CONTENTS Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum to Open for Visitors Bal Gangadhar Tilak  Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum to Open for Visitors Context: The Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum is set to open for visitors. Nestled between Sunder Nursery and Humayun’s Tomb in Nizamuddin, Delhi, this museum promises to offer visitors a unique insight into the life and times of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun. This initiative is expected to enhance the cultural and historical tourism experience in the region, providing a deeper understanding of Mughal history and architecture. Relevance: GS I: History Key Highlights of Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum  Design and Facilities: Architectural Design: The museum is inspired by the traditional baoli (stepwell) architecture, blending seamlessly with the historic ambiance of the site. Amenities: It includes a 100-seat auditorium, temporary galleries, cafés, meeting rooms, and a library, offering diverse spaces for learning and engagement. Artefacts and Exhibits: Notable Artefacts: Pear-Shaped Water Vessel: Belonging to Jauhar Aftabchi, a biographer of Humayun. Helmet: Used by Humayun as a cooking vessel during his travels to Persia. Coins and Historical Items: Mughal Coins: Includes coins from the reigns of 18 Mughal-era kings. Throne of Bahadur Shah Zafar: The last Mughal emperor’s throne is featured. Akbar Era Coins: Coins with inscriptions of ‘Allah’ on one side and ‘Ram’ on the other. Jahangir Era Coins: Noted for their expense and rarity. Bahadur Shah Zafar Coins: Rare coins minted by the last Mughal emperor. Focus and Themes: Emperor Humayun: The museum highlights the architecture of Humayun’s Mausoleum and aspects of the emperor’s personality, including his travels, administration, interest in reading, astrology, the arts, and architectural patronage. Cultural Figures: Sufi Saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya Poet Amir Khusrau Dehalvi Rahim: Commander-in-chief of Akbar’s army and poet. Dara Shukoh: Known for translating the Upanishads into Persian. Management and Conservation: Managed by ASI: The museum is overseen by the Archaeological Survey of India. Conservation Effort: It is part of a larger conservation initiative covering the 300-acre Humayun’s Tomb-Sunder Nursery-Nizamuddin Basti area, ensuring the preservation and promotion of the historical and cultural significance of the region. Bal Gangadhar Tilak Context: The Prime Minister has paid tribute to the great Lokmanya Tilak on his Jayanti. Relevance: GS I- Modern History About Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Bal Gangadhar Tilak, commonly known as Lokamanya Tilak was a leader of the Indian independence movement and belonged to the extremist faction. He was also called the ‘Father of Indian Unrest’. Born as Keshav Gangadhar Tilak in 1856 in Ratnagiri, modern-day Maharashtra. Ideology: He was a devout Hindu and used Hindu scriptures to rouse people to fight oppression. Stressed on the need for self-rule and believed that without self-rule or swarajya, no progress was possible. Slogan: “Swaraj is my birth right and I shall have it!” Emphasised the importance of a cultural and religious revival to go with the political movements. Popularised the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in the Maharashtra region. Propounded the celebration of Shiv Jayanti on the birth anniversary of the monarch Chhatrapati Shivaji. Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s Political Life Tilak joined the Congress in 1890. He was opposed to moderate ways and views and had a more radical and aggressive stance against British rule. He was part of the extremist faction of the INC and was a proponent of boycott and Swadeshi movements. He was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment on charges of “incitement to murder”. He had written that killers of oppressors could not be blamed, quoting the Bhagavad Gita. After this, two British officials were killed by two Indians in retaliation to the ‘tyrannical’ measures taken by the government during the bubonic plague episode in Bombay. Along with Bipin Chandra Pal and Lala Lajpat Rai, he was called the ‘Lal-Bal-Pal’ trio of extremist leaders. He was tried for sedition several times. He spent 6 years in Mandalay prison from 1908 to 1914 for writing articles defending Prafulla Chaki and Khudiram Bose. They were revolutionaries who had killed two English women, throwing bomb into the carriage carrying the women. Chaki and Bose had mistakenly assumed that Magistrate Douglas Kingsford was in it. Tilak re-joined the INC in 1916, after having split earlier. He was one of the founders of the All India Home Rule League, along with Annie Besant and G S Khaparde. He called for people to be proud of their heritage. He was against the blatant westernisation of society. He transformed the simple Ganesh Puja performed at home into a social and public Ganesh festival. He used the Ganesh Chaturthi and Shiv Jayanti (birth anniversary of Shivaji) festivals to create unity and a national spirit among the people. Unfortunately, this move alienated non-Hindus from him. Newspapers: Weeklies Kesari (Marathi) and Mahratta (English) Books: Gita Rhasya and Arctic Home of the Vedas. Death: He died on 1st August 1920.

CONTENTS India’s Illegal Coal Mining Problem Budget 2024: A Blueprint for Long-Term Growth India’s Illegal Coal Mining Problem Context: On July 13, three workers lost their lives due to asphyxiation in an unauthorized coal mine located in Gujarat’s Surendranagar district. According to officials, these workers were operating in a mine near Bhet village in Thangadh taluka without helmets, masks, or any other safety gear. The first information report (FIR) mentioned that the responsible parties neglected to provide essential protective equipment, leading to the workers’ deaths from inhaling toxic gases in the mine. The police have filed charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder against four individuals. Relevance: GS1- Mineral and Energy Resources Mains Question: How prevalent is illegal coal mining in India and what are the legal frameworks dealing with it? What factors contribute to the persistence of illegal coal mining despite these frameworks and what can be done to minimise it? (15 Marks, 250 Words). Similar Incidents: The incident in Surendranagar is not unique. In June 2023, three people, including a ten-year-old child, reportedly died when an illegal mine collapsed in the Dhanbad district of Jharkhand. Similarly, in October 2023, at least three people were killed when a coal mine collapsed during illegal mining activities in West Bengal’s Paschim Bardhaman district. These cases highlight the dangers of illegal coal mining in India. Evolution of Coal Mining in India: Coal mining in India was nationalized in two stages: first, with coking coal (used for making coke in the steel industry) in 1971-72, and then with non-coking coal mines in 1973. The Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973, is the key legislation regulating coal mining eligibility in India. Illegal mining presents a law and order issue, which is under the jurisdiction of the State governments rather than the Union government. Why is illegal coal mining widespread in India? According to the Ministry of Coal, illegal mining in India primarily occurs in abandoned mines or shallow coal seams located in remote or isolated areas. Several factors contribute to the prevalence of illegal coal mining in the country. Coal is the most abundant fossil fuel in India, providing 55% of the nation’s energy needs. The high demand for electricity often exceeds the legal coal supply, leading to illegal mining operations. Many coal-rich regions are also near communities facing poverty and unemployment, which drives illegal mining activities. In remote regions, weak enforcement of mining regulations is common due to inadequate monitoring and lack of resources, allowing “coal mafias” to thrive. For instance, in 2018, activist Marshall Biam from the North East Indigenous People’s Federation filed a complaint accusing a “police-backed” coal gang of threatening him. Coal-rich Meghalaya has experienced several mining tragedies. Illegal coal mining is often reportedly supported by political leaders in areas where it is common, making it difficult to control. In 2023, the an Assam-based political party submitted petitions to various authorities, including the President and the Prime Minister, alleging that some leaders of a national party are involved in illegal coal mining in the state. They claimed that illegal rat-hole mining persists in Assam, Meghalaya, and other northeastern states with the alleged backing of BJP leaders and officials, despite a blanket ban by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014. Illegal mining often uses simple techniques like surface mining and rat-hole mining instead of the scientific methods required for legal, large-scale operations. In areas where coal seams are near the surface, illegal miners access them with minimal safety equipment. The low operational costs can lead to significant profits, making illegal mining attractive. Why Do Many Workers Die in Illegal Coal Mines? The main reason for fatalities in illegal coal mining is the absence of safety equipment and protocols. Miners are at higher risk of respiratory issues due to inhaling coal dust, and the lack of safety gear significantly exacerbates this risk. In the Surendranagar incident, the miners died from carbon monoxide poisoning. District Collector K.C. Sampat noted that although 2,100 wells had been filled recently, some may have been illegally reopened, leading to the incident. Illegal mines often lack proper structural support, making them dangerous and prone to cave-ins, landslides, and explosions. Workers may also be exposed to high levels of toxic substances like lead and mercury, which can cause acute poisoning or long-term chronic health issues. Many people working in illegal coal mines are untrained and unaware of the job’s risks. There is a lack of proper training, quick response facilities, and emergency knowledge. Operator negligence and worker exploitation are also common in illegal coal mining. Why do Governments Struggle to Reduce Illegal Coal Mining in India? Illegal coal mining has been a topic of discussion in Parliament, but since it’s considered a law and order issue, the Union government often shifts responsibility to State authorities. A combination of economic, social, political, and regulatory factors makes it difficult for governments to eliminate illegal coal mining in India. Illegal coal mining is not a new phenomenon; it has existed since before coal was nationalized and continues in coal-rich areas or near abandoned mines. Conclusion: The high demand for coal as a fuel makes illegal mining widespread and hard to control. In many areas, local economies depend on mining, and once official operations cease, illegal mining takes over to support the community. The legal framework for mining is complex, potentially leading to bureaucratic hurdles and inefficiency in governance, allowing illegal mining to persist. Budget 2024: A Blueprint for Long-Term Growth Context: In a crucial move to bolster India’s economic strength, the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 has taken major steps to ensure the continuity of progressive reforms. There is excitement in the MSME, E-commerce, and start-up sectors, which have received additional support as the nation advances toward the goal of a Viksit Bharat. Relevance: Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment Inclusive Growth and issues arising from it Government Budgeting Mains Question: The Union Budget 2024-25 reaffirms the Govt’s dedication to long-term growth. Discuss in the context of initiatives proposed in various sectors. (15 Marks, 250 Words). A Boost for MSMEs: The budget appropriately supports the lower end of the industrial spectrum by providing essential credit access for the MSME sector. India is home to 633.9 lakh MSMEs, with over 99% classified as micro-enterprises, totaling 630.5 lakh. One significant barrier preventing micro-enterprises (with investments up to INR 10 million) from growing into small or medium enterprises is the lack of access to formal credit. By doubling the MUDRA loan amounts and establishing new SIDBI branches, credit will become more readily available to these businesses. Other measures, such as the mandatory Trade Receivables Discounting System, have improved liquidity, while industrial parks will offer digital support that MSMEs typically cannot afford. Additionally, the new credit guarantee scheme for MSMEs provides term loans without collateral or third-party guarantees, significantly reducing the financial strain on small business owners and encouraging entrepreneurship. This positive support for this vital sector is likely to boost its confidence, allowing it to move beyond its risk-averse nature and pursue ambitious growth toward 2047. Skilling and Job Creation: The government has addressed the need for job opportunities and skill development for the youth with this budget. The continued focus on skilling will enable training institutions and large corporations to help create a pool of professionally trained workers who can be easily absorbed by them and the broader MSME ecosystem, which often lacks funds for training. However, careful implementation will be crucial to moving in the right direction of job creation. By ensuring effective execution, the government can pave the way for generating employment opportunities and equipping the youth with the necessary skills to thrive in a competitive job market. Rural Economy: The rural economy continues to benefit from government support, as bolstering this sector is vital for the country’s long-term economic growth. The 2024 budget introduced significant initiatives aimed at increasing productivity and ensuring food security in grains and oilseeds. These efforts are expected to foster new economic clusters, promoting sustainable growth. A notable aspect of the budget is the plan to train 1 crore farmers in natural farming, marketing, certification, and branding, providing a substantial boost to organic farming. This focus on mitigating the impact of climate change on agriculture demonstrates the government’s commitment to building resilience in the ecosystem and ensuring the sustainability of the rural economy. Start-ups and E-Commerce: The start-up ecosystem across India has welcomed the abolition of the angel tax, as proposed in the budget. The angel tax, introduced in 2012, was levied on the capital raised by unlisted companies through issuing shares to Indian investors if the share price exceeded the company’s fair market value (FMV). This change is expected to encourage more investment in start-ups. Additionally, traders and artisans using e-commerce platforms received a boost with the reduction of TDS and the decriminalization of TDS delays. E-commerce exports, currently at $2 billion, are projected to reach $350 billion by 2030. With revised custom duties, the government aims to support artisans and traders who sell their products online, aligning with its Make in India strategy and promoting the growth of the digital economy. Energy Security: India’s rapidly growing economy requires increasing energy resources. The budget aims to achieve energy security by encouraging private investment in small nuclear energy reactors and promoting R&D into newer nuclear energy forms. These measures are designed to meet India’s rising energy demands while advancing its energy independence goals. Regular energy audits in clusters, larger commercial thermal plants, and a pumped storage policy are part of the budget’s strategy to help India manage its growing energy needs effectively. However, while the country’s green economy targets are ambitious, more efforts are necessary to ensure a successful transition to sustainable fuels. Digitization of Land Records: One of the most significant initiatives in the budget is the digitization of land records, which could have a profound impact on India’s economic growth. Many land areas, particularly in rural regions, are entangled in disputes due to a lack of proper documentation. This issue poses a significant barrier to land acquisition for major projects. By digitizing these records nationwide, the government aims to eliminate middlemen and reduce the number of land-related legal cases, thereby streamlining land transactions and supporting economic development. Overall, the Union Budget 2024-25 reaffirms the government’s dedication to sustained long-term growth. Through strategic investments and forward-thinking policies, India is well-positioned to navigate global challenges while leveraging its vast potential for socio-economic progress. Conclusion: The Budget contains measures to empower the poor, women, youth, and farmers. The initiatives introduced in this budget are timely and poised to elevate the Indian economy to new heights during the Amrit Kaal, increasing its resilience in an ever-changing global environment. The journey toward a Viksit Bharat may present challenges, especially given global dynamics, but with a consistent vision and progressive policy support, the dream of a developed India is within reach.

CONTENTS Financial Support for Amravati, Andhra Pradesh Economic Survey Highlights Flaws in Global Climate Action Regime Supreme Court of India on Taxation of Mineral Rights Panchamasali Lingayats Demand Inclusion in OBC Category 2A Magnetotactic Bacteria Lal Dora-Free Scheme in Haryana Olympic Order  Financial Support for Amravati, Andhra Pradesh Context: Recently, the Finance Minister announced Rs 15,000 crore in financial support for Andhra Pradesh to build its capital city, Amravati, and boost other development activities in the state. This has brought back focus on Amravati, a site of immense historical and spiritual significance in Andhra Pradesh that remains relatively unrecognized. The financial boost is expected to catalyze infrastructure development and enhance the city’s recognition and prominence. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Key Facts About Amravati and Andhra Buddhism Key Features of the Amravati School of Art Key Facts About Amravati and Andhra Buddhism Amravati: Discovery: In the late 1700s, Raja Vessareddy Nayudu discovered ancient limestone ruins in Dhanyakatakam village (later renamed Amravati). These ruins were used for construction, leading to significant damage. Rediscovery: In 1816, Colonel Colin Mackenzie’s survey rediscovered the Amravati Stupa, though further damage occurred during the survey. Modern Development: In 2015, the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister announced the new capital, Amaravati, inspired by the historic Buddhist site, with plans to develop it into a modern city akin to Singapore. Andhra Buddhism: Introduction: Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) in the 5th century BCE, spread to Andhra Pradesh via trade routes. Early Evidence: The earliest significant evidence of Buddhism in Andhra dates back to the 3rd century BCE, with Emperor Ashoka’s inscriptions promoting the religion. Historical Presence: Monks from Andhra participated in the first Buddhist council in 483 BCE. Buddhism thrived in Andhra for six centuries, with sites such as Amravati and Nagarjunakonda continuing until the 14th century CE. Spread and Integration: Andhra’s Buddhism spread through trade and integrated with local practices like megalithic burials and Goddess worship. Decline: The rise of Shaivism, economic degradation, and later Islamic rule contributed to the decline of Buddhism in Andhra. Key Features of the Amravati School of Art Historical Context and Influences: Significance: The Amravati School of Art, prominent during the post-Mauryan period, was one of the three main ancient Indian art styles, alongside Mathura and Gandhara. Stupa: The Amravati Stupa was central to this art style and became a major artistic hub. However, government indifference and improper conservation led to the site’s degradation, with sculptures being moved to various locations in the 19th century. Characteristics: Major Centres: Amaravati and Nagarjunakonda. Patronage: Supported by Satavahana rulers. Artistic Style: Known for the tribhanga posture (three bends in the body), intricate detailing, and use of palnad marble. Sculptures: Feature narrative panels depicting the Buddha’s life, Jataka tales, and Buddhist rituals. The depiction of the Buddha with a robe on the left shoulder and in abhaya (fearlessness) gesture became iconic. Unique Style: Developed independently with minimal external influence, contrasting with the Graeco-Roman influences in Mathura and Gandhara. Global Dispersion: Museums: Amravati sculptures are housed in major museums globally, including the British Museum, Art Institute of Chicago, Musee Guimet, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Return of Art: Australia is notable for returning a stolen Amravati-style sculpture. -Source: Indian Express Economic Survey Highlights Flaws in Global Climate Action Regime Context: The Economic Survey has pointed to flaws and inequities in the global climate action regime and suggested alternative pathways that incorporate lifestyle and behavioural changes. It also argued that adaptation should get at least as much importance as mitigation. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Difference Between Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptatio Economic Survey 2023-24 on Climate Change Alternative Approaches Focusing on Climate Change Adaptation Difference Between Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Climate Change Mitigation: Definition: Involves actions aimed at reducing or preventing the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to slow down global warming. Objective: To limit the extent of climate change and avoid the severe impacts of higher temperatures. Examples of Actions: Transitioning to renewable energy sources (solar, wind, etc.). Improving energy efficiency in buildings and transportation. Reforestation and afforestation to absorb CO₂. Implementing policies and technologies to reduce industrial emissions. Climate Change Adaptation: Definition: Involves modifying human behavior, systems, and infrastructure to better cope with the impacts of climate change that are already occurring or anticipated. Objective: To minimize the damage from climate change and improve resilience to its effects. Examples of Actions: Developing flood defenses and improved drainage systems. Altering agricultural practices to withstand changing weather patterns. Constructing buildings and infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events. Enhancing water conservation and management practices. Interrelationship: Effective climate adaptation depends on the extent of climate change mitigation. Lower emissions mean less severe impacts and easier adaptation. Mitigation actions will take time to show effects, so immediate adaptation is necessary to address current and near-term impacts. Economic Survey 2023-24 on Climate Change Key Points: International Targets: Historical failure to meet international climate targets (e.g., 1.5°C and 2°C goals) has shifted focus and resources away from immediate development needs. Developing Nations: Excessive pressure on developing nations to meet stringent targets has diverted attention from improving living conditions and has not necessarily led to effective climate action. Adaptation vs. Mitigation: Adaptation Focus: Given the near certainty of exceeding the 1.5°C target, emphasis should be on adaptation and improving resilience. Mitigation by Developed Nations: The argument suggests that developed countries, historically responsible for higher emissions, should lead in mitigation, while developing nations focus on adaptation. Criticism of International Frameworks: Developed countries have not met their emission reduction targets or financial commitments. International agreements like the Paris Agreement are seen as inadequate compared to the more equitable Kyoto Protocol. There is criticism that climate action is often more about preserving the existing global order rather than effectively addressing climate change. Alternative Approaches Focusing on Climate Change Adaptation Building Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Example: The Central Vista project in India aims to improve infrastructure resilience against climate impacts. Climate Proofing: Definition: Reducing GHG emissions associated with investments while increasing their resilience to climate impacts. Example: Elements of climate proofing are incorporated into India’s Smart City mission, focusing on sustainable urban development. Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes: Example: India’s Mission Life promotes conscious consumption to benefit both the environment and individual well-being. -Source: Indian Express Supreme Court of India on Taxation of Mineral Rights Context: The Supreme Court of India has recently addressed a crucial issue regarding the taxation of mineral rights, overturning its 1989 verdict and reaffirming the power of states in this context. This decision, delivered by a nine-judge Bench, clarifies the extent of authority both Parliament and states hold over mineral royalties. This landmark ruling will have significant implications for the distribution of mineral wealth and the financial autonomy of states. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Supreme Court Decisions on Mining Regulation and Taxation Difference Between Royalty and Tax Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 Supreme Court Decisions on Mining Regulation and Taxation 1989 Supreme Court Ruling: Authority on Mining Regulation: The seven-judge Bench ruled that the Central Government holds primary authority over mining regulation under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and Entry 54 of the Union List. State Powers: States were restricted to collecting royalties but were not permitted to impose additional taxes. Royalties were classified as taxes, thus any cess beyond the authority of the state was deemed invalid. 2004 Review and Current Verdict: Typographical Error: A five-judge Bench suggested a typographical error in the 1989 ruling, hinting that royalties might not be classified as taxes. Nine-Judge Bench Ruling: The Supreme Court’s nine-judge Bench overruled the 1989 decision, clarifying that royalties on minerals are not taxes under the MMDRA, 1957. Taxation Authority: The Court emphasized that the power to levy taxes on mineral rights resides with the states. Parliament can impose restrictions to prevent interference with mineral development but cannot directly tax mineral rights. Parliamentary Constraints: While Parliament can set constraints to ensure mineral development is not obstructed, it cannot impose taxes on mineral rights directly. Federal System and Uniformity: Allowing states to impose taxes on mineral rights could disrupt the federal system and lead to inconsistencies in mineral pricing and development. This could adversely affect metal development in India. Difference Between Royalty and Tax Royalty: Nature: Originates from an agreement between parties, compensating for rights and privileges. Relationship: Linked to the benefit or privilege granted by the grantor, often tied to the exploitation of resources. Legal Precedents: The Supreme Court in cases like Hingir-Rampur Coal Co. Ltd. vs. State of Orissa (1961) and State of West Bengal vs. Kesoram Industries Ltd. (2004) established royalties as contractual obligations with direct benefits. Tax: Nature: Imposed under statutory power without a direct benefit to the payer. Enforced by law, it does not require consent. Purpose: Collected for public purposes and is part of the common burden borne by all citizens, not linked to any specific privilege or benefit. Legal Precedents: Cases such as State of Himachal Pradesh vs. Gujarat Ambuja Cement Ltd. (2005) and Jindal Stainless Ltd. vs. State of Haryana (2017) highlight taxes as mandatory payments not tied to any specific benefit. Implications For States: States can levy taxes on mineral rights, leading to potential legal uncertainty and economic impacts. For Parliament: Needs to ensure uniform mineral pricing and development interests while preventing states from overstepping their taxation authority. Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 Overview: Purpose: The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, is a crucial piece of legislation governing the mining sector in India. It aims to ensure the development of the mining industry, conservation of minerals, and enhanced transparency and efficiency in mineral exploitation. Scope: The Act has undergone multiple amendments to address evolving needs and challenges in the sector, aligning with national economic and security interests. Key Amendments: 2015 Amendment: Auction Method: Introduced mandatory auctioning of mineral concessions to increase transparency in the allocation process. District Mineral Foundation (DMF): Established DMFs to channel benefits to areas and communities affected by mining activities. National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET): Created NMET to support and boost mineral exploration activities. Penalties for Illegal Mining: Imposed stringent penalties to combat illegal mining practices. 2016 and 2020 Amendments: Purpose: Addressed specific sectoral issues to ensure the efficient functioning of the mining industry. 2021 Amendment: Captive and Merchant Mines: Captive Mines: Operated by companies for their own use, with the flexibility to sell up to 50% of the annual production in the open market after meeting the needs of their end-use plants. Merchant Mines: Operated to sell extracted minerals in the open market to various buyers, including industries without their own mining operations. Auction-Only Concessions: Ensured that all private-sector mineral concessions are granted exclusively through auctions. 2023 Amendment: Critical Minerals: Removal of Restrictions: Removed six minerals from the list of twelve atomic minerals restricted to exploration by State agencies. Exclusive Auctioning: Empowered the government to auction mineral concessions specifically for critical minerals. Exploration Licences: Introduced licenses to attract foreign direct investment and engage junior mining companies in exploring deep-seated and critical minerals. Focus Areas: Encouraging Private Sector: Aimed at reducing import dependency and expediting exploration and mining of critical minerals. Future Technologies: Recognized the significance of minerals like lithium, graphite, cobalt, titanium, and rare earth elements for advancing technologies and India’s energy transition goals, including the commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. -Source: Indian Express Panchamasali Lingayats Demand Inclusion in OBC Category 2A Context: Recently, the Panchamasali Lingayats, a sub-caste within Karnataka’s dominant Lingayat community, have been demanding inclusion in Category 2A of the Other Backward Classes (OBC). This move aims to secure a 15% quota in government jobs and educational admissions. The current quota for the community is 5% under Category 3B of Karnataka’s OBC quota matrix. Relevance: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Panchamasali Lingayats’ Quota Demand Panchamasali Lingayats’ Quota Demand Background: Lingayats: A Hindu sub-caste known as ‘Veerashaiva Lingayats,’ followers of the 12th-century philosopher-saint Basavanna. Basavanna’s teachings emphasized a personal relationship with Lord Shiva and rejected orthodox Hindu practices. Panchamasalis: A prominent sub-caste within the Lingayat community, they are the largest group, constituting nearly 70% of the Lingayat population and about 14% of Karnataka’s total population. Current Quota System in Karnataka: Karnataka’s 32% OBC reservation in government jobs and educational institutions is divided among five categories. Category 2A: Includes 102 castes and is the category the Panchamasalis want to join. The quota system is designed to prevent dominant OBC groups from monopolizing benefits and ensures equitable distribution based on marginalization. Previous Government Actions: Quota Reallocation: The previous state government reallocated the 4% Muslim quota under Category 2B to the Vokkaligas and Lingayats, creating new Categories 2C and 2D. Increased the Lingayat quota from 5% to 7%. Increased the Vokkaliga quota from 4% to 6%. Despite these changes, Panchamasalis continued to push for inclusion in Category 2A. Legal Challenges: The reallocation faced legal issues and is under review. Current Situation: Legal and Survey Awaited: The state government is awaiting a legal resolution from the Supreme Court. The Karnataka Social, Economic, and Caste Survey, which may influence future quota plans, is also pending. Potential Inclusion in Central OBC List: The government is considering including all Lingayats in the central OBC list to balance the demands and manage quota allocations effectively. Central Government Quota: Presently, only 16 Lingayat sub-castes classified as “very backward” receive reservations under the central OBC quota. Significance: The Panchamasali Lingayats’ demand reflects the broader struggle within the OBC quota system to address relative marginalization and ensure equitable access to benefits for various sub-castes. -Source: The Hindu, PIB Magnetotactic Bacteria Context: Researchers have uncovered fossil remains of magnetic particles, known as magnetofossils produced by magnetotactic bacteria, in rock varnish layers in Ladakh, India. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Magnetotactic Bacteria Overview: Nature: These are primarily prokaryotic microorganisms. Habitat: They are found in both freshwater and marine environments. Behavior: Magnetotactic bacteria align themselves with the Earth’s magnetic field. Mechanism: They contain iron-rich particles in specialized structures, acting as a biological compass. Function: The iron crystals, made of magnetite or greigite, assist the bacteria in navigating oxygen gradients within their habitats. Significance: Historical Interest: These bacteria are considered to represent some of Earth’s earliest life forms due to their ancient magnetic navigation system. Research Highlights and Implications Rock Varnish Research: Observation: Similarities were noted between rock varnish found in Ladakh and the rock varnish observed on Mars by the Perseverance rover. Findings: Elevated levels of oxidized manganese (Mn4+) and carboxylic acid groups were detected, suggesting organic signatures on the varnish surface. Implication: The magnetic minerals in these rock varnishes are likely of biotic origin. Significance for Space Exploration: Biosignature Detection: Identifying biotic signatures in rock varnish helps refine methods for detecting life on other planets. Future Missions: This research is valuable for upcoming space missions, including those by ISRO and other space agencies, focusing on Mars and its potential habitability. -Source: The Hindu, PIB Lal Dora-Free Scheme in Haryana Context: All villages of Haryana have been made Lal Dora-free. The state government launched a scheme to make villages “Lal Dora-free” on Good Governance Day on 25th December 2019. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Lal Dora-Free Scheme in Haryana Overview: Launch Date: December 25, 2019, on Good Governance Day. Objective: To establish clear ownership of property in rural areas by mapping land parcels and issuing legal ownership cards. Key Features: Mapping and Documentation: Utilizes drone technology for accurate mapping of land parcels in villages. Record of Rights: Provides a legal document called the ‘Record of Rights’ to village household owners, formalizing ownership. Field Verification: Extensive field verification was conducted to inspect properties falling under ‘Lal Dora’ (a term used for land in villages that traditionally lacked formal documentation). Historical Context: Lal Dora Land: Historically, areas designated as ‘Lal Dora’ in Punjab and Haryana, and ‘abadi’ in other regions, were excluded from formal surveys and lacked documented land rights. Land Ownership Issues: Many Indian village communities relied on actual possession rather than formal documentation, making it difficult for property owners to use their land as collateral for loans. Significance: Enhanced Property Rights: The scheme addresses the long-standing issue of undocumented land ownership, providing rural property owners with legal recognition of their rights. Financial Accessibility: With formal ownership documents, rural property owners can now use their properties as financial assets, improving access to banking services and loans. Impact: Legal Clarity: The scheme aims to enhance the clarity and security of property ownership in rural Haryana, promoting better governance and economic opportunities for rural residents. -Source: The Hindu Olympic Order Context: Recently, Abhinav Bindra was bestowed with the Olympic Award by the International Olympic Committee. Relevance: Facts for Prelims Olympic Order Overview: Established: 1975 Purpose: The highest award given by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for outstanding contributions to the Olympic Movement. Grades: Gold: Reserved for heads of state and exceptional circumstances. Silver: Awarded to individuals for significant contributions. Bronze: Given for notable service to the Olympic Movement. Design: Insignia: Features a collar or chain with the five Olympic rings and the kotinos emblem, which is an olive wreath. Lapel Badge: Recipients receive a badge in the corresponding grade (gold, silver, or bronze). Significance: Recognition: The Olympic Order honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to sport and the Olympic Movement. Promotion of Values: It symbolizes the ideals of unity, friendship, and fair play that the Olympics represent. Commitment: Reflects the IOC’s dedication to recognizing those who have advanced the cause of sport and the Olympic Movement on a global scale. -Source: India Today