Posts

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 29 January 2025

Content: A question of hygiene Mining politics The Budget pipeline and India’s foreign policy ambitions A question of hygiene Overview of the GBS Outbreak in Pune Over 100 suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) recorded. Linked to Campylobacter jejuni, a bacteria found in contaminated food and water. Patients reported gastroenteritis, vomiting, diarrhoea, and nausea before onset. One reported death linked to GBS. Relevance : GS 2(Health) Practice Question : The recent outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Pune highlights the vulnerabilities in India’s urban health infrastructure. Discuss the causes, health implications, and policy measures required to prevent such outbreaks in the future. (250 words) Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) GBS is an autoimmune neurological disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system. The immune system attacks nerve cells, leading to: Tingling sensations, muscle weakness, and numbness. Paralysis in arms and legs (resembles acute flaccid paralysis in polio). Caused by bacterial or viral infections triggering immune response. Global incidence: 1-2 cases per 1,00,000 population (more common in adult males). India’s Epidemiological Data on GBS Lack of large-scale epidemiological studies due to testing constraints. WHO report (1993): 138 cases seen annually in seven major teaching hospitals in India. 75% of cases occur in adults. Seasonal variation: GBS cases rise during weather changes. Possible largest recorded outbreak in India’s history.  Treatment and Urgency Treatment options: Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis). Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy. Early treatment is critical: Most effective if started within two weeks of symptom onset. Recovery prospects: Many recover with timely treatment. Delay leads to prolonged disability or fatality in severe cases. Government and Health Response Rapid response teams deployed in Pune. Water sample collection and community surveillance initiated. Central government team sent to affected areas. Need for local and state government accountability in: Ensuring clean drinking water supply. Strengthening food hygiene regulations. Enhancing public awareness on safe consumption practices. Broader Implications: Fragility of Urban Systems Urban hygiene infrastructure under strain—inadequate water safety measures. Breakdown in sanitation and public health surveillance enables disease spread. GBS outbreak highlights systemic failures: Lapses in water treatment and food safety monitoring. Poor early disease detection and response mechanisms. Policy Recommendations Strengthening disease surveillance: Improved tracking of waterborne infections. Rapid identification of bacterial outbreaks before escalation. Urban sanitation reform: Regular water quality testing and early warning systems. Strict food safety regulations in urban food supply chains. Public health awareness: Large-scale campaigns on hand hygiene and food safety. Use of digital health alerts for real-time information. Mining Politics Background: Nayakkarpatti Tungsten Block Auction The Union Government annulled the auction of the Nayakkarpatti tungsten block in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The decision followed protests citing environmental and cultural concerns. Initially, the block was part of eight strategic mineral auctions initiated in February 2023 by the Mines Ministry. Vedanta’s Hindustan Zinc Limited won the bid for mining across 2,015.51 hectares. Relevance : GS3 – Economy & Environment Practice Question : Critically analyze the challenges associated with mining strategic minerals in India, with special reference to tungsten. (250 Words ) Environmental and Cultural Concerns The presence of Arittapatti, Tamil Nadu’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site, raised concerns. concerns included: Threats to biodiversity: Arittapatti is a habitat for rare species. Historical and cultural risks: Mining could endanger cave temples, Jain symbols, Tamil Brahmi inscriptions. The Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution opposing mining near the site. The Centre initially suggested excluding the 1.93 sq. km area within Arittapatti and Meenakshipuram from mining operations. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) was tasked with redefining boundaries, but before it could act, the auction was annulled. Strategic Importance of Tungsten Tungsten (Wolfram) Properties: A dense, lustrous metal with high melting points. Crucial for defence, aerospace, electronics, and high-tech industries. No effective substitutes, making it strategically vital. Global Scenario: Countries stockpile tungsten due to its scarcity. China dominates global tungsten production. India’s Tungsten Reserves: Only 5% of India’s tungsten resources are in Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal. The majority is found in Karnataka, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Way Forward Lack of stakeholder engagement. A more balanced approach could have included: Scientific assessment by the GSI before any decision. Boundary adjustments to protect the biodiversity site while allowing mining in other areas. Transparent communication with state and local stakeholders to prevent political conflicts. Future auctions of critical minerals should ensure a balance between resource security and environmental sustainability. The Budget pipeline and India’s foreign policy ambitions Context: Annual Budget Focus: Public attention often revolves around sectors like taxation, infrastructure, and defence, but the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also demands scrutiny due to its significance in India’s foreign policy. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question:  Examine the role of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India’s foreign policy framework and assess the implications of its underfunding on India’s global ambitions. Suggest measures to enhance MEA’s institutional capacity and resources in light of India’s growing international stature.(250 Words) Budget Growth: The MEA’s budget saw a rare 23% spike in the 2024-25 budget, up from a modest 4% annual increase from 2017 to 2023. Despite this, the MEA remains one of India’s least-funded ministries, with its allocation constituting only 0.4% of the total national budget. Efficiency: The MEA is efficient in utilizing its budget, exceeding 96% of revised estimates, but its current financial capacity is insufficient to fulfill India’s expanding global ambitions. Foreign Policy Ambitions and Global Leadership India’s Global Vision (Viksit Bharat 2047): To achieve the vision of becoming a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, India requires strong, sustained global partnerships. India is positioning itself as a leader of the Global South, strengthening relationships with ASEAN, Quad countries (India, Australia, Japan, the U.S.), and leading initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Impact of Limited Budget: Partner countries expect greater diplomatic engagement, financial support, and timely project delivery, but the current MEA budget is inadequate to meet these rising expectations. Recommendations for Budgetary Increase Parliamentary Committee Suggestion: In 2022, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs recommended raising the MEA’s budget to 1% of the total Union Budget. A more gradual increase to 0.6%-0.8% could signal India’s commitment to global leadership. Focus Areas for Funding:Economic Tools for Regional Integration: Increased funds are necessary for strengthening regional cooperation and for advancing connectivity initiatives in South Asia, particularly as China’s influence grows. Institutional Capacity: The MEA’s diplomatic strength relies heavily on bolstering its human resources, research capabilities, and institutional infrastructure. Expanding India’s diplomatic corps and providing research expertise are crucial. Foreign Aid Shifts Decline in Aid and Rise in Loans: India’s foreign aid budget dropped by 10% in 2024-25, while loans to foreign countries increased by 29%. This shift towards Lines of Credit (LoCs) enables sustainable infrastructure financing but also demands effective oversight. Neighbourhood Focus: A significant portion (45%) of LoCs is directed towards India’s neighbourhood, with Bangladesh being the largest recipient. This reflects the strategic importance of India’s immediate neighbours. Aid to Neighbourhood Countries: Bhutan remains the largest recipient of India’s aid, followed by Sri Lanka, which saw a 63% increase in funding for the current year. Institutional Capacity and Research Increased Training Budget: The MEA’s training budget for the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) grew by 30%, but capacity-building efforts are still insufficient. The IFS remains understaffed, which limits India’s diplomatic engagement potential. Research and Think Tanks: Cuts to funding for academic institutions like Nalanda University and South Asian University (both experiencing 20-22% budget reductions) pose a challenge to India’s long-term diplomatic strategy. Investment in policy-relevant, evidence-based research is essential to back foreign policy decisions. Need for Declassification and Digitisation Historical Documentation: The External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, emphasized the need for the MEA to lead in digitising and declassifying its records. Such initiatives would enhance public access to India’s diplomatic history, enabling scholars to better understand past successes and failures. Track 1 vs. Track 2 Diplomacy: By accelerating these efforts, the MEA could make its decision-making process more transparent, thereby fostering better understanding and learning within India’s foreign policy apparatus.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 29 January 2025

Content: China’s DeepSeek jolts tech world with a lean, mean AI model Avadi Ordnance clothing unit sends its first defence export to Suriname Choice of secular inheritance law should apply to all faiths, says CJI Women’s groups seek Budget that will boost inclusive workforce ISRO set for a historic 100th launch from Sriharikota OpenAI, maker of ChatGPT, questions jurisdiction of Indian courts in copyright case The impact of classifying denotified tribes Union Budget: understanding its formulation and implications China’s DeepSeek jolts tech world with a lean, mean AI model DeepSeek, a Chinese start-up founded in 2023 by Liang Wenfeng, has caused a stir in the global AI industry with its new models, particularly DeepSeek-R1 and DeepSeek-v3. The company claims that its AI technology rivals those of leading U.S. tech giants, including OpenAI and Nvidia, but at a fraction of the cost. DeepSeek’s emergence challenges the narrative that Chinese AI models are inferior to American counterparts, highlighting the shifting dynamics of the international AI market. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ), Facts for Prelims. Key Developments Cost Efficiency and Competitive Edge: DeepSeek-v3: The AI model’s training costs were reported to be under $6 million, a stark contrast to the billions spent by American firms like OpenAI for similar technologies. This cost efficiency has drawn attention to DeepSeek’s ability to operate on a significantly smaller budget. DeepSeek-R1: This new model is reportedly 50 times cheaper to operate than OpenAI’s GPT-4 for specific tasks, further solidifying its value proposition for cost-conscious enterprises. AI App Success: DeepSeek’s AI Assistant: The flagship product, powered by the DeepSeek-v3 model, has surpassed OpenAI’s ChatGPT as the highest-rated free app on the Apple App Store, marking a significant milestone in the competition between U.S. and Chinese AI firms. Market Impact: Stock Market Reaction: DeepSeek’s disruptive cost advantage led to a significant market correction, with AI chipmaker Nvidia’s market value plunging by half a trillion dollars. This is the largest single-session loss in history, demonstrating the market’s sensitivity to AI advancements and shifting global dynamics. The broader impact extended to global tech stocks, which saw significant declines, highlighting the weight of DeepSeek’s potential as a new force in the AI industry. Strategic Shifts in the Global AI Race U.S.-China AI Competition: U.S. Perspective: U.S. President Donald Trump characterized DeepSeek’s rise as a “wake-up call,” urging American industries to become more competitive. The underlying message is clear: the U.S. must maintain its technological leadership in AI to avoid being outpaced by cheaper, more efficient Chinese alternatives. China’s Strategic Gains: DeepSeek’s models challenge the traditional notion that China’s AI capabilities are lagging behind Silicon Valley. Unlike earlier Chinese attempts, such as Baidu’s Ernie bot, DeepSeek’s products have made significant strides in terms of quality and affordability. China’s AI Ecosystem: Government and Regulatory Oversight: China’s stringent data control laws and regulatory environment are pivotal in shaping the operations of companies like DeepSeek. This has led to questions around cybersecurity and the potential risks associated with engaging with Chinese AI companies, which operate in a more controlled environment than their Western counterparts. Access to Technology: DeepSeek’s success is partly due to its access to high-end AI chips, particularly Nvidia’s H800 chips. However, some analysts have raised concerns about whether DeepSeek’s access to these chips, which are restricted for sale to Chinese firms under U.S. export controls, is legitimate. Speculation exists that DeepSeek may have up to 50,000 Nvidia H100 chips, fueling debates around the tech industry’s regulatory frameworks and the potential for sanctions enforcement. Potential Risks and Skepticism Financial Transparency and Costs: While DeepSeek’s claimed training costs appear remarkably low, some analysts have questioned the true expenses behind its AI models, particularly regarding the $5.58 million cited for the v3 model. Without full transparency on funding sources and development processes, there are concerns about the sustainability of DeepSeek’s cost model. Cybersecurity Concerns: As with other Chinese tech companies, there are concerns regarding the security and privacy implications of using DeepSeek’s technology. The Chinese government’s influence over domestic companies, particularly in areas like data handling and cybersecurity, raises red flags for international users. Geopolitical Tensions: The growing competition between China and the U.S. in AI mirrors broader geopolitical tensions, which could impact future collaboration or market entry in countries wary of Chinese tech. This is particularly relevant as AI becomes a critical component in national security and economic competitiveness. Avadi Ordnance clothing unit sends its first defence export to Suriname Context: OCF, Avadi, executed India’s first defence export order to Suriname, signaling India’s growing presence in global defence markets. Relevance : GS 3(Exports, Internal Security,Defence) Product Details: The shipment includes 4,500 military uniforms worth ₹1.71 crore, aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties between India and Suriname. Diplomatic Significance: This export is part of India’s strategy to enhance diplomatic and economic relations with Suriname and other nations. Shipping Timeline: The uniforms are expected to reach Suriname in 60-70 days, with OCF anticipating future orders worth ₹5 crore. Quality Assurance: The uniforms are made-in-India, tested-in-India, highlighting their high-quality standards, which enhances India’s global defence reputation. Broader Goals: This export aligns with India’s target to achieve ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, with OCF Avadi playing a significant role. Manufacturing Expertise: OCF Avadi produces a variety of defence products like bullet-resistant jackets, helmets, and bomb suppression blankets, receiving positive feedback from Indian states and agencies. Expansion Opportunities: Suriname’s order could pave the way for larger contracts, expanding India’s market share in global defence exports. Global Market Challenges: India faces competition from established suppliers, but the quality and affordability of its products offer an edge in emerging markets. Strategic Outlook: This export order strengthens India’s role as a global defence exporter, opening doors for future deals and further strengthening international ties. Choice of secular inheritance law should apply to all faiths, says CJI Chief Justice’s Observation: CJI Sanjiv Khanna stated that the freedom to renounce faith and choose secular inheritance laws should apply to all religions, not just one. Relevance : GS 2(Constitution , Polity ) Petitioner’s Case: The petition was filed by Safiya P.M., a woman from Kerala, who, born a Muslim, now identifies as a non-believer and seeks to be governed by the secular Indian Succession Act rather than Sharia law. Equality Across Faiths: CJI emphasized that secular inheritance laws should be applicable universally, irrespective of faith, noting that if one religion is governed by secular laws, all religions must follow the same principle. Hindu Succession Act Issue: CJI pointed out that under the Hindu Succession Act, converting from Hinduism results in losing inheritance rights, which Safiya argued should not apply to someone who renounces their faith. Will as a Solution: Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta argued that inheritance through a Will is still possible, despite restrictions in the Hindu Succession Act. Intestate Succession Consideration: The CJI highlighted issues with intestate successions (without a Will) and the complexities of joint Hindu family property, which may complicate the inheritance process. Union’s Response: The Union Government was asked to file a counter-affidavit in response to the petition, as the issue raised was significant and required careful consideration. Religion in Official Forms: CJI suggested that if the petition succeeds, there should be an option to not mention religion on official forms, offering an individual’s right to waive or omit religion as a private matter. Advocate’s Argument: Advocate Prashant Padmanabhan argued that Safiya, as a non-believer, should not face any disqualification in inheritance rights or other civil rights due to her religious choice, invoking secularism under the Constitution. Inheritance Under Muslim Law: Safiya argued that under Muslim law, she would inherit only one-third of her father’s property, while also caring for her autistic brother. This limitation, combined with her renunciation of faith, further complicates her inheritance. Legal Vacuum: Safiya’s petition highlighted a legal vacuum, where even if she obtained a “no-religion, no-caste” certificate, she still faced barriers to inheriting her parental property, violating her fundamental right to belief under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution. Women’s groups seek Budget that will boost inclusive workforce Focus on Female Workforce Participation: Women’s groups stress the need for policies to increase female workforce participation. Key strategies include employment-linked incentives, flexible work hours, and supportive infrastructure (e.g., work site crèches). Relevance : GS 2(Social Justice) ,GS 3(Economic Development) Praise for Increased Gender Budget: Previous budget’s increase in the gender budget (₹3 lakh crore for FY25) was appreciated. Special schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Namo Drone Didi aimed at women’s financial empowerment were recognized. Addressing Unique Needs of Women: Organizations emphasize the importance of addressing the unique needs of women and girls, especially in skilling and livelihoods. A strong focus on investments in the care economy is highlighted. Call for Better Support Infrastructure: Proposals include developing workplace crèches, improving public transport, and ensuring equal pay initiatives to help women thrive in the workforce. Female Labour Force Participation Rate: As of 2023, India’s female labour force participation rate stands at 32.7% (percentage of women aged 15+ who are economically active). Quality of Jobs for Women: Experts urge the 2025-26 budget to focus on job quality, ensuring women have access to decent, dignified employment. There’s a call for investments in the care economy to boost job opportunities for women. Optimism for Policy Changes: Neera Nundy (Dasra India) expresses hope for favorable policies and enhanced tax incentives to unlock more capital for women-led initiatives from families, individuals, and corporates. ISRO set for a historic 100th launch from Sriharikota Historic Milestone: ISRO will oversee its 100th launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, with the GSLV-F15 mission. This launch will place the NVS-02 navigation satellite into a geosynchronous transfer orbit. Relevance : GS 3(Space) First Launch & Early Struggles: The first ISRO launch took place on August 10, 1979, with SLV-3 E10 carrying the Rohini Technology Payload, which was only partially successful. The mission was directed by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (then Director at ISRO), and recovery from the setback led to the success of SLV-3E2 in 1980, placing the Rohini satellite (RS-1) in orbit. Mission Evolution: ISRO has successfully launched a variety of missions since, including: 2 SLV missions 4 Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV) missions 62 PSLV missions (workhorse of ISRO) 16 GSLV missions 7 LMV3 missions 3 SSLV missions 1 Reusable Launch Vehicle mission 1 Test Vehicle Abort Mission 1 Pad Abort Test (PAT) as part of the Gaganyaan program. Strategic Location of Sriharikota: The SDSC was chosen for its ideal features: Launch azimuth corridor for diverse missions. Proximity to the equator, aiding eastward launches. Large uninhabited safety zones. Landmark Missions: Chandrayaan-1 (2008): India’s first lunar mission. Chandrayaan-2 (2019): India’s second lunar mission, with the GSLV-Mk III – M1. Chandrayaan-3 (2023): India’s successful mission to land on the moon’s polar region. Mars Orbiter Mission (2013): India’s first interplanetary mission. Aditya-L1 (2023): India’s first mission to study the Sun. Record-Breaking Launch: The PSLV-C37 (2017) mission set a record by launching 104 satellites in a single flight, a feat later surpassed by SpaceX Falcon 9 in 2021 (launching 143 satellites). Setbacks and Failures: ISRO has faced failures in several launches, including: GSLV-F02/INSAT-4C (2006) GSLV-D3/GSAT-4 (2010) GSLV-F06/GSAT-5P (2010) GSLV-F10/EOS-03 (2021). OpenAI, maker of ChatGPT, questions jurisdiction of Indian courts in copyright case Court Hearing on Copyright Case: The Delhi High Court is hearing a copyright infringement case filed by Asian News International (ANI) against OpenAI for allegedly using publicly available content to train ChatGPT. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary), GS 3(Technology) OpenAI’s Jurisdiction Argument: OpenAI argues that it cannot besuedinIndiancourts for copyright infringement. The company’s terms of use stipulate that disputes must be resolved either through arbitration or legal action in California courts, governed by California law. Industry Bodies Intervene: Federation of Indian Publishers (FIP) and the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) have intervened in the case, joining ANI’s allegations. Court’s Approach: Justice Amit Bansal indicated that the court will address the jurisdiction question alongside other aspects of the case, allowing the hearings to proceed. The court has issued a notice to OpenAI regarding the interventions by DNPA and FIP, with a response due in two weeks to determine if their involvement in the case will be admitted. Legal Assistance for the Court: The court has appointed two friends-of-the-court: Arul George Scaria (Professor at National Law School of India University (NLSIU)). Adarsh Ramanujan (Advocate in Delhi and Chennai). These experts will assist the court in outlining the legal issues in the case. Broader Implications: Dr. Scaria stated that the litigation could have significant implications for the future of AI research, development, and deployment in India, with long-term consequences for the industry. Accusations Against OpenAI: ANI, along with FIP and DNPA, accuses OpenAI of unlawfully using their publicly available content to train its AI models, which they argue constitutes copyright infringement. The impact of classifying denotified tribes Context :Official Recognition Members of the Adi tribe in Siang, Arunachal Pradesh, were officially recognized on January 28. The classification ensures that their socio-economic challenges are acknowledged. Relevance :GS 1(Society ), GS 2(Governance) Social Empowerment: Denotified tribes often face marginalization, and the recognition can empower them socially. Recognition allows access to affirmative action, including reservations in education and employment. Economic Benefits: The classification may open up avenues for financial support under various welfare schemes designed for marginalized tribes. Improved access to government resources and infrastructure development. Cultural Preservation: Official recognition can aid in preserving the cultural heritage and traditions of the Adi tribe, safeguarding their identity. It may foster increased participation in governance, ensuring their voices are heard in policy formulation. Legal Protection: Denotified tribes often struggle with legal rights and access to justice. Recognition provides a legal framework for the protection of their rights. It helps prevent the exploitation and discrimination that some members face. Challenges in Implementation: Though recognition is crucial, there might be delays or lack of effective implementation in ensuring benefits reach the intended community. There could be resistance from local power structures or stakeholders who may feel threatened by the inclusion of these groups. Historical Context: Denotified tribes were once labeled as “criminal tribes” under colonial rule, which stigmatized them. Recognition attempts to undo this historical injustice. This move also contributes to the broader discourse on tribal welfare and rights in India. Union Budget: understanding its formulation and implications Relevance : GS 3(Economy ) Components of the Budget: Expenditure: Divided into capital expenditure (creating long-term assets) and revenue expenditure (ongoing costs like wages, subsidies). Capital expenditure includes infrastructure projects (e.g., new schools or hospitals). Revenue expenditure involves costs that do not create assets, like interest payments or subsidies. Receipts: Categorized into revenue receipts, non-debt capital receipts, and debt-creating capital receipts. Revenue receipts include tax and non-tax revenue that do not increase liabilities. Non-debt capital receipts (e.g., loan recovery, disinvestment) do not create future liabilities. Debt-creating receipts involve loans and borrowings, increasing liabilities. Deficit Indicators: Fiscal Deficit: Difference between total expenditure and the sum of revenue receipts + non-debt receipts. Primary Deficit: Fiscal deficit minus interest payments. Revenue Deficit: Difference between fiscal deficit and capital expenditure. Implications of the Budget on the Economy: Aggregate Demand: Government expenditure boosts aggregate demand, while taxes and non-tax revenue reduce private sector income, thus lowering private demand. Economic Trends: Expenditure and revenue typically rise with GDP, and are analyzed in relation to GDP or growth rates (after inflation adjustment). Fiscal Deficit Analysis: A reduction in fiscal deficit-GDP ratio signals a government policy to reduce aggregate demand. Income Distribution: Budget decisions, such as spending on welfare (e.g., food subsidies, employment schemes) or corporate tax cuts, can have varying impacts on income distribution. Welfare measures may benefit poorer sections, while tax cuts may favor corporations. Fiscal Rules and Policy Impact: Fiscal Rules: India’s fiscal policy is guided by the N.K. Singh Committee Report, which sets targets for the debt-GDP ratio, fiscal deficit-GDP ratio, and revenue deficit-GDP ratio. Adjusting Expenditure: To meet these fiscal targets, expenditure may be adjusted, even if it contradicts the need for economic expansion (e.g., during recessions or high unemployment). Limitations of Current Rules: The existing fiscal framework may limit the government’s ability to address issues like unemployment or low output growth by capping expenditure. Re-examining Fiscal Policy: In light of contemporary economic challenges, there may be a need to re-evaluate India’s fiscal rules to allow more flexibility in responding to economic needs

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 January 2025

Content : Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) Draft Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2025 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) Context : Applications Invited for Creation/Expansion of Food Processing Units under PMKSY The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), launched in 2016, aims to boost India’s agricultural and food processing sectors, enhancing farmer incomes, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving food processing infrastructure. Relevance : GS 2(Schemes ), GS 3(Agriculture) Objectives: Promote Value Addition: Encourages agro-processing to increase the value derived from agricultural produce. Enhance Farmer Income: Provides better market access and infrastructure to farmers, helping them earn more. Reduce Post-Harvest Losses: Focuses on building cold chains and storage facilities to prevent wastage. Improve Infrastructure: Develops processing units, warehouses, and cold storage. Boost Exports: Aims to enhance the quality of processed food products for international markets. Job Creation: Encourages employment in rural areas through food processing and logistics. Main Components: Mega Food Parks: Large-scale hubs connecting farmers and processors, reducing costs. Cold Chain Infrastructure: Cold storage and refrigerated transport to preserve perishables. Backward & Forward Linkages: Connecting farmers with processors and markets. Food Safety Infrastructure: Ensures food quality with testing labs and certifications. Skill Development: Trains workers in food processing and packaging. Funding: The government offers subsidies up to 50% for infrastructure development, with a focus on encouraging private sector participation. Assistance varies depending on the component, e.g., up to 35-50% for cold storage and processing units. Impact: Increased Farmer Incomes: By reducing waste and improving market access, farmers earn better prices. Job Creation: The initiative has generated employment, especially in rural areas. Improved Exports: Indian food products are now more competitive in global markets. Challenges: Implementation Delays: Bureaucratic and logistical issues have hindered smooth rollout. Infrastructure Gaps: Uneven distribution of cold storage and food parks across regions. Private Investment Hesitancy: Challenges like regulatory hurdles still deter some investors. Conclusion: PMKSY has the potential to transform India’s agricultural sector, reduce wastage, and improve farmer livelihoods. However, effective implementation, regional balance, and private sector involvement are key to realizing its full potential. Draft Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2025 Overview Objective: The Government of India has published the Draft Legal Metrology (Indian Standard Time) Rules, 2025, aiming to achieve “One Nation, One Time” by ensuring uniform and precise time synchronization across India. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Lead Departments: The initiative is led by the Department of Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Project Goal: To disseminate Indian Standard Time (IST) with millisecond to microsecond accuracy, impacting various sectors like telecommunications, banking, navigation, power grid synchronization, and scientific research. Features of the Draft Rules Precision Time Dissemination: Establishes infrastructure to broadcast Indian Standard Time (IST) nationwide with high precision, leveraging advanced technologies from NPL and ISRO. Critical Sectors Impacted: Navigation (e.g., satellite-based services) Telecommunications (ensuring synchronization of networks) Power Grid Synchronization (essential for grid management) Banking and Financial Services (important for transaction timing) Digital Governance (supporting data integrity and security) Cutting-Edge Research (e.g., deep space navigation, gravitational wave detection) Current Challenges: Many Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) still rely on foreign time sources (like GPS), which are not synchronized to IST. This creates vulnerabilities in critical national infrastructure. Legal Metrology Act, 2009: The rules will be incorporated under this Act to ensure legal enforcement of IST across sectors.   Mandatory Adoption of IST: The rules propose making IST the official time reference across all sectors in India. IST is based on UTC +5:30 hours and maintained by CSIR-NPL. Synchronization Guidelines: Government offices, public institutions, and critical infrastructure must synchronize their activities with IST using reliable protocols like Network Time Protocol (NTP) and Precision Time Protocol (PTP). Exceptions are allowed only for scientific, astronomical, and navigational purposes with prior government approval. Cybersecurity and Resilience: Establishes cybersecurity frameworks to protect the time dissemination infrastructure from cyber-attacks. Includes alternative time references and mechanisms to ensure continuity during disruptions. Compliance and Penalties: Compliance will be audited periodically. Penalties will be imposed for violations to enforce nationwide adherence. Benefits of the Rules Strategic Benefits: National Security: Synchronizing all systems to IST is critical for national security, ensuring that time-sensitive applications function seamlessly across the country. Scientific Advancements: Precision in timekeeping supports high-end scientific endeavors, such as deep space exploration and gravitational wave detection. Economic Efficiency: Accurate Financial Transactions: Improved synchronization in financial services ensures accurate time-stamping for transactions, reducing errors and fraud. Industrial Benefits: Manufacturing processes and industrial operations will be optimized through synchronized processes, enhancing productivity and efficiency. Global Competitiveness: Enables Indian industries to align with global standards, improving their competitiveness in international markets. Enhanced Public Services: Facilitates the scheduling of public transportation, ensuring reliable and synchronized operations. Improves coordination in emergency response systems. Technological Advancements: Supports the integration of 5G technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) by ensuring precise timekeeping across devices and systems. Implementation and Compliance Synchronization Procedures: The rules define procedures for synchronization, accuracy standards, and the process for implementation across different sectors. Auditing and Monitoring: To ensure uniformity, periodic audits and inspections will be conducted. Penalties: Strict penalties for those who fail to comply with the synchronization standards, ensuring the rules are followed. Long-term Implications Unified National Time Standard: The rules pave the way for a unified, synchronized time standard across India, which is crucial for the integration of national infrastructure, communication networks, and emerging technologies. Government Efficiency: Improves the efficiency of government operations by ensuring consistent time-keeping across departments and public services, enhancing coordination and decision-making. Social and Economic Impact: By standardizing time, the rules aim to improve day-to-day operations for businesses, consumers, and government institutions, promoting smoother societal and economic functioning.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 January 2025

Content: First resort The Union Budget as a turning point for climate action First Resort Context: The recent diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Colombia, sparked by the deportation of migrants and U.S. pressure on Colombia to accept deportees, highlight the contrast between coercive tactics and a more diplomatic approach to international relations. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question: How would a diplomatic approach to the deportation of migrants, rather than relying on coercive tactics?Discuss with reference to the recent diplomatic tensions of U.S with Colombia.(250 Words) Trump’s Aggressive Coercion: Mass Deportation Hurdle: The deportation of migrants reached a significant diplomatic crisis when Colombian President Gustavo Petro refused to allow U.S. military planes to land with deported migrants on board. Retaliatory Measures: In response, Trump announced a potential 25% tariff on all Colombian goods, which could escalate to 50%, alongside threats of financial and political sanctions on Colombia, such as banking restrictions and travel bans for officials. Escalating Tensions: This escalated into a full-blown diplomatic spat, but eventually, Colombia backed down under economic pressure and accepted the migrants. Diplomatic Back-and-Forth: Colombia’s Resistance: Initially, Colombia stood firm, rejecting Trump’s coercion and even retaliating by threatening similar tariffs on American goods. Petro’s response was particularly pointed, given his personal history and political ideology, emphasizing resistance to U.S. imperialism. Economic Consequences: A trade war would have severely impacted both nations, especially Colombia, which relies heavily on the U.S. for trade. The U.S. is Colombia’s largest trading partner, and high tariffs would have dealt a heavy blow to its economy. The End Result: Under immense pressure, Colombia eventually capitulated, accepting the deportation conditions put forth by the U.S., showing the effectiveness of Trump’s coercive tactics — but at what cost? The Broader Context of Deportation: Deportation Practices: The practice of deporting migrants back to South American countries has been ongoing. In January alone, there were 90 deportation flights, with Colombia receiving a substantial number. Controversial Methods: The use of military planes for deportations has sparked outrage in Colombia, with claims of inhumane treatment of migrants. For example, Brazilian officials raised concerns about the treatment of their citizens, including being handcuffed and denied basic amenities during the flight. Inhumane Treatment: Trump’s administration has shown little concern for the welfare of deported migrants, focusing instead on making an example of countries that resist U.S. policies. This approach has raised concerns about human rights violations, especially given America’s global stance on promoting human rights. Diplomacy vs. Coercion: Ineffectiveness of Coercion: While Trump may have succeeded in pressuring Colombia for the short term, such heavy-handed tactics could backfire. Coercion risks damaging America’s geopolitical standing in the region, where it has long sought to maintain influence. Human Rights Concerns: The current method of deportation not only undermines diplomatic relations but also tarnishes America’s image as a defender of human rights, especially in a region that often critiques U.S. policies. Call for Diplomacy: Instead of relying on economic muscle to force compliance, Trump could have pursued a more diplomatic approach. Engaging in negotiations, seeking consensus, and respecting the sovereignty of neighboring countries would have likely led to a more productive and humane solution. Critical Analysis: Short-Term Gains vs. Long-Term Diplomacy Short-Term Impact: Trump’s coercive tactics may have yielded immediate compliance from Colombia, but the long-term effects on U.S.-Latin American relations could be detrimental. Such strategies risk alienating regional allies and stirring resentment, particularly in countries that view U.S. interventionism with suspicion. Humanitarian Costs: The treatment of migrants should be a primary concern. The focus on punitive measures, rather than addressing the root causes of migration or ensuring humane treatment, reflects poorly on the U.S. in a broader global context. Opportunity for Diplomacy: A diplomatic approach could have resulted in more sustainable agreements that respect both U.S. interests and the sovereignty and dignity of Latin American nations. Instead of imposing terms, Trump could have worked collaboratively with these countries to devise mutually beneficial solutions. The Union Budget as a turning point for climate action Context: With India’s interim Net-Zero target fast approaching and the increasing urgency of climate action, the FY26 Union Budget presents a critical opportunity to implement robust strategies for climate adaptation, renewable energy growth, and economic resilience against global carbon regulations. Relevance :GS 2(Governance), GS 3 (Environment ) Practice Question: Analyze the role of the Union Budget in advancing India’s climate action agenda. Discuss the potential impact of the proposed fiscal measures on renewable energy adoption, the circular economy, and the competitiveness of Indian exports in the context of global climate regulations.(250 Words) Contextual Urgency: The Union Budget for FY26 comes at a crucial juncture where India must fast-track its climate commitments due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events. India has five years left to achieve its interim Net-Zero target, making this Budget a pivotal moment for effective climate action. Past Initiatives & Gaps: Previous budgets have shown the government’s commitment to climate action, such as: PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana (solar rooftop scheme). Electric vehicle infrastructure and National Green Hydrogen Mission. Funding for offshore wind energy projects. However, the total renewable energy installed capacity (203.18 GW) still falls short of the 2030 target (500 GW). This gap emphasizes the need for accelerated investment and policy support. Recommendations for Green Energy Transition: PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana Review: Despite 1.45 crore registrations, only 6.34 lakh installations (4.37%) have been completed, showing implementation issues.Fiscal allocations should support the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model, allowing lower-income households to bypass high initial costs and instead pay for services over time through innovative financial instruments and credit guarantees. Solar Panel Manufacturing: Expansion of Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) to enhance domestic manufacturing, which only fulfills 40% of current solar panel demand.This could reduce the cost discrepancy between domestically manufactured and imported solar panels (domestic panels are 65% more expensive). Railway Network for Renewable Energy: The Indian Railways could host up to 5 GW of renewable energy installations (solar and wind) due to its vast land holdings.The Budget should incentivize public-private partnerships to unlock this potential. Climate Action and Global Trade: The European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), effective January 2026, will impose carbon tariffs on certain Indian exports. India exports CBAM-affected products worth $8.22 billion annually. These exports face potential carbon levies of 20-50%. Climate Action Fund: The Budget could create a fund to help MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), which contribute 30% of GDP and 45% of exports, decarbonize and comply with CBAM regulations. Circular Economy Transition: A circular economy could yield₹40 lakh crore ($624 billion) annually by 2050 while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 44%. The Budget should incentivize businesses to invest in recycling and refurbishment technologies by offering: A 150% weighted deduction on investments in recycling infrastructure. Accelerated depreciation benefits for circular economy assets. Establishment of a sovereign green bond framework to finance circular economy infrastructure. Strengthening Climate Resilience: India’s low insurance penetration (3.7% in FY24) hampers resilience to climate risks. Tax incentives for climate-linked insurance: The Budget could offer tax deductions for insurance companies providing climate-resilient products and advocate for reduced GST rates on these insurance premiums. Green Finance Infrastructure: Standardizing definitions for green finance could help attract investments and contribute to meeting India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2030. The Budget should allocate resources to develop institutional and technical infrastructure for the climate finance taxonomy, including: Market readiness programs. Verification systems. Capacity building for financial institutions. Introduction of differential tax treatment for investments aligned with green finance standards. Climate Competitiveness and International Trade: With global demand for low-carbon goods rising, India needs to integrate climate competitiveness into its fiscal framework. The Budget must signal the government’s commitment to embedding climate action in all economic policies to remain competitive in international trade and investment flows. Key take aways: Policy Gaps: The Budget can close critical gaps in renewable energy adoption by addressing financial barriers, such as high upfront costs and low domestic manufacturing capacity. It also needs to provide comprehensive support to industries vulnerable to global carbon regulations, especially MSMEs. Innovation in Financing: The use of innovative financial models like the RESCO model and incentivizing investments in circular economy and green technologies will stimulate green business activities. Global Trade Impacts: The Budget’s alignment with global carbon pricing mechanisms (such as the EU’s CBAM) will ensure that Indian exports remain competitive while also incentivizing domestic decarbonization efforts. Climate Finance: The creation of a Climate Action Fund and commitment to standardizing green finance definitions will ensure India’s preparedness for large-scale climate-related investments.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 January 2025

Content Uttarakhand Adopts Uniform Civil Code India, China to Resume Direct Flights, Issue Visas Navigating Growth Challenges in Sri Lanka Will the FY26 Budget Reverse the Decline in Social Sector Spending? Is Guillain-Barré Syndrome Life-Threatening? RBI Moves to Ease Liquidity Crunch Odisha: Coal Dust Affecting Plant Growth and Carbon Uptake Astronomers Discover Supersonic Winds on Exoplanet WASP-127b Uttarakhand adopts Uniform Civil Code Uttarakhand Becomes First State to Implement UCC Post-Independence Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami rolled out the UCC for all residents, excluding Scheduled Tribes and natives who have migrated out of the state. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) Key Provisions of the UCC Bans Harmful Practices: Halala, iddat, and talaq (practices under Muslim Personal Law) are prohibited. Women’s Rights: Ensures equal rights for women in property and inheritance matters. Online Marriage & Divorce Registration: Marriages, divorces, and live-in relationships must be registered on the government portal (ucc.uk.gov.in). UCC Portal Features Aadhaar-Based Verification: Mandatory for authentication. AI-Based Translation: Translates content into 22 languages, including English. Integrated Data: Combines data from over 13 government departments (e.g., police, courts, civic bodies). Marriage Registration Requirements Marriages since March 26, 2010, must be registered within 6 months. Marriages post-UCC implementation need to be registered within 60 days. Registration of Divorce/Annulment Details required: marriage registration, decree of divorce, court case number, final order, children’s details, and court order copy. Will Registration Options Can register via:Form filling on the portalUploading handwritten/typed willRecording and uploading a 3-minute video. Potential Impacts The UCC rollout is seen as a major policy shift in India’s legal framework, aiming to standardize laws concerning marriage, divorce, and inheritance across all communities, except those specifically exempted. India, China to resume direct flights, issue visas Resumption of Key Bilateral Activities Direct Flights: Both countries have agreed to resume direct flights between India and China. Visa Issuance: Visa processes will restart, facilitating travel between the two nations. Mansarovar Pilgrimage: The Mansarovar Yatra for pilgrims will restart in summer 2025. People-to-People Exchanges: Measures to promote cultural, media, and think tank interactions have been agreed upon. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Hydrological Data Sharing and Trans-Border Rivers India and China will resume dialogue on the trans-border rivers and sharing of hydrological data that China had previously withheld, a significant issue for India. Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations Both nations will mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of India-China ties with celebratory events. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the need to end “mutual suspicion and estrangement.” Economic and Trade Discussions Both sides discussed trade curbs and economic issues: India has concerns about Chinese restrictions on key materials like pharmaceutical ingredients and high-tech exports. China raised issues about India’s investment restrictions on Chinese companies and business visas, especially after the 2020 tensions. Discussions aim at promoting policy transparency and predictability in the economic sector. Progress on Bilateral Dialogue Vikram Misri (India’s Foreign Secretary) met with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to review and enhance bilateral relations. This meeting follows the Modi-Xi meeting in October in Kazan, where both leaders agreed to stabilize relations. Reactivation of Dialogue Mechanisms The FS-Vice FM level bilateral dialogue mechanism has been resumed, marking a return to regular diplomatic talks after a hiatus due to tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The resumed dialogue includes meetings between top-level officials such as Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping, and discussions involving Foreign Ministers, Defense Ministers, and Special Representatives. Economic Concerns Specific economic issues raised include trade barriers, investment clearance requirements, and the withholding of critical equipment from China, including Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs). SCO Summit and Future Bilateral Engagements India has offered its support for China’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in 2025. PM Modi is expected to attend the SCO Head of State Summit in June 2025, further solidifying the diplomatic engagement between the two countries. Unclear on Informal Summit There is no clear indication yet whether the resumption of dialogues will include an informal summit like those in Wuhan (2018) and Mamallapuram (2020), which were used to ease tensions and foster communication between the two leaders. Navigating growth challenges in Sri Lanka Economic Outlook: Cautious Optimism Post-Crisis Stabilization: Sri Lanka is recovering from its worst economic crisis (2022-2023) after defaulting on external debt in April 2022. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Prudent Policies: The Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s monetary policies, alongside a $3 billion IMF program and $4 billion Indian aid, have helped stabilize the economy. Debt Restructuring: A $17.5 billion debt restructuring deal with private bondholders and China has provided breathing space. Tourism Recovery: Tourism has surged, with over 2 million visitors in 2024, contributing to foreign exchange reserves. Growth Forecast: World Bank predicts growth will slow from 4.4% in 2024 to 3.5% in 2025. Internal Challenges Brain Drain: 300,000 people left Sri Lanka in 2024, including skilled professionals (IT, banking, medicine), creating a significant talent gap. Inexperienced Parliament: Over 150 first-time MPs in Sri Lanka’s 225-member Parliament, mostly from the National Peoples Power (NPP), posing a challenge to enacting effective economic reforms. Solutions: Focus on public sector efficiency, training MPs in legislative processes, and investing in public policy education for civil servants. Tourism Potential Tourism Surge: 38% increase in tourists from 2023 to 2024. Sustainability Focus: To ensure sustainable growth, tourism should benefit regions beyond Colombo (north and east) and support small businesses. Gang Violence: Tackling gang-related violence is essential for a secure tourism environment. Fiscal Sustainability Revenue Increase, Spending High: While revenue has risen, government spending remains high due to the state’s expansive role in the economy. State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs): Loss-making SOEs (like SriLankan Airlines and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation) drain public funds. Privatisation or restructuring may be necessary for fiscal stability. No Privatisation Plan: The government plans to reform SOEs through better management but avoids privatisation. External Factors Geopolitical Shifts: Changes in the Indo-Pacific post-Trump re-election will impact Sri Lanka’s foreign policy, with India emerging as a critical economic partner. India-Sri Lanka Relations: Strengthening economic ties with India is crucial, particularly in areas like cross-border energy projects and the free trade agreement. Sri Lanka must also address security concerns, especially halting visits from Chinese spy ships that have caused regional tensions. External Debt and Repayment Risks Upcoming Debt Repayments: Starting mid-2027, Sri Lanka faces the risk of external debt repayments unless it can generate sufficient foreign exchange. Partnership with IMF and World Bank: Sri Lanka needs continued support from international organizations and India to avoid another crisis. Path Forward Comprehensive Growth Plan Needed: Sri Lanka must balance debt sustainability with economic growth. National Budget 2025: The February National Budget is a key opportunity for the government to implement bold policies and set a clear vision for Sri Lanka’s future. Key Takeaways Sri Lanka’s economy is stabilizing but remains fragile. The government faces internal challenges like a brain drain, an inexperienced Parliament, and fiscal imbalances. Tourism and economic ties with India are critical growth drivers. The government must focus on sustainable growth, debt management, and economic reforms to secure long-term prosperity. Will the FY26 Budget Reverse the Decline in Social Sector Spending? Declining Share in Union Budget Overall Decline: The share of the Union Budget allocated to key social sectors has been decreasing in recent years, affecting crucial areas like health, rural development, education, and social welfare. Relevance : GS 3(Economy ) Key Sectors Affected: Health: The share dropped from 2.47%-2.22% (FY18-22) to 1.85%-1.75% (FY23-25). Rural Development: Allocation stayed below 6% in the last few years, stagnating after a long period of low allocation. Higher Education: Reduced from 1.57%-1.37% (FY17-20) to 1.27%-0.88% (FY21-25). School Education: Declined from 2.18%-1.96% to 1.61%-1.23%. Social Welfare: Dropped from 1.89%-1.61% to 1.17%-0.97% in the same period. Scheme-Level Allocation Cuts MGNREGS: Allocation for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) for 2024-25 is only ₹86,000 crore (1.78% of the total budget), marking a 10-year low. Shortfall in Funding: The Rural Development Ministry faced a ₹4,315 crore shortfall, causing delays in wage disbursements for MGNREGS workers. National Social Assistance Programme: Allocations for schemes like old age pensions, widow pensions, and disability pensions fell drastically from 1.21%-0.36% (FY19-21) to 0.2% in the last four years. PM-POSHAN Scheme: Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM-POSHAN) allocations, which fund mid-day meals for children in schools, have declined to 0.26% of the total budget in FY25—the lowest in nine years (except FY24). Exceptions to the Trend Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY): Allocations for the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) have been increasing or stable, supporting healthcare access for vulnerable populations. PMAY-Rural: Allocations for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)-Rural have either increased or remained stable. PM Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI): This school education scheme has also seen stable or increasing funding, a positive development for education in rural areas. The Need for Action in FY26 Budget Challenges: With the FY26 Budget set for presentation on February 1, it will be crucial to address the ongoing cuts in social sector funding, particularly in MGNREGS, social assistance programs, and nutritional schemes like PM-POSHAN. Budget Examination: Key social welfare sectors to focus on include: Health: Funding for flexible pools and autonomous bodies like AIIMS. Rural Development: Ensuring adequate funding for MGNREGS and PMAY-Rural. Social Welfare: Allocating enough to schemes for old age, widow, and disability pensions. Key Observations and Recommendations Critical Social Schemes at Risk: Continued decline in allocations risks undermining essential services for rural development, healthcare, and education. Focus on Inclusivity: The Budget should prioritize the socio-economic inclusion of vulnerable communities, ensuring equitable distribution of resources for essential services. Sustainability of Key Schemes: Programs like MGNREGS, PM-POSHAN, and social assistance should be funded adequately to maintain their impact. Is Guillain-Barré Syndrome Life-Threatening? Overview of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) What it is: GBS is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and potentially paralysis. Incidence: Affects about 1-2 per 1,00,000 people, with adults and males being more commonly affected. Relevance : GS 2(Health ) Outbreak in Pune: As of January 25, 2025, there have been 73 reported cases in Pune, Maharashtra, with 14 patients on ventilator support. A Rapid Response Team has been deployed by the state to investigate the cause. Causes of Guillain-Barré Syndrome Unknown cause: The exact cause is still not fully understood, but viral or bacterial infections are common triggers. Infections linked to GBS: Campylobacter jejuni (a bacteria causing gastroenteritis) is one of the most frequent triggers. Other viruses like influenza, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and Zika virus can also lead to GBS. Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome Initial Symptoms: Typically, tingling and weakness start in the feet and legs, gradually spreading to the upper body, arms, and face. Key symptoms: Pins and needles sensation in extremities. Pain in the back, legs, and limbs. Difficulty walking or climbing stairs. Facial movement problems and double vision. In severe cases, paralysis can occur, particularly affecting arms, legs, or face. Respiratory issues if chest muscles are affected, making breathing difficult. Life-threatening complications: If GBS affects the autonomic nervous system, it can disrupt blood pressure and heart rate, making the condition potentially life-threatening. Treatment of Guillain-Barré Syndrome No Cure: There is currently no cure for GBS, but treatment can aid recovery. Primary treatments: Plasma exchange (Plasmapheresis): This involves removing and treating the plasma (liquid part of the blood) to eliminate harmful antibodies attacking the nerves. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): Immunoglobulins are injected into the body to reduce the immune system’s attack on the nerves. Supportive Care: Intensive care may be needed, especially for patients with severe symptoms. Rehabilitation such as physical therapy and occupational therapy is often required to aid recovery. Recovery and Prognosis Recovery timeline: Most patients can make a nearly full recovery, although it can take several months to years. Severity: The degree of recovery depends on how severe the disease was. Some patients recover faster, while others may face long-term effects. Is GBS Life-Threatening? Potentially life-threatening: While most people survive, severe cases of GBS can affect breathing and heart functions, requiring intensive medical care. Quick diagnosis and treatment are crucial. What’s Happening in Pune? Reported Outbreak: As of January 2025, Pune has seen a rise in GBS cases, with 73 affected individuals. This has led to intervention by the Union Health Ministry, which has sent a team to assess the situation, while the Maharashtra government has deployed a Rapid Response Team to investigate the cause. RBI Moves to Ease Liquidity Crunch Overview RBI’s Response: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a series of measures aimed at injecting liquidity into the banking system to address the liquidity deficit that has recently widened. Objective: These steps are designed to ease liquidity pressures in the banking system, ensuring smoother functioning of credit markets and financial stability. Relevance : GS 3(Banking , Economy) Key Measures Announced Government Bond Purchases: The RBI will purchase 600 billion rupees ($6.96 billion) worth of government bonds in three tranches. This is expected to inject liquidity directly into the financial system, supporting the bond market and helping the government in managing its fiscal needs. 56-Day Variable Rate Repo Auction: On February 7, 2025, the RBI will conduct a 56-day variable rate repo auction worth 500 billion rupees. Repo auctions allow banks to borrow money from the RBI against government securities, helping to manage short-term liquidity needs. USD/INR Swap Auction: The RBI will conduct a $5 billion USD/INR buy/sell swap auction on January 31, 2025, with a six-month tenor. This move is aimed at easing foreign exchange liquidity in the market and stabilizing the rupee-dollar exchange rate. Context of the Measures Liquidity Deficit: The banking system’s liquidity deficit had reached a one-year peak in the previous fortnight, signaling tight liquidity conditions in the financial system. Impact of Measures: These actions are designed to ease short-term liquidity pressures, lower borrowing costs for banks, and support overall economic activity. Expected Outcomes Stabilizing Market: By injecting liquidity, the RBI aims to stabilize the banking system, ensure adequate funding, and support market confidence. Currency Stability: The foreign exchange swap auction is also expected to help in maintaining stability in the rupee against major currencies, especially the US dollar. Odisha: Coal Dust Affecting Plant Growth and Carbon Uptake Overview Location: The study focuses on the effects of coal dust from open-cast coal mining in Jharsuguda, Odisha, a key region for coal production in India. Findings: Dust from mining operations is clogging plant leaves, reducing their ability to absorb carbon dioxide and affecting their water vapour release, which could worsen global warming. Relevance : GS 3(Environment ) Insights from the Study Impact on Carbon Absorption: Plants covered in mining dust absorbed 2-3 grams less carbon per square meter of leaf area, compared to dust-free leaves. Reduced carbon absorption means more carbon dioxide stays in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Effect on Transpiration: Dust-clogged stomata (leaf pores) affect transpiration, reducing a plant’s ability to release water vapour. Without effective transpiration, plants cannot regulate their temperature properly, leading to stunted growth or even death over time. Long-Term Ecological Damage: The cumulative effect of reduced carbon absorption and poor transpiration could have long-term consequences for local ecosystems, impacting biodiversity and regional climate regulation. Study Methodology: Researchers used satellite data from Landsat-8, Sentinel-2, and PlanetScope to estimate how much dust settled on plant leaves. In-situ validation was done by collecting 300 leaf samples in Jharsuguda, confirming the satellite-derived estimates. Impact on Large Areas: Though individual plants lose small amounts of carbon, the cumulative effect on vast forested areas or vegetation near mining sites can be significant over time. Environmental and Health Implications Air Pollution: Open-cast mining produces large amounts of dust, which not only pollutes the air but also affects human health by causing respiratory issues. Temperature Regulation: Without effective transpiration, plants may become warmer, affecting their growth and the overall local microclimate. Potential Solutions Monitoring Dust Pollution: The study suggests the use of satellite data as a cost-effective way for governments to monitor dust pollution in mining areas and identify pollution hotspots. Mitigation Measures: Water sprays on mining sites to reduce dust dispersion. Dust barriers around vegetation areas to protect plants from excessive dust deposition. Stricter Regulations: Experts stress the need for stringent measures to curb dust emissions from mining operations to protect both human health and ecosystems. Astronomers Discover Supersonic Winds on Exoplanet WASP-127b Overview Location: WASP-127b is a gas giant exoplanet located about 520 light-years from Earth, orbiting a star similar to our Sun. Key Finding: Scientists have detected supersonic winds on WASP-127b, reaching speeds of 33,000 km/h—the fastest winds discovered on any known planet. Relevance : GS 3(Space ) Key Features of WASP-127b Size and Structure: WASP-127b is a hot Jupiter—a gas giant that orbits extremely close to its star. It has a diameter 30% larger than Jupiter, our solar system’s largest planet, but its mass is only about 16% of Jupiter’s, making it one of the “puffiest” planets ever observed. Atmospheric Conditions: The planet’s atmosphere is around 2,060°F (1,127°C), scorching due to its proximity to its star. One side of the planet always faces the star (the day side), while the other remains in perpetual night, leading to significant temperature differences. The atmosphere contains hydrogen, helium, and trace amounts of carbon monoxide and water. Orbit and Rotation: It orbits its host star every 4 days, at a distance that’s only about 5% of the distance between the Earth and the Sun. The planet’s day-night cycle is extreme due to its close orbit, with one side always exposed to the intense stellar radiation, while the other remains shielded in darkness. Discovery of Supersonic Winds Wind Speed: Astronomers found that winds at the equator of WASP-127b reach speeds of up to 33,000 km/h, faster than any wind speed detected on other known planets. For comparison, Neptune’s jet streams reach speeds of around 2,000 km/h, and Earth’s jet stream tops out at 442 km/h. Research Insights: The winds on WASP-127b are driven primarily by stellar irradiation, as the planet is constantly bombarded by high levels of energy from its host star. These supersonic jet streams circle the planet, creating a global wind pattern rather than winds confined to specific regions. Key Scientific Takeaways Unique Wind Dynamics: Previous exoplanet studies have detected strong winds, but usually confined to the day-night cycle (winds flowing from the hot day side to the cooler night side). The winds on WASP-127b are unique in that they circulate the entire planet. Driving Factors: Irradiation from the host star is the primary energy source for these winds, but other factors like temperature differences, planetary rotation, and atmospheric composition also contribute to shaping the wind patterns. Atmospheric Composition: The study identified traces of more complex molecules in WASP-127b’s atmosphere, including carbon monoxide and water, adding to our understanding of the atmospheric conditions on hot Jupiters. Implications for Exoplanet Studies This discovery of supersonic winds on WASP-127b provides valuable insights into the atmospheric dynamics of exoplanets, especially gas giants that orbit very close to their stars. Understanding these wind patterns could help scientists model climate systems on other exoplanets and deepen our knowledge of planetary weather and atmospheric behavior in extreme environments.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 27 January 2025

Content: PM YASASVI Scheme PM Suryaghar PM YASASVI Scheme Background PM YASASVI Scheme: Launched with the intent to empower students from marginalized communities (OBC, EBC, and DNT), the PM YASASVI Scheme aims to provide educational, social, and economic benefits to talented students, enabling them to excel and contribute to the nation’s development. Relevance : GS 2(Schemes) Objectives of PM YASASVI Empowerment of Marginalized Students: The scheme targets students from OBC (Other Backward Classes), EBC (Economically Backward Classes), and DNT (De-notified and Nomadic Tribes) communities. This demonstrates the government’s effort to bridge the socio-economic gap and ensure inclusive growth. Social Justice and Inclusivity: In alignment with the government’s motto of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,‘ the scheme ensures that students from underprivileged backgrounds receive support to pursue higher education and realize their full potential. Program Features and Benefits Pre-Matric Scholarship: ₹1.25 lakh annual scholarship for students in classes 9 to 12. Focuses on ensuring that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds can continue their education through high school without financial constraints. Post-Matric Scholarship: Financial assistance worth ₹12.75 crore for higher education at the college level. This large-scale funding indicates the government’s commitment to securing a future for these students beyond secondary school, opening up avenues for advanced studies and professional growth. Top-Class Education Support: The scheme emphasizes providing students with access to high-quality education, likely through tie-ups with prestigious institutions or by supporting exceptional academic programs. Hostel Construction for OBC Students: Ensures that students from OBC communities can access better living and study facilities while pursuing their education, especially those who might need to relocate for their studies. Future Prospects Sustaining Growth: The success of the PM YASASVI Scheme in empowering students will depend on continued investments in education, access to quality resources, and ensuring that beneficiaries are not only provided financial aid but also mentorship and career guidance. Nationwide Implementation: With students from 21 states already involved, the scheme’s national scope could foster greater regional representation and inclusivity in India’s educational landscape. Long-term Goals: The scheme could also be a model for future educational reforms aimed at reducing disparities and ensuring equitable opportunities for all, contributing to overall socio-economic development. Broader Social Welfare Agenda Alignment with SDGs: The PM YASASVI Scheme is in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequality). Integration with Other Welfare Schemes: Such as the National Social Assistance Programme and various initiatives under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, aimed at improving social justice and equality. PM Suryaghar Context and Objective: PM Suryaghar and PM Kusum— emphasizes the role of ordinary citizens in India’s renewable energy transition. Both schemes aim to empower individuals economically while contributing to India’s renewable energy goals. Relevance : GS 2(Schemes) PM Suryaghar-Muft Bijli Yojana Objective: Empower citizens to become energy producers. Implementation: Citizens can install solar power systems and sell the generated electricity to Discoms (Electricity Distribution Companies). Economic Impact: This initiative not only provides energy independence but also enables beneficiaries to earn income through the sale of surplus electricity. Key Message: The “PM Suryaghar” scheme transforms beneficiaries into active contributors to India’s renewable energy ecosystem. PM Kusum Scheme Objective: Promote solar-powered irrigation systems, particularly for farmers. Key Benefits: Subsidies: Provides financial assistance for the installation of solar-powered irrigation pumps, which reduces dependence on conventional electricity for farming. Economic Benefits: Improves agricultural productivity by providing a reliable, cost-effective energy source for irrigation. Stakeholders and Roles Union Minister Pralhad Joshi: Emphasized the importance of citizen involvement in India’s renewable energy transformation. He recognized the beneficiaries as the “real ambassadors” of the country’s renewable energy movement, stressing their role in shaping the nation’s energy future. Secretary, MNRE, Ms. Nidhi Khare: Highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to feedback-driven improvement, ensuring that the schemes align with beneficiary needs and are effectively implemented. MNRE Joint Secretary Shri Lalit Bohra: Participated in the event, underscoring the Ministry’s engagement with beneficiaries. Scheme Impact and National Vision Empowerment of Common Citizens: The government’s focus on decentralized energy production (especially solar energy) aligns with India’s broader goals of energy transition and carbon neutrality. Empowering ordinary citizens through schemes like PM Suryaghar and PM Kusum has the potential to transform rural economies, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and contribute to achieving India’s renewable energy targets. Contribution to India’s Renewable Energy Goals: As part of India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, these initiatives contribute to scaling up solar energy capacity and achieving the target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030. Both schemes directly contribute to India’s green energy transformation, enhancing energy security while fostering sustainable growth. Challenges and Future Considerations Awareness and Accessibility: Ensuring the widespread awareness of these schemes, especially in remote areas, is crucial for maximizing participation. The ease of registration on the PM Suryaghar portal is a step in the right direction, reducing barriers to entry for potential beneficiaries. Sustaining Momentum: The government must sustain subsidies and financial incentives to ensure long-term viability, particularly for farmers and rural populations with limited capital. Integration with Grid and Storage Solutions: For beneficiaries to fully capitalize on solar energy production, integration with the national grid and efficient energy storage solutions are necessary to handle surplus power and ensure consistent supply.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 27 January 2025

Content: Genocide and the world’s averted gaze India with Indonesia Genocide and The World’s Averted Gaze Definition and Historical Context Genocide: Defined by the Genocide Convention (1948) as acts intended to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group. Auschwitz: Liberation in 1945 revealed the scale of atrocities against Jews (1.1 million killed). Marked the global commitment to “never again.” Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : Discuss the role of international norms and institutions in preventing genocide, with examples. (250Words) Institutional Framework for Prevention Genocide Convention (1948) Legally binds nations to prevent and punish genocide. Example: Establishment of mechanisms like the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR). United Nations Early Warning Signs: UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasizes addressing “clear warning signs.” Peacekeeping Missions: Failures in Rwanda (1994) and Srebrenica (1995) showcase institutional gaps. International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutes individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. Example: ICC warrants for Sudanese leaders during Darfur genocide. Regional Frameworks African Union interventions: Example of efforts in South Sudan post-2013 civil war. Failures in Prevention Cold War Politics: Khmer Rouge (1975-79) atrocities ignored due to geopolitical interests. Rwanda (1994): UN peacekeepers lacked authority and reinforcements. Srebrenica (1995): Failure of NATO and UN to protect Bosnian Muslims. Contemporary Challenges Darfur and Sudan (2003-05, ongoing) ICC recognized genocide, but violence persists due to weak enforcement mechanisms. Current instability fuels fears of genocide amidst global inattention. Gaza (2023) Allegations of genocide under ICJ scrutiny. High civilian casualties and destruction while global powers avert attention. Hierarchy of Suffering Unequal international responses based on geopolitical interests. Need for Strengthened Action Early Detection and Response Addressing warning signs through diplomatic pressure and sanctions. Reinforcing International Mechanisms Strengthening ICC and peacekeeping mandates. Global Consensus Bridging gaps in responses to state and non-state actors to uphold humanitarian norms. Conclusion Despite frameworks like the Genocide Convention, failures in Rwanda, Srebrenica, Darfur, and ongoing crises like Gaza highlight gaps in global responses. Strengthening international norms, addressing biases, and ensuring timely interventions are critical to fulfilling the promise of “never again.” India with Indonesia Historical Context Ancient Ties: Robust cultural and religious exchange based on trade and travel. Adaptation of Hinduism in Javanese traditions and use of Vedic scriptures. Sanskrit as a linguistic bridge in historical texts and cultural interactions. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : Examine the historical, strategic, and geopolitical ties between India and Indonesia. Discuss how both nations can address contemporary challenges to deepen their bilateral relations. (250 Words) Colonial and Post-Independence Period: Shared solidarity against imperialism. India’s active support for Indonesia’s independence struggle (e.g., banning Dutch overflights and aiding evacuation of Indonesian leaders). Sukarno’s acknowledgment of India’s support in his article in The Hindu (January 5, 1950). Cold War and Non-Alignment: Both nations were co-founders of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Collaboration began at the Bandung Conference, promoting Asian-African solidarity and neutrality in great power politics. Strategic and Geopolitical Context Recent Concerns: Shared interests in addressing challenges like: U.S.-China rivalry. China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Global issues like food, fertilizer, and fuel security due to Ukraine conflict. Commitment to multilateralism despite weakening global frameworks (e.g., WTO, UN). Collaborative Efforts: Close coordination during G-20 presidencies (Bali 2022, Delhi 2023). Indonesia joining BRICS marks an expansion of their geopolitical partnership. Current Developments and Challenges Key Outcomes of Prabowo Subianto’s Visit: Signing of five MoUs in: Health and traditional medicine. Maritime security. Digital development. Cultural cooperation. Mention of defence cooperation without concrete agreements. Missed Opportunities: No progress on the sale of India’s Brahmos missile. Delays in Sabang Port project and Aceh-Andamans connectivity initiatives. Non-committal joint statement on geopolitical conflicts despite shared concerns. Shared Aspirations Economic Potential: As two major economies of South Asia and Southeast Asia, they represent significant opportunities for trade and investment growth. Cultural and Religious Harmony: Historical examples of tolerance among religious majorities towards minorities serve as models of pluralism. Geostrategic Cooperation: Strengthening maritime security ties is vital for regional stability in the Indo-Pacific. Leveraging platforms like BRICS and G-20 for a common agenda.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 27 January 2025

Content: Mullaperiyar Dam: Centre Forms Supervisory Panel Thyroid Disorders: Importance of Regular Check-Ups Assam Tea Workers and Post-TB Fungal Disease Indian Space Programme Breaks Into 2025 with PSLV-C60 Where Did Dinosaurs First Evolve? The Enduring Commitment to the Indo-Pacific Should Governors Head State Universities? Mullaperiyar: Centre formed supervisory panel 2 months ago Recent Development: The Supreme Court asked Tamil Nadu and Kerala to choose between the court-constituted supervisory committee and a panel under the Dam Safety Act, 2021, for managing the Mullaperiyar Dam. This follows the Union government’s creation of a new supervisory committee on November 21, 2024. Relevance : GS 2(Governance, Administration) Structure of the New Supervisory Committee: Seven-member panel led by the Chairman of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA). Includes: Two representatives each from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. A nodal officer from the International Centre for Excellence on Dams, IISc Bengaluru. A Member (Disaster & Resilience) in the NDSA serving as Member-Secretary. Key Responsibilities: Periodic inspection of the dam. Monitoring safety measures. Recommending and overseeing implementation of safety-related actions by Tamil Nadu. Historical Background: May 2014 Supreme Court Judgment: Directed the formation of a supervisory committee under the Union government in July 2014. The 2014 panel was reconstituted later, adding one technical member each from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Challenges with Previous Supervisory Committee: Tamil Nadu farmers and water experts criticized its effectiveness. Allegations that it failed to ensure Kerala’s cooperation for dam-strengthening works. Recent Cooperation: In December 2023, Kerala permitted Tamil Nadu to procure materials for maintenance work at the dam. Current Questions: Whether forming another supervisory committee is necessary. Supreme Court to deliberate on the matter during the next hearing on February 19, 2025. Legal and Administrative Implications: Under the Dam Safety Act, 2021, the NDSA assumes the role of the State Dam Safety Organization (SDSO) for inter-state dams. Clarity on the supervisory framework may emerge after additional affidavits and court deliberations. Mullaperiyar Dam: Location and Purpose: The Mullaperiyar Dam is situated on the Mullaperiyar River in Kerala, India, and diverts water to the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu for irrigation purposes, benefiting arid regions of Tamil Nadu. Construction and Age: Built in 1895 by the British, the dam is one of the oldest in India, with a height of 53.6 meters and a length of 365.7 meters. Interstate Dispute: The dam has been the subject of a prolonged dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu over its safety, with Kerala raising concerns about its structural integrity and the risks to downstream populations. ‘Keep a watch on thyroid disorders and do regular check-ups’ Overview of Thyroid Disorders: The thyroid gland produces thyroxine, essential for the body’s normal functioning. Disorders: Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid hormone levels. Hyperthyroidism: Excess thyroid hormone levels. Swelling of the thyroid is a common occurrence, but not all swellings are malignant. Relevance: GS 2(Health) Statistics: 40%-50% of the population may have undiagnosed thyroid issues. Thyroid cancers are curable in 90% of cases with timely treatment. Symptoms Indicating Thyroid Issues: Gradual weight gain or loss. Lethargy, sleepiness, lack of interest in work, and fatigue. Constipation or diarrhoea, menstrual irregularities. Persistent palpitations, sweating, chronic cough. Difficulty in swallowing or breathing. Delayed growth in children. Testing and Diagnosis: Thyroid function tests are essential and can often be included in routine health packages. Imaging and clinical examinations help in early intervention and minimize morbidity. Thyroid Disorders in Pregnancy: Second most common disorder after diabetes in pregnancy. Physiological changes in pregnancy may mimic thyroid disorders, requiring early detection and management. Endocrine evaluations are crucial, especially post-pregnancy, as these changes may persist for a year. Risk Factors: Higher risk groups: Adolescents, pregnant women, men above 40, and women above 50. Stress, anxiety, and depression act as endocrine disruptors, contributing to thyroid disorders. Advice from Experts: Regular check-ups and monitoring are critical for early detection and treatment. Even asymptomatic thyroid swellings should not be ignored. Assam tea workers prone to post-TB fungal disease: study Context: A study has identified chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA), a life-threatening fungal infection, among post-TB survivors in Assam’s tea plantations. Published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, it is the first of its kind focusing on tea workers. Relevance : GS 2(Health ) TB Prevalence in Assam Tea Belts: Major public health issue in the Brahmaputra and Barak valleys. TB prevalence: 217 per 1,00,000 population (2019-2021 National TB Prevalence Survey). Risk factors include: Poverty, malnutrition, and kitchen smoke. Close contact with TB patients and congested living conditions. Key Findings of the Study: Researchers examined 128 patients from tea garden hospitals in Dibrugarh district. Prevalence of CPA recorded at 17.18%. Seropositivity: 18.5% in active TB cases. 48.9% in post-TB patients, highlighting its status as a post-TB health issue. CPA is more prevalent in middle-aged male workers (80 males vs. 48 females). Assam’s CPA prevalence (60 per 1,00,000) exceeds the global average of 42, surpassing African countries like Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (20-50). Implications for Public Health: CPA occurs in pre-existing lung cavities, sharing clinical features with TB, complicating diagnosis. Suggested measures include: Testing for Aspergillus antibodies in patients with respiratory symptoms post-TB treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality. Recommended Interventions: Training healthcare providers to recognize CPA symptoms. Educating tea workers about: Respiratory health, nutrition, and hygiene. Targeted campaigns in tea garden hospitals and TB care facilities. Related Context: A 2019 study on epidemic dropsy in Assam highlighted nutritional health risks. Dropsy results from consuming oils contaminated with Argemone mexicana (a Mexican poppy). Indian space programme breaks into 2025 in ‘mission mode’ PSLV-C60 Mission: Foundation for Chandrayaan-4 & Bharatiya Antariksh Station Launched on: December 30, 2024, from Sriharikota. Payload: SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) satellites, a key step toward lunar and space station docking. Milestones Achieved: January 16, 2025: Successful in-orbit docking and stabilisation of SpaDeX satellites. Enabled power transfer and initiated undocking protocols. Relevance : GS 3(Space) POEM4: Orbital Testbed PSLV’s fourth stage, repurposed as a satellite, hosted 24 payloads from ISRO, academia, and private industry. Key Experiments: Robotic arms tested debris capture and relocation. Plant studies: Germination of cowpea seeds (CROPS). Green propulsion tests: Manastu Space (MS289 fuel) and Bellatrix Aerospace (RUDRA engine). Amateur communications: Successful transmissions from SwetchaSAT-V0 and BGS-ARPIT. Scientific payloads: GalaxEye’s SAR imagery and TakeMe2Space’s AI processing in orbit. Indian Space Startups on SpaceX’s Transporter 12 Pixxel Space: Launched 3 Firefly hyperspectral satellites, forming India’s first private satellite constellation. Digantara: Deployed a space camera for tracking objects in low-Earth orbit. XDLINX Labs: Delivered a communications satellite for U.S.-based Almagest Space. Infrastructure and Technological Advancements New Launch Pad: Approved at ₹3,984.86 crore, to be ready by 2029, supporting human spaceflight and the Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). Engine Technology: Successfully tested Vikas engine restart capability at Mahendragiri. This innovation supports atmospheric operations and enhances mission flexibility. Aditya-L1 and Solar Data Marked a year of operations by releasing the first tranche of data on January 6, 2025. Mission continues to study the sun and its effects on the inner solar system. Where did dinosaurs first evolve? The evolution of dinosaurs, one of Earth’s most fascinating prehistoric lineages, traces back to the late Triassic Period, approximately 245–230 million years ago. Researchers propose that dinosaurs likely originated in the low-latitude regions of Gondwana, near the equator. This vast area, part of the supercontinent Pangaea, encompasses what are now northern South America and northern Africa, regions separated today by plate tectonics into the Amazon rainforest and the Sahara desert. Relevance :GS 3(Science ) Key Evidence Supporting Gondwana’s Role: Oldest-Known Fossils: Early dinosaur fossils, including Eoraptor and Herrerasaurus from Argentina, Saturnalia from Brazil, and Mbiresaurus raathi from Zimbabwe, share features that suggest millions of years of prior evolution. Gaps in the Fossil Record: Researchers point to significant gaps in the fossil record in the modern Sahara and Amazon regions, which could potentially host the remains of even earlier dinosaurs. The Environment in Early Gondwana: Dinosaurs likely emerged in harsh climates, characterized by extreme heat, dry deserts, savannah-like habitats, and some forested areas prone to seasonal wildfires. These regions were previously thought unsuitable for early dinosaur survival, but evidence suggests they adapted to these challenging conditions. Evolutionary Context: Dinosaurs evolved from more primitive reptiles following the mass extinction at the end of the Permian Period (252 million years ago), caused by extreme volcanism. The sparse fossil record from equatorial Gondwana may be attributed to unfavorable conditions for fossil preservation and limited exploration due to logistical challenges in regions like the Amazon and the Sahara. Implications: This research not only reshapes our understanding of dinosaur origins but also underscores the potential of unexplored fossil-rich regions to fill critical gaps in Earth’s evolutionary history. An enduring commitment to the Indo-Pacific The inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States marks a significant moment in global geopolitics, with particular attention to the Indo-Pacific.  His renewed presidency is expected to emphasize a more assertive U.S. security posture and stronger alliances, particularly within the Quad (India, Japan, Australia, and the U.S.). The Indo-Pacific remains central to U.S. strategic priorities, reflecting a commitment to ensuring regional stability through defense, economic, and technological cooperation with like-minded nations. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Importance of the Indo-Pacific Strategic Recalibration: During Trump’s first term, the U.S. adopted the term “Indo-Pacific,” replacing “Asia-Pacific.” This shift expanded the focus from East Asia and the Pacific Rim to include the Indian Ocean, highlighting maritime security and counterbalancing China’s influence. It integrated defense, security, and political considerations with economic cooperation, underscoring the region’s global trade and stability significance. Structural Changes in U.S. Defense Policy: The renaming of the U.S. Pacific Command to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (2018) showcased operational emphasis on the region. Specialized units were created in the U.S. Department of Defense to enhance collaboration with Indo-Pacific allies and partners. Revival of the Quad: The Trump administration revitalized the Quad, elevating it to a ministerial-level dialogue. Focus areas included maritime security, supply chain resilience, and technological standards, reflecting a convergence of strategic interests among its members. Continuity under Joe Biden: The Biden administration maintained the Indo-Pacific framework and elevated the Quad through summits and expanded its agenda to include vaccines, climate change, and critical technologies. The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (2022) balanced strategic goals with economic engagement, reinforcing the region’s rules-based order. Prospects in Trump 2.0 Hard Power Dynamics: The Trump administration is expected to take a more assertive stance on China, focusing on hard power and security frameworks. Collaboration with Quad partners—India, Japan, and Australia—will be strengthened, sharing the burden of regional security. Quad’s Role: A Quad foreign ministers’ meeting on January 21, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reaffirmed U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific. The meeting emphasized maritime security, resilient supply chains, and adherence to international law while opposing unilateral actions to alter the status quo. Regional Focus: Early bilateral meetings, including India as the first, highlight the strategic emphasis on Quad partners. The Quad Summit to be hosted by India will serve as a platform for advancing regional peace, stability, and technological security. Should Governors Head State Universities? The role of the Governor as Chancellor of State universities has become a contentious issue, often politicized and undermining the autonomy of universities, especially in Opposition-ruled states. This position, inherited from colonial rule, is now seen as outdated, contributing to governance issues and political interference. Reform models have been proposed to shift power away from the Governor and into more academically focused hands, ensuring that universities can function independently of political agendas. Relevance : GS 2(Polity ,Governance ) Historical Context and Political Influence Colonial Legacy: The post of Chancellor, given to Governors of colonial presidencies, was meant to maintain direct British control over universities. This role was inherited by post-Independence Indian states, even though it was not part of the Constitution of India but a state-specific law. Originally, the Governor held executive powers such as appointing Vice-Chancellors and nominating members to university bodies. This model was designed to control rather than protect university autonomy. Shift Post-1967: After 1967, when political power in several states shifted from Congress to regional or opposition parties, the Governor’s role became more politicized. Governors, often appointed by the Centre, began acting as political agents of the ruling party, particularly influencing the appointment of Vice-Chancellors and other university decisions, leading to conflict with State governments. Political Appointment of Governors: The trend of appointing political loyalists as Governors has exacerbated the issue. Studies show that a significant number of Governors were active politicians before their appointment, further diminishing the office’s credibility. Constitutional and Legal Issues Dual Role of Governors: Constitutionally, Governors have a dual role: they function as constitutional heads of the state, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers, and as Chancellors, where they can act independently in university matters. This dichotomy often leads to tensions, especially when a Governor exercises discretionary powers that bypass the State government’s advice, causing delays in critical decisions like Vice-Chancellor appointments. Comparing with the President’s Role: While the Governor’s role in State universities is unilateral, the President of India, as the Visitor of Central universities, works in consultation with the Ministry of Education, ensuring more coordination and legislative oversight. This discrepancy highlights the flaws in the current system of governance at State universities. Challenges with the Current System Governance and Accountability Issues: Governors wield significant power over universities but lack accountability, leading to conflicting demands from different authorities. This creates a dysfunctional governance system where universities serve two masters—State governments and the Governor—often with differing priorities. Delays in decision-making, especially regarding Vice-Chancellor appointments, lead to administrative paralysis, affecting academic schedules, staff recruitment, and project implementation. Political Interference: Instead of safeguarding universities from political interference, the Governor’s role has become a tool for advancing political agendas, especially in Opposition-led states. This undermines the principle of academic freedom and institutional autonomy. Insights from Commissions and Proposals for Reform Rajamannar Committee (1969-71): Argued that the Governor should perform his statutory functions (including that of Chancellor) on the advice of the State government, aligning with the principles of federalism. However, this interpretation was not upheld by the Supreme Court. Sarkaria Commission (1983-88): Recognized that the Governor’s role as Chancellor should be redefined and recommended consultations with Chief Ministers while maintaining the Governor’s independent judgment in university matters. M.M. Punchhi Commission (2007-10): Suggested that the Governor should focus on constitutional responsibilities and avoid roles like Chancellor, proposing that States appoint eminent academics as Chancellors to ensure academic freedom. National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2000-02): Advocated for reducing the political role of Governors and emphasized a supportive rather than an authoritative role in university governance. Alternative Models for University Governance Governor as Ceremonial Chancellor: The Governor’s role should be limited to ceremonial functions, acting on the advice of the State Council of Ministers. States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka have adopted variations of this approach. Chief Minister as Chancellor: Some states, such as West Bengal and Punjab, have proposed making the Chief Minister the Chancellor. However, concerns about the political implications of such a model persist. State-Appointed Chancellor: A more widely accepted model involves the State government appointing a ceremonial Chancellor, ideally an eminent academic or public figure, not a politician. Telangana has successfully implemented this approach. University-Elected Chancellor: In line with global best practices (e.g., Oxford, Cambridge), universities could elect their own ceremonial Chancellor, fostering greater autonomy and transparency in the selection process.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 25 January 2025

Content: NITI Aayog launches the “Fiscal Health Index 2025” in New Delhi India’s WASH Innovations Lead Global Discourse at World Economic Forum 2025 NITI Aayog launches the “Fiscal Health Index 2025” in New Delhi Context: The Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025, launched by NITI Aayog, marks a significant milestone in assessing the fiscal health of Indian states. This is part of NITI Aayog’s effort to promote fiscal prudence, transparency, and sustainable economic growth at the sub-national level. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) Features of the FHI: Purpose: The FHI aims to offer a data-driven, comprehensive assessment of the fiscal health of 18 major Indian states. It will serve as an annual report focusing on the fiscal status of states and help inform state-level policy interventions. The report also aims to improve fiscal governance, economic resilience, and national stability. Key Sub-Indices: The FHI is based on five major sub-indices that determine the fiscal health of states: Quality of Expenditure: Examines how efficiently states are utilizing public funds. Revenue Mobilisation: Measures the state’s capacity to raise revenue through taxes and other means. Fiscal Prudence: Assesses the state’s ability to manage its financial resources responsibly. Debt Index: Measures the state’s overall debt position. Debt Sustainability: Evaluates the sustainability of the state’s debt over the long term. Top Performers: Odisha leads the ranking with a score of 67.8, excelling in revenue mobilization and expenditure management. Chhattisgarh and Goa follow with scores of 55.2 and 53.6, respectively. Observations: States like Jharkhand have shown improvement in fiscal prudence and debt sustainability. On the other hand, Karnataka has experienced a decline due to weaknesses in expenditure quality and debt management. Policy Implications: The FHI will act as a tool for fiscal consolidation by promoting transparency and improved resource management. The report helps policymakers make informed decisions to strengthen fiscal resilience. It encourages states to align their fiscal strategies with national objectives and adopt best practices to contribute to India’s goal of becoming a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. Annual Publication: The FHI will be published annually, providing valuable data-driven insights into the fiscal health of Indian states. It is designed to assist policymakers by identifying areas requiring intervention and strategic planning to improve fiscal governance. India’s WASH Innovations Lead Global Discourse at World Economic Forum 2025 Context: Event: India Pavilion at World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025, Davos. Key Theme: “India’s WASH Innovation: Driving Global Impact in Climate and Water Sustainability.” The discussion at the India Pavilion emphasized India’s transformative achievements in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector, showcasing innovations in water conservation, sanitation coverage, and equitable access to drinking water. Relevance : GS 2(Health , Governance ) Highlights of the Session: WASH Innovations and India’s Role: The session centered on India’s significant progress in the WASH sector, highlighting two flagship initiatives: Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM): Focused on sanitation, including toilet construction and the elimination of open defecation. Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Aimed at providing safe drinking water to rural households. These initiatives have been instrumental in improving sanitation coverage and water access, benefiting millions of rural households and positioning India as a global leader in these areas. Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) have led to transformative changes in rural India, improving sanitation coverage and ensuring safe drinking water. Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the percentage of rural households with functional tap water connections increased from 17% in 2019 to 79.66% in 2025. Impact on Time Savings: Rural India has saved 55 million hours daily that were previously spent on fetching water, leading to increased workforce participation, especially among women. Global Recognition of India’s Initiatives: The Swachh Bharat Mission and Jal Jeevan Mission have garnered global attention as successful models of large-scale, government-led initiatives for improving public health, sanitation, and water access. The WHO has credited India’s efforts in sanitation with having prevented the deaths of 300,000 children under the age of five due to improved hygiene and sanitation practices. Challenges Addressed: Water Scarcity: India faces growing challenges of water scarcity, which is exacerbated by climate change, overpopulation, and unsustainable water use. Climate Resilience: India’s efforts in water conservation are aligned with global needs for climate resilience, especially in regions vulnerable to water scarcity and extreme weather events. Panel Discussions: Water Panel: Focused on global water sustainability, featuring experts from NMCG, UNICEF, and WaterAid, discussing innovative strategies for advancing water management. Sanitation Panel: Highlighted global health innovations in sanitation, featuring experts from the Gates Foundation, Riseberg Ventures, and actor-advocate Vivek Oberoi, focusing on breakthroughs in sanitation technologies. Major Achievements Highlighted: 95 Million Toilets Built: Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, over 95 million toilets were constructed, significantly improving sanitation and hygiene standards across the country. Household Tap Water Connections: The Jal Jeevan Mission reached millions of rural households, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and significantly improving the quality of life in rural communities. India’s Global Leadership: India’s WASH innovations are being recognized as scalable models for other nations grappling with similar water and sanitation challenges. The nation’s emphasis on community engagement, behavioral change, and technology-driven solutions offers a framework for global collaboration in achieving the UNSDGs. Collaborative Efforts for SDGs: The session highlighted the critical role of public-private partnerships in driving progress towards SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It was emphasized that addressing the global water crisis and achieving climate resilience requires collective international action. Conclusions and Global Commitments: The event concluded with actionable insights and commitments from various stakeholders, reinforcing India’s role in global climate action and sustainable development. India’s initiatives in water management and sanitation are aligned with global goals to combat climate change, enhance health outcomes, and improve economic development. Significance: India’s leadership in WASH innovations offers valuable lessons for other countries facing water and sanitation challenges, particularly in developing regions. The Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission are not only addressing immediate needs but also contributing to long-term goals of climate resilience, sustainable development, and gender equality. The World Economic Forum 2025 served as an important platform to amplify India’s contributions to global water sustainability and climate action, encouraging international cooperation and the exchange of ideas.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 25 January 2025

Content: Foundational values, the journey of the Indian state Further south Foundational Values, The Journey of the Indian State The Birth of the Constitution of India Context of Independence: After nearly three years of debate, the Constituent Assembly drafted the Constitution, which came into effect in January 1950. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Vision: In his closing address (November 25, 1949), Ambedkar expressed concerns about whether Indians would prioritize national unity over personal or community interests, reflecting his fear of fragmentary forces hindering national progress. Relevance : GS 2(Polity , Governance) Practice Question:Dr. B.R. Ambedkar warned that fragmentary forces could hinder India’s progress. Critically analyze how his concerns are still relevant in contemporary India.(250 Words) Federalism and Constitutional Discourse Debates on Federalism: Lack of ‘Federal’ Terminology: The Constitution does not explicitly mention the word “federal,” yet the distribution of powers between the Union and States has been pivotal in defining India’s federal structure. Tussles Between Centre and States: The conflict between State governments and Governors, simultaneous elections, and fiscal federalism have brought attention to the equitable distribution of power. Multi-lingual and Regional Issues: The debate around neglecting regional languages like Tamil, Marathi, Kannada highlights the complexities of federalism and the struggle for state autonomy. Federalism vs. Unitarism: Ambedkar’s Stance: Ambedkar clarified that the Union has overriding powers in emergency situations, but the functioning of the country is rooted in a federal framework. Judicial Confirmation: Key judgments such as S.R. Bommai vs Union of India (1994) and Government of NCT of Delhi vs Union of India (2024) have upheld that federalism is part of the basic structure of the Constitution, reinforcing the balance of power between the Union and States. Challenges to Social Democracy Erosion of Liberties: Critics suggest laws like Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) may require careful balance to ensure they do not disproportionately affect individual rights while addressing security and financial crimes. Sedition Law: The continued application of sedition laws raises concerns about the state’s control over political dissent. Social Inequality and Caste: Ambedkar’s Warnings: Ambedkar had warned that without removing social and economic inequalities, democracy could be at risk. Caste System: Despite efforts, caste-based inequalities persist in India. The failure to neutralize caste as a determinant of merit and social success suggests that the social agenda of the Constitution is far from complete. Fraternity: Ambedkar emphasized fraternity to heal divisions, yet the idea of an Indian nation remains elusive due to persistent caste divides. The Need for Constitutional Guardians Defending the Constitution: Criticism of Colonial Influence: There is growing criticism that the Constitution was influenced by colonialism, with suggestions of replacing it with an ‘Indic’ Constitution drawing from Hindu dharmic principles. Counterargument: Such views undermine the efforts of the Constituent Assembly and the vision of Dr. Ambedkar, who crafted the Constitution as a tool to forge a modern, inclusive, and democratic India. Guardianship and Continuity: Plato’s Philosopher-Kings: Drawing from Plato’s Republic, India needs guardians who can defend the Constitution and ensure democratic principles are upheld. This class of guardians should include judges, bureaucrats, politicians, activists, journalists, and citizens. Guardianship in Practice: True guardianship involves prioritizing the nation over personal or sectarian interests. These individuals must serve as custodians of the democratic vision, ensuring constitutional values continue to guide the future of India. The Call to Action: Constitutional Vigilance: Rather than overhauling the Constitution, India must focus on defending its democratic principles. The Constitutional philosophy should remain a living document, evolving through interpretations but rooted in its original purpose. Constitutional Evolution: Reflections for the Future Ambedkar’s Warnings and the Road Ahead: Ambedkar’s vision for India was built on the foundation of liberty, equality, and fraternity, and he cautioned that without resolving inequalities, democracy itself could be endangered. India must confront its social disparities—be it caste, economic, or regional—and foster a sense of unity and fraternity. A Nation on the Path of Progress While India has made significant strides, the journey towards a truly inclusive democracy is ongoing. The Constitution’s guardianship must adapt to the challenges of the present while staying true to its foundational values. Conclusion: The Indian state’s journey, marked by the values enshrined in the Constitution, continues to be a balancing act between unity and diversity, liberty and equality, and constitutional ideals and evolving realities. Further South Historical Significance Iron Age Context in India: Unlike other regions of the world, where the Iron Age succeeded the Bronze Age, South India shows a distinct trajectory. The northern part of India was predominantly in the Chalcolithic (Copper Age) phase when South India was associated with iron. Over 3,000 Iron Age sites in South India indicate its prominence in early metallurgy. Relevance: GS 1(Heritage , History and Culture) Practice Question :What are the major challenges in Iron Age archaeology in South India, and how can they be addressed through coordinated efforts?(250 Words) Chronological Evolution: Conservative estimates place the Indian Iron Age in the second millennium BCE. Recent findings in Sivagalai, Tamil Nadu, push this timeline back to the first quarter of the fourth millennium BCE (around 3000-2500 BCE). Validations were carried out by reputable institutions like Beta Analytic, adding credibility. Scientific Contributions of Tamil Nadu’s Research Key Study: The TNSDA’s report, “Antiquity of Iron: Recent Radiometric Dates from Tamil Nadu,” redefines South India’s contribution to iron metallurgy. Radiometric dating methods provided robust evidence for early iron use in the region. Implications for Iron Metallurgy Studies: Early Tamil Nadu iron use pre-dates the mid-Ganga Valley findings (1800 BCE), highlighting regional variations in technological evolution. Offers a new perspective for studying diffusion versus indigenous development of metallurgy. Global Implications: Strengthens the argument for indigenous innovation in metallurgy within the Indian subcontinent. Encourages re-examining global timelines in relation to South India’s iron antiquity. Challenges and Opportunities in Iron Age Archaeology Need for Specialized Focus: Archaeologists should prioritize “iron–specific” sites over mixed copper–iron sites to improve efficiency. Expanding research beyond Tamil Nadu is essential to understand the broader South Indian Iron Age. Role of Coordination: Tamil Nadu’s archaeological efforts must be complemented by work in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) should lead a unified, pan-regional research initiative. Funding and Incentives: The Tamil Nadu government’s announcement of a $1-million prize for deciphering the Indus Valley script demonstrates a commitment to historical research. Similar incentives can be introduced for Iron Age studies to attract global collaboration. Political and Cultural Dimensions Neutralizing Historical Misuse: The new evidence counters any attempts to distort history for political or ideological purposes. Emphasizes the importance of concrete, credible research to establish historical truths. National Identity: Findings from Tamil Nadu enrich the narrative of India’s ancient technological advancements. Strengthens India’s claim to being an early center of metallurgical innovation. Future Directions Enhanced Methodology: Adoption of advanced dating techniques (e.g., radiocarbon dating, thermoluminescence) for more precise timelines. Interdisciplinary approaches combining archaeology, metallurgy, and cultural studies. Public Awareness: Disseminating findings through educational content to foster pride in India’s ancient heritage. International collaboration to enhance India’s representation in global archaeological studies. Broader Context: Explore links between early iron production and socio-political developments, trade networks, and agrarian advancements in South India. Conclusion The discovery of early iron use in Tamil Nadu reshapes our understanding of the Iron Age in India, emphasizing the region’s pioneering role in metallurgy. Collaboration across states and institutions, coupled with innovative research strategies, can unlock further insights into this transformative period of history.