overhead power transmission lines.
• Due to their poor frontal vision, the birds can’t spot the power lines from a distance and are too heavy to change course when close.
• Thus, they collide with the cables and die.
• According to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), in Rajasthan, 18 GIBs die every year after colliding with overhead power lines.

Protection Status:

• International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List (IUCN): Critically Endangered
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): Appendix1
• Convention on Migratory Species (CMS): Appendix I
• Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I

Conclusion:

• The Supreme Court’s directive reflects a heightened awareness of the delicate balance required between conservation efforts and renewable energy pursuits.
• The fate of the Great Indian Bustard serves as a symbol of the challenges faced in harmonizing biodiversity preservation and global environmental commitments in the evolving landscape of sustainable development.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/how-do-you-plan-to-save-the-great-indian-bustard-sc-asks-government/article67757330.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The Chabahar port, situated at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman, holds paramount strategic importance for both Iran and India. The recent discussions between Indian External Affairs Minister and Iranian Minister underscore the ongoing efforts to establish a long-term cooperation framework for this key maritime asset.

EXPLANATION:

Historical Context and Strategic Significance:

• India’s involvement in the Chabahar port dates back to 2002 when discussions initiated between the then National Security Advisor to Iranian President, and his Indian counterpart.
• As India sought alternative trade routes due to severed land connections with Iran and Central Asia post-Partition, Chabahar emerged as a crucial element in its geopolitical strategy.
• Chabahar not only provides Iran with a deepwater port on the global oceanic trade route map but also offers India an alternative route.
  • It bypasses Pakistan’s restrictions on land access for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
• Furthermore, the port is integral to the proposed International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
  • It connects the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf to the Caspian Sea and northern Europe.

India’s Involvement and Development Progress:

• India’s engagement in Chabahar began gaining momentum in 2016 when a trilateral agreement was signed between India, Iran, and Afghanistan.
• The first phase of the Shahid Beheshti port was inaugurated in December 2017, marking a significant milestone.
• However, the overall development of the port has faced delays, a common challenge for ambitious infrastructure projects in India’s neighboring regions.

Geopolitical Roadblocks:

• The primary reason for the slow progress in Chabahar’s development lies in geopolitical challenges, particularly Iran’s complex relationship with the United States.
• The US-Iran dynamics, marked by sanctions and international pressures, have significantly impacted the pace of the project.
• Despite a temporary “carve-out” for India in Chabahar under the sanctions regime, finding international suppliers for necessary materials remained challenging.

Future Prospects:

• Recent geopolitical developments, including the US exit from Afghanistan and the return of the Taliban, have influenced India’s ties with the region.
• The reopening of India’s embassy in Kabul and financial allocations for the Chabahar port project signal renewed commitment.
• However, the project’s future progression depends on the evolving US-Iran relations, which may further complicate or expedite the development based on future geopolitical

Conclusion:

• Chabahar port stands as a symbol of India’s quest for diversified trade routes and geopolitical influence in the region.
• While challenges persist, proactive diplomacy, efficient implementation, and sustained cooperation between Iran and India could ensure the viability and success of the Chabahar project as a pivotal transit hub and link in the larger geopolitical landscape.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/history-of-iran-chabahar-port-india-9117732/

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has taken a significant step towards fostering the production and adoption of green hydrogen in India. The recently launched National Green Hydrogen Mission introduces the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme, allocating a substantial budget of Rs 17,490 crore.

EXPLANATION:

• This initiative aims to propel domestic electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production by providing guidelines and incentives.

Key Components of SIGHT:

• Under the SIGHT programme, the MNRE adopts Mode-2B, a strategic approach involving the aggregation of demand and competitive bidding for green hydrogen production and supply.
• Tranche I of Mode 2B offers a substantial bidding capacity of 200,000 million tonnes per annum, reflecting the scale and ambition of the mission.
• The execution of the SIGHT scheme falls under the purview of agencies nominated by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), primarily oil and gas companies.
• These entities, guided by the Centre for High Technology (CHT), will be responsible for soliciting competitive bids for green hydrogen production.
• CHT, in turn, will provide secretarial, managerial, and implementation support.

Industry Adoption and Initiatives:

• Major players in the Indian oil and gas sector are gearing up to embrace green hydrogen.
• Indian Oil Corporation, for instance, declared its intention to convert 50% of its grey hydrogen to green hydrogen by 2030, establishing green hydrogen plants across its refineries.
• Similarly, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation is in the process of constructing a substantial 370 tonnes per annum green hydrogen plant at its Visakhapatnam refinery.

Incentives and Qualification Criteria:

• To incentivize participation in the SIGHT programme, the MNRE has outlined a set of criteria in alignment with the ‘National Green Hydrogen Standard.’
• Bidders meeting these criteria stand eligible for incentives, which include a direct subsidy over three years based on the production and supply rates.
• The rates start at Rs 50 per kilogram in the first year, followed by Rs 40 per kilogram in the second year and Rs 30 per kilogram in the third year.

Allocation Mechanism:

• The scheme employs a competitive allocation mechanism where the bidder quoting the lowest price of supply is allocated its admissible capacity first.
• This process continues sequentially until the total available capacity is exhausted, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Monitoring and Oversight:

• A dedicated scheme monitoring committee, chaired by the Secretary of MoPNG, Secretary of MNRE, Mission Director of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, and other experts, will periodically review the implementation status.
• The committee will also evaluate the performance of capacities awarded or established under the scheme and recommend measures to address challenges.

Global Context and Cautionary Notes:

• Despite the global push towards green hydrogen, a recent report by the World Economic Forum underscores limited on-the-ground traction in India.
• The ‘wait-and-watch’ approach among key players is noted, reflecting cautious optimism.
• Environmental organizations have also raised concerns about potential conflicts related to land-use and water resources associated with green hydrogen production.

Conclusion:

• The SIGHT programme emerges as a pivotal initiative in India’s pursuit of sustainable and green energy solutions.
• As the government strategically invests in incentivizing green hydrogen production, the success of the programme hinges on effective execution, industry collaboration.
• It addresses potential challenges in the evolving landscape of renewable energy.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/energy/mnre-launches-scheme-to-incentivise-production-of-green-hydrogen-94003

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: In a recent discovery, scientists have unveiled the existence of the largest deep-sea coral reef off the U.S. Atlantic coast.

EXPLANATION:

• The revelation came after decades of awareness about the presence of some coral in the region, with the actual extent remaining elusive until recent advancements in underwater mapping technology.

Mapping the Enigmatic Reef:

• The discovery was facilitated by cutting-edge underwater mapping technology, enabling the creation of detailed 3D images of the ocean floor.
• According to an oceanographer at the nonprofit Ocean Exploration Trust, the colossal deep coral reef was “right under our noses, waiting to be discovered.”
• The findings, published in the journal Geomatics, shed light on a coral reef stretching approximately 310 miles (499 kilometers) from Florida to South Carolina, with a width reaching 68 miles (109 kilometers) at certain points.
• The total area encompasses nearly three times the size of Yellowstone National Park.

Scale and Depth:

• The awe-inspiring dimensions of the deep-sea reef are not only extensive but also reach impressive depths, ranging from 655 feet to 3,280 feet (200 meters to 1,000 meters).
• Unlike tropical coral reefs that thrive on photosynthesis due to sunlight penetration, these deep-sea corals survive by filtering food particles from the water for energy.

Ecological Importance:

• Deep coral reefs play a crucial role in providing habitat for a diverse array of marine life, including sharks, swordfish, sea stars, octopus, shrimp, and various other fish species.
• The significance of these ecosystems lies in their ability to sustain life in the absence of sunlight, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of marine organisms.

Comparison with Tropical Reefs:

• While tropical reefs, such as the renowned Great Barrier Reef in Australia, are more familiar to scientists and the general public due to accessibility, the newly discovered deep-sea reef dwarfs them in scale.
• The Great Barrier Reef, stretching about 1,430 miles (2,301 kilometers), is overshadowed by the vastness of the Atlantic deep-sea coral reef.

Conservation Concerns:

• The revelation prompts speculation about the possibility of uncovering even larger deep-sea reefs in the future, considering that only approximately 75% of the world’s ocean floor has been mapped in high-resolution.
• Moreover, a mere 50% of U.S. offshore waters have undergone comprehensive mapping.
• The study underscores the urgency of conservation efforts as both deep-sea and tropical reefs face similar risks, including climate change impacts and disturbances from activities such as oil and gas drilling.

Conclusion:

• The discovery of this colossal deep-sea coral reef not only expands our understanding of marine ecosystems but also emphasizes the importance of continued exploration and conservation.
• As technology advances, further revelations about the hidden wonders of the ocean floor are anticipated, providing valuable insights for sustainable management and protection of these vital underwater ecosystems.

SOURCE: https://phys.org/news/2024-01-largest-deep-sea-coral-reef.html

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Supreme Court Collegium recommends appointment of Justice PS Dinesh Kumar as Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court READ MORE

2. Largest deep-sea coral reef to date is mapped by scientists off the US Atlantic coast READ MORE

3. In pics: Rare Tibetan brown bear spotted in Sikkim; WWF Camera traps unearth folklore READ MORE

4. How do you plan to save the Great Indian Bustard, Supreme Court asks government READ MORE

5. What is the Nagara style, in which Ayodhya’s Ram temple is being built READ MORE

6. The history of Iran’s Chabahar port, and its imperative for India READ MORE

7. Why big animals got smaller, even before climate change READ MORE

8. MNRE launches scheme to incentivise production of green hydrogen READ MORE

9. Gangetic dolphin rescued in Odisha, may be indicator of more freshwater dolphins in river READ MORE

10. Climate impact: Tamil Nadu study links vector-borne scrub typhus cases with high rainfall, humidity READ MORE

11. WHO releases guidelines for multi-modal generative AI in healthcare, resonates with recommendations for other sectors READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Women in small towns see a future in business READ MORE

2. How smartphones can make education inclusive READ MORE

3. Gearing up for change: On IMD and weather analyses having contemporary relevance READ MORE

4. China’s population dip is a global concern READ MORE

5. India’s coastal future needs safeguarding. District networks can help build resilience READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. A Powerful Internal Critique READ MORE

2. The Indian Administration: A Saga of Continuity and Change READ MORE

3. How Important are Social Media Influencers in Indian Elections? READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. The challenges post enrolment READ MORE

2. Affordable healthcare for everyone needs an all out push READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. South Africa Invokes Genocide Convention against Israel READ MORE   

2. Restive neighbourhood READ MORE

3. Crafting a new international relations theory READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Is India’s Agricultural Export Policy Ambiguous? READ MORE

2. Multidimensional Deprivation Index and Spatial Clustering READ MORE

3. Keep a close tab on lending apps READ MORE

4. Skewed impact likely READ MORE

5. Empowering Fintech READ MORE

6. Widening inequality is cause for worry READ MORE

7. Beware of manufactured narratives READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Why pollution control needs localised data, grounded in science READ MORE  

2. Double-edged sword READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. The problem with India’s science management READ MORE

2. Aditya-L1 Mission: Another Feat for India’s Space Program READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Emerging situations in Myanmar require proactive responses from India READ MORE  

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. In Morbi’s debris, the role of the State in PPP projects READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Gandhi as an Exemplar? READ MORE

2. Supreme god is Narayan, his ethical aspect, Ram READ MORE

3. Mental Subtraction READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The changing nature of the administrative system in India has occurred due to the paradigm shift in economic ideas and policies—from a state-centric economy to a neo-liberal market economy. Examine.

2. AI can lead to economic growth, but it also has the potential to destabilise national policies and disrupt financial systems. Critically comment.

3. The Right to Education Act, 2009 may have ensured universal access to education, but there is many a gap to fill before it touches every child in the true spirit of the law. Comment on the statement in the light of recent ASER’s report.

4. Asia is one of the fastest-growing regions globally and a united Asian front could serve as a counterbalance allowing for a more multipolar world order where India plays a significant role. Comment.

5. The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are critical to unlocking the potential of India envisioned under the ‘Make in India’ campaign. Discuss how the Schemes like Merchant Credit Card can be vital for helpful for enhancing global competitiveness and credit access for MSMEs.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to another.
• The moral force and churning generated by South African actions should impel global action for peace and justice to the Palestinian people.
• The Supreme Court’s judgment cancelling the remission of the convicts in the gang rape of Bilkis Bano, while being a resounding victory for the rule of law, civil liberties, and basic decency, is also an internal rebuke of the Court itself.
• The changing nature of the administrative system in India has occurred due to the paradigm shift in economic ideas and policies—from a state-centric economy to a neo-liberal market economy.
• The agricultural export policy was announced in 2018 to transform the ecosystem of India’s agricultural exports. However, the country’s agricultural exports have faced several policy-induced restrictions.
• Till then moral criticism is generated when examples are not set and contrasts it with the morality based on universalisable principles, which causes contempt, hostility, and violence when the principles fail to universalise.
• The 15th Finance Commission provided enough funds to states for air quality management. State agencies need to work in tandem with academic and research establishments to develop forecasting systems and operationalise them.
• AI can lead to economic growth, but it also has the potential to destabilise national policies and disrupt financial systems.
• Diplomatic tensions emerge as troll armies in the Maldives take on India, sparking an online clash and hinting at a deeper political crisis.
• New Delhi must carefully navigate its foreign policy to safeguard its strategic interests while promoting stability and cooperation in the region.
• The responsibility lies with nations to uphold the principles of peace, justice, and equality, steering away from the temptations of power politics.
• Indian society has for long been deeply unequal, with social divisions aggravating economic and other kinds of inequality.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Poverty reduction works best when inclusive growth and welfarism go together.

50-WORD TALK

• Supreme Court’s refusal to extend the deadline for surrender of Bilkis Bano’s rape convicts is a bold iteration of the rule of law. Their reasons for extension were flimsy and an obvious sham to buy more time. It was a travesty that they were even released in the first place.
• Health ministry’s direction to doctors ordering them to specify the reason every time they prescribe antibiotics has come not a day too soon. With high incidence of antibiotics abuse, India’s contribution to the global drug-resistant pathogen is very high. And it is now also India’s burden to fix the problem.

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.

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has introduced the Second-Generation Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT-SG), a technologically advanced system aimed at enhancing maritime safety for fishermen at sea.

EXPLANATION:

• This innovative development builds upon the success of the first version of the Distress Alert Transmitter, operational since 2010.
• It introduces advanced features for efficient emergency communication and real-time assistance.

Evolution from First to Second Generation DAT:

• The initial version of the Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) has been operational for over a decade.
• It serves as a vital tool for fishermen to send emergency messages through communication satellites.
• The central control station, Indian Mission Control Centre (INMCC), decodes these alert signals to identify the location and identity of fishing boats, facilitating coordinated search and rescue operations by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
• With over 20,000 DATs in use, the success of the first version laid the foundation for the evolution into the Second Generation DAT (DAT-SG).

Advanced Capabilities of DAT-SG:

• ISRO’s DAT-SG represents a significant leap in technological capabilities.
• One noteworthy feature is the ability to send acknowledgments back to fishermen who activate distress alerts, providing assurance of imminent rescue.
• The system leverages advancements in satellite communication and navigation, enabling two-way communication between control centers and fishermen at sea.

Real-time Alerts and Information Sharing:

• DAT-SG goes beyond emergency distress signals.
• It can receive messages from control centers, allowing the dissemination of advance alerts regarding adverse weather conditions, cyclones, tsunamis, or other emergencies.
• Fishermen receive timely information, enabling them to navigate safely or return home, thus preventing potential disasters.
• Additionally, the system provides real-time information about potential fishing zones, optimizing catch yields while saving time and fuel.

User-Friendly Interface and Operational Infrastructure:

• DAT-SG is designed with user convenience in mind.
• It can be connected to mobile phones via Bluetooth, allowing fishermen to read messages in their native language using a dedicated app.
• This user-friendly interface enhances accessibility and ensures effective communication between the maritime community and control centers.
• The central control center, INMCC, manages the DAT-SG network through a web-based system called Sagarmitra.
• This system maintains a comprehensive database of registered DAT-SGs, facilitating real-time coordination and information access for Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) under the Indian Coast Guard.
• The operational status of DAT-SG services is declared on a 24×7 basis, ensuring continuous support for fishermen in distress.

Conclusion:

• ISRO’s Second Generation Distress Alert Transmitter marks a significant milestone in leveraging space technology for maritime safety.
• The integration of advanced features, two-way communication, and real-time information sharing positions DAT-SG as a crucial tool in ensuring the well-being of fishermen navigating India’s waters.
• This technological innovation aligns with ISRO’s commitment to utilizing space capabilities for societal benefits, exemplifying the agency’s role in advancing safety and efficiency in diverse sectors.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/isro-develops-second-generation-distress-alert-transmitter/article67752250.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The Union government’s recent formation of a five-member committee, led by the Cabinet Secretary, to delve into the sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India reflects a pivotal step in addressing the demand for equitable distribution of benefits among the diverse SC communities.

EXPLANATION:

• The decision to examine SC sub-categorisation comes amid a larger constitutional discourse, with a seven-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court.
• It is set to deliberate on the permissibility of sub-categorisation among SCs and Scheduled Tribes.
• While the Supreme Court focuses on the constitutional aspects, the government panel is tasked with exploring alternative strategies to address the grievances of the most backward SC communities, avoiding discussions on reservations currently under judicial scrutiny.
• The committee, formed earlier this month, comprises Secretaries from key ministries, including Home, Law, Tribal Affairs, and Social Justice.
• While its primary focus is on devising methods for fairer distribution of benefits, the committee is strictly instructed not to encroach upon questions of reservation or quota allocation.
• Instead, it aims to explore avenues such as special initiatives and targeted utilization of existing schemes to address the specific needs of marginalized SC communities.

The Madiga Community’s Struggle:

• The Madiga community, constituting a significant portion of SCs in Telangana, has been advocating for sub-categorisation since 1994.
• Previous commissions, like the Justice P. Ramachandra Raju Commission (1996) and the National Commission (2007), acknowledged the feasibility of sub-categorisation.
• The Madigas argue that benefits, particularly reservations, intended for SCs, have disproportionately favored the Mala community, leaving them marginalized.

State-Level Initiatives and Legal Considerations:

• Various states, including Punjab, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu, have attempted state-level reservation laws to sub-categorise SCs.
• However, these initiatives await the Supreme Court’s decision.
• Legal experts emphasize that a caste census providing socio-economic data is crucial to justify sub-categorisation.
• In 2005, the Union government considered legal options, but the National Commissions for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes stressed the urgency of ensuring existing benefits reach the marginalized communities on a priority basis.
• Supreme Court advocate underscores the necessity of a comprehensive caste census to serve as an empirical basis for sub-categorisation.
• He argued that this data is crucial to determine the specific needs of each community and justify an equitable distribution of benefits.

Sub-Categorisation Within Castes:

• Sub-categorisation within castes refers to the process of creating sub-groups within the existing categories of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) for reservation and affirmative action.
• Sub-categorisation aims to address the intra-category inequalities and ensure a more equitable distribution of benefits and opportunities among the most deprived and marginalized sections of society.
• The Supreme Court of India, in the case of E.V.Chinnaiah vs State Of Andhra Pradesh And Ors, 2004, asserted that only Parliament has the authority to create and notify SC and Scheduled Tribes (STs) lists.
• However, in another case of State of Punjab and Others versus Davinder Singh and Others, 2020 judgment, a five-judge Bench ruled that States could decide on the quantum of benefits in the lists of SCs/STs already notified without “tinkering” with them.
• The contradiction between the 2004 and 2020 judgments has led to the 2020 judgment being referred to a larger Bench.
• There is a constitutional mandate and a judicial endorsement for sub-categorisation within castes, as Article 16 (4) of the Constitution empowers that the State can make any provision for reservation in matters of promotion in favour of the SCs and STs if they are not adequately represented in the services under the State.

Conclusion:

• The government’s proactive step in forming a committee to address SC sub-categorisation signifies a commitment to fostering inclusivity and social justice.
• As the legal deliberations unfold, the importance of empirical data and targeted strategies to address historical inequalities among SCs becomes increasingly evident.
• This initiative holds the potential to reshape policies, ensuring that the benefits intended for marginalized communities are distributed more equitably, fostering a more inclusive and just society.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/amid-calls-for-sub-categorisation-of-scs-government-forms-panel-to-look-into-even-distribution-of-benefits/article67752808.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Cervical cancer, the second most prevalent cancer among women in India, is primarily attributed to persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. As January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, understanding the significance of periodic testing for HPV becomes crucial in the battle against this preventable and treatable form of cancer.

EXPLANATION:

Cervical Cancer in India

• Cervical cancer, originating in the cervix, is a prevalent concern for women in India, where it ranks as the second most common cancer.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that almost all sexually active individuals contract HPV at some point, with certain high-risk strains posing a risk for cancer development.
• Shockingly, India accounts for nearly a quarter of global cervical cancer deaths, with approximately 1.25 lakh new cases diagnosed annually, leading to around 75,000 deaths.

WHO’s 2030 Strategy: Vaccination, Screening, and Treatment:

• In 2022, the WHO unveiled a comprehensive strategy to eliminate cervical cancer globally by 2030.
• The three-pronged approach involves achieving 90% HPV vaccination coverage for girls by age 15, 70% of women undergoing high-performance screening between 35 and 45 and ensuring 90% of identified cases receive prompt treatment.
• Although India faces challenges in meeting these goals, there has been a notable decline in incidence, attributed to various factors, including sexual hygiene, pregnancy age, and contraception use.

The Crucial Role of Awareness, Vaccination, and Screening:

• The need for a multifaceted approach encompassing awareness programs, vaccination drives, and regular screening to prevent new cases and reduce fatalities have been emphasized.
• Eradicating stigma through educational initiatives is highlighted as essential. Detecting cases at the precancerous stage is emphasized, as it presents a 100% curability rate.

Evolution of Cervical Cancer Screening and the HPV Vaccine

• Historically, pap smear was the gold standard for cervical cancer screening, involving the examination of cervix cells every three years.
• However, challenges like the need for cytologists and low awareness hindered its effectiveness, especially in rural areas.
• The WHO now recommends HPV DNA testing as the preferred method for its accuracy and lower susceptibility to quality issues.
• it is suggested that self-sampling could be an additional option, backed by studies showing equivalence to physician-collected samples.
• Despite initial setbacks in India’s HPV vaccine rollout in 2010, the WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) underscores the vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing 70% of cervical cancers caused by HPV serotypes 16&18.
• SAGE’s recent recommendation supports a single-dose regimen, offering robust protection.
• Currently, India offers two vaccines, Gardasil and Cervavac, with ongoing efforts to expand vaccine coverage.

Government Initiatives and Challenges:

• Sikkim led the way in 2018 by introducing the HPV vaccine, achieving impressive coverage.
• India’s National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) recommended incorporating the vaccine into the Universal Immunisation Programme, targeting 9 to 14-year-old girls.
• Despite reports suggesting a rollout in 2023, uncertainty persists, with the Union Health Ministry yet to confirm plans.
• Globally, 100 countries have introduced the HPV vaccine, covering 30% of the target population.
• Pediatricians now advocate routine HPV vaccination for girls aged nine to 15, emphasizing early dosing for optimal efficacy and protection.
• Addressing vaccine hesitancy is crucial, with effective communication playing a key role in dispelling anxieties and misinformation.

The Way Forward: Global Collaboration and Scaling Up Initiatives

• As Cervical Cancer Awareness Month prompts reflection, the International Agency for Research on Cancer emphasizes the need for intensified screening programs, improved HPV vaccination coverage, and enhanced access to affordable treatment.
• Global collaboration is pivotal in achieving the WHO’s 2030 targets and ultimately eliminating cervical cancer as a public health concern.
• The battle against cervical cancer in India necessitates a comprehensive approach encompassing vaccination, screening, and awareness.
• Periodic testing for HPV, coupled with timely vaccination and effective communication strategies, holds the key to preventing and treating this formidable health challenge.
• As the world strives for a cervical cancer-free future, concerted efforts at the individual, community, and governmental levels are imperative.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/the-importance-of-periodic-testing-for-human-pappilomavirus/article67748610.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: As per a recent study utilizing nearly 240,000 satellite images spanning the years 1985 to 2022 has unveiled that Greenland’s ice sheet has experienced a 20% greater loss than previously estimated.

EXPLANATION:

• The research, conducted by scientists in the United States, sheds light on the escalating impact of climate change on one of the world’s largest ice masses.
• Previous assessments indicated that approximately 5,000 gigatons of ice had vanished from Greenland’s surface in the past two decades.
• However, the recent study identified an additional 1,000 gigatons, constituting a significant underestimation in prior calculations.
• This revised data emphasizes the urgency of understanding and addressing the accelerating ice loss.

Glacial Retreat and Thinning:

• A glaciologist from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, emphasized the pervasive nature of the ice loss, stating that nearly every glacier in Greenland has either thinned or retreated over the past few decades.
• The study’s focus on glacier terminus positions, where glaciers meet the ocean, underscores the widespread and simultaneous nature of these alarming changes.

Global Implications:

• While the ice loss along Greenland’s edges may have a “minimal” direct impact on sea level rise, the findings raise concerns about the potential for further overall ice melt.
• The study suggests that the melted ice at the island’s edges could facilitate easier glacier movement towards the sea.
• It can potentially contribute to rising sea levels in the future.

Sensitivity to Global Warming:

• The research reveals that glaciers in Greenland most susceptible to seasonal variations, such as expansion in winter and retreat in summer, are also the ones most sensitive to the broader impacts of global warming.
• This sensitivity has resulted in significant retreats since 1985, signaling the vulnerability of these glaciers to the accelerating effects of climate change.

Contributions to Sea Level Rise:

• Greenland’s vast ice sheet, the second-largest in the world after Antarctica, has been a significant contributor to observed sea level rise since 2002, accounting for more than 20%.
• The study underscores the importance of accurately quantifying ice loss to refine projections of future sea level rise and informs ongoing discussions surrounding climate change mitigation.

Conclusion:

• The findings of this comprehensive satellite study underscore the urgency of addressing the escalating impact of climate change on Greenland’s ice sheet.
• With glaciers across the region exhibiting signs of thinning and retreat, the potential consequences for global sea levels highlight the critical need for proactive measures to mitigate climate change and its far-reaching implications.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/greenland-has-lost-more-ice-than-previously-thought-study/article67750997.ece

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY, GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: India has long recognized and monitored three types of droughts: meteorological, hydrological, and agricultural. However, there is a growing call from researchers to include ecological droughts in this framework.

EXPLANATION:

• This new perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness between human activities and ecosystems, urging a more holistic approach to drought management.

Traditional Drought Definitions in India

• Meteorological Drought:
  • Defined by a shortfall in precipitation compared to the long-term average, classified as moderate or severe based on the extent of deficit.
• Hydrological Drought:
  • Involves low surface and sub-surface water supplies, a critical indicator irrespective of precipitation levels.
• Agricultural Drought:
  • Occurs when meteorological drought persists for four weeks, impacting soil moisture, vegetation, and leading to observable socio-economic indicators.

The Concept of Ecological Drought

• Definition: Ecological drought is characterized by an episodic deficit in water availability that surpasses ecosystems’ vulnerability thresholds, affecting ecosystem services and triggering feedbacks in natural and human systems.
• Interconnectedness: Ecological drought emphasizes the ripple effects through communities dependent on ecosystems for essential goods and services.

Research and Recognition in India

• Limited Literature: In India, there is limited and disparate literature exploring the systemic effects of drought on ecosystems.
• Environmental Effects: The 2016 Drought Manual acknowledges environmental impacts, such as loss of forest cover and wildlife migration, but lacks specific indicators for monitoring or assessing these aspects.

Challenges in Implementation

• Policy Gaps: Most policies aimed at drought mitigation in India do not address ecological drought, and even hydrological drought fails to capture corresponding effects on peripheral ecosystems.
• Cost-Based Approach: Diptimayee Nayak suggests a cost-based approach to value ecosystem services, considering not just the loss but also recovery, revival, and changing costs of adaptation.

Climate Adaptation and Ecological Drought

• Metrics and Monitoring: Metrics and tools for monitoring ecological drought are still evolving, and knowledge gaps persist in understanding ecosystem responses to different drought severities and durations.
• Impact Focus: Ecological drought is seen as the impact of other types of drought on ecology, requiring a focus on understanding diverse ecosystem impacts.

Addressing Ecological Drought for Climate Resilience

• Drought Frequency: India faces challenges in implementing drought policies, with more frequent occurrences than official declarations.
• Global Warming Influence: Global warming has increased drought frequency in India, making it imperative to recognize nature as a stakeholder in drought management.
• Holistic Resilience: Recognizing nature’s importance in drought resilience can prevent maladaptive practices and provide sustainable solutions, as seen in initiatives like the Amrit Darohar scheme.

Conclusion

• Embracing ecological drought in India’s drought management framework can offer a more comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between human activities, ecosystems, and climate change.
• This recognition is crucial for devising effective adaptation strategies and safeguarding both livelihoods and the environment in the face of increasing drought occurrences.

SOURCE: https://india.mongabay.com/2024/01/explainer-what-are-ecological-droughts/?amp=1

THE CONTEXT: Since liberalisation in 1991, the audiovisual media has undergone a massive transformation. From the freeing of broadcast media from government control to spread of internet have prompted an explosion in the quantity, if not quality of media offerings. In the process, Indian journalism have changed in style as well as substance drastically as well.

ISSUES

• Privileging sensation over substance: Currently media is driven by the “breaking news” culture and competing just for sensation and rating points. Media has given up any pretence of providing a public service and privileging sensation over substance.
• Social media: Social media with its culture of unverified fact and viral opinion compounds the problem as it offers a ready platform for material that pass without any scrutiny.
• Print media: Matter are not much better in the print media as well despite its ability to provide context, depth, and analysis that television cannot provide. As, with rise of social media and relentless 24×7 breaking news cycle pressurise print media to publish without the traditional recourse to fact-checking.
• Rush to judgement: In a rush to air the story, media has fallen prey to the inevitable rush to judgment. In this way it serves simultaneously as witness, prosecutor, judge, jury and executioner. Media has become an agent of malicious allegation and charges are reported uncritically which cause the irreparable damage to innocent people’s reputations.
• Distortion of facts: There has left no distinctions among fact, opinion and speculation, reportage and rumour which has blurred the relevance of today’s Indian media.
• Affects democratic structure: The media’s obsession with the superficial and the sensational news trivialises public discourse. It turns down the media responsibility in democracy as it serves as a weapon of mass distraction from the public from the question of accountability.

THE WAY FORWARD

• Ensure free press: An independent press and news-media press act as an important check on Government and Administrators. Therefore, there is a need for free and professional media which is honest and efficient to serve as both mirror to society and to probe wrongdoings.
• Enforce culture of fact verification: There is a need to promote a culture of fact-verification and accuracy that the industry currently appears to lack. Journalists should not feel pressed by their employers to “break the news”, but empowered to hold stories until they are sure their facts and accusations are accurate. The rush to judgment on the basis of partial information must stop.
• Training: There is a need to insist on better journalistic training at accredited media institutes that emphasise values of accuracy, integrity and fairness in their students. These standards should extend to media organisations when misleading statements are published, these outlets should issue retractions with equal prominence.
• Ensuring diverse perspectives: There is a need to welcome different perspectives in our newsrooms and not allow them to become echo chambers forcing an opinion onto their viewers. Newsrooms must be required to maintain a more diverse journalistic environment and must be required to provide some space for the alternative view.
• Welcoming feedback: The journalists must welcome comments and feedback from their viewers and readers, to generate both an environment of trust between the consumers and the media. For example, The Hindu is one of the newspapers to have a Readers’ Editor who serves as an Ombudsman for the newspaper and acknowledges mistakes of fact or emphasis in the newspaper’s coverage. This helps drive a natural cycle of loyalty and engagement between the paper and its readers.
• Laws and regulations: The government must introduce laws and regulations that limit control of multiple news organisations by a single business or political entity, thereby encouraging an independent and robust press in the country.
• Independent regulator: There is a need for an independent supervisor or regulator for print and television news companies, as recommended by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India and the parliamentary Committee on Information Technology. It would help limit the power of corporate and political over our media and help promote media standards.

THE CONCLUSION:

The media which is referred as fourth Estate have slipped from its true place in India is a serious concern for democracy.  For India to emerge as a responsible global player in the world and a model for 21st-century democracy, there is need of accountable and responsible media serving as the fourth pillar of our democracy.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION

Q.1 Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy. (2017)

Q.2 “Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss. (2020)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q.1 Free and independent media are the lifeblood of our democracy. Discuss the significance of the statement and suggest measures that needs to be taken to ensure the freedom of press.

Q.2 The free press is both the mortar that binds together the bricks of our country’s freedom, and the open window embedded in those bricks. Comment.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/indian-media-quo-vadis/article67753206.ece

THE CONTEXT: The NITI Aayog and UNDP’s report on the Multidimensional Poverty Index raises critical discussions on poverty measurement in India. Government claims of poverty reduction contradict scholarly critiques on the validity of data considering the COVID-19 pandemic impact. This debate underscores an urgent need for transparent, accurate socioeconomic statistics to inform equitable policymaking.

ISSUES:

• The Reliability of Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) Data: There is a concern about the accuracy of the statistical methods and the credibility of the MPI data, especially given the contrast with the economic slowdown and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Existence of unresolved theoretical and methodological questions concerning the measurement of multidimensional poverty.
• Projection Beyond Survey Data: Use of NFHS data for a limited period to project trends beyond the actual survey years raise questions about the validity of such forward projections.
• Disproportionate Economic Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Poverty: Evidence suggests that lower-income groups experienced greater income losses during the pandemic, thus potentially increasing multidimensional poverty. Differential impact on income levels across various percentiles, with the poorest experiencing significant income drops.
• Non-monetary Deprivations: The pandemic exacerbated difficulties accessing essential services like education and healthcare, likely increasing multidimensional poverty. Increasing non-monetary educational, healthcare, and nutrition deprivations points to a rise in absolute and relative poverty measures.
• Challenges in Poverty Statistics: The suspension of consumption expenditure surveys since 2014 has led to a lack of updated and reliable data for accurate poverty measurement. There is a need for critical scrutiny of poverty and welfare statistics to avoid misleading conclusions.
• Political and Ideological Overtones in Poverty Measurement: There are accusations that the MPI data is being used to support a government narrative of successful poverty reduction rather than presenting an objective reality.
• Development Indices’ Limitations: Limitations are inherent in the chosen indicators and metrics used to construct development indices.
• Utility versus Deprivation Perspectives: The inadequacy of growth as a sole indicator of quality of life and the imperative for considering utility and deprivation in evaluating poverty. Poverty is a broader concept reflecting powerlessness and lack of opportunity rather than mere income levels.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Revival and Improvement of Statistical Mechanisms: The government should prioritize reviving the consumption expenditure survey and regularly updating the census data to provide a reliable foundation for poverty assessment.
• Transparent Data Sharing and Accessibility: An institutional framework ensuring transparency and public accessibility of raw data can be effective. This would facilitate cross-verification and independent analysis, enhancing the conclusions’ credibility.
• Inclusion of Pandemic Impact in Data Modelling: Given the adverse economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, new models should be developed to capture the multidimensional aspects of poverty that account for this shock.
• Multi-disciplinary Approach to Poverty: Addressing poverty requires understanding its multifaceted nature, involving economists, sociologists, public health experts, and other relevant professionals to encompass all dimensions of poverty.
• Policy Responsiveness: Design policies responsive to the ground realities captured through robust data and ensure that welfare programs are readjusted based on empirical evidence of their impact.
• Multipronged Poverty Assessment: There should be an incorporation of diverse methods for poverty assessment beyond income/expenditure, including indices that reflect real access to services and opportunities and acknowledge non-monetary deprivations.
• Expanding Social Protection Measures: The government should re-examine and expand social protection measures to shield the most vulnerable from economic shocks, such as those experienced during the pandemic.

THE CONCLUSION

The robust debate around the Multidimensional Poverty Index highlights the vital need for transparent, empirical data to shape effective policy. Addressing poverty in India with accurate metrics is crucial for directing welfare measures where they are most needed. Through this lens of critical evaluation and non-partisan methodology, future policies must be crafted to address the multifaceted nature of poverty truly.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION

Q. Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators. (2015)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Discuss the challenges and implications of using the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) to measure poverty in India, considering the conflicting narratives and political influence on poverty statistics. What steps should be taken to ensure a depoliticized and analytically coherent discourse on poverty and social policy in the country? Explain.

SOURCE: https://thewire.in/economy/niti-aayog-poverty-covid

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. The importance of periodic testing for Human Pappilomavirus READ MORE

2. Economy to log stronger-than expected growth in FY24: RBI officials READ MORE

3. Indigenous GM mustard meant to make edible oil cheaper, reduce import, Centre tells Supreme Court READ MORE

4. Sub-categorisation of SCs | Panel to look into even distribution of benefits READ MORE

5. ISRO develops second generation Distress Alert Transmitter READ MORE

6. What are ecological droughts? READ MORE

7. Greenland has lost more ice than previously thought: study READ MORE

8. Supreme Court Collegium recommends appointment of five Calcutta High Court additional judges as permanent judges READ MORE

9. EU Commission to back 90% emissions cut for 2040 climate target: Report READ MORE

10.  New study shows sea otters helped prevent widespread California kelp forest declines over the past century READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Striving for gender parity in corporate India READ MORE

2. How smartphones can make education inclusive READ MORE

3. 2023 recorded many of the hottest days on land and sea READ MORE

4. China’s population dip is a global concern READ MORE

5. India’s coastal future needs safeguarding. District networks can help build resilience READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. Rising Concerns About India’s Judiciary READ MORE

2. Traditional Indian medicine goes global READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Smaller citizens: On the gaps in India’s education system READ MORE

2. The challenges post enrolment READ MORE

3. Basic skills poor: Gaps galore in foundational learning outcomes READ MORE

4. Affordable healthcare for everyone needs an all out push READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Crafting a new phase in India-U.K. defence ties READ MORE  

2. India-Iran ties on a new high READ MORE

3. India-China relations head towards a thaw READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. NITI poverty paper heartening, but raises questions READ MORE

2. Landscaping growth with tech READ MORE

3. Where’s the V-shaped recovery? READ MORE

4. Modern Slavery In The Gig Economy READ MORE

5. Millets for climate resilience and food security in India READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Fog, Frigidity, and Climate Change: Unravelling North India’s Winter Quandary READ MORE

2. The Only Way to Make Climate Progress READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Should AI models be allowed to use copyrighted material for training? READ MORE

2. The success of Indian scientists inspires young girls in rural areas READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Maritime Security Architecture and Western Indian Ocean: India’s Stakes READ MORE  

2. Border management cannot ignore Myanmar situation READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. In Morbi’s debris, the role of the State in PPP projects READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Match the wavelength, flow like a stream READ MORE

2. Bilkis Bano’s fight for justice gets a fillip READ MORE

3. Why does a mother kill her own child? READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The Right to Education Act, 2009 may have ensured universal access to education, but there is many a gap to fill before it touches every child in the true spirit of the law. Comment on the statement in the light of recent ASER’s report.

2. Asia is one of the fastest-growing regions globally and a united Asian front could serve as a counterbalance allowing for a more multipolar world order where India plays a significant role. Comment.

3. The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are critical to unlocking the potential of India envisioned under the ‘Make in India’ campaign. Discuss how the Schemes like Merchant Credit Card can be vital for helpful for enhancing global competitiveness and credit access for MSMEs.

4. India’s pre-eminence in the global arena will rest on the strength of its democratic edifice sustained and nurtured by an abiding deference to human rights and accountability of state power. Discuss how custodial torture challenges democracy and dignity?

5. Deepfakes use AI algorithms blur the line between reality and fabrication by creating highly convincing fake content and pose a threat to privacy. Discuss how a stringent regulatory and accountable framework can be implemented to address the issues involved effectively.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• The only stable state is the one in which all men are equal before the law.
• School enrolments are rising and becoming more equal in terms of gender, caste gaps. But skill sets of students leave a lot to be desired.
• The Right to Education Act, 2009 may have ensured universal access to education, but there is many a gap to fill before it touches every child in the true spirit of the law.
• Poverty reduction works best when inclusive growth and welfarism go together.
• At present, the conversation around Morbi is opaque and the ignored questions about the bridge collapse stand as evidence of a politics of neglect.
• If India has to realise its economic potential and, more importantly, prevent an explosion of discontent in its labour markets, this crisis has to be solved at the earliest.
• A skilled workforce or lack of it also has a significant impact on a country’s position within the global economy. This is where India’s biggest challenge vis-à-vis exploiting its demographic dividend lies.
• There’s a need to cap as many medical charges as possible. We should also ensure that the cost of medical facilities is close to the CGHS rates, if not the same.
• Through data-driven insights and advocacy, gender parity can be given a boost. Government support is vital for an inclusive workforce.
• A pivotal shift is underway as the Ministry of Ayush spearheads a global medical revolution, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern healthcare.
• Iran has a crucial voice in matters related to West Asia and ensuring the safety of Indian sailors and goods on ships.
• Economically, Asia is one of the fastest-growing regions globally and stronger ties could open new markets for trade and investment. Politically, a united Asian front could serve as a counterbalance allowing for a more multipolar world order where India plays a significant role.
• To realise the potential of our higher education system, policy must do less to achieve more, and reflect its diversity.
• Given the current trends of climate action, millets provide an efficient solution for circumventing the food and water trade-off.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Poverty reduction works best when inclusive growth and welfarism go together.

50-WORD TALK

• Each year the ASER report brings the same bad news on learning outcomes of India’s school-going children. It shocks for a few days and is quickly forgotten until next year. All the focus has been on boosting enrolment and the ambitious NEP and not enough on the quality of education.
• Launching missile strikes at each other by Iran and Pakistan is a reminder that the Israel-Hamas war theatre is expanding and coming closer home. This, on top of Houthi rebels playing havoc with maritime trade. Diplomats from West, Israel and Iran need to hunker down and urgently avert a disaster.

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.

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