TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Mizoram, in collaboration with the Sailam Ecological Conservation Society, has successfully concluded the Chapchar Awllen Sava Chhiarpui 2024 (CASC2024).

EXPLANATION:

• It marked the fourth consecutive year of this bird census.
• The effort was aimed at documenting and preserving the diverse avian species within the region.

Census Highlights:

• The closing ceremony, held at the Sailam Bird Sanctuary, celebrated the tallying and documentation of approximately 200 bird species across various locations in Mizoram.
• Bird counting, conducted from early morning till noon, showcased a remarkable array of species, including the Spot-breasted Laughingthrush, Grey Peacock Pheasant, Mount Victoria Babax, Chin Hills Wren Babbler, Green Cochoa, Himalayan Shrike Babbler, and Oriental Darter.
• The census extended beyond Sailam Bird Sanctuary, encompassing Mount Phawngpui, Mount Chalrang Hill, the Kolasib district wetlands, Lawngtlai, and Pawlrang.
• These diverse locations allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the avian population across Mizoram.

Threats to Sailam Bird Sanctuary:

• Despite its significance as a hub for various bird species, Sailam Bird Sanctuary faces threats from rapid urbanization and population growth.
• The sanctuary, which has documented over 270 bird species in the past, now requires focused conservation efforts to safeguard its unique biodiversity.

Awareness Campaign and Conservation Efforts:

• As part of the initiative, an awareness campaign about biodiversity conservation was launched, reflecting the commitment to educating the public about the importance of preserving Mizoram’s rich natural heritage.
• The event saw the participation of over 50 attendees, with Sailam MLA Baryl Vanneihsangi as the chief guest.

Ongoing Conservation Initiatives:

• Efforts to protect Mizoram’s unique biodiversity are ongoing, with a specific focus on Sailam Bird Sanctuary.
• The documented threat to this sanctuary underscores the urgency of implementing effective conservation strategies, balancing the need for urban development with the preservation of natural habitats.

International Participation:

• The involvement of Mizoram in international platforms, such as the United Nations Environment Programme and the International Conference on Animal Sciences, showcases a commitment to global cooperation in addressing ecological challenges.
• The participation of ornithologists from various regions reflects the global appeal of Sailam as a destination for bird enthusiasts.

Sailam Bird Sanctuary:

• Sailam Bird Sanctuary is a hotspot for different species of birds located in Sailam village, about 76 kilometers from Aizawl, Mizoram.
• It is remotely snuggled inside a virgin forest and is home to over 270 species of birds.
• Some of the notable species that can be found here are Spot-breasted Laughingthrush, Grey Peacock Pheasant, Mount Victoria Babax, Chin Hills Wren Babbler, Green Cochoa, Himalayan Shrike Babbler, and Oriental Darter.
• The sanctuary is facing threats from rapid urbanization and population growth.
• However, efforts are being made to protect its unique biodiversity.

Conclusion:

• The successful conclusion of the Mizoram Bird Census not only highlights the rich avian diversity within the region but also underscores the need for sustained conservation efforts. As Mizoram strives to balance development with environmental preservation, initiatives like CASC2024 play a crucial role in creating awareness, fostering international collaboration, and ensuring the continued survival of the region’s unique flora and fauna.

SOURCE: https://www.indiatodayne.in/amp/mizoram/story/mizoram-successfully-concludes-bird-census-200-bird-species-tallied-and-documented-869932-2024-02-12

THE CONTEXT: As, the state of the Indian economy and its prospects have to be based on mathematics and statistics, the recently published data by National Statistical Office needs to be analysed. This helps to understand the government’s economic performance as disclosed in Parliament and subsequently published in the media.

ISSUES:

• Misleading data: Post-COVID-19, the growth rate of GDP has been estimated around 6% + annually but this is misleading because what is not disclosed is that the growth rate that includes recovery as well since 2020-22. Hence, if we calculate the GDP growth rate between 2019-20 and 2022-23, two normal years, it can be calculated less than 4% per year for the period.
• Non acknowledgement: India’s GDP growth rate declined annually from 2016-17, and fell below 3.5% in the fourth quarter of 2019-20. This four-year continuous decline from a 7% growth rate to 3.5% rate has never been acknowledged by the government.
• Slow growth rate: It is essential to recognise that since 2020, the current government publicised development model in reality achieved the so-called “Hindu rate of growth” in GDP, which had been “achieved” during the Congress’s socialist period of 1950-77.
• Incoherence in economy: The ruling government has failed to structure economic policy coherently. Incoherence prevailed during the 2014-2023 period and will perhaps continue in the future as well.
• Misleading media: The misleading announcements of promising predictions are being published annually in the media, with claims made by the ruling government. One such claim made in 2019 was that India will become a $5 trillion economy by 2024. There has been no policy structuring presented to achieve this aim nor has anyone in the government shown willingness to debate it on public fora.
• Falling investment: The investment to GDP ratio has been largely falling for many years now. It peaked at 35.81% in 2007–08, which was 15 years ago. In 2022–23, it is estimated to have been 29.21%, an improvement over the three years before that, but worse than where it was before the pandemic broke out.
• Lesser job creation: Falling of investment in the economy implies the creation of fewer jobs, which has an impact on the incomes that people earn, and which, in turn, affects private consumption and further job creation.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Taking cue from previous governments: During P.V. Narasimha Rao’s and Manmohan Singh’s tenures as Prime Minister, India departed from the socialist path and the GDP growth rates rose for the first time to 6%-8% per year and over a 15-year period i.e., between 1991-96 and 2004-2014. As, then government understood and took steps to reform the Indian economic system by reducing state participation, and increasing incentives for capital and labour providers and achieved a higher and faster growth rate.
• Transparency: The Indian government is elected democratically and it is obligated to disclose the facts and data transparently to the people.
• To generate demand: In this decade of weak demand and relatively excess supply, resources mobilised by the government should be largely through indirect taxes and also through the liberal printing of currency notes to generate demand from non-rich citizens.
• To generate non inflationary demand: The annual interest paid on fixed-term savings in the bank accounts of the middle class should be higher at 9% or so. The interest rates on loans issued to small and medium industries should be no more than 6% on the loans. These essential reforms need to be carried out to generate non-inflationary demand.
• A new economic policy: The recent economic policy of the government has been an unstructured flop. No announced macroeconomic goal has been achieved by the government till date. Thus, India urgently needs a new economic policy that is based on clearly structured and stated objectives and priorities, and a strategy to achieve the targets, with an intelligent and transparent resource mobilisation plan to finance the policies.
• Free market system: The market system is not a free-for-all and is structured with rules of transactions. A market system with transparent and minimal regulation with principal drivers of incentives and domestic savings pushes up factor productivity and thus the GDP growth rate. Even a totalitarian state such as China implemented this. During Deng Xiaoping’s tenure as paramount leader, it allowed the socialist economic system to die, and allowed economic market-based system, even while maintaining the system of political dictatorship.
• Affirmative action: There is a need for affirmative action including social security and safety nets for creating a stake for the poor in the system. It will create a level playing field to ensure transparency, accountability, trusteeship as well as corporate governance to legitimise profit-making that will drive the market system.
• Empowering democratic institutions: Deregulation should also not mean that we reject government intervention for safety nets, affirmative action, market failures, and creating a level-playing field. Democratic institutions have to be empowered to guard against public disorder arising from rapid deregulation, as it happened in Russia post-1991. Russia underwent chaos and misery, which meant dictatorship returned a loss of human rights and democratic values in Russia.

THE CONCLUSION:

India’s economic growth has witnessed significant fluctuations in recent years and to ensure economic stability the government needs to take up stringent measures. This can be done through adequate investment in human capital development along with effective implementation and coordination among various stakeholders.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

Q.1 Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP? (2020)

Q.2 Do you agree with the view that steady GDP growth and low inflation have left the Indian economy in good shape? Give reasons in support of your arguments. (2019)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.1 The GDP-centric framing of Indian economic success is wrong-headed and is a flawed metric of national economic welfare. Comment.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-state-of-the-indian-economy-today/article67838620.ece

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The Supreme Court of India, in a recent decision, dismissed a petition challenging the appointment of Deputy Chief Ministers in states.

EXPLANATION:

• The three-judge Bench, led by Chief Justice of India, provided a comprehensive rationale for their decision, emphasizing the constitutionality of such appointments.

Constitutionality of Deputy Chief Ministers

• Chief Justice opined that the appointment of Deputy Chief Ministers does not violate the Constitution.
• He argued that these officials are fundamentally Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) and hold ministerial positions in state governments.
• The nomenclature, according to the Chief Justice, is secondary to their roles and responsibilities.
• The Chief Justice highlighted that Deputy Chief Ministers are essentially ministers in the state government.
• He emphasized that, within a specified period, a person holding the position of Deputy Chief Minister must also be an MLA.
• This requirement, he noted, ensures that the appointments align with constitutional provisions.

Equality and Discrimination Concerns

• Despite the dismissal of the petition, the petitioner, Public Political Party, contended that the appointments of Deputy Chief Ministers were influenced by religious and sectarian considerations.
• The argument posited that such appointments contravene Article 14 (right to equality) and the principles outlined in Article 15, which prohibit discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.

Court’s Response to Discrimination Allegations

• Chief Justice, in his observations, dismissed the petitioner’s claims of religious and sectarian motivations behind Deputy Chief Minister appointments.
• The court asserted that the appointments did not violate the right to equality and non-discrimination principles enshrined in the Constitution.

Equality in Salary and Status

• Addressing concerns about preferential treatment, the Chief Justice highlighted that Deputy Chief Ministers do not receive a higher salary compared to other ministers.
• He emphasized that their status is akin to any other minister in the state government, possibly with additional seniority but without any constitutional breach.
• Ultimately, the Supreme Court found the petition lacking in substance and dismissed it.
• The decision reinforces the constitutionality of appointing Deputy Chief Ministers, emphasizing their role as legislators and state government ministers.
• The court’s rejection of discrimination claims underscores the need for concrete evidence to challenge such appointments on constitutional grounds.

Deputy Chief Minister

• The post of Deputy Chief Minister in India is not a constitutional one, but a political arrangement to appease allies or factions within a party.
• The Deputy CM is equivalent to a Cabinet Minister in terms of rank and perks but does not have any specific financial or administrative powers.
• The Deputy CM has to report to the Chief Minister and seek his or her approval for any decision related to his or her portfolio.
• The Deputy CM does not have access to the files or matters that are meant for the Chief Minister.
• The appointment and removal of a deputy chief minister is entirely at the discretion of the chief minister.
• The chief minister may appoint more than one deputy chief minister, as is the case in some states like Uttar Pradesh.
• The chief minister may also reshuffle or drop a deputy chief minister at any time, as per their political calculations.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/sc-finds-states-do-not-violate-constitution-in-appointment-of-deputy-chief-ministers/article67837409.ece

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: In a groundbreaking revelation, scientists have shared new insights into a colossal black hole located 53 million light-years away.

EXPLANATION:

• This celestial giant was first captured by the Earth-wide Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) in 2017, marking a historic moment in astrophysics.
• It provided the first visual evidence of the existence of black holes, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein’s general relativity.

• The initial image from the EHT in 2017 showcased the black hole’s ‘shadow,’ a consequence of the gravitational effects near its event horizon.
• This shadow not only confirmed the presence of the black hole but also aligned with the predictions of general relativity regarding its mass, size, and shape.

Enhancements in Telescope Capabilities

• In a recent paper published on January 18, 2024, EHT scientists revealed that subsequent observations, conducted after improving the telescope’s coverage and resolution, reaffirmed the earlier findings.
• The upgrades included increasing data-recording rates, enhancing spatial tracking capabilities, and incorporating the Greenland Telescope into the EHT array, which improved resolution in the north-south direction.

The Global Telescope Network

• The EHT is not a single telescope but a global collaboration of radio telescopes, utilizing very-long baseline interferometry.
• This technique involves correlating data from multiple telescopes worldwide to study a common celestial object.
• The maximum distance between these telescopes defines the network’s resolution.

Insights from Data Correlation

• During the 2018 observation campaign, nine EHT stations collected data over six days, utilizing four frequencies.
• Correlating these datasets revealed significant changes in the closure phase, providing insights into the dynamic configuration or structure of the black hole.

Simulation Models and Gravitational Lensing

• To understand the intricate dynamics near the event horizon, scientists employed general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic (GRMHD) simulations.
• These simulations helped create models of the black hole, incorporating gravitational lensing effects predicted by Einstein’s theory of general relativity.

Confirmation of Lensing Effects

• The findings confirmed the presence of an asymmetric ring structure approximately 42 microarcseconds wide, akin to observing a grain of sand from 25 km away.
• This observation matched predictions for a shadow formed by lensed emission around a rotating black hole with a mass of approximately 6.5 billion times that of the Sun.

Shifts in Accretion Disk and Jet

• Observations of the M87 galaxy, housing the black hole, revealed a prominent jet of high-energy particles extending from the black hole into space.
• Shifts in the accretion disk and jet between 2017 and 2018 suggested changes in position or orientation, potentially linked to the black hole’s spin and its magnetic field structure.

Ongoing and Future Endeavors

• The EHT collaboration plans to continue its exploration, with a future ‘movie project’ in 2026 aiming to track the black hole over a month or two.
• This ongoing effort highlights the dedication to understanding the hidden physics governing the relationship between the accretion disk, the jet, and the magnetic environment around the black hole.

Black Hole:

• Black holes are points in space that are so dense they create deep gravity sinks. Beyond a certain region, not even light can escape the powerful tug of a black hole’s gravity.
• In other words, Black holes are regions in space where an enormous amount of mass is packed into a tiny volume.

Conclusion

• The recent findings not only reaffirm the features of the black hole reported in 2019 but also showcase the continuous improvement in observational techniques.
• The EHT’s ability to measure the ring’s diameter more accurately suggests advancements in image-based techniques, bridging the gap with direct modeling methods.
• As humanity delves deeper into the cosmos, these revelations open new avenues for understanding the enigmatic nature of black holes and the universe at large.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/earth-wide-telescope-confirms-black-hole-shadow-is-real/article67828171.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The inaugural UN expert assessment by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) unveils alarming threats to migratory species globally. The report underscores the perilous situation faced by these species due to human-induced factors, including pollution, invasive species, and climate change.

EXPLANATION:

• The first-ever State of the World’s Migratory Species report was launched by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), a UN biodiversity treaty.
• It was launched during the opening of the CMS COP14 wildlife conservation conference in Samarkand on February 12, 2024123.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE REPORT:

• Extent of Threats:
  • Over 20% of migratory species under international protection, as outlined by the CMS, are on the brink of extinction.
  • This includes a concerning trend among nomadic fish, with nearly all facing threats to their survival.
  • The assessment, covering 1,189 CMS-listed species, reveals that 44% are experiencing population declines, attributed to habitat loss and overexploitation.
• High Extinction Risk for Key Species:
  • Of particular concern is the stark reality that 97% of sharks, rays, and sturgeons on the CMS list are at a high risk of extinction, with their populations declining by a staggering 90% since the 1970s.
  • Iconic species like gorillas and nearly half of all turtles covered by the convention also face the imminent threat of disappearing.
• Dramatic Migratory Journeys at Risk:
  • The report highlights the remarkable migratory journeys undertaken by wildlife, from wildebeest in the Serengeti to Pacific salmon in the US.
  • Yet even these awe-inspiring journeys are jeopardized, with species like bar-tailed godwits, straw-coloured fruit bats, and the critically endangered European eel experiencing declines.
• Global Summit and Urgent Conservation Measures:
  • Governments are convening for a summit in Uzbekistan to address the protection of migratory species.
  • The report’s executive secretary emphasizes the urgency of the situation, pointing out that 44% of listed species are in decline globally.
  • Conservation efforts are recommended, focusing on minimizing human infrastructure along migration routes and understanding and protecting critical areas for migrations.
• Drivers of Decline:
  • The assessment identifies key drivers of environmental change as threats to migratory species, including habitat destruction through agriculture, urban sprawl, and infrastructure development.
  • Ecosystem integrity, essential for breeding, feeding, and travel, is compromised when vital sites are inaccessible or disappear.
• Conservation Opportunities:
  • While the report signals a cause for alarm, it also emphasizes that governments can take action to reverse the trend.
  • Concrete conservation measures include minimizing human impact on migration paths and understanding and safeguarding crucial areas.
  • The report identifies 399 threatened migratory species not currently listed under the convention, indicating the need for broader international coordination.
• Call to Action:
  • UN Environment Chief emphasizes the global community’s responsibility to translate scientific findings into concrete conservation actions.
  • The urgency of addressing the drivers of environmental change, such as habitat destruction and urban sprawl, is underscored.
  • With 70 listed species, including the steppe eagle and wild camel, experiencing population decreases over the past 30 years, immediate action is imperative.

Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS):

• CMS is also known as the Bonn Convention. It is the only convention that deals with taking or harvesting of species from the wild.
• It currently protects 173 migratory species from across the globe.
• The Convention came into force on November 1, 1983. The Secretariat that administers the Convention was established in 1984.
• Species Covered: Convention has two Appendices:
• Appendix I lists migratory species that are endangered or threatened with extinction.
• Appendix II lists migratory species which have an unfavourable conservation status and which require international agreements for their conservation and management.

SOURCE: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/12/from-turtles-to-fruit-bats-migratory-species-increasingly-under-threat-says-un

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Odisha, known for its rich biodiversity, has officially designated the Gupteswar Forest as the fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) in the state.

EXPLANATION:

• This significant declaration, backed by a government notification, recognizes the area’s ecological importance and aims to enhance conservation efforts.
• It is situated adjacent to the Gupteswar Shiva temple in Koraput district.
• The Gupteswar Forest spans 350 hectares of demarcated land.
• The region is not only revered for its sacred groves, integral to local worship practices, but also for its diverse flora and fauna.
• A comprehensive biodiversity survey conducted by the Odisha Biodiversity Board has revealed an impressive array of fauna in the Gupteswar Forest.
• The site hosts at least 608 faunal species, including 28 mammals, 188 birds, 18 amphibians, 48 reptiles, 45 fishes, 141 butterflies, 43 moths, 41 odonates, 30 spiders, six scorpion species, and 20 lower invertebrates.
• Noteworthy faunal species documented include the mugger crocodile, kanger valley rock gecko, sacred Grove Bush Frog, and diverse avifauna such as black baza, Jerdon’s baza, Malabar trogon, common hill myna, white-bellied woodpecker, and banded bay cuckoo.
• The limestone caves within Gupteswar are a habitat for eight bat species, with two, Hipposideros galeritus and Rhinolophus rouxii, classified as near-threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
• The Gupteswar Biodiversity Heritage Site boasts a rich floral diversity, encompassing 182 tree species, 76 shrub species, 177 herb species, 69 climbers, 14 orchid species, and threatened medicinal plants like the Indian trumpet tree, Indian snakeroot, Cumbi gum tree, Garlic pear tree, Chinese fever vine, Rohituka tree, Jodpakli, Indian jointfir, and several wild crop relatives of ginger and turmeric.

Micro-organisms and Conservation:

• Beyond plants and animals, the site also harbors agriculturally and industrially important micro-organisms, contributing to the overall biodiversity.
• The declaration of Gupteswar as a Biodiversity Heritage Site aims to strengthen cultural ties and ensure the conservation of this precious ecosystem.

Other Designated BHSs in Odisha:

• With the addition of Gupteswar, Odisha now boasts four Biodiversity Heritage Sites.
• The existing three are Mandasaru BHS in Kandhamala district, Mahendragiri BHS in Gajpati district, and Gandhamardan BHS in Bargarh and Bolangir districts.

Conservation Initiatives and Local Involvement:

• The state government, recognizing the significance of these sites, has tasked the Odisha Biodiversity Board with preparing a long-term conservation and development plan.
• This plan includes active participation from local communities.
• A sum of ₹35 lakh has been allocated for action plans and awareness-building activities in the localities surrounding these BHSs.

Economic Potential Through Eco-tourism:

• The declaration of Gupteswar as a BHS is not only a conservation milestone but also holds promise for local livelihoods.
• Nature lovers, intellectuals, and the local populace anticipate economic benefits through eco-tourism and the sustainable extraction of minor forest produce.

Acknowledgements and Conclusion:

• The achievement of declaring Gupteswar as a Biodiversity Heritage Site is credited to the biodiversity management committee of Haladikunda (Gupteswar) Gram Panchayat, along with the scientists and researchers of the Odisha Biodiversity Board.
• This significant step towards conservation aligns with global efforts to preserve biodiversity and promotes sustainable development in the region.

SOURCE: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/travel/odisha-gupteswar-forest-declared-as-fourth-biodiversity-heritage-site-in-state-101707740395367.html

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) commenced on February 12, 2024, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

EXPLANATION:

• It was led by the United Nations Environment Programme-World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UN-WCMC).
• The summit focuses on urgent actions for the protection and conservation of migratory species.

Terrestrial Species Proposals:

• Eurasian Lynx:
  • North Macedonia, along with Uzbekistan, Albania, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, proposed the inclusion of Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in CMS Appendix II, and its subspecies Balkan lynx (Lynx lynx balcanicus) for Appendix I.
• Guanaco and Pallas’s Cat:
  • There are proposals to include guanaco (Lama guanicoe) and Pallas’s cat (Felis manul) in CMS Appendix II.
• Straw-Coloured Fruit Bat:
  • African nations including Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Uganda, and Rwanda, are advocating for the listing of the straw-coloured fruit bat (Eidolon helvum) under CMS Appendix II.

Migratory Aquatic Species Proposals:

• Hawksbill Turtle:
  • Southeast Asia and the western Pacific Ocean region have proposed a single species action plan (SSAP) for the Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata).
• Atlantic Humpback Dolphin and Angelshark:
  • SSAP proposals are anticipated for the Atlantic humpback dolphin (Sousa teuzii) and angelshark (Squatina squatina) in the Mediterranean Sea.
• Amendments to Appendices:
  • Proposals for amending the appendices include species like Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise, sand tiger shark, blackchin guitarfish, bull ray, Lusitanian cownose ray, gilded catfish, and Laulao catfish or Piramuta.

Migratory Birds and Landbirds:

• Illegal Killing of Birds:
  • For the 962 migratory bird species listed in CMS, COP14 will deliberate on draft decisions to address the issue of illegal killing of birds.
• African-Eurasian Landbirds:
  • A revised programme of work for the region’s action plan will be discussed during the summit.

Technological Integration:

• Use of Modern Technologies:
  • Discussions will encompass proposals related to the use of modern technologies such as satellite imaging, climate models, and interactive bird atlas tools to prioritize and implement actions for species and their habitats.
• African-Eurasian Region Action Plan:
  • The event will introduce technological tools for the Action Plan for Migratory Landbirds in the African-Eurasian Region range.

Species-Specific Action Plans:

• Sooty Falcon:
  • A Single Species Action Plan (SSAP) for the sooty falcon (Falco concolor) for the period 2024-36 will be introduced.
• Christmas Island Frigatebird:
  • A SSAP for the threatened migratory shorebird, Christmas Island frigatebird (Fregata andrewsi), will also be presented.
• Great Bustard:
  • A new action plan for the great bustard (Otis tarda) is expected to be tabled for adoption.

Appendix Listings:

• Peruvian Pelican, Magellanic Plover, and Bearded Vulture:
  • Proposals for listing species such as Peruvian pelican (Pelecanus thagus), magellanic plover (Pluvianellus socialis), and bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis) in CMS appendices will be discussed.
• Conservation Initiatives:
  • Species-specific plans for conservation and regional initiatives, including the Central Asian Mammal Initiative, will be presented.

Conservation Challenges and Urgency:

• Human Activities Impact:
  • CMS Executive Secretary emphasized that many species are facing decline due to human activities, with overexploitation emerging as a significant threat.
• Call for Urgent Action:
  • Head of UNEP-WCMC’s species program stressed the need for urgent actions to conserve and protect the approximately 1,200 listed CMS species and the additional 3,000 species lacking protections.

Conclusion:

• CMS COP14 brings together diverse proposals and initiatives, highlighting the global commitment to the conservation of migratory species across various ecosystems.
• The urgency emphasized by key stakeholders underscores the critical need for immediate and collaborative efforts to safeguard biodiversity.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/world/cms-cop14-expect-listing-of-new-species-action-plans-for-conservation-at-samarkand-summit-94407

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. CMS COP14: Expect listing of new species, action plans for conservation at Samarkand summit READ MORE

2. Odisha: Gupteswar forest declared as fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site in state READ MORE

3. Andhra Pradesh: Rise in footfall in eco-sensitive areas poses threat to biodiversity and wildlife READ MORE

4. From turtles to fruit bats, migratory species increasingly under threat, says UN READ MORE

5. 8 convicted Navy veterans set free by Qatar; PM Modi to visit Doha READ MORE

6. Earth-wide telescope confirms black hole shadow is ‘real’ READ MORE

7. SC finds States do not violate Constitution in appointment of Deputy Chief Ministers READ MORE

8. What is a floor test, which Nitish Kumar won in the Bihar Legislative Assembly? READ MORE

9. 2024 peak year for Kyasanur Forest Disease, Karnataka health officials confirm as cases rise READ MORE

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. How can child safety be ensured online? READ MORE

2. Uttarakhand UCC is an attempt to control young people’s sexuality READ MORE

3. How coaching culture lets children down READ MORE

4. Arctic: The quasi-global common READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. The real travesty: On the Governor of Tamil Nadu and the Governor’s address READ MORE

2. Uttarakhand UCC is an attempt to control young people’s sexuality READ MORE

3. 16th Finance Commission: Towards vertical and horizontal balance READ MORE

4. An exhilarating term READ MORE

5. The impact and evolution of IBC 2016 READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. Develop skills with experimental learning READ MORE

2. Advancing the maxim of ‘One Earth, One Health’ READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. Escape from Doha: GOI’s quiet diplomacy & India’s economic heft in Qatar both contributed to ex-navymen’s release READ MORE  

2. India-US ties: Beyond fleeting expediencies READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. A global alliance to bridge the gender equity gap READ MORE

2. Decoding India’s economic realities: Comparing the state of the economy under the NDA and UPA governments READ MORE

3. Payments banks need new business models READ MORE

4. I-T Act clause triggers a row in MSME sector READ MORE

5. Delink disinvestment from the Budget READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Earth’s Changing Climate READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Neurotech a ray of hope for brain disorder patients READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Why India is fencing its border with Myanmar — and why that could be a problem READ MORE    

2. Tensions escalate in Bab-el-Mandeb Strait 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. Confluence of social service with spirituality READ MORE

2. A journey through loss and healing READ MORE

3. Swami Dayananda’s pursuit of ultimate truth READ MORE

4. Choose well: Power of choice is power of God READ MORE

5. Idols and idolatry READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. The distribution of power between the Centre and states as put forth by the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution has created a fiscal gap and led to a vertical fiscal imbalance. Examine.

2. In fiscal federalism, the objective should not be only to raise ‘backward’ states to the average level or filling the revenue gap, but also to promote a continuous process whereby states at various levels of development keep progressing constantly, with the disparities among them gradually narrowing down. Comment.

3. India’s abiding commitment to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its continued efforts towards Sabka Saath, Sabka Prayaas, Sabka Vikaas, Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality is poised to be a force to reckon with on all gender-related issues. Critically comment.

4. Strengthening legal frameworks and multilateral agreements can foster greater cooperation among nations and promote sustainable ocean governance. Comment in the light of recent turmoil in the Red.

5. The IBC of 2016 stands as a testament to India’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and enhancing the ease of doing business in the country. Examine.

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• It’s the responsibility of the police to maintain the government’s prestige and protect the honour of the citizens.
• A Governor who profoundly disagrees with the State government should not stay in office.
• It is not constitutionally sustainable to claim that the Governor’s address should contain no criticism of the Centre or make no policy pronouncements against the Centre’s policies.
• India’s launch of the Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality is a step towards enabling ‘equity’ and ‘equality’.
• India’s abiding commitment to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its continued efforts towards Sabka Saath, Sabka Prayaas, Sabka Vikaas, Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality is poised to be a force to reckon with on all gender-related issues.
• Mainstreaming gender equality and equity has been a key development area for the Government of India for over a decade now.
• Bilateral ties between India and the US have a standalone and enduring logic of their own. The US bet on India is part of a long-term vision.
• Digital services provided by regular bank accounts have pushed them out. The Paytm fiasco points to need for a coherent regulatory response.
• In fiscal federalism, the objective should not be only to raise ‘backward’ states to the average level or filling the revenue gap, but also to promote a continuous process whereby states at various levels of development keep progressing constantly, with the disparities among them gradually narrowing down.
• Instead of expanding the arbitrary and discretionary transfers under grants-in-aids (such as Revenue Deficit Grant), FC16 should focus on increasing the vertical share for more rational transfers under tax devolution.
• Addressing the complex issues surrounding maritime security and sustainable development requires concerted international efforts and innovative solutions.
• Strengthening legal frameworks and multilateral agreements can foster greater cooperation among nations and promote sustainable ocean governance.
• The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code IBC of 2016 streamlines insolvency resolution processes and bolstering investor confidence.
• In conflict and post-conflict scenarios, a gender perspective must be integrated into the reconstruction and redevelopment plans.
• The lack of essential services such as health care, including sexual and reproductive health services, also makes them more vulnerable to unplanned pregnancy, maternal mortality and morbidity, sexual and reproductive injuries and sexually transmitted infections. While girls face obstacles in accessing education.
• With the continued support and efforts of regulatory authorities like the IBBI, India is well-positioned to further strengthen its insolvency framework and drive economic growth and development in the years to come.

ESSAY TOPIC

• Knowledge has become fundamental to economic development and technological advancement.
• The greatest resource of all economic development is the mind.

50-WORD TALK

• India securing the release of 8 Navy veterans from Qatar is an example of fine diplomacy at work and NSA Doval’s effective backroom parleys. It is an indication of India’s growing diplomatic position in the global order. India also did well to stay away from public rhetoric over the issue.
• Pakistan elections were supposed to be a crowning moment for Nawaz Sharif, but now he will have to cobble up numbers to form a government. While some say independent candidates winning is a setback to the Army, one wonders whether this was the military’s ploy to have a weakened Nawaz.

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: February 12 marks Darwin Day, a global celebration commemorating the birth of the renowned naturalist Charles Darwin.

EXPLANATION:

• His groundbreaking work, “On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection,” laid the foundation for our understanding of evolution by natural selection.
• This day serves as an occasion for scientists to showcase advancements in evolutionary comprehension and promote public awareness of scientific principles.

Evolutionary Mechanisms: Genetic Diversity and Natural Selection

• Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace proposed that genetic diversity within a population facilitates adaptation to changing environments.
• This concept, known as natural selection, involves the increased survival and reproduction of individuals with advantageous genetic variations.
• Genetic diversity, a result of independent processes, enhances the likelihood of a population adapting to new environments.

Divergence and Biodiversity Over 3.5 Billion Years

• The process of evolution by divergence has operated for nearly 3.5 billion years on Earth, resulting in the breathtaking biodiversity seen in fossil records and the present-day living world.
• Understanding evolution has revealed that fundamental life mechanisms are consistent across diverse organisms, prompting collaborative global studies using model organisms like E. coli and Drosophila for efficient scientific discovery.

Genetic Information, Inheritance, and Human Applications

• Scientists have deciphered the patterns of genetic inheritance across organisms, leading to the discovery of DNA’s structure and function.
• This shared genetic information, copied with high fidelity, facilitates a deeper understanding of human physiology and diseases.
• The ability to produce human proteins, like insulin, in microorganisms has made medical treatments more accessible.

Genetic Variations and Human Evolution

• While DNA copying is highly accurate, occasional errors, occurring at a frequency of one in a million letters, introduce genetic variations.
• Human evolution, traced in detail, reveals divergence from a common ancestral great ape species.
• Multiple human species coexisted, as seen in interactions between modern humans and Neanderthals, emphasizing continuous genetic variation and adaptation over time.

Human Diversity: A Natural Phenomenon

• The continual generation of new genetic variations in humans contributes to unique individuality.
• This diversity implies equal status and rights for all individuals, transcending gender, locality, language, skin colour, and sexual orientation.
• Despite geographical divergence over the past 100,000 years, humans remain interconnected, challenging the natural process of genetic isolation.

Human Impact on Genetic Diversity and Conservation Challenges

• Human activities, particularly habitat degradation, are reducing genetic diversity among other living forms, posing challenges for conserving flora and fauna.
• As custodians of knowledge and skills, humans share and integrate information across time and space, fostering the resilience to survive various challenges.

Respecting Diversity: A Unifying Principle

• The intricate tapestry of human genetics, physiology, languages, histories, and cultures contributes to our collective knowledge.
• Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of diverse societies throughout history underscores the need to respect and celebrate diversity in all its forms.
• As we navigate a changing world, the lessons from Darwin Day remind us of our interconnectedness with the evolving, dynamic tapestry of life on Earth.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/this-quote-means-town-square-internet-global-village-9156294/

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The recently concluded 17th Lok Sabha held 274 sittings, and four previous Lok Sabhas, all of which were dissolved before the stipulated five-year period, had fewer sittings.

EXPLANATION:

• We will look into more detailed analysis of parliament functioning in 17^th Lok Sabha.

Decrease in Annual Sitting Days:

• The 17th Lok Sabha, which recently concluded, exhibited a significant decrease in the average annual sitting days compared to its predecessor.
• While the first Lok Sabha, led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, averaged 135 days, the 17th Lok Sabha sat for only 55 days on average in a year.

COVID-19 Pandemic Impact:

• The COVID-19 pandemic is identified as a contributing factor to the reduced sitting days, but it doesn’t explain the early adjournments of 11 out of the 15 sessions during the 17th Lok Sabha.
• The pandemic led to the cancellation of 40 scheduled sittings, with varying reasons cited for each cancellation.

Sessions and Sittings:

• The 17th Lok Sabha held a total of 274 sittings, but the cancellation of sessions raises concerns about the efficiency and continuity of parliamentary proceedings.

Absence of Deputy Speaker:

• Notably, the 17th Lok Sabha operated without a Deputy Speaker, a constitutionally mandated position according to Article 93 of the Constitution.
• The absence of this key position raises questions about the adherence to constitutional norms.

Speedy Passage of Bills:

• The Opposition has criticized the government for hastily passing Bills, often in the midst of chaos and without sufficient debate.
• The study indicates that 58% of Bills were passed within two weeks of their introduction.
• Notably, significant legislation like the J&K Reorganisation Bill, 2019, and the Women’s Reservation Bill, 2023, were passed within two days of introduction.

Limited Parliamentary Scrutiny:

• The study by PRS Legislative Research reveals that only 16% of Bills were referred to Standing Committees for parliamentary scrutiny.
• This is notably lower than the corresponding figures for the previous three Lok Sabhas, suggesting a potential lack of in-depth examination of proposed legislation.

Private Members’ Bills (PMB) and Resolutions:

• The 17th Lok Sabha saw an increase in the introduction of Private Members’ Bills (729 in total), surpassing all previous Lok Sabhas except the 16th.
• However, a mere two of these bills were discussed, signalling a significant bottleneck in the legislative process.
• In Rajya Sabha, 705 PMBs were introduced, with 14 discussions.
• However, the broader trend reveals that since 1970, no PMBs have been passed in both Houses.

Opposition Criticisms Validated:

• The statistical analysis seems to validate Opposition claims of bills being rushed through without adequate debate, with 35% of Bills passed with less than an hour of discussion in Lok Sabha and a similar figure (34%) in Rajya Sabha.

Legislative Efficiency and Democratic Processes:

• The findings raise concerns about the overall efficiency of the legislative process, the adherence to democratic norms, and the depth of parliamentary scrutiny exercised during the 17th Lok Sabha.
• Concludingly, the 17th Lok Sabha’s performance, marked by fewer sitting days, absence of a Deputy Speaker, speedy passage of bills, and limited parliamentary scrutiny, warrants a comprehensive review to ensure the effective functioning of the democratic institution.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliaments-average-annual-sitting-days-down-to-55-in-the-17th-lok-sabha-from-135-in-the-first/article67835468.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The Lok Sabha this week passed the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024. The legislation, which was introduced and passed in the Rajya Sabha on February 5, makes important changes to the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

EXPLANATION:

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024:

• It amends the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
  • The Act establishes the central and state pollution control boards (CPCB and SPCBs) to prevent and control water pollution.
• The Bill decriminalises several violations, and instead imposes penalties.
• It will initially apply to Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the union territories.  Other states may pass resolutions to extend its applicability to their state

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974	Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Bill, 2024
As per the Act, prior consent of the SPCB is required for establishing any industry or treatment plant, which is likely to discharge sewage into a water body, sewer, or land.	The Bill specifies that the central government, in consultation with the CPCB, may exempt certain categories of industrial plants from obtaining such consent. The Bill also adds that the central government may issue guidelines for the grant, refusal, or cancellation of consent granted by the SPCB.
Under the Act, establishing and operating an industry without obtaining such consent from the SPCB is punishable with imprisonment up to six years and fine.	The Bill retains this.  It also penalises tampering with monitoring devices used in determining whether any industry or treatment plant can be set up. The penalty will be between Rs 10,000 and Rs 15 lakh.
Under the Act, chairman of an SPCB is nominated by the state government.	The Bill adds that the central government will prescribe the manner of nomination and the terms and conditions of service of the chairman.
Under the Act, an offence for which punishment is not explicitly specified is punishable with an imprisonment term of up to three months or a fine of up to Rs 10,000, or both.	The Bill removes imprisonment as a punishment, and prescribes a penalty between Rs 10,000 and Rs 15 lakh.
As per the Act, a court may take cognizance of an offence if a complaint is made by the CPCB or SPCB, or a person who has given a notice of the complaint to the Boards.	The Bill adds that cognizance may also be taken if a complaint is made by the adjudicating officer.
Under the Act, the head of a department will be deemed guilty for offences committed by government departments, provided that they prove due diligence was carried out to avoid such contravention.	The Bill specifies that the head of a department will be required to pay penalty equal to one month of their basic salary if the department violates any provision of the Act.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/what-are-the-changes-in-the-new-water-act/article67832268.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: In a significant scientific breakthrough, researchers from the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), Botanical Survey of India, and the University of Hyderabad have unveiled a new fungus species named Trichoglossum syamviswanathii.

EXPLANATION:

• The discovery adds to the rich fungal diversity of the Western Ghats region, particularly Kerala.
• The fungus species is aptly named after the esteemed scientist and former director of KFRI, Syam Viswanath, acknowledging his substantial contributions to the field of forestry in India.
• Trichoglossum syamviswanathii was meticulously collected from the moist soil of the Bambusetum at the KFRI Field Research Centre in Palappilly, Thrissur.

Trichoglossum syamviswanathii

Diversity in Western Ghats:

• The Western Ghats region of Kerala is globally recognized for its abundant fungal diversity, including numerous endemic species.
• The discovery underscores the critical importance of continuous exploration and research in unveiling the diverse flora, fauna, and fungi within the Western Ghats ecosystem.

Genus Trichoglossum:

• Globally, the genus Trichoglossum is known to have 55 records as of December 2023.
• However, the diversity of Trichoglossum species in India is notably underrepresented.
• Trichoglossum colloquially known as “hairy earth tongues” fungus.
• It exhibits distinctive features, including club-shaped apothecia in dark shades of black or brown.

Saprotrophic Behaviour and Ecological Role:

• Trichoglossum species, displaying saprotrophic behaviour, contribute significantly to the decomposition of organic matter.
• They play a crucial role in breaking down dead plant material, aiding in the recycling of nutrients within forest ecosystems.
• The ecological factors influencing the morphology and distribution of these fungi highlight their intricate relationship with the environment.

Global Distribution and Biological Potentiality:

• Trichoglossum species are globally distributed in tropical and temperate forests across five continents.
• While exhibiting saprotrophic behaviour, they can also be found as endophytes in plant roots.
• Despite their ecological importance, the biological potentiality of Trichoglossum syamviswanathii remains largely unexplored.
• The need for further research to delve into the proximate analysis and biological attributes of this newly discovered species has been emphasized.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/scientists-discover-new-fungus-species-in-thrissur/article67826938.ece

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: Scientists from the University of Toronto have made a groundbreaking discovery, revealing that tectonic plates under the Pacific Ocean, primarily the Pacific plate, are undergoing significant tearing and deformation.

EXPLANATION:

• This new insight challenges previous understandings of plate dynamics and sheds light on a previously unknown aspect of Earth’s geology.

Understanding Earth’s Outer Shell:

• The Earth’s outer shell, known as the lithosphere, comprises rigid tectonic plates that float atop the semi-fluid asthenosphere.
• The movement of these plates plays a crucial role in shaping the planet’s surface features.
• The research team was surprised to find that large undersea faults, hundreds of kilometers long and thousands of meters deep, are scoring the Pacific plate.
• This phenomenon, previously thought to occur only in continental plate interiors, challenges existing geological paradigms.

In-depth Analysis of Deformation:

• The Pacific plate, covering the majority of the Pacific Ocean floor, moves westwards and descends into the Earth’s mantle along subduction zones from Japan to New Zealand and Australia.
• The researchers observed that as the plate’s western edge is pulled down into the mantle.
• The remaining portion experiences deformation, likened to a tablecloth being pulled from a table.

Plateaus’ Counterintuitive Weakness:

• Contrary to previous assumptions, the study found that sub-oceanic plateaus, including Ontong Java, Shatsky, Hess, and Manihiki, are weaker despite their thickness.
• The researchers utilized seismic data and advanced computer models, challenging the notion that thicker plateaus should be stronger.

Role of Supercomputing in the Study:

• To unravel these mysteries, the scientists employed a supercomputer to create a model based on existing data.
• This computational approach allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of the geological processes occurring beneath the Pacific Ocean.

Geographical Scope of the Study:

• The research focused on four plateaus in the western Pacific Ocean, covering an extensive area bordered by New Zealand, Hawaii, Japan, and Australia.
• This geographical scope provided a holistic view of the tectonic activities in the region.

Publication and Implications:

• The study’s findings, published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, have profound implications for our understanding of Earth’s dynamic processes.
• The discovery challenges established theories and underscores the existence of radical mysteries in the planet’s evolution.
• The research from the University of Toronto reveals a previously unknown aspect of tectonic plate dynamics beneath the Pacific Ocean.
• The findings not only challenge existing geological models but also emphasize the need for continued exploration and investigation to unravel the complexities of our ever-evolving planet.

SOURCE: https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-say-tectonic-plate-tearing-apart-under-pacific-ocean-from-japan-to-new-zealand-688973

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the government announced Bharat Ratnas for PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh and MS Swaminathan. Though, all of them are well-deserved as their contribution was unprecedented and respected by all Indians but there should also be a moment of introspection in award giving by the government.

ABOUT BHARAT RATNA

• Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian Award of the country, was instituted in the year 1954.
• It was suspended from July 1977 to January 1980 and for a second time from August 1992 to December 1995.

Eligibility:

• Any person without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex is eligible for these awards. Earlier, there was no provision for posthumous awards but since 1966 awards are given posthumously as well.

Features:

• It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour.
• The recommendations for Bharat Ratna are made by the Prime Minister himself to the President. No formal recommendations for this are necessary.
• The number of annual awards is restricted to a maximum of three in a particular year.
• On conferment of the award, the recipient receives a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion. The Award does not carry any monetary grant.

Constitutional provisions:

• In terms of Article 18 (1) of the Constitution, the award cannot be used as a prefix or suffix to the recipient’s name.
• However, should an award winner consider it necessary, he/she may use the following expression in their bio- data/letterhead/visiting card etc. to indicate that he/she is a recipient of the award: ‘Awarded Bharat Ratna by the President’ or ‘Recipient of Bharat Ratna Award.
• With official announcements, recipients are announced and registered in The Gazette of India, a publication released by the Department of Publication, Ministry of Urban Development used for official government notices.
• Bharat Ratna recipients rank seventh in the Indian order of precedence.

CONTRIBUTION OF PERSONALITIES:
PV NARASIMHA RAO

• Narasimha Rao was the father of India’s economic reforms. He is known for bringing the policy of economic liberalisation in India.
• It was initiated in 1991 with the goal of making the economy more market- and service-oriented, and expanding the role of private and foreign investment.
• The success of the policy changes he unveiled in 1991 opening up the economy to the world and private investment, both domestic and foreign can be measured by the country’s GDP growing some 13-fold, from $270 billion to $3.5 trillion.
• He sought to dismantle the restrictions imposed under the license raj, reduce red tape and make Indian industries more competitive.

CHAUDHARY CHARAN SINGH

• Charan Singh’s three landmark pieces of legislation in Uttar Pradesh transformed the agricultural economy of northern India during the 1950s and 1960s.

1. Dismantling the zamindari system of intermediaries between the cultivator and the state.
2. Enabling consolidation of fragmented holdings
3. Enforcing land ceiling

• It helped create a new socially and politically empowered middle peasant class in the region. Their economic fortunes rose with the Green Revolution, whose key architect was Swaminathan.

MS SWAMINATHAN

• He was called the ‘Father of the Green Revolution’, and played a major role in the set of changes introduced in farming in the 1960s and ‘that helped India achieve food security.
• He was the first to recognise the potential of the new high-yielding wheat and rice varieties less tall with strong stems that responded well to more fertiliser application.
• He also strengthened the national agricultural research system (NARS) that has helped boost yields in other crops as well, including through breeding of varieties resistant to pests, diseases and abiotic stresses.
• He would go on to serve at a number of institutions related to the sector in both India and abroad – as an Independent Chairman of the Food and Agricultural Organisation Council (1981-85), President of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (1984-90), President of the World Wide Fund for Nature (India) from 1989-96 and the Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), among others.
• He received the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in 1961 for biological sciences. The GOI bestowed the Padma Vibhushan on Swaminathan in 1989.
• In 1971, he received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership. He also received the UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Gold Medal in 1999.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Democratisation of selection process: The awarding of Bharat Ratna to any person marks great honour and recognition to their work. Hence, to provide continued legitimacy to the awards there should be democratisation of the selection process.
• Introspection of awards: The awarding of Bharat Ratna to the three eminent persons should also be a moment of introspection. The motive of such national awards should not be affected by any political interest. As reforms have delivered growth, but not lessened poverty as much as was hoped. Rao would not have been happy with rising inequality and continued misallocation of resources towards inefficient producer and consumer subsidies. Charan Singh’s initiatives needs a new formula for boosting incomes through crop diversification, improved input use efficiency and cutting out intermediaries in the marketing of produce.
• Restoring NARS: The best tribute to Swaminathan would be to restore the NARS to its former glory. Farmer interest is better served by more money for research and infrastructure investments, not under-pricing of fertiliser, electricity and water.

THE CONCLUSION:

The Bharat Ratna stands as a prestigious recognition of exceptional service and contributions to India and despite controversies and debates, it continues to symbolize the nation’s gratitude to those who have made outstanding contributions to humanity.

UPSC PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION

Q. Normally countries shift from agriculture to industry and then later to services, but India shifted directly from agriculture to services. What are the reasons for the huge growth of services vis-a-vis the industry in the country? Can India become a developed country without a strong industrial base? (2014)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Discuss the ways to insulate the national awards from politics to ensure democratisation in the process so that it does not lead to populism and devaluation of the awards.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/express-view-three-ratnas-9156177/

THE CONTEXT:

According to the White Paper released by the Finance Ministry, the UPA is accused of economic mismanagement, while the NDA’s reforms are praised. However, the Black Paper presented by the Congress criticizes the NDA’s policies, citing issues such as unemployment and distress among farmers.

THE ISSUES:

• Scams and Corruption: The White Paper lists 15 “high-profile” UPA scams as alleged economic mismanagement, including coal, 2G spectrum, the Commonwealth Games, and a misappropriation case in the Jammu & Kashmir cricket board.
• Governance Issues: The finance minister criticized the UPA’s ‘extra-constitutional’ governance system and failed to undertake pending reforms after the 1991 liberalization.
• GST and Aadhaar: The White Paper credits the NDA government for delivering on GST and effectively using Aadhaar, despite some BJP states, including Gujarat, having reservations about them.
• Pending Reforms: The NDA government has not found a consilient approach to critical pending factor markets reforms, such as land and labour, and has had to backtrack on farm sector reforms.
• Economic Blunders: The Congress’s Black Paper highlights the NDA government’s economic blunders, such as demonetization, the flawed GST regime, unemployment with stagnant wage growth, farmers’ distress, and high inflation.
• Oil Prices and Inflation: The Black Paper points out the high inflation rates despite lower crude oil prices than the UPA’s tenure.
• GDP Growth and Employment Rates: The White Paper does not include real GDP growth and employment rates from the UPA and NDA years, which could be crucial economic performance indicators.
• Reform Journey: India’s reform journey has been marked by successive governments building on past efforts, with many opportunities considered missed or bungled in hindsight.
• Voter Expectations: The White Paper attempts to temper voters’ expectations from a government with a majority mandate.

THE WAY FORWARD:

• Transparent and Inclusive Policymaking: Enhance transparency in economic policymaking by involving a broader range of stakeholders, including opposition parties, industry experts, and civil society, to ensure well-rounded policies and consider diverse perspectives.
• Comprehensive Economic Reforms: Continue and deepen economic reforms in critical areas such as land, labour, and capital markets to improve India’s business environment and attract more investment. Addressing various states’ and stakeholders’ concerns and reservations about reforms like GST and Aadhaar is crucial for their successful implementation.
• Accountability and Oversight: Enhance the accountability of public officials and institutions through regular audits, transparency initiatives, and public reporting to reduce the wastage of public resources and improve governance.
• Focus on Inclusive Growth: Prioritize policies that promote inclusive growth, such as affordable housing, healthcare, and education, to ensure the benefits of economic growth are widely shared.
• Addressing Unemployment and Wage Stagnation: Implement targeted programs to create jobs and support skill development to address unemployment and wage stagnation. Encourage private sector investment in labour-intensive sectors.
• Prudent Fiscal Management: Maintain fiscal discipline by managing public expenditure and enhancing revenue collection to support sustainable economic growth and manage inflation effectively.
• Digital Infrastructure and Services: Continue to invest in and expand digital infrastructure to improve public service delivery, enhance government efficiency, and foster innovation.
• Data-Driven Policy Making: Utilize data analytics and technology to inform policy decisions, monitor implementation, and evaluate the impact of government programs and initiatives.
• Acknowledging and Building on Previous Achievements: Recognize the contributions of previous governments and build on successful policies and programs, ensuring continuity and stability in governance.

THE CONCLUSION:

UPA and NDA have different views on shaping public opinion. NDA emphasizes reforms, while UPA highlights policy failures. Both have published White and Black Papers before elections to convince voters of their economic stewardship and criticize the other’s failings.

UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:

Q.1) Two parallel-run schemes of the government, viz. the Adhaar Card and NPR, one voluntary and the other compulsory, have led to debates and litigations at national levels. On merits, discuss whether both schemes need to run concurrently. Analyze the potential of the schemes to achieve developmental benefits and equitable growth. (2014)

Q.2) Effectiveness of the government system at various levels and people’s participation in the governance system are interdependent.” Discuss their relationship with each other in the context of India. (2016)

MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q.1) Examine the role of economic policies and reforms in shaping India’s growth trajectory over the last two decades. Discuss the impact of these policies on various sectors of the economy and suggest measures for sustainable and inclusive economic development.

SOURCE:

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/conjuring-a-catharsis-the-hindu-editorial-on-the-governments-white-paper-on-the-economy/article67835416.ece

(Newspapers, PIB and other important sources)

Prelim and Main

1. Scientists say tectonic plate tearing apart under Pacific Ocean from Japan to New Zealand READ MORE

2. Scientists discover new fungus species in Thrissur READ MORE

3. What are the changes in the new Water Act? READ MORE

4. Probability of survival decreases with increased duration of CPR READ MORE

5. India set to transition to hyperlocal extreme weather forecasting READ MORE

6. Parliament’s average annual sitting days down to 55 in the 17th Lok Sabha from 135 in the first READ MORE

7. Experts Explain | Darwin Day: How theories of evolution helped our knowledge of life on Earth READ MORE

8. Is La Nina in the offing? How the shift from El Nino may impact monsoon, summer in India this year READ MORE  

Main

GS Paper- 1

1. How can child safety be ensured online? READ MORE

2. Uttarakhand UCC is an attempt to control young people’s sexuality READ MORE

3. How coaching culture lets children down READ MORE

4. Arctic: The quasi-global common READ MORE

GS Paper- 2

POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

1. What does Uttarakhand’s UCC entail? READ MORE

2. How women can be represented in politics READ MORE

3. Fiscal federalism at a crossroads READ MORE

4. The menace of political defections READ MORE

5. Defamation: Law panel is wrong READ MORE

6. South India is rightly agitated by unfair allocation. Limiting Centre’s power is the answer READ MORE

7. Electoral Bonds ‘Likely to be Sold’ Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls. Will the SC Act? READ MORE

SOCIAL ISSUES

1. More women taking up higher education READ MORE

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

1. A privileged strategic partnership, without a gulf READ MORE

2. India focuses on small blocs amid wait for permanent UNSC seat READ MORE

3. Strategic shift READ MORE

GS Paper- 3

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Circular economy paves the way for sustainable vehicle lifecycle management READ MORE

2. Boosting the fisheries’ ecosystem in India READ MORE

3. Good reason to keep repo rate unchanged READ MORE

4. India’s WTO Stance on Farmers Will Be a Test of Its Rhetoric of Championing the Global South READ MORE

5. Role of prosumers in renewable energy adoption in India READ MORE

6. Pulses: Sustaining the Earth and nourishing communities READ MORE

ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

1. Earth’s Changing Climate READ MORE

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

1. Future Warfare and Critical Technologies: Evolving Tactics and Strategies READ MORE

INTERNAL SECURITY

1. Cybersecurity concerns amidst rising cyber threats 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. Swami Dayananda’s pursuit of ultimate truth READ MORE

2. Choose well: Power of choice is power of God READ MORE

3. Idols and idolatry READ MORE

Questions for the MAIN exam

1. Providing a quota for women in Parliament and State Assemblies only increases women’s political representation, but in actuality, it does not represent women. Critically examine.

2. In recent times, the United Arab Emirates has become most important pillar for India in its look-west policy. Comment.

3. Citizens have the right to their reputation and it may be considered as part of their right to privacy the provision like criminal defamation acts as a curb on free speech, which is more important in a democracy. How can the balance be created the freedom of expression and the right to reputation?

4. NGOs act as catalysts for change, addressing gaps in transformation, supporting marginalised groups, delivering essential services, and persuading better policy decisions. Comment.

5. A UCC is neither desirable nor necessary, and, instead, each body of personal law be reformed to eliminate discrimination or regressive practices. How far do you agree view this view?

QUOTATIONS AND CAPTIONS

• It’s the responsibility of the police to maintain the government’s prestige and protect the honour of the citizens.
• Providing a quota for women in Parliament and State Assemblies seems to be the only way to increase their political representation.
• India has numerous strategic partnership agreements across the globe, but none displays more convergence and mutual respect at all levels than the one with the UAE.
• While India recognises and values the UAE’s role in the region, the UAE too is cognisant of the ‘global leadership’ role that India is set to acquire. Both countries recognise that this privileged strategic partnership is only set to grow stronger in the years ahead.
• Distributing more tickets to women in the first-past-the-post system may not necessarily lead to more representation of women in legislature.
• Centre should engage with southern states’ concern over funds allocations.
• The disproportionate anxiety over interfaith and inter-caste relationships, including live-in relationships, betrays the state’s inherently paternalistic attitude towards adult women citizens.
• The people who cast the votes don’t decide an election, the people who count the votes do.
• The anti-defection law, which was passed in 1985 and amended in 2003, is not effective because the power of proving defection vests with the speaker, who belongs to the ruling party and works partially.
• Citizens have the right to their reputation and it may be considered as part of their right to privacy. That is a basic requirement of civilised life and coexistence.
• Civil defamation will serve the purpose of adequately protecting the right to reputation of individuals and civil remedies are available for aggrieved persons.
• Criminal defamation is the legacy of an era and attitude which considered questioning of anything as a crime. It should have no place in a democracy which thrives on free expression of views and open criticism.
• Citizens have the right to their reputation and it may be considered as part of their right to privacy. That is a basic requirement of civilised life and coexistence. The consequence is that it acts as a curb on free speech, which, too, is a fundamental right, and more important in a democracy.
• South India’s situation is unlike any in large federal unions across the world. US, UK, China, Germany, and Spain correct their fiscal imbalances through tax policy. India is making it worse.
• At the upcoming WTO’s biennial trade ministerial conference in Abu Dhabi, it will become clear whether India fights for its farmers or yields ground to Uncle Sam on one of the most crucial issues for poor farmers in developing countries.
• The current ecological and geopolitical shifts in the Arctic region may warrant a thorough revaluation of the Arctic Council’s functions and authority.
• he World Pulse Day provides an opportunity for various stakeholders to come together and celebrate the significance of pulses in achieving certain SDGs.
• Despite many positive outcomes of globalization, “it has also undeniably led to such deep economic concentrations that much of the world today depends on production of a few geographies.”

ESSAY TOPIC

• Knowledge has become fundamental to economic development and technological advancement.
• The greatest resource of all economic development is the mind.

50-WORD TALK

• Pakistan elections were supposed to be a crowning moment for Nawaz Sharif, but now he will have to cobble up numbers to form a government. While some say independent candidates winning is a setback to the Army, one wonders whether this was the military’s ploy to have a weakened Nawaz.
• EC’s decision to give NCP name and symbol to Ajit Pawar faction was unsurprising. Its arguments for relying solely on legislative strength are convoluted. Assembly Speaker, a BJP leader, sits on MLAs’ disqualification petitions and EC uses their strength to rule in favour of BJP’s ally. It’s politics, not justice.
• Karnataka has joined Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana in protesting Centre’s tax devolution policies. The timing works since 16th Finance Commission’s deliberations have just started. But such concerted criticism is another sign of worsening Centre-State relations. If the Centre is serious about fiscal federalism, it needs to rebuild states’ trust.

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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TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT, GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: The proposed 236-kilometer broad-gauge railway line connecting Nilambur in Kerala to Nanjangudi in Karnataka through Bandipur National Park has sparked controversy, with environmentalists expressing concerns about its potential ecological impact.

EXPLANATION:

• The project, aiming to enhance interstate connectivity and reduce travel time, has become a focal point for conservationists advocating for the preservation of the protected area.

Project Rationale and Environmental Concerns

• Interstate Connectivity vs. Ecological Impact
  • The Kerala government, the proponent of the project, underscores its potential to improve interstate connectivity and alleviate traffic congestion on National Highway-766.
  • However, the proposed railway line’s route through the ecologically sensitive Bandipur National Park has raised alarms among wildlife experts and conservationists.
  • The project’s perceived benefits in terms of connectivity and reduced travel distance are being weighed against the potential harm to wildlife habitats and the environment.
• Opposition from Environmentalists
  • Environmentalists argue that a 19.7-kilometer stretch of the existing National Highway-766 already traverses Bandipur National Park, and the railway line could exacerbate ecological disruptions.
  • Concerns are particularly focused on the potential lifting of the night traffic ban in Bandipur, a move that conservationists fear could lead to accidents and negatively impact wildlife.

Protests and Advocacy: ‘Save Bandipur’ Movement

• Unifying Environmental Advocacy
  • In response to the proposed railway project, environmentalists have coalesced under the banner ‘Save Bandipur.’
  • Over the last week, protests and awareness campaigns have been organized to highlight the potential adverse impacts on Bandipur and Nagarahole national parks.
  • The movement aims to bring attention to the ecological significance of these protected areas and garner public support for their preservation.
• Protests in Mysuru
  • A significant protest was staged in Mysuru on February 4, led by the Gandhada Gudi Foundation, urging authorities to safeguard Bandipur forest.
  • Demonstrators voiced their opposition to the railway line’s construction within the forest area, emphasizing the need for stringent measures to protect wildlife habitats.

Government Responses and Future Implications

• Government’s Stance and Forest Minister’s Assurance
  • Karnataka Forest Minister’s recent visit to Bandipur Tiger Reserve raised concerns about the potential lifting of the night traffic ban.
  • However, the minister assured that the ban would remain in place, prioritizing the preservation of wildlife and forests.
  • This assertion aligns with the government’s commitment to maintaining the ecological balance in the region.
• Political Perspectives and Karnataka’s Position
  • MP representing Mysuru-Kodagu in Parliament has urged the government to prioritize forest conservation efforts.
  • However, there is a disparity in perspectives between Kerala and Karnataka, with Karnataka forest authorities stating they have not been informed about the proposed projects.
  • The lack of communication raises questions about the coordination between the involved states in addressing ecological concerns.

Project Status and Future Developments

• Survey Initiatives and Lack of Information
  • Despite resistance and protests, the Kerala government has initiated a survey for the railway line’s construction, according to local reports.
  • However, the South Western Railway (SWR) for Mysuru claims to lack information about the project and any associated surveys.
  • The ambiguity surrounding the project’s status and the absence of a unified stance between the involved states raise questions about the transparency and collaborative decision-making process.
• Historical Approval and Current Relevance
  • The Planning Commission initially approved the project cost in 2010, envisioning a shortcut from Kerala to Bengaluru.
  • Despite the historical approval, concerns about ecological impact persist, and the current controversy surrounding the project reflects evolving environmental sensitivities.

Conclusion: Balancing Development and Conservation

• The proposed Nilambur-Nanjangud railway line through Bandipur National Park stands at the intersection of development aspirations and environmental conservation.
• As the ‘Save Bandipur’ movement gains momentum, the balancing act between improving interstate connectivity and preserving ecologically sensitive areas becomes paramount.
• The responses from both Kerala and Karnataka, the coordination between the states, and the government’s commitment to sustainable development will shape the future trajectory of this contentious railway project.
• The Nilambur-Nanjangud line exemplifies the ongoing challenges in achieving harmony between progress and the protection of invaluable natural ecosystems.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/plan-for-nilambur-nanjangud-railway-line-through-bandipur-national-park-evokes-protests-over-ecological-impact-94373

TAG: GS 2: POLITY

THE CONTEXT: The Indian Parliament recently achieved significant milestones by passing crucial bills aimed at expanding the Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC) lists in Jammu and Kashmir.

EXPLANATION:

• The move is a pivotal step towards addressing historical demands and enhancing social inclusivity in the region.
• The bills, including the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024, reflect a commitment to recognizing and empowering marginalized communities.

Expansion of Scheduled Tribes List: Addressing Long-standing Demands

• The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024, successfully cleared both houses of Parliament, ushering in a momentous change by adding four communities to the Scheduled Tribes list.
• The inclusion of Paddari, Pahari, Gadda Brahmin, and Koli communities responds to the protracted demands for ST status, demonstrating a commitment to redressing historical grievances.
• The Minister of Tribal Affairs underscored the significance of the bill, emphasizing its role in delivering justice to communities that have long sought ST status.
• Minister attributed the legislative progress to the abrogation of Article 370, highlighting how this constitutional change facilitated the enactment of laws addressing the aspirations of marginalized communities.

OBC Reservations in Local Bodies: A Step Towards Inclusive Governance

• Parallelly, the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, received approval from the Upper House.
• This bill aims to introduce reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in panchayats and municipalities in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Minister of State for Home Affairs elaborated on the key amendments, emphasizing the provision for OBC reservations and the crucial role of the state election commission in conducting local body elections.
• Minister of State for Home Affairs reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of OBCs in the region.
• He highlighted the series of measures undertaken by the government, stating, “The government has taken several steps for the welfare of the OBCs in the Union territory, and this amendment is another step in that direction.”
• The move aligns with broader efforts to ensure inclusive governance and representation at the grassroots level.

Valmiki Community Inclusion in SC List: Broadening Access to Benefits

Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024

• The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024, completes the legislative triad by adding the Valmiki community to the Scheduled Castes list.
• This strategic inclusion aims to extend the scope of benefits and schemes available to the Valmiki community, marking a significant stride towards social justice and empowerment.

Commitment to Weaker Sections

• The Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment reaffirmed the government’s commitment to uplift weaker sections of society.
• The tangible benefits that these communities would accrue through the passage of the bills has been highlighted.
• The government’s focus on strengthening the socio-economic fabric without succumbing to vote bank politics has also been emphasised.

Conclusion: A Transformative Legislative Landscape for Jammu and Kashmir

• The legislative approvals of bills related to Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and Other Backward Classes underscore a transformative phase for Jammu and Kashmir.
• These decisions reflect a commitment to social justice, recognizing historical grievances, and fostering inclusivity.
• The inclusion of new communities in the ST list, OBC reservations in local bodies, and the Valmiki community’s addition to the SC list collectively contribute to a more equitable and representative governance structure.
• As Jammu and Kashmir witnesses these progressive legislative changes, it marks a significant step towards building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

SOURCE: https://news.abplive.com/news/india/parliament-clears-jammu-kashmir-bills-scheduled-tribes-scheduled-castes-lists-valmiki-obc-local-bodies-1663246

TAG: PRELIMS SPECIFIC

THE CONTEXT: In a significant announcement, Prime Minister revealed that three distinguished individuals – former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, along with renowned agriculture scientist MS Swaminathan – are to be conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.

EXPLANATION:

• This prestigious recognition underscores their exceptional contributions to the nation in diverse fields.
• The Centre had earlier announced the Bharat Ratna for Bharatiya Janata Party veteran Lal Krishna Advani and former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur.

PV Narasimha Rao: Architect of Economic Reforms

• Legacy of Leadership
  • Prime Minister extolled the accomplishments of PV Narasimha Rao, highlighting his multifaceted legacy as a scholar and statesman.
  • Narasimha Rao’s extensive service to India, encompassing roles as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and a prominent Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly, is acknowledged.
  • His visionary leadership, particularly during his tenure as Prime Minister, played a pivotal role in ushering in economic reforms that opened India to global markets.
• Economic Advancement and Global Integration
  • Underlining the transformative measures enacted during Narasimha Rao’s leadership, PM emphasized their instrumental role in making India economically advanced.
  • These reforms laid a robust foundation for the country’s prosperity and growth.
  • The former Prime Minister’s contributions extended beyond economic realms to India’s foreign policy, language, and education sectors, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

Chaudhary Charan Singh: Champion of Farmers’ Rights

• Incomparable Contribution to the Nation
  • PM expressed the government’s good fortune in honouring Chaudhary Charan Singh with the Bharat Ratna, dedicating this recognition to Singh’s unparalleled contribution to the nation.
  • He served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Home Minister of the country, and as an MLA, devoted his life to championing the rights and welfare of farmers.
• Defender of Democracy
  • The tribute extended to Chaudhary Charan Singh encompasses his role as a staunch defender of democracy during challenging times, particularly the Emergency.
  • PM highlighted Singh’s steadfast commitment to nation-building and his unwavering support for farmers, emphasizing the enduring inspiration Singh’s legacy provides to the entire nation.

MS Swaminathan: Trailblazer in Agriculture

• Monumental Contributions to Agriculture
  • Prime Minister lauded the monumental contributions of Dr. MS Swaminathan to Indian agriculture and farmers’ welfare.
  • Recognizing Swaminathan’s pivotal role in achieving self-reliance in agriculture during challenging periods, PM emphasized his outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture.
• Visionary Leadership and Food Security
  • Swaminathan’s visionary leadership not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity.
  • The Bharat Ratna is a testament to Swaminathan’s invaluable work as an innovator, mentor, and advocate for learning and research in the field of agriculture.

Conclusion: A Triumphant Acknowledgment of Excellence

• The announcement of Bharat Ratna for PV Narasimha Rao, Chaudhary Charan Singh, and MS Swaminathan signifies the recognition of their exceptional contributions that have left an indelible impact on India’s economic, political, and agricultural landscapes.
• This honour is not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a collective acknowledgment of their enduring legacies, each playing a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of the nation.
• As India bestows its highest civilian honour upon these visionaries, it reflects a triumphant acknowledgment of excellence and a commitment to preserving and promoting their impactful contributions for generations to come.

Bharat Ratna:

• Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of the country.
• It is awarded in recognition of exceptional service/performance of the highest order in any field of human endeavour.
• It is treated on a different footing from Padma Award.
• The recommendations for Bharat Ratna are made by the Prime Minister to the President of India.
• The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of three in a particular year.

SOURCE: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/former-pms-narasimha-rao-chaudhary-charan-singh-and-ms-swaminathan-to-get-bharat-ratna-pm-modi-101707462720479.html

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, Conservationists have obtained the first-ever video of a baby spider monkey birth in the wild as the critically endangered species struggles to repopulate amid continued habitat loss.

EXPLANATION:

• Conservationists have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by capturing the first-ever video of a baby spider monkey being born in the wild.
• The event unfolded in the Chocó, a tropical forest region in northwest Ecuador.
• It shedded light on the challenges faced by the critically endangered brown-headed spider monkey as it strives to repopulate amidst continuous habitat loss.

The Dramatic Birth of Anku: A Precarious Moment

• Unique Circumstances of the Birth
  • The newborn, named Anku, entered the world on January 22, bringing hope to conservation efforts.
  • However, the documentation of this rare event took an unexpected turn.
  • Anku was found suspended about 50 feet above the ground in one of the tallest tree canopies, held only by his umbilical cord.
  • The researchers, initially terrified, watched as Anku defied the odds, not falling to the ground, concluding the dramatic moment with relief and amazement.

Challenges in Documenting Spider Monkey Births: Nighttime Rarity

• Elusiveness of Spider Monkey Births
  • Spider monkey births in the wild are notoriously challenging to document due to their nocturnal nature.
  • The researchers, who have dedicated over a decade to studying this elusive species, faced the unique opportunity of witnessing a birth for the first time.
  • The rarity of these occurrences adds a layer of complexity to the understanding of spider monkey reproductive behaviour.

Conservation Status and Threats: A Critical Perspective

• Critical Endangerment and Habitat Loss
  • Brown-headed spider monkeys are categorized as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species.
  • Their population continues to dwindle as they grapple with the overarching threat of habitat loss.
  • The species, dependent on trees for survival, faces the dire consequences of deforestation driven by activities such as cattle ranching and large-scale plantations, particularly those cultivating crops like palm oil.
• Competition with Humans and Boreal Nature
  • Spider monkeys, integral to the ecosystem, compete with humans for space.
  • The boreal nature of these primates, avoiding the ground where predators like jaguars roam, contributes to their vulnerability.
  • The ongoing struggle for territory underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of habitat destruction.

Birth Dynamics and Conservation Efforts: A Delicate Balance

• Longevity and Reproduction Challenges
  • The brown-headed spider monkeys live relatively long lives, spanning 15 to 20 years.
  • The birthing process itself is a lengthy one, with gestation periods exceeding seven months and nursing lasting up to four years.
  • This extended reproductive cycle poses challenges to maintaining a stable population, emphasizing the importance of each birth, such as Anku’s, in the conservation narrative.
• Conservation Initiatives and Community-Based Success
  • The birth of Anku is hailed as a landmark achievement for the brown-headed spider monkey, showcasing the effectiveness of community-based conservation efforts.
  • Organizations like Proyecto Washu play a pivotal role in addressing complex conservation issues, ranging from climate change impacts to habitat restoration.
  • CEO of the Wildlife Conservation Network emphasized the significance of these local initiatives in tackling global challenges.

Cultural Sensitivity in Conservation: A Necessary Paradigm Shift

• Poaching and Cultural Practices
  • While habitat loss poses a significant threat, poaching and the illegal wildlife trade further compound the challenges faced by spider monkeys.
  • Indigenous communities, with cultural ties to hunting spider monkeys, contribute to the complexity of conservation efforts.
  • Striking a balance between protecting the species and respecting cultural practices becomes imperative for sustainable conservation strategies.

Global Collaboration and Hope for the Future: The Way Forward

• International Collaboration and Conservation Dilemmas
  • As conservationists navigate the intricate web of challenges, international collaboration becomes essential.
  • The case of spider monkeys exemplifies the need for culturally sensitive conservation programs that allow communities to coexist with wildlife while ensuring sustainable resource use.
  • Vice president of wildlife care for the San Diego Zoo emphasized the importance of developing such programs to address the conservation dilemmas faced globally.
• Rescued Spider Monkey Babies: A Tale of Resilience
  • In a parallel narrative, the San Diego Zoo’s efforts in rescuing and caring for illegally brought spider monkey babies showcase the resilience of these creatures despite challenging beginnings.
  • The commitment to ensuring a bright future for these animals becomes a beacon of hope amid the broader conservation landscape.

Conclusion: Balancing Act for Spider Monkeys and Conservation

• The documentation of Anku’s birth offers a rare glimpse into the delicate balance between the challenges faced by spider monkeys and the ongoing efforts to conserve this critically endangered species.
• As conservationists grapple with habitat loss, cultural nuances, and the intricate dynamics of spider monkey reproduction, the need for global collaboration, community engagement, and adaptive conservation strategies becomes increasingly evident.
• Anku’s birth, against the odds, serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of nature and the collective responsibility to protect our planet’s biodiversity.

SOURCE: https://abcnews.go.com/US/spider-monkey-birth-documented-wild-1st-time-exclusive/story?id=106956303

TAG: GS 1: WORLD GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: The Aral Sea, an endorheic lake located between Kazakhstan in the north and Uzbekistan in the south, has nearly disappeared.

EXPLANATION:

• The Aral Sea, once a thriving endorheic lake situated between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, began its tragic journey towards near extinction in the early 1960s.
• The Soviet Union initiated a colossal water diversion project in 1960, redirecting the vital Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers to foster agricultural development in the surrounding desert region.
• This ambitious endeavor aimed to transform the arid landscape but, unbeknownst at the time, set in motion a catastrophic sequence of events leading to the steady demise of the Aral Sea.

An image of the shrinking Aral Sea by NASA

Human Engineering and Agricultural Projects Gone Awry

• The Soviet water diversion project, while successful in making the desert bloom, inadvertently sowed the seeds of destruction for the Aral Sea.
• By diverting the lifeblood of the lake for irrigation purposes, the water body, once renowned for its abundance of fish and pristine blue waters, began a relentless decline.
• Today, the Aral Sea is a mere fraction of its former size, symbolizing the unintended consequences of large-scale human engineering and agricultural projects.

The Aral Sea Crisis: A Modern Environmental Catastrophe

• Climate Change Exacerbating the Desolation
  • In recent times, the plight of the Aral Sea has been further aggravated by the impacts of climate change.
  • Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased evaporation are compounding the challenges faced by this already beleaguered water body.
  • Experts predict that climate change will accelerate the disappearance of the Aral Sea, intensifying the suffering of the communities residing in its vicinity.
• UN’s Stark Assessment
  • The United Nations Development Program has labeled the destruction of the Aral Sea as “the most staggering disaster of the 20th century.”
  • The repercussions of this environmental catastrophe are far-reaching, manifesting as land degradation, desertification, drinking water shortages, malnutrition, and deteriorating health conditions in the surrounding areas.
  • The far-reaching consequences underscore the urgency of addressing this crisis comprehensively.

International Efforts and Ongoing Struggle

• Attempts at Restoration
  • International aid organizations, national governments, and local groups have rallied together in an attempt to mitigate the damage inflicted upon the Aral Sea.
  • Various restoration initiatives have been undertaken, ranging from water management projects to community-led efforts.
  • However, despite these endeavors, the relentless pace of climate change threatens to outpace these mitigation measures, making the restoration of the Aral Sea an uphill battle.
• Impact on Local Communities
  • The suffering of the residents around the Aral Sea is a poignant aspect of this crisis.
  • Drinking water shortages, agricultural challenges, and health issues have become pervasive, eroding the livelihoods and well-being of those dependent on the lake.
  • The precarious balance between human needs and environmental sustainability is at the forefront of the struggle to save the Aral Sea.

Conclusion: A Race Against Time

• The tragic decline of the Aral Sea stands as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of human activities and environmental well-being.
• While efforts persist to reverse the damage wrought by human engineering and agricultural mismanagement, the accelerating impact of climate change poses an ominous threat.
• The plight of the Aral Sea serves as a clarion call for global collaboration, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and climate resilience to prevent the irreversible loss of vital ecosystems.
• Time is of the essence as the Aral Sea races against the forces that conspire to erase it from the map.

SOURCE: https://www.hindustantimes.com/trending/how-climate-change-is-accelerating-the-decades-long-demise-of-the-aral-sea-101707472028728.html