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TAG: GS 3: AGRICULTURE

THE CONTEXT: West Bengal is experiencing a significant transformation in its agricultural landscape, with farmers increasingly shifting away from wheat cultivation towards more profitable alternatives such as banana, lentils, and maize.

EXPLANATION:

• This shift is driven by various factors, including economic considerations, environmental challenges, and government policies.

Reasons for the Shift

• Wheat Blast Disease:
  • The outbreak of wheat blast disease in 2016, detected in Bangladesh, led to a ban on wheat cultivation in border areas and districts like Murshidabad and Nadia in West Bengal.
  • This compelled farmers to seek alternative crops due to the risks associated with wheat cultivation.
• Economic Viability:
  • Wheat cultivation is becoming less economically feasible for farmers, with stagnant market prices and vulnerability to extreme weather events like hailstorms and unseasonal rains.
  • In contrast, crops like banana, lentils, and maize offer higher profitability, particularly during festive seasons.
• Environmental Considerations:
  • The decline in water tables and concerns about environmental degradation associated with wheat farming have prompted farmers to explore more sustainable and resilient crop options.

Adoption of Alternative Crops

• Banana Cultivation:
  • Farmers have shifted a significant portion of their land from wheat to banana cultivation due to its profitability and market demand.
• Maize Production:
  • Maize has emerged as a popular alternative to wheat, with its cultivation area and production witnessing a substantial increase over the past decade.
  • Its profitability, coupled with demand from poultry and food processing industries, makes it an attractive cash crop for farmers.

Government Policies and Support

• The state government’s ban on wheat cultivation and promotion of alternative crops has encouraged farmers to experiment with new varieties of maize and pulses.
• While the shift in cropping patterns may not significantly impact national wheat security, it is expected to benefit farmers in West Bengal by diversifying their income sources and improving returns from alternative crops.

Maize:

• Maize is one of the most versatile emerging crops shaving wider adaptability under varied agro-climatic conditions.
• Globally, maize is known as the queen of cereals because it has the highest genetic yield potential among the cereals.
• It is cultivated on nearly 190 m ha in about 165 countries having wider diversity of soil, climate, biodiversity and management practices that contributes to 39 % of the global grain production.
• The United States of America (USA) is the largest producer of maize contributes nearly 30.99% of the total production in the world in 2020 and maize is the driver of the US economy.
• In India, Maize is grown throughout the year. It is predominantly a Kharif crop with 85 percent of the area under cultivation during the season.
• Maize is the third most important cereal crop in India after rice and wheat.

Banana:

• Banana, basically a tropical crop, grows well in a temperature range of 15ºC – 35ºC with relative humidity of 75-85%.
• Deep, rich loamy soil with pH between 6.5 – 7.5 is most preferred for banana cultivation.
• Saline solid, calcareous soils are not suitable for banana cultivation.
• There are some 12-15 varieties of bananas in India.
• Largely in the peninsular southern coastal region, namely in parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Bengal, and in the Northeastern areas of the country such as Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
• The central and northern regions – Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab also grow the plant but neither in such variety nor in numbers.
• India produces about 29 million tonne of banana every year, and next is China with 11 million.

Wheat :

• Wheat is a Rabi Crop grown between September and December and harvested between February and May.
• The total area under the crop is about 29.8 million hectares in the country.
• In 2020, wheat production for India was 107,860 thousand tonnes. Wheat production of India increased from 23,832 thousand tonnes in 1971 to 107,860 thousand tonnes in 2020 growing at an average annual rate of 3.42%.
• Indian wheat is largely a soft/medium-hard, medium protein, white bread wheat, somewhat similar to U.S. hard white wheat.
• Durum wheat, often known as pasta wheat or macaroni wheat is also one of the best quality wheat variety in India.
• The wheat crop has wide adaptability. It can be grown not only in the tropical and sub-tropical zones but also in the temperate zone and the cold tracts of the far north, beyond even the 60 degrees north latitude.
• Wheat can tolerate severe cold and snow and resume growth with the setting in of warm weather in spring.

Measures to Promote Crop Diversification:

• The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) has implemented the Crop Diversification Programme (CDP), a sub-scheme of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).
  • It was implemented in the Original Green Revolution States viz; Haryana, Punjab & Western Uttar Pradesh since 2013-14 to divert the area of water intensive paddy crop to alternative crops like pulses, oilseeds, coarse cereals, nutri cereals, cotton etc.
• In addition, Government of India has also supplemented the efforts of state governments to encourage diversified production of crops such as pulses, coarse cereals, nutri cereals, cotton & oilseeds under National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and horticultural crops under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• The Government has implemented a Scheme on ‘Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue in the States of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi’during 2021-22.
• Financial assistance has also been provided to the State Governments, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Institutions, Central Government Institutions, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) etc. for Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities for creating awareness on crop residue management.
• The ICAR has developed PusaDecomposer, a microbial consortium of fungalspecies (both in liquid and capsule forms)for rapid decomposition of paddy straw. Use of this consortium accelerates processofpaddy straw decomposition in the field itself.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/agriculture/west-bengal-farmers-shift-from-wheat-to-lucrative-banana-lentils-and-maize-cultivation-95302

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: A group of universities has penned a joint statement urging the International Criminal Court (ICC) to intervene in cases of severe environmental harm, equating such actions to crimes against humanity and genocide.

EXPLANATION:

• It emphasizes the intrinsic link between environmental degradation and human suffering, advocating for the incorporation of the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment (R2hE) into the ICC’s legal framework.

Legal and Moral Implications

• The universities argue that human activities leading to severe environmental damage often violate human rights and should be treated as crimes on par with genocide and crimes against humanity.
• This assertion highlights the moral and legal imperative to hold individuals and entities accountable for actions that result in environmental devastation.

Proposed Policy Changes

• Responding to ICC Prosecutor announcement of developing a new policy paper on environmental crimes, academics, lawyers, and campaigners advocate for a systematic approach to prosecuting individuals and entities responsible for environmental crimes.
• They stress the importance of holding politicians, corporate sectors, criminal gangs, and others accountable for their roles in environmental degradation.

Legal Analysis and Corporate Responsibility

• The Commonwealth Climate and Law Initiative underscores the legal obligations of directors under UK law to consider and mitigate nature-related risks.
• Directors failing to address such risks may face claims of breaching their duty, reflecting a growing recognition of corporate responsibility in environmental protection.

Financial Aspects of Environmental Crimes

• Reports by organizations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Financial Accountability and Corporate Transparency (FACT) Coalition highlight the financial dimensions of environmental crimes.
• Criminals exploit loopholes in anti-money laundering systems, laundering profits from environmental crimes and undermining global efforts to combat climate change.

Global and Domestic Perspectives

• The United States, as a destination for money earned through environmental crimes, faces criticism for gaps in its anti-money laundering system.
• Meanwhile, in India, a significant number of environmental-related crimes are recorded annually, underscoring the urgency of addressing such issues on both a global and domestic scale.

International Criminal Court (ICC):

• It is the only permanent international criminal tribunal.
• It was created by the 1998 Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (its founding and governing document), and began functioning on 1 July 2002 when the Statute came into force.
• It investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression.
• Its Headquarters is in Hague, Netherlands.
• 123 nations are States Parties to the Rome Statute and recognize the ICC’s authority; the notable exceptions being the US, China, Russia, and India.
• The Court is funded by contributions from the States Parties and by voluntary contributions from Governments, international organizations, individuals, corporations, and other entities.
• The Court has eighteen judges, each from a different member country, elected to nonrenewable nine-year terms.
• The Presidency consists of three judges (the President and two Vice-Presidents) elected from among the judges. It represents the Court to the outside world and helps with the organization of the work of the judges.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/severe-environmental-harm-equal-to-genocide-crime-against-humanity-experts-write-to-international-criminal-court-95312

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: The term “Havana syndrome” refers to a collection of symptoms experienced by United States intelligence and embassy officials across various countries.

EXPLANATION:                          

Havana syndrome:

• Havana syndrome refers to a set of mental health symptoms that are said to be experienced by United States intelligence and embassy officials in various countries.
• Generally, the word ‘syndrome’ simply means a set of symptoms.
• It does not mean a unique medical condition, but rather a set of symptoms that are usually experienced together whose origins may be difficult to confirm.
• Havana syndrome typically involves symptoms such as hearing certain sounds without any outside noise, nausea, vertigo and headaches, memory loss, and balance issues.
• The origins of the syndrome are traced back to Cuba in late 2016, shortly after the reopening of the US embassy in Havana.
• A joint media investigation has suggested a possible connection between Havana syndrome and a Russian military intelligence unit known as 29155.
• The investigation proposes that members of this unit may have targeted US officials using “directed energy” weapons, with evidence indicating their presence at locations where suspected attacks occurred.

Global Reports of Havana Syndrome

• Since the initial cases in Cuba, similar incidents have been reported by American officials stationed in various countries.
• In China, reports emerged from the Guangzhou consulate in 2018, while incidents within the US, including Washington DC, were reported in 2019 and 2020.
• Other countries where such incidents have been reported include Russia, Poland, Georgia, Taiwan, Colombia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Austria.

Suspected Causes

• Initially, the syndrome was thought to be a result of sonic attacks, attributed to Cuba.
• However, subsequent studies suggested the involvement of high-powered microwaves that could damage or interfere with the nervous system, generating auditory sensations.
• The use of microwaves, a tactic experimented with during the Cold War, has been associated with both the US and Russia.
• Reports indicate that beams of high-powered microwaves may have been directed using specialized equipment, colloquially referred to as a “microwave weapon.”

Havana Syndrome in India

• As of July 2023, the 2021 incident was the only reported occurrence of the syndrome in India.
• Sources in the Indian security establishment said in 2021 that they were not aware of any weapon with such capacities being in the possession of an Indian agency.
• Even if there was one, it was unlikely the government would admit to having acquired such counter-espionage technology given the sensitive nature of intelligence work.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/havana-syndrome-russian-intelligence-unit-9245485/

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to the Election Commission (EC) in response to a writ petition filed. The petition seeks a directive to mandatorily cross-verify the count in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) with votes recorded in Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips.

EXPLANATION:

• The petitioner argues for a comprehensive count of VVPAT slips in elections, contrasting with the current practice of verifying only five randomly selected EVMs through VVPAT paper slips.
• They challenge the EC’s guideline mandating sequential VVPAT verification, asserting that this causes undue delays.
• The petition proposes simultaneous VVPAT verification by deploying additional personnel for counting in each constituency, suggesting that this approach could streamline the verification process to be completed within five to six hours.
• The petitioner highlights the significant investment made by the government in purchasing VVPATs but notes the discrepancy in the number of VVPAT slips verified compared to the total number of VVPATs procured.
• The petitioner emphasizes the concerns raised by experts regarding VVPATs and EVMs, pointing out past instances of substantial discrepancies between EVM and VVPAT vote counts.
• To address these concerns, the petition suggests allowing voters to physically deposit VVPAT slips into a ballot box to ensure that each vote is accurately recorded.
• Alternatively, they propose making the glass of the VVPAT machine transparent and extending the duration of the light to allow voters to witness the paper recording their votes being cut and dropped into the drop box.

Legal Implications

• By issuing a notice to the EC, the Supreme Court has initiated legal proceedings to consider the petitioner’s arguments and proposed solutions.
• The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the electoral process in India, potentially impacting the transparency and integrity of elections.

Electronic Voting Machine:

• EVM is a device used to record votes electronically.
• They were first used in the Paravur Assembly Constituency of Kerala in the year 1982.
• Since 1998, the Election Commission has increasingly used EMVs instead of ballot boxes.
• In 2003, all state elections and by-elections were held using EVMs.
• Encouraged by this, in 2004, the Commission took a historic decision to use only EVMs for the Lok Sabha elections.
• EVMs eliminate the occurrence of ‘Invalid Votes’ seen frequently with paper ballots, ensuring a more accurate reflection of voter choice and reducing complaints and legal disputes.
• EVMs streamline the voting process, making it faster and more efficient. They eliminate the need for manual counting, reducing the time required to declare election results.

Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT):

• A VVPAT was first used in Noksen (Assembly Constituency) of Nagaland in September 2013.
• On a large scale, VVPAT along with EVMs, used for the first time in India in the 2013 Mizoram Legislative Assembly election, in 10 assembly seats out of 40.
• By using a ballotless voting system it provides feedback to voters.
• It is an independent verification system for voting machines as it allows voters to verify whether their vote was cast correctly or not.
• It also detects malfunction or possible election fraud and acts as a means of an audit tool for the stored electronic results by enabling electronic voting machines to record each vote cast by generating the EVM slip.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/elections/sc-notice-to-ec-on-plea-to-cross-verify-evm-and-vvpat-counts/article68016889.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: In a groundbreaking discovery, a team led by scientists from the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad, India, alongside international collaborators, has uncovered compelling evidence pointing to the presence of ozone on Jupiter’s moon, Callisto.

EXPLANATION:

• This discovery, detailed in the March 2024 issue of the journal Icarus, not only sheds light on the intricate chemical processes occurring on icy celestial bodies within our Solar System but also holds profound implications for the potential habitability of these moons.

Chemical Evolution of SO2 Astrochemical Ice

• The research delved into the chemical evolution of “SO2 astrochemical ice,” predominantly composed of sulphur dioxide (SO2) under the influence of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation.
• By scrutinizing the UV absorption spectra of irradiated ice samples, the team identified a distinct signature indicating the formation of ozone.

Importance of Ozone

• Ozone, a molecule comprising three oxygen atoms bonded together, plays a pivotal role in shielding Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
• The ozone layer, situated in the stratosphere, acts as a protective barrier against UV-B and UV-C radiation, which can cause DNA damage and various health hazards.
• The presence of ozone on celestial bodies like Callisto hints at stable atmospheric conditions, raising tantalizing prospects for potential habitability.

Callisto: A Unique Celestial Body

• Callisto, one of Jupiter’s largest moons and the third-largest in the Solar System, boasts a composition primarily consisting of water ice, rocky materials, sulphur dioxide, and organic compounds.
• Despite its impressive size comparable to Mercury, Callisto harbors less than half the mass.
• Its surface, heavily cratered and potentially the oldest in the Solar System, underscores its history of asteroid and comet impacts.
• The team endeavored to simulate the conditions conducive to ozone formation on Callisto’s surface.
• Using vacuum ultraviolet photons to mimic solar radiation, they conducted experiments at the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Centre (NSRRC) in Taiwan.
• By depositing sulphur dioxide ice samples onto a lithium fluoride substrate under low-pressure conditions akin to outer space, they replicated the environment prevalent on Callisto.

Observations and Findings

• Through meticulous experimentation, the team observed the formation of ozone in sulphur dioxide ice samples following irradiation with vacuum-ultraviolet photons.
• This revelation, confirmed by comparing experimental data with observations from the Hubble Space Telescope, suggests the presence of oxygen—a crucial precursor to the formation of complex organic molecules essential for life as we understand it.
• The detection of ozone on Callisto offers compelling evidence for the existence of stable atmospheric conditions, prompting speculation about the moon’s potential habitability.
• This finding not only raises intriguing questions about the possibility of life beyond Earth but also underscores the importance of further exploration of icy moons in our Solar System.

Insights and Future Research

• In addition to ozone, the researchers identified an unidentified band in the absorption spectrum, reminiscent of observations on Ganymede in 1996.
• This discovery hints at commonalities in surface compositions or chemical processes among Jupiter’s moons, offering valuable insights into their geological and atmospheric dynamics.
• Furthermore, it provides a foundation for elucidating the mechanisms underlying the formation of Jupiter and its moons, a subject of ongoing scientific inquiry.

Ozone Hole:

• The ozone hole is not technically a “hole” where no ozone is present, but is actually a region of exceptionally depleted ozone in the stratosphere over the Antarctic that happens at the beginning of Southern Hemisphere spring (August–October).
• Satellite instruments provide us with daily images of ozone over the Antarctic region.
• The ozone hole image below shows the very low values (blue and purple colored area) centered over Antarctica on 4 October 2004.
• From the historical record we know that total column ozone values of less than 220 Dobson Units were not observed prior to 1979.
• From an aircraft field mission over Antarctica we also know that a total column ozone level of less than 220 Dobson Units is a result of catalyzed ozone loss from chlorine and bromine compounds.
• For these reasons, we use 220 Dobson Units as the boundary of the region representing ozone loss.
• Using the daily snapshots of total column ozone, we can calculate the area on the Earth that is enclosed by a line with values of 220 Dobson Units (the white line in the figure below).

The ozone hole is the region over Antarctica with total ozone of 220 Dobson Units or lower

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/prl-ahmedabad-ozone-callisto-habitability/article68015568.ece/amp/

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(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Team led by PRL Ahmedabad finds ozone on Jupiter’s moon Callisto READ MORE

2. Germany gives controversial green light to cannabis READ MORE

3. SEBI updates complaint redressal system for investors READ MORE

4. SC notice to EC on plea to cross-verify EVM and VVPAT counts READ MORE

5. Why Supreme Court barred unregulated soil extraction for linear projects READ MORE

6. Utkala Dibasa or Odisha Day: Story of the state’s formation READ MORE

7. What is ‘Havana syndrome’, linked to a Russian intelligence unit? READ MORE

8. 125 years of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory: How the Great Drought of 1876 led to its establishment READ MORE

9. West Bengal farmers shift from wheat to lucrative banana, lentils and maize cultivation READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Impact and dualities of Social Media READ MORE

2. Empowering India’s tribal communities READ MORE

3. Navigating the global waterscape, its challenges READ MORE

4. Compounding crises: On the impact of a summertime water crisis READ MORE

5. Safeguarding food security: The vital role of water READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The PMLA — a law that has lost its way READ MORE

2. AI in elections, the good, the bad and the ugly READ MORE

3. Dead and buried READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Inclusive digital policies are key to mould women leaders READ MORE

2. Transforming menstrual hygiene in India READ MORE

3. Elevating teachers: Enriching society READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. A speech that put India on the global stage READ MORE

2. India reaffirms commitment to boosting ties with ASEAN READ MORE

3. Checkmating China’s chicanery READ MORE

4. The US needs a new paradigm for India: ‘Great Power Partnership’ READ MORE

5. India–Bhutan Relations after Prime Ministerial Visits READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. On road to Viksit Bharat, India should target per capita, not aggregate, GDP. Here’s why READ MORE

2. Solar surge: Moving away from imported solar panels READ MORE

3. A legally-guaranteed MSP may do more harm than good READ MORE

4. Unemployment and demographic dividend READ MORE

5. Solar solutions: Transforming rooftops into green energy hubs READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. IMD predicts a scorching summer for 2024 READ MORE

2. Severe environmental harm equal to genocide, crime against humanity: Experts write to International Criminal Court READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Need more women representation in science READ MORE

2. Digital affordability and access: Starlink in India READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Myanmar and irregular warfare in a multipolar world READ MORE

2. New capabilities: India and the Agni-V with MIRV READ MORE

3. Why India’s defence deals with the Global South matter READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Mitigating risks in infrastructure development READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. The Growing Gaps in Global Humanitarian Challenges READ MORE

2. Mantra for evolution: Arpan, Tarpan, Samarpan READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The digital revolution opens new avenues for women’s economic participation, however, to ensure true inclusion, this revolution must be steered by gender-sensitive policies. Comment.

2. The US-India Great Power Partnership enjoys strong tailwinds, but its success is not inevitable. The relationship requires a considered understanding of the cultural, demographic, and political drivers at work in the two complex democracies. Critically analyse.

3. Investing in a green resilient and knowledge-based economy is crucial for sustainable economic development of the State. Comment.

4. Fiscal transfer based on the advancement of gender budgeting in the State is critical to redress gender inequalities. Comment.

5. Schemes such as MGNREGS are rooted in ideals such as inclusion in the development process and mitigation of inequality and socioeconomic distress. Comment.

6. In a well-functioning democracy, where the political leadership is accountable, fighting an election would need neither big funding nor electoral bonds to be bought in secrecy. Discuss.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Strategy is not the consequence of planning, but the opposite: its starting point.
• The widespread application of Artificial Intelligence is likely to cause a paradigm shift in almost every aspect of an election.
• The most serious aspect of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act is the inclusion of offences which have nothing to do with the original motive — namely, to combat the laundering of drug money.
• While the Indian solar industry must grow and gain a reputation for being a high quality exporter, it should not forget that this is a road with no easy shortcuts.
• India is being more vocal in its support for the Philippines’ sovereignty and integrity, while being ready to provide defence equipment that Manila requires for its protection.
• Women aspiring to pursue scientific research often encounter barriers in the form of stereotypes and inadequate mentorship opportunities.
• In a democracy, the integrity of electoral processes and the fairness of political competition are paramount, and any measures undertaken in the realm of political finance must be aimed at upholding these principles.
• Evolving insurgent tactics in a world order characterised by multipolarity competition may now be increasingly characterised by overt proximity between militant actors and their state backers.
• The digital revolution opens new avenues for women’s economic participation, however, to ensure true inclusion, this revolution must be steered by gender-sensitive policies.
• Emergency humanitarian aid, which aims to save lives and reduce people’s suffering in times of crises, has grown considerably over the last century to become a central feature of international relations and of the multilateral system.
• The US-India Great Power Partnership enjoys strong tailwinds, but its success is not inevitable. The relationship requires a considered understanding of the cultural, demographic, and political drivers at work in the two complex democracies.
• The groundbreaking PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana initiative which will expand India’s RTS capacity even further can help India achieve its net-zero target by 2070.
• Amidst economic and geopolitical uncertainties, the lack of movement on reviving and reforming the World Trade Organisation will only exacerbate divisions within it.
• The enduring friendship between India and Bhutan is rooted in mutual warmth and goodwill, reinforced by frequent high-level exchanges.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Mutual tolerance is a necessity for all time and for all races.

50-WORD TALK

• The drone technology has provided easy solutions to many day-to-day administrative and policing problems, aerial photography and videography, transport management, construction support, telecom services, watershed management, disaster management, spraying of pesticides and nutrients on crops, last-mile delivery of services and goods in healthcare and retail logistics, border management and military operations in armed conflict zones.
• Tamil Nadu, which has about 6% of India’s population, employs half of the female factory workforce. There exists a gaping gender gap — something a country with the largest working-age population cannot afford. The next level in India’s growth story can only be unlocked once this limiting factor is eliminated.

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.

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Why is unemployment high among the youth? | Explained READ MORE

2. Increasing tropical cyclones of higher intensity necessitates a new category  READ MORE

3. Change in IT Act yet to benefit MSMEs READ MORE

4. Many countries yet to fully implement steps to prevent misuse of virtual assets, says FATF READ MORE

5. Over 60 products from across India earn GI tags READ MORE

6. Now, GST probe into big corporates, major MNCs needs a ‘written approval’ READ MORE

7. Did Congress ‘give away’ Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka? READ MORE

8. For a decade, earnings of regular salaried & self-employed Indians have been declining: ILO READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. Impact and dualities of Social Media READ MORE

2. Empowering India’s tribal communities READ MORE

3. Navigating the global waterscape, its challenges READ MORE

4. Compounding crises: On the impact of a summertime water crisis READ MORE

5. Safeguarding food security: The vital role of water READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The Finance Commission and public finance in Kerala READ MORE

2. Bonds, big money and an imperfect democracy READ MORE

3. The problem with the letter on role of judiciary, signed by 600 lawyers READ MORE

4. Free and Fair Elections after Electoral Bonds READ MORE

5. The Juvenile Justice Act and Its Impact on Families READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Transforming menstrual hygiene in India READ MORE

2. Elevating teachers: Enriching society READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. It’s critical to handle China with strategic clarity READ MORE

2. Shifting alliances and tensions in South Asia READ MORE

3. Controversial issues reignite India-Lanka relations READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Workers, not tech, should be state’s priority READ MORE

2. A balancing act: On the fiscal deficit target READ MORE

3. Viksit Bharat must also be inclusive Bharat READ MORE

4. Poverty-decline claims need rigorous scrutiny READ MORE

5. Addressing the jobs challenge READ MORE

6.Sustainable agriculture with nano-fertilisers READ MORE

7. India’s inflation story through time READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Illegal mining: NGT exposes gaps in Haryana’s rule READ MORE

2. India’s Green Energy Revolution takes a leap forward READ MORE

3. India’s green energy comes of age READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Water footprint of emerging technology: A need for concern? READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. New capabilities: India and the Agni-V with MIRV READ MORE

2. Why India’s defence deals with the Global South matter READ MORE

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

1. Mitigating risks in infrastructure development READ MORE

GS Paper- 4

ETHICS EXAMPLES AND CASE STUDY

1. Navigating the legal and ethical implications of AI READ MORE

2. The Art of Wise Living READ MORE

3. Quantifying happiness is perplexing READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Investing in a green resilient and knowledge-based economy is crucial for sustainable economic development of the State. Comment.

2. Fiscal transfer based on the advancement of gender budgeting in the State is critical to redress gender inequalities. Comment.

3. Schemes such as MGNREGS are rooted in ideals such as inclusion in the development process and mitigation of inequality and socioeconomic distress. Comment.

4. In a well-functioning democracy, where the political leadership is accountable, fighting an election would need neither big funding nor electoral bonds to be bought in secrecy. Discuss.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• Strategy is not the consequence of planning, but the opposite: its starting point.
• Climate change will impose a deadlier cost on low- and middle-income countries such as India by creating simultaneous crises.
• Investing in a green resilient and knowledge-based economy is crucial for sustainable economic development of the State.
• Fiscal transfer based on the advancement of gender budgeting (including the care economy infrastructure) in the State is critical to redress gender inequalities.
• Fiscal austerity measures through expenditure compression are not an option right now before the State as austerity measures can affect the human capital formation and sustained economic growth recovery.
• Gender budgeting and gender inequalities are inversely related, and the State has a positive role to play in gender-aware human capital formation.
• The objective of MGNREGS is not to offer a playing field for technological interventions, but to provide deprived households a sense of work security, facilitated by digital technology.
• Schemes such as MGNREGS are rooted in ideals such as inclusion in the development process and mitigation of inequality and socioeconomic distress, which have even been internationally recognised (such as by the United Nations Development Programme) as contributing to a productive, equitable, and connected society.
• In an era of increasing socioeconomic inequality, intensifying precarity in work, diminishing social security, and rural distress, technology can play a vital role, but it cannot be the state’s favoured child. The priority has to always remain the workers and their livelihood security.
• In a well-functioning democracy, fighting an election would need neither extravagant funding nor electoral bonds to be bought in secrecy.
• In a well-functioning democracy, where the political leadership is accountable, fighting an election would need neither big funding nor electoral bonds to be bought in secrecy.
• The separation of powers adopted by the Constitution is an article of faith in a liberal democracy.
• With agriculture on a weak wicket, government needs to think of policies and institutions to enable farmers to access domestic and global markets.
• In the face of these facts, the rhetoric of sharp poverty reduction, let alone of its disappearance, can only stand on presumptions, not facts.
• Enhanced coordination and collaboration among the stakeholders could help combat the menace and preserve natural resources.
• Balancing the advantages and drawbacks of social media usage is essential to harness its potential while mitigating its negative impacts on their well-being and society as a whole.
• In a world increasingly shaped by Artificial Intelligence, the discourse shifts from its capabilities to the imperative question of its ethical boundaries.
• Achieving harmony between emerging technology and legal norms requires a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, where laws are designed not just to respond to the challenges posed by AI but to foresee and embrace its vast possibilities.
• As India gears up to ramp up production of nano-fertilisers, questions arise regarding the technical feasibility and logistical implications of transition.
• There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between national development agendas and the harsh realities experienced by marginalised tribal communities.
• The functioning of India’s electoral democracy is increasingly characterised by the prominence of money as a tool for seizing and maintaining political power.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Mutual tolerance is a necessity for all time and for all races.

50-WORD TALK

• The drone technology has provided easy solutions to many day-to-day administrative and policing problems, aerial photography and videography, transport management, construction support, telecom services, watershed management, disaster management, spraying of pesticides and nutrients on crops, last-mile delivery of services and goods in healthcare and retail logistics, border management and military operations in armed conflict zones.
• Tamil Nadu, which has about 6% of India’s population, employs half of the female factory workforce. There exists a gaping gender gap — something a country with the largest working-age population cannot afford. The next level in India’s growth story can only be unlocked once this limiting factor is eliminated.

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: The dispute over Katchatheevu, an uninhabited island ceded to Sri Lanka by India in 1974, has led to ongoing tensions, particularly affecting the fishermen of Tamil Nadu. These fishermen face arrests and harassment by the Sri Lankan Navy, claiming their livelihoods are under threat due to restricted access to traditional fishing grounds. The BJP, aiming to address these issues, has proposed various solutions, including diplomatic negotiations to restore fishing rights without challenging Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over the island.

ISSUES:

• Historical Context and Sovereignty: The historical context of the sovereignty over Katchatheevu is complex. Documents from an RTI query indicate that Indian leadership before the 1974 and 1976 agreements recognized that India had no strong claim over the territory. The islet was part of the zamindari of the Raja of Ramanathapuram since 1803, but historical facts seemed to favor Sri Lanka’s claim.
• Stance of Indian Governments: The Congress-led UPA government and the BJP-led NDA regime have recognized Katchatheevu as part of Sri Lanka. The MEA has informed the Rajya Sabha that Katchatheevu lies on the Sri Lankan side of the IMBL, and an MEA affidavit in the Madras High Court stated that sovereignty over Katchatheevu is a settled matter.
• Supreme Court Involvement: The current government has been telling Parliament that the matter relating to the islet is sub judice as before the Supreme Court.
• Congress and DMK’s Role: Questions are raised about whether the Congress, under leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, handled the matter “callously.” RTI documents reveal that the Indian leadership recognized the weak claim over the territory before the 1974 and 1976 agreements.
• Sri Lanka’s Jurisdiction: Sri Lanka had been exercising jurisdiction over the territory since the mid-1920s without protest from India, which supports their claim over Katchatheevu.
• Political Rhetoric in Tamil Nadu: While it is common for political leaders to periodically raise the demand for Katchatheevu’s retrieval, the Prime Minister’s participation in this rhetoric is concerning.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Diplomatic Engagement and Negotiations: The Indian government is considering diplomatic efforts to engage with Sri Lanka to restore the traditional fishing rights of Tamil Nadu fishermen without questioning Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over Katchatheevu. This involves pushing Sri Lanka to implement the 1974 agreement “in letter and spirit” by withdrawing the “Executive Instructions” issued in 1976.
• Legal and Political Measures: The BJP, at both the state and national levels, is determined to retrieve Katchatheevu or at least restore the fishing rights of Indian fishermen. This includes bringing the issue to public attention, leveraging historical documents, and possibly challenging the agreements’ legality or implementation.
• Restoring Traditional Rights: The Modi government is exploring ways to ask Sri Lanka to invoke Article 6 of the Katchatheevu pact. This could resolve the issue through an Exchange of Letters between the foreign secretaries of both countries. It would assert Indian fishermen and pilgrims’ right to access Katchatheevu.
• Diplomatic Negotiations: The Indian government should negotiate with Sri Lanka to find a mutually acceptable solution that addresses the concern. This could involve exploring options like joint island management.
• Bilateral Economic Connectivity Projects: High-level discussions between India and Sri Lanka, including talks on bilateral economic connectivity projects, could provide a platform for addressing the Katchatheevu issue and the broader concerns of Tamil Nadu fishermen.
• Geopolitical Considerations: With the changing geopolitical situation in the region, there is optimism that Sri Lanka may accept the rights of Indian fishermen, recognizing India’s reliable partnership. This approach suggests leveraging broader regional dynamics to find a solution.
• Taking a Slow and Inclusive Approach: The Indian government intends to take a measured approach, engaging all stakeholders and seeking an amicable settlement with Sri Lanka without rushing or appearing to force a solution. This includes restoring the traditional rights of fishermen in a manner that respects Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and the legal agreements in place.

THE CONCLUSION:

The political parties in India, particularly the BJP, Congress, and DMK, should adopt a bipartisan approach and work together to find a lasting solution to the Katchatheevu issue, rather than using it for political gains. This would demonstrate a united front and strengthen India’s negotiating position with Sri Lanka.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1 India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka the light of the preceding statement. 2022

Q.2 In respect of India — Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy. 2013

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Examine the historical and geopolitical context of the Katchatheevu issue between India and Sri Lanka. Discuss the implications of the recent Indian government’s efforts to restore the traditional fishing rights of Tamil Nadu fishermen and the potential impact on India-Sri Lanka relations.

SOURCE:

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/no-mans-land-the-hindu-editorial-on-playing-politics-over-katchatheevu/article68016301.ece

THE CONTEXT: The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, was enacted in response to global concerns about money laundering, particularly from drug trafficking, which threatened economic stability and national sovereignty. The United Nations and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) urged countries to legislate against this menace, leading to India’s formulation of the PMLA.

ISSUES:

• Deviation from Original Purpose: The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, was initially enacted to combat drug money laundering, but over time, its scope has expanded to include a wide range of offenses beyond its original purpose.
• Broadening of Scheduled Offences: The PMLA’s schedule of offenses has been expanded through amendments, incorporating crimes listed in the IPC or covered by other laws. However, this has subjected minor offenses to the same rigorous treatment as serious crimes. For example, public servants charged with corruption are now treated the same as hardcore drug traffickers under the PMLA.
• Presumption of Guilt and Bail Provisions: PMLA changed the presumption of guilt and overturned presumed innocence until proven guilty. Section 45 requires judges to be convinced of innocence before granting bail, criticized for prolonged jail without trial, challenging liberty, and due process.
• Judicial Interpretation and Legislative Amendments: The Supreme Court declared Section 45’s bail provision unconstitutional in 2018, but it was later restored with amendments and upheld by the Court in 2022. The Court’s decision reflects a technical approach to bail in PMLA cases, emphasizing legislative policy. This significantly differs from earlier perspectives on personal liberty and bail powers.
• Impact on Personal Liberty: The PMLA’s strict bail provisions affect personal liberty and challenge the core values of the justice system. It raises ethical and human rights concerns, highlighting the need to balance enforcing anti-money laundering measures and safeguarding individual liberties.
• Challenges in Operationalization: The expanded scope of the PMLA poses significant challenges. The broad application requires clear guidelines and criteria for including offenses in the PMLA’s schedule to ensure the law’s application remains focused and effective.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Streamlining the Schedule of Offences: Streamlining the schedule of offenses under the PMLA can help it focus on its original objective of combating money laundering, particularly drug trafficking. This requires reviewing and removing less significant offenses. For instance, the inclusion of the Prevention of Corruption Act of 1988 in the PMLA’s schedule may dilute the law’s focus and need reassessment.
• Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: The Enforcement Directorate’s lack of transparency under PMLA has been criticized. Clear procedures should be established to prevent arbitrary actions and improve accountability to ensure that the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) is disclosed to the accused and filed based on consistent criteria.
• Revising Bail Provisions: The bail provisions under Section 45 of the PMLA have been controversial due to their inversion of the presumption of innocence. Revising these provisions could involve setting clear criteria for granting bail without presuming guilt. The Nikesh Tarachand Shah vs Union of India (2017) case highlights the need for constitutional rights to be upheld in the context of bail.
• Consistent Application of Legal Principles: The Supreme Court’s judgments on bail under Section 45 of the PMLA have shown inconsistencies. A more consistent application of legal principles is needed to ensure fairness and reduce case backlogs. The principle of parity, for instance, should be considered when co-accused in similar circumstances have been granted bail, as seen in the case of Benoy Babu v. Directorate of Enforcement.
• Addressing the Reversal of Burden of Proof: Reversing the burden of proof on the accused to prove their innocence under the PMLA is problematic. Legal reforms could be introduced to ensure that the burden of proof remains with the prosecution, as is standard in criminal law. This would protect the rights of the accused and uphold the principle of innocent until proven guilty.
• Regular Review and Amendment of the PMLA: To prevent the misuse of the PMLA’s provisions and ensure that they serve the public interest, regular reviews and amendments of the Act could be mandated. This would involve assessing the law’s effectiveness, identifying areas for improvement, and making necessary changes. The government could set up a dedicated committee involving legal experts, civil society, and other stakeholders to undertake this task.

THE CONCLUSION:

The evolution of the PMLA from its original focus on combating drug money laundering to its current broad application raises significant concerns regarding the deviation from its foundational objectives, the expansion of scheduled offenses, the presumption of guilt, and the implications for personal liberty and due process. The legislative and judicial developments surrounding the PMLA’s bail provisions highlight the complexities and challenges in balancing the objectives of preventing money laundering with the principles of justice and individual rights.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTION:

Q.1 Money laundering poses a serious threat to a country’s economic sovereignty. What is its significance for India, and what steps must be taken to control this menace? 2013

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1 Analyze the evolution of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) since its inception in 2002, discussing the key amendments and their implications for India’s legal and economic landscape. Suggest reforms to address these issues while strengthening the Act’s effectiveness in combating money laundering.

SOURCE:

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-pmla-a-law-that-has-lost-its-way/article68017135.ece