Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Spratly Islands & Second Thomas Shoal Syllabus Prelims – Current event Context: Tensions are rising in the South China Sea after Chinese vessels attempted to block a Philippine mission to resupply their troops on the contested reef Background:- A recent incident in the area, where the Philippines claims that China Coast Guard ships caused two collisions with their boats and water cannoned one of them, has renewed global interest in the flashpoint.The Philippine vessels were part of a routine mission to deliver provisions to troops stationed on the grounded navy vessel BRP Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal. About Spratly Islands:-   The Spratly Islands are a disputed archipelago in the South China Sea. Composed of islands, islets, cays and more than 100 reefs, the archipelago lies off the coasts of the Philippines, Malaysia and southern Vietnam. The islands are largely uninhabited, but offer rich fishing grounds and may contain significant oil and natural gas reserves. China, the Philippines, Taiwan (ROC) and Vietnam claim the whole Spratly Islands while Brunei and Malaysia claim part of the Islands. China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea based on the historical and controversial Nine-dash line. In 2013, the Philippines had filed a case against China with the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, challenging the legality of China’s claims and activities in the South China Sea. The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague, Netherlands, ruled that China’s claims of historical rights over South China Sea (SCS) has no legal basis. About Second Thomas shoal Second Thomas Shoal is a submerged reef in the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea. It is a disputed territory and claimed by several nations. The reef is occupied by Philippine Navy personnel aboard ship, the BRP Sierra Madre, that was intentionally grounded on the reef in 1999 and has been periodically replenished since then. Source: Hindu Sela Tunnel Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the strategically significant Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh. Background: According to a Bloomberg report, India has freed up thousands of soldiers to strengthen its disputed border with China. As a response, China has said that deploying more troops at the border would not ease tensions. About Sela Tunnel The foundation of the project was laid by Modi in February 2019, with a cost estimation of Rs 825 crore, but work got delayed due to various reasons, including the Covid-19 pandemic. The Sela Tunnel, situated at an elevation of 13,000 feet, will provide all-weather connectivity to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Strategically crucial, the Sela Tunnel project includes two tunnels and 8.780 km of approach road. The total length of the project, including the tunnels, the approach and the link roads, will be around 12 km. Of the two tunnels, the first is a single-tube tunnel of 980 metres in length, and the second is 1.5 km long with an escape tube for emergencies. An official said that the tunnel, stretching through the Sela-Charbela ridge and constructed with the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), will be the world’s longest bi-lane tunnel at an altitude of 13,000 feet. The tunnel has been made on the road connecting Assam’s Tezpur to Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang. It will enable all-weather connectivity to the Tawang region and is said to be strategically significant due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC). It has been excavated below the 4,200-metre (13,800 ft) Sela Pass, which connects the Tawang district with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh and is often closed due to snowfall and landslides. Source: Economic Times DESERT STAR DUNES Syllabus Prelims – Geography Context: The age of one of Earth’s largest and most complex types of star shaped sand dune has been calculated for the first time. Background: Star dunes are among Earth’s largest and most complex types of sand dunes. Experts had never before been able to put a date on when they were formed. Now scientists have discovered that a dune called Lala Lallia in Morocco formed 13,000 years ago. About sand dune: A sand dune is an accumulation of sand grains that takes the form of a mound or ridge due to the influence of wind and gravity. Star dunes – or pyramid dunes – are named after their distinctive shapes and reach hundreds of metres in height. Star dunes resembling stars when viewed from above. Star dunes are massive sand dunes characterized by arms radiating from a central peak. Star dunes are widespread in modern deserts across the globe, including sand seas in Africa, Arabia, China, and North America. Dynamic Movement: Star dunes are not static; they shift and evolve over time. Star dunes are formed by opposing winds with changing directions. The Sahara’s star dunes move at an impressive pace—about 50 centimeters per year across the desert. Unlike other dunes, star dunes never collapse due to this continuous reorganization process. Source: BBC NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCHEDULED CASTES (NCSC) Syllabus Prelims – Polity Context: Recently, the Union government has reconstituted the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC). Background: Kishor Makwana has taken charge as the Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC). This appointment follows the resignation of former Chairman Vijay Sampla. About NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SCHEDULED CASTES (NCSC): The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) is a constitutional body established under Article 338 of the Indian Constitution. Its primary goal is to fully protect the rights of Scheduled Castes (SCs). The NCSC operates under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. It was established to provide safeguards against the exploitation of Scheduled Castes and Anglo-Indian communities and to promote and protect their social, educational, economic, and cultural interests. Structure The NCSC consists of five members including Chairperson. The President of India appoints the chairperson of the NCSC. The appointment is made by warrant under the President’s hand and seal. The term of office for the chairperson, vice-chairperson, and each member is three years from the date they assume charge of their office Duties and Functions Investigate and monitor all matters related to the safeguards

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Nuclear waste Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Science Context: Recently, India loaded the core of its long-delayed prototype fast breeder reactor (PFBR) vessel. Background:- Large-scale use of nuclear power is accompanied by a difficult problem: waste management. About Nuclear Waste:-   In a fission reactor, neutrons bombard the nuclei of atoms of certain elements. When one such nucleus absorbs a neutron, it destabilises and breaks up, yielding some energy and the nuclei of different elements. For example, when the uranium-235 (U-235) nucleus absorbs a neutron, it can fission to barium-144, krypton-89, and three neutrons. If the ‘debris’ (barium-144 and krypton-89) constitute elements that can’t undergo fission, they become nuclear waste. Fuel that is loaded into a nuclear reactor will become irradiated and will eventually have to be unloaded.At this stage it is called spent fuel. The spent fuel contains all the radioactive fission products that are produced when each nucleus breaks apart to produce energy, as well as those radioactive elements, produced when uranium is converted into heavier elements following the absorption of neutrons and subsequent radioactive decays. Handling the spent fuel is the main challenge: it is hot and radioactive, and needs to be kept underwater. Once it has cooled, it can be transferred to dry casks for longer-term storage. All countries with longstanding nuclear power programmes have accumulated a considerable inventory of spent fuel. For example, the U.S. had 69,682 tonnes (as of 2015), Canada 54,000 tonnes (2016), and Russia 21,362 tonnes (2014). Depending on radioactivity levels, the storage period can run up to a few millennia, meaning they have to be isolated from human contact for periods of time that are longer than anatomically modern Homo sapiens have been around on the planet. How is nuclear waste dealt with? Once spent fuel has been cooled in the spent-fuel pool for at least a year, it can be moved to dry-cask storage, and is placed inside large steel cylinders and surrounded by an inert gas. The cylinders are sealed shut and placed inside larger steel or concrete chambers. Reprocessing — the name for technologies that separate fissile from non-fissile material in spent fuel — is another way to deal with the spent fuel. Here, the material is chemically treated to separate fissile material left behind from the non-fissile material. Because spent fuel is so hazardous, reprocessing facilities need specialised protections and personnel of their own. Such facilities present the advantage of higher fuel efficiency but are also expensive. Source: Hindu Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Assam Cabinet on March 10 decided to de-notify a prime one-horned rhino habitat – the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary about 48km east of Guwahati. Background: Environment activists says the decision, taken 26 years after the Assam Forest Department notified Pobitora as a wildlife sanctuary on March 17, 1998, is the first of its kind for any protected area in the country. About Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary  Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra in Morigaon district in Assam, India. The sanctuary has the highest concentration of the one-horned rhinos on earth. The Grasslands of Pobitora offer sightings of the Greater One Horned Rhinoceros, Wild Water Buffalo, Monitor Lizard, Wild Boar, etc. Pobitora also holds the distinction of being the source population of the Indian Rhinoceros Vision, 2020 (IRV), Eight Rhinos were translocated from Pobitora Wild life Sanctuary and introduced into Manas National Park Source: Hindu AGNI-5 MISSILE WITH MIRV TECHNOLOGY Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Recently, India successfully conducted the first flight test of indigenously developed Agni-5 missile with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology from Dr A P J Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. Background: The flight test was conducted as part of India’s ‘Mission Divyastra’. About Agni-V: The Agni-V is an advanced surface-to-surface ballistic missile developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) in India. The Agni-V is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India. It’s a fire-and-forget missile, which means once fired, it doesn’t require further guidance and can’t be stopped without an interceptor missile. The missile has a range of over 5000 km, making it capable of hitting targets beyond this range. It can carry a warhead of about 1500 kg. The Agni series of missiles, which includes Agni-1 to Agni-5, forms the backbone of India’s nuclear launch capability. Agni-V has been successfully tested multiple times since 2012. Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) Technology The latest variant of the Agni missile is equipped with MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle) technology. MIRV technology allows a single missile to deploy multiple warheads at different locations or at the same location with a time gap. This technology significantly enhances the missile’s effectiveness by enabling it to hit multiple targets simultaneously. Agni-V’s MIRV capability is aimed primarily at countering challenges from China. These missiles can be launched from land or from sea from a submarine. Global Context: Currently, only a handful of countries possess MIRV-equipped missiles. These countries include the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom. While Pakistan is developing such a missile system, there are suspicions that Israel may also possess or be developing one. Previous Year Question Q1. With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct? It is a surface-to-surface missile. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 SABROOM LAND PORT Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the 3rd Land Port at Sabroom in South Tripura. Background: In addition to the modern Land Port in Sabroom, the Prime Minister inaugurated 11 projects in Tripura. About SABROOM LAND PORT : The Sabroom Land Port is strategically located in the South Tripura district of the state of Tripura, India, along the international border with Bangladesh. It

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   ‘Five Eyes’ alliance Syllabus Prelims – Current event Context: ‘Five Eyes’ alliance member New Zealand’s Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Winston Peters discusses bilateral ties with S. Jaishankar Background:- At the end of a four-day visit to India, Mr. Peters said that India and New Zealand shared common views on Indo-Pacific security challenges. About ‘Five Eyes’ alliance:-   Est: Post-World War II Members states: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The term “Five Eyes” refers to the five countries’ collective efforts to gather and share signals intelligence (SIGINT) to address common security threats and challenges. Objectives: Intelligence Sharing: The alliance members collaborate to share signals intelligence, which includes intercepted communications and electronic data, to enhance their collective understanding of global security threats. Counterterrorism and National Security: The Five Eyes network focuses on countering terrorism and addressing other national security concerns by exchanging vital intelligence and cooperating on joint operations. Cybersecurity and Cyber Threats: Given the growing significance of cyber threats, the alliance works together to monitor and address cyber activities from adversarial nations and non-state actors. Information and Technology Sharing: The Five Eyes partners share expertise and technological advancements in the field of intelligence gathering, analysis, and cryptography. Source: Hindu Infrastructure investment trust (InvIT) Syllabus Prelims – Economy Context: InvITs and REITs have gained popularity as preferred investment options, with fundraising, through the route, surging 10-fold year-on-year to ₹11,474 crore in 2023, supported by measures taken by regulator SEBI and attractive returns offered by the instruments. Background: InvITs and REITs are new concepts in the Indian market but have been a popular choice globally for their lucrative returns and capital appreciation. About Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvITs) An Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvITs) is a Collective Investment Scheme similar to a mutual fund. It enables direct investment of money from individual and institutional investors in infrastructure projects to earn a small portion of the income as return. ( FPI and InvITs) The InvIT is designed as a tiered structure with Sponsor setting up the InvIT which in turn invests into the eligible infrastructure projects either directly or via special purpose vehicles (SPVs). Regulated by: SEBI (Infrastructure Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014. An InvIT has four parties namely: Trustee, Sponsor(s) and Investment Manager and Project Manager. While the trustee (certified by Sebi) has the responsibility of inspecting the performance of an InvIT, sponsor(s) are promoters of the company that set up the InvIT. Types of InvITs As per current SEBI Regulations InvITs can be divided into 5 key types depending on the types of infrastructure they own or operate: Energy such as power generation and distribution. Transport & Logisticsg. operating highways and other toll roads optical fiber networks and telecom towers Social and Commercial Infrastructure g. parks Water and Sanitationg. irrigation networks From the perspective of the source of funds, InvITs can be of two types: Privately-Held InvITs:- This type of InvIT is not listed on the stock exchange and units of this type of infrastructure trust cannot be bought or sold on a stock exchange. All units of this type of unit are held privately by a very limited number of individuals or institutions. Public-Listed InvITs:- After an Infrastructure Trust lists itself on the stock exchange, it is known as a public-listed InvIT. Units of a public-listed InvIT can be bought and sold on stock exchanges by retail as well as institutional investors. Current SEBI regulations do not require a mandatory listing of InvITs on stock exchanges. Source: Hindu Businessline MINES AND MINERALS DEVELOPMENT AND REGULATION ACT (MMDRA) Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: The Supreme Court has recently examined a batch of over 80 petitions filed by various private mining companies. Background: Petitions challenge the right of state governments to levy taxes on mining activities within their respective territories. The crux of the dispute lies in the distinction between royalty charged on mining and taxes imposed by states. About MINES AND MINERALS DEVELOPMENT AND REGULATION ACT (MMDRA): The The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 forms the basic framework of mining regulation in India. The act is applicable to all minerals except minor minerals and atomic minerals. MMDR Act, 1957, mandate that every mining lease holder needs to pay royalty for major minerals removed or consumed. This royalty compensates for the privilege of extracting minerals from leased areas. The MMDR Act explicitly places the responsibility for mineral development and regulation within the purview of the Central Government. Central Government has the authority to specify the royalty rates for various minerals. The Second Schedule of the MMDR Act provides royalty rates for various minerals. Under the MDR Act, states have the authority to collect royalties. This provision ensures that mining activities contribute to state revenue while adhering to sustainable practices. It was amended in 2015 and 2016 to bring several reforms in the mineral sector. Source: Money Control MINIMUM ALTERNATE TAX (MAT) Syllabus Prelims – Economy Context: Recently, the Mumbai bench of the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) has made an important observation regarding the Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT). Background: According to their recent ruling, the assessee is eligible to claim credit for MAT under the Vivad se Vishwas (VSV) Scheme for the relevant assessment year. This decision could have significant implications for taxpayers seeking resolution of their tax disputes. About MINIMUM ALTERNATE TAX (MAT): Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) is a provision in India’s Income Tax Act. MAT ensures that companies contribute a minimum amount of tax, regardless of their tax exemptions and deductions. MAT was introduced to bring “zero tax companies” into the tax net. It applies to domestic companies, foreign companies operating in India and Special Economic Zone units. The tax is calculated based on the normal income tax liability of the company or entity. MAT ensures tax fairness and prevents companies from completely avoiding taxes. The Vivad se Vishwas (VSV) Scheme aims to provide a mechanism for taxpayers to settle pending income tax disputes and avoid prolonged litigation. By allowing credit for MAT under this scheme, the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) is acknowledging the importance of providing relief to taxpayers and promoting a more efficient resolution process. Source: Times

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   TRAFFIC (Trade Records Analysis of Flora and Fauna in Commerce) Syllabus Prelims – Environment Context: An analysis by TRAFFIC and WWF-India between January 2010 and December 2022 has revealed that Tamilnadu accounted for almost 65% of illegal trade in shark body parts. Background:- Illegal trade in wildlife species is a serious conservation threat. About TRAFFIC:-   TRAFFIC (Trade Records Analysis of Flora and Fauna in Commerce), the Wildlife Trade Monitoring Network, is a global non-governmental organization monitoring the trade in wild plants and animals. TRAFFIC focuses on preserving biodiversity and sustainable legal wildlife trade while working against unsustainable illegal wildlife trade TRAFFIC’s mission is built on the long-term vision of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework: a world living in harmony with nature where by 2050, biodiversity is valued, conserved, restored, and wisely used, maintaining ecosystem services, sustaining a healthy planet and delivering benefits essential for all people. It was originally created in 1976 as a specialist group of the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and evolved into a strategic alliance of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the IUCN TRAFFIC IS part of the Cambridge Conservation Initiative – based in the David Attenborough Building – a hub which brings together Cambridge University and several international NGOs striving for sustainability and to conserve nature. TRAFFIC came to India in 1991, operating as a division of WWF-India. Source: Hindu Gulbadan Begum Syllabus Prelims – History Context: Historian Ruby Lal has written a book on Gulbadan Begum titled ‘Vagabond Princess: The Great Adventures of Gulbadan’. Background: She is one of the most prominent women of Mughal era. About Gulbadan Begum: Gulbadan Begum (1523 – 1603) was a Mughal princess and the daughter of Emperor Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire. She is best known as the author of Humayun-Nama, the account of the life of her half-brother, Emperor Humayun, which she wrote on the request of her nephew, Emperor Akbar. Akbar asked his aunt to write the book as she had known and interacted with three Mughal emperors. Her book is not political unlike the other accounts of the time. It provides details of everyday life in the royal palace and is also an account of the empire as it was taking shape. Gulbadan wrote in simple Persian, without the erudite language used by better-known writers. Her father Babur had written Babur-nama in the same style. Gulbadan is the first and only woman historian of the Mughal era. Gulbadan Begum is mentioned throughout the Akbarnama of Abu’l Fazl. Source: Hindu OCEANSAT-3 Syllabus Prelims- Science Context: ISRO’s Oceansat-3 reveals phytoplankton bloom that maintains marine ecosystem. Background: The satellite revealed the seasonal greening and browning of continents, alongside the dynamic movements of chlorophyll blooms in the oceans, from April to December 2023. Phytoplankton are microscopic, photosynthetic organisms that form the foundation of the marine food web. They play a crucial role in the Earth’s ecosystems as primary producers, converting sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis. About OCEANSAT-3 Oceansat-3, also known as Earth Observing Satellite 6 (EOS-6), is a remarkable oceanographical Earth observation mission launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Oceansat-3 was launched on 26th November 2022. It is part of India’s ocean observation program and is the third satellite in the Oceansat series. The satellite is designed to operate until 2027. Oceansat-3 is equipped with multiple sensors to observe various parameters: Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM-3): Measures Ocean colour data, providing insights into phytoplankton distribution and other biological processes. Ku-band Scatterometer (SCAT-3): Provides high-resolution global ocean surface wind speed and direction information. Sea Surface Temperature Monitor (SSTM): Measures Sea surface temperature (SST) variations. Oceansat-3’s data is crucial for: Oceanography: Studying ocean currents, upwelling zones, and marine ecosystems. Climatology: Monitoring climate patterns and changes. Meteorology: Enhancing cyclone prediction. Fisheries: Identifying potential fishing zones. Continuity and Enhancement: Oceansat-3, in conjunction with Oceansat-2, improves the frequency of measurements:Ocean colour measurements are now available every 24 hours, Wind vector measurements are available every 12 hours. Source: India Today JUNO SPACECRAFT Syllabus Prelims : Science Context: Recently, NASA posted an image of Great Red Spot on Jupiter captured by Juno spacecraft. Background: The Great Red Spot is a giant anticyclonic storm that is larger than Earth itself. It has been observed since the 17th century and continues to be a fascinating subject of study for scientists. Juno’s mission to Jupiter has provided us with unprecedented views of this iconic feature, allowing us to delve deeper into its mysteries. About JUNO SPACECRAFT: NASA’s Juno spacecraft is a space probe orbiting Jupiter. It was built by Lockheed Martin and is operated by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The spacecraft was launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on August 5, 2011, as part of the New Frontiers program. Juno entered a polar orbit of Jupiter on July 5, 2016, after a five-year, 1,740-million-mile journey. The spacecraft’s mission is to measure Jupiter’s composition, gravitational field, magnetic field, and polar magnetosphere. It also aims to search for clues about how the planet formed, including whether it has a rocky core, the amount of water present within the deep atmosphere, mass distribution, and its deep winds. Juno is the first explorer to peer below Jupiter’s dense clouds to answer questions about the gas giant itself and the origins of our solar system. Now in an extended mission phase, the agency’s most distant planetary orbiter continues its investigation. This extension tasks Juno with becoming an explorer of the full Jovian system – Jupiter and its rings and moons – with additional rendezvous planned for two of Jupiter’s most intriguing moons: Europa and Io. Source: Business Today REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) Syllabus Prelims – Economy Context: SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch recently highlighted the remarkable growth of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (INVITs), and Municipal bonds in India. Background: The Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (INVITs), and Municipal bonds are all investment vehicles that allow investors to earn income from specific sectors. About REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS) Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are financial instruments that allow investors to

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Rhodamine B Syllabus Prelims – Current event Context: On February 17, Tamil Nadu banned the sale of cotton candy or candy floss after analysis confirmed the presence of Rhodamine-B.Since then, the Karnataka Government has banned the use of harmful colouring agents in cotton candy and Gobi Manchurian. Background:- When taken even in small quantities for many years, Rhodamine B can cause a lot of health problems including cancers. About Rhodamine B:-   Rhodamine-B is a fluorescent dye used in cosmetics, textile and leather industries. It gives you brilliant pinks, greens and blues. Unfortunately, it is used as a food colouring agent not only in cotton candy but also in the preparation of sweets, various manchurian items and pakodas and in the preparation of sauces for Chinese food. Rhodamine-B has been routinely used in many coloured foods such as cotton candy to make it look appealing and attractive to young persons and children. Studies have shown that Rhodamine-B can cause cell death. In long-term use, it can damage the cerebellum tissue and brainstem. There is recent evidence that it damages the kidney, liver and increases the risk of stomach tumour. It is toxic to the human body and is a carcinogen. FSSAI has approved certain food colours and flavors as safe for consumption. These include: Caramel, Riboflavin (Lactoflavin), Saffron, Annatto, Curcumin (Turmeric), Carotene and carotenoids, including Beta-carotene, red colour from Ponceau 4R, Carmoisine, and Erythrosine, yellow colour (Tartrazine and Sunset Yellow FCF), blue colour (Indigo Carmine and Brilliant Blue FCF) and green colour (Fast Green FCF). Source: The Hindu One Nation, One Election Syllabus Prelims and Mains – Polity Context: The High-level Committee (HLC) on One Nation, One Election submitted its report to President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday (March 14) morning. Background: HLC was chaired by former president Ram Nath Kovind. What is meant by simultaneous elections? Simultaneous elections, popularly referred to as “One Nation, One Election”, means holding elections to Lok Sabha, all state Legislative Assemblies, and urban and rural local bodies (municipalities and panchayats) at the same time. Currently, all these elections are held independently of one another, following timelines dictated by the terms of every individual elected body. Simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and state assemblies used to happen in India until the fourth general elections of 1967. However, as successive central governments used constitutional provisions to dismiss state governments before the end of their term, and as coalition governments in the states and the Centre kept collapsing, country came to see elections at different times through the year. According to the HLC report, the country now sees five to six elections in a year — if municipalities and panchayat elections are also included, the number of elections will increase manifold. What is the need for holding simultaneous elections? Frequent elections burden the government exchequer with additional expenditure. If the expenditure incurred by political parties is also added, these figures will be even higher. Asynchronous elections cause uncertainty and instability, thwarting supply chains, business investments and economic growth. Disruption of government machinery due to asynchronous elections causes hardship to citizens. Frequent use of government officials and security forces adversely affect discharge of their duties. Frequent imposition of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) causes policy paralysis and slows down the pace of the developmental programmes. Staggered elections induce ‘voters’ fatigue’ and present a significant challenge in ensuring their participation. Important  recommendations of HLC AMENDING THE CONSTITUTION: The Constitution should be amended to enable simultaneous elections in two steps.In the first step, simultaneous elections will be held to Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. For this, no ratification by the states will be required for the constitutional amendment.In the second step, elections to municipalities and the panchayats will be synchronised with elections to Lok Sabha and state Assemblies in such a way that local body elections are held within 100 days of the elections to Lok Sabha and state Assemblies. This will require ratification by not less than one-half of the states. SINGLE ELECTORAL ROLL AND ELECTION ID: For the purpose of preparation of single electoral roll and electoral photo identity cards for use in elections to all the three tiers of government, the Constitution should be amended, so that the Election Commission of India can prepare a single electoral roll and election ID in consultation with the State Election Commissions. These amendments will require ratification by not less than one-half of the states. SINGLE ELECTORAL ROLL AND ELECTION ID: For the purpose of preparation of single electoral roll and electoral photo identity cards for use in elections to all the three tiers of government, the Constitution should be amended, so that the Election Commission of India can prepare a single electoral roll and election ID in consultation with the State Election Commissions. These amendments will require ratification by not less than one-half of the states. Source: The Indian Express GLOBAL METHANE TRACKER 2024 Syllabus Prelims & Mains -Environment Context: Recently, International Energy Agency (IEA) has released Global Methane Tracker 2024. Background: The Global Methane Pledge, led by the US and EU, aims to slash methane emissions by 30% by 2030 About Global Methane Tracker The Global Methane Tracker is an annual report released by the International Energy Agency (IEA). It provides the most recent data on methane emissions from the energy sector, incorporating new scientific studies, measurement campaigns, and satellite-collected information. Key Highlights of the 2024 Report: Methane emissions from fuel use in 2023 were nearly the highest ever, at 120 million tonnes (Mt). This is a slight increase compared to 2022. Bioenergy, a renewable energy form generated by plant and animal waste, contributed an additional 10 million tons of emissions. Of the 120 Mt of methane released into the atmosphere, around 80 million tons came from just 10 countries. The United States led in methane emissions from oil and gas operations, closely followed by Russia. China led in emissions from coal operations. To achieve the Paris Agreement goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C, the world needs to

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Lok Adalat Syllabus Prelims and Mains – Polity Context: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) successfully organised the first National Lok Adalat of 2024 in the taluks, districts and high courts of 34 states and Union territories on Saturday. Background:- Over 11.3 million cases settled in first National Lok Adalat of 2024.Figures show the effectiveness of alternative mechanisms for dispute resolution. About Lok Adalat Lok Adalat is one of the alternative dispute redressal mechanisms, it is a forum where disputes/cases pending in the court of law or at pre-litigation stage are settled/ compromised amicably. Lok Adalats have been given statutory status under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 Under the said Act, the award (decision) made by the Lok Adalats is deemed to be a decree of a civil court and is final and binding on all parties and no appeal against such an award lies before any court of law. If the parties are not satisfied with the award of the Lok Adalat though there is no provision for an appeal against such an award, but they are free to initiate litigation by approaching the court of appropriate jurisdiction by filing a case by following the required procedure, in exercise of their right to litigate. There is no court fee payable when a matter is filed in a Lok Adalat. If a matter pending in the court of law is referred to the Lok Adalat and is settled subsequently, the court fee originally paid in the court on the complaints/petition is also refunded back to the parties. The persons deciding the cases in the Lok Adalats are called the Members of the Lok Adalats, they have the role of statutory conciliators only and do not have any judicial role; therefore they can only persuade the parties to come to a conclusion for settling the dispute outside the court in the Lok Adalat and shall not pressurize or coerce any of the parties to compromise or settle cases or matters either directly or indirectly. Disputes before Lok Adalat would be decided on the basis of the compromise or settlement between the parties. The members shall assist the parties in an independent and impartial manner in their attempt to reach amicable settlement of their dispute. National Lok Adalat National Level Lok Adalats are held for at regular intervals where on a single day Lok Adalats are held throughout the country, in all the courts right from the Supreme Court till the Taluk Levels wherein cases are disposed off in huge numbers. Permanent Lok Adalat The other type of Lok Adalat is the Permanent Lok Adalat, organized under Section 22-B of The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. Permanent Lok Adalats have been set up as permanent bodies for providing compulsory pre-litigative mechanism for conciliation and settlement of cases relating to Public Utility Services like transport, postal, telegraph etc. Here, even if the parties fail to reach to a settlement, the Permanent Lok Adalat gets jurisdiction to decide the dispute, provided, the dispute does not relate to any offence. Source: Nalsa Haiti Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: With Haiti’s capital spiraling deeper into gang violence, the U.S. said on Sunday that it has airlifted non-essential American staff from its embassy. Background: Armed groups who had been calling for Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s resignation have already attacked airports, police stations, sea ports, the Central Bank and the country’s national soccer stadium. The situation reached critical mass earlier this month when the country’s two main prisons were raided, leading to the escape of about 4,000 prisoners. About Haiti: Haiti is a country on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea.The capital is Port-au-Prince. It occupies the western three-eighths of the Hispaniola island which it shares with the Dominican Republic. Cuba lies some 50 miles (80 km) west of Haiti’s northern peninsula, across the Windward Passage, a strait connecting the Atlantic to the Caribbean.Jamaica lies on the west of Haiti and Great Inagua Island (of The Bahamas) lies roughly 70 miles (110 km) to the north of Haiti. It is the third largest country in the Caribbean (after Cuba and Dominican Republic) Haiti has the lowest Human Development Index in the Americas, as well as widespread slavery. The country endured a coup in 2004, which prompted U.N. intervention, as well as a catastrophic earthquake in 2010 that killed over 250,000 people and a cholera outbreak. Haiti has experienced a socioeconomic and political crisis marked by riots and protests, widespread hunger, and increased gang activity Source: Wikipedia INDIA ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) MISSION Syllabus Prelims- Current Event Context: Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved Rs 10,371.92 crore investment for the India Artificial Intelligence (AI) mission. Background: The India Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission is a significant initiative by the Indian government to harness the transformative potential of AI for the benefit of the nation. About India Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission The India Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission is a significant initiative by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). India’s approach to AI is holistic, focusing on enhancing economic growth, social development, and leveraging AI for the public good. The mission aims to position India as a global leader in AI research and innovation. The India Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission aligns with the vision of “Making AI in India” and “Making AI Work for India”. It aims to establish a comprehensive ecosystem that catalyzes AI innovation through strategic programs and partnerships across both the public and private sectors. AI is expected to play a pivotal role in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, smart cities, infrastructure, and smart mobility. By integrating AI into these domains, India aims to drive innovation and address societal challenges. IndiaAI Innovation Centre will focus on developing and deploying indigenous Large Multimodal Models (LMMs) and domain-specific foundational models in critical sectors. The IndiaAI Mission will be implemented by the ‘IndiaAI’ Independent Business Division (IBD) under the Digital India Corporation (DIC). The approved budget for the mission is Rs. 10,371.92 crore. Startups, academia, researchers, and industry will have access to the AI supercomputing infrastructure established under this mission Source:

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Democratic Republic of the Congo Syllabus Prelims – Geography Context: Over the past few weeks, many have died and hundreds of thousands displaced after the fighting between the Congolese army and Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group escalated. Background:- The growing tensions between Congo and Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the rebels, have not only increased the risk of an all-out conflict but also pose a threat to food security for millions. About Democratic Republic of the Congo The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a country in Central Africa. By land area, the DRC is the second-largest country in Africa.The country has a 25-mile (40-km) coastline on the Atlantic Ocean but is otherwise landlocked. It is named after the Congo River, which flows through the country.The national capital and largest city is Kinshasa. The country is often referred to by its acronym, the DRC, or called Congo (Kinshasa), with the capital added parenthetically, to distinguish it from the other Congo republic, which is officially called the Republic of the Congo and is often referred to as Congo (Brazzaville). The country is bordered by the Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania (across Lake Tanganyika), Zambia, Angola and the South Atlantic Ocean. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is extremely rich in natural resources (It boasts vast deposits of industrial diamonds, cobalt, and copper) but has suffered from political instability, lack of infrastructure, corruption, and centuries of both commercial and colonial extraction and exploitation. Congo River The Congo River , formerly also known as the Zaire River, is the second-longest river in Africa, shorter only than the Nile, as well as the third-largest river in the world by discharge volume, following the Amazon and Ganges rivers. It is the world’s deepest recorded river, with measured depths of around 220 m. It is the only major river to cross the Equator twice. The river and its tributaries flow through the Congo rainforest, the second largest rainforest area in the world.It drains into the Atlantic Ocean. Source: The Hindu Ethanol 100 or E100 Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing and Urban Affairs, launched ‘ETHANOL 100. Background: ETHANOL 100 fuel has the potential to transform our transportation sector and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. About Ethanol 100 OR E100: Contrary to popular belief, E100 fuel is not 100 percent ethanol. In accordance with specifications, E100 fuel includes 93-93.5 percent ethanol blended with 5 percent petrol and 1.5 percent co-solvent, which is a binder. Currently, E100 is priced the same as petrol — Rs 94.72/litre in Delhi, Rs 104.21/litre in Maharashtra and Rs 100.75/litre in Chennai. However, with wider adoption of the fuel, E100 will definitely be cheaper than petrol or diesel since ethanol is cheaper. In addition, the government’s keenness to provide a fillip to biofuels which help in crude oil import substitution is also likely to make it competitive in comparison to the conventional fuels. Ethanol is made from agricultural feedstock, which also provides income to farmers, making them a stakeholder in decarbonisation of the economy. E100 can be used as fuel in any flex fuel engine car. A flex fuel engine car is designed to run on a variety of fuels. It comes equipped with an internal combustion engine (ICE) which can run on petrol or ethanol or methanol, giving consumers choice at the point of sale of the fuel. ETHANOL 100 stands as a cleaner, greener alternative, boasting lower emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants, thus aiding in combating climate change and enhancing air quality. With its high-octane rating, typically between 100-105, ETHANOL100 proves ideal for high-performance engines, ensuring improved efficiency and power output all while minimizing environmental impact. Source: PSU WATCH FLUORIDE CONTAMINATION Syllabus Prelims- Environment Context: Recently, Fluoride contamination was detected in three districts of Kerala. Background: According to the State Environment department, the source of contamination is likely geogenic, meaning these constituents are naturally present in the rock or soil matrix and enter groundwater through various chemical processes. About FLUORIDE CONTAMINATION Fluoride contamination in water is a critical issue worldwide. While fluoride is essential for dental health at low concentrations, excessive exposure can lead to health problems. Key Points: Essential Element: Fluoride is naturally present in water and certain foods. It plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay. Threshold: However, when fluoride levels exceed 1.5 mg/L, it becomes toxic to humans. According to the Bureau of Indian Standards, the maximum permissible limit of arsenic in groundwater meant for drinking is 0.01 mg/l, while the corresponding limit of fluoride is 1.0 mg/l, which can be extended to 1.5 mg/l in case no alternative source of water is available. Health Impacts: Dental Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride causes dental fluorosis, characterized by staining, pitting, and weakening of tooth enamel. Skeletal Fluorosis: Chronic exposure leads to skeletal fluorosis, affecting bones and joints. Neurological Effects: High fluoride levels may impact the nervous system. Sources of Contamination: Geochemical Reactions: Fluoride leaches from rocks and soil into groundwater. Geological Factors: High fluoride content in specific geological formations. Anthropogenic Factors: Industrial processes, fertilizers, and mining contribute to contamination. Preventive Measures: Water Treatment: Implementing effective water treatment methods to reduce fluoride levels. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of fluoride content in drinking water. Awareness: Educating communities about safe water practices. Alternative Sources: Providing alternative water sources in affected areas. Endemic Areas: Certain regions are endemic for fluorosis due to natural geological factors. Balancing Act: Balancing the benefits of fluoride for dental health with the risks of toxicity is crucial. Other Pollutants that Affect Water Quality: Arsenic reaches groundwater through industrial and mining discharges, as well as fly ash ponds from thermal power plants. Chronic exposure to arsenic-contaminated water may lead to diseases such as black foot disease, diarrhea, lung cancer, and skin cancer. Certain regions in India have localized occurrences of elevated uranium concentrations in groundwater. Other elements that act as water pollutants include mercury (causing Minamata disease), cadmium (associated with Itai-Itai disease and nephritis), chromium (linked to lung cancer and reduced photosynthetic activities in plants), copper (causing various health issues), zinc, and lead (associated with anaemia, mental retardation, and other health problems). Source:

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) Syllabus Prelims – Economy Context: The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) said it has granted One97 Communications Ltd (OCL) to participate in Unified Payments Interface (UPI) as Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP) under multi-bank model.NPCI said four banks – Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, State Bank of India and YES Bank – will act as PSP (Payment System Provider) banks to OCL, which is the parent company of Paytm. Background:- Last month, RBI directed NPCI, which owns and operates the UPI platform, to consider a request by OCL to become a TPAP. A Third-Party Application Provider is an entity that provides UPI compliant app(s) to the end-user customers to facilitate UPI-based payment transactions. These applications could be mobile wallets, merchant apps, or any other platform that utilises UPI for payments. About National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), is an umbrella organisation for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India. It was launched in 2008 by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) under the provisions of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. It has been incorporated as a “Not for Profit” Company under the provisions of Section 25 of Companies Act 1956 (now Section 8 of Companies Act 2013). The ten core promoter banks are State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India, Bank of India, ICICI Bank Limited, HDFC Bank Limited, Citibank N. A. and HSBC. In 2016 the shareholding was broad-based to 56 member banks to include more banks representing all sectors. In 2020, new entities regulated by RBI were inducted, consisting of Payment Service Operators, payment banks, Small Finance Banks, etc. NPCI offers a range of payment solutions and services, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT), Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS), Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS), National Automated Clearing House (NACH), and RuPay, India’s own card payment network. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is one of NPCI’s most significant initiatives. Payment systems that the NPCI operate include National Financial Switch.National Financial Switch (NFS) is the largest network of shared Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in India facilitating interoperable cash withdrawal, card to card funds transfer and interoperable cash deposit transactions among other value added services in the country. Source: Hindu Businessline Anthropocene Syllabus Prelims – Science Context: An expert commission rejected a proposal to mark the start of the Anthropocene at a particular date. Background: The SQS-AWG is a commission responsible for recognising time units within our most recent period of geologic time. Its members have been looking into the question of formalising the Anthropocene Epoch as the youngest epoch, superposing the Holocene. On March 4, 2024, the commission, which consists of topical experts, rejected the proposal with a majority voting against it. About Anthropocene: Earth’s history is divided into a hierarchical series of smaller chunks of time, referred to as the geologic time scale. These divisions, in descending length of time, are called eons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages. These units are classified based on Earth’s rock layers, or strata, and the fossils found within them. From examining these fossils, scientists know that certain organisms are characteristic of certain parts of the geologic record. The study of this correlation is called stratigraphy. Officially, the current epoch is called the Holocene, which began 11,700 years ago after the last major ice age. However, the Anthropocene Epoch is an unofficial unit of geologic time, used to describe the most recent period in Earth’s history when human activity started to have a significant impact on the planet’s climate and ecosystems. The word Anthropocene is derived from the Greek words anthropo, for “man,” and cene for “new,” coined and made popular by biologist Eugene Stormer and chemist Paul Crutzen Scientists still debate whether the Anthropocene is different from the Holocene, and the term has not been formally adopted. The primary question that scientists needs to answer before declaring the Anthropocene an epoch is if humans have changed the Earth system to the point that it is reflected in the rock strata. Source: National Geographic AGNIPATH SCHEME Syllabus Prelims- Current Event Context: The Passing Out Parade (POP) of the third batch of Agniveers was held at INS Chilka, Odisha. Background: Agniveers are a special group within the Indian Armed Forces, created under the Agnipath recruitment scheme. About AGNIPATH SCHEME The Agnipath Scheme is a short-service manpower model introduced by the Indian government for recruiting soldiers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It is a transformative initiative under the Ministry of Defence. Objective and Eligibility: The scheme aims to provide an opportunity for patriotic and motivated youth to serve in the Armed Forces. It applies to personnel below officer ranks, excluding commissioned officers. Recruitment and Duration: Around 45,000 to 50,000 soldiers (referred to as “Agniveers”) are recruited annually under this scheme. These recruits serve on a short-term contract of four years. After the initial four years, only 25% of the batch will continue for an additional 15 years under permanent commission. Benefits for Agniveers: Upon completing the four-year service, Agniveers receive a one-time “Seva Nidhi” package of Rs 11.71 lakhs, including accrued interest. They also enjoy a life insurance cover of Rs 48 lakhs during the service period. In case of death, the payout exceeds Rs 1 crore, including pay for the unserved tenure. The government assists in rehabilitating soldiers who leave the services after four years by providing skill certificates and bridge courses. Challenges and Concerns: Job Prospects: Agniveers may find it challenging to secure other jobs after their four-year service. No Pension Benefit: Unlike regular servicemen, Agniveers do not receive pension benefits. Source: PIB REUSABLE LAUNCH VEHICLE PUSHPAK Syllabus Prelims : Current Event Context: ISRO plans to conduct the second landing test of the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Pushpak soon. Background: This ongoing research and development aim to reduce space launch costs and advance India’s space exploration missions. In 2023,

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Rising sea surface temperature Syllabus Prelims and Mains – Environment Context: The average global sea surface temperature (SST) — the temperature of the water at the ocean surface — for February 2024 stood at 21.06 degree Celsius, the highest ever in a dataset that goes back to 1979. Background:- The previous record of 20.98 degree Celsius was set in August 2023. Why are the oceans getting warmer? Since the Industrial Revolution kicked off in the 19th Century, human activities such as burning fossil fuels have released high levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, and nitrous oxide are some of the notable GHGs, which essentially trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming. As a result, the average global temperature has risen at least 1.2 degree Celsius above pre-industrial times. Notably, almost 90 per cent of the extra heat trapped by GHGs has been absorbed by the oceans, making them steadily warmer over the decades. There are other factors which have led to a spike in ocean temperatures. For instance, El Niño — a weather pattern that refers to an abnormal warming of surface waters in the equatorial Pacific Ocean — has contributed to both ocean warming and rising global surface temperatures. There is also less dust blowing off the Sahara Desert recently due to weaker-than-average winds. Typically, the dust forms a “giant umbrella that shades” the Atlantic water and reduces ocean temperatures. Why are rising sea surface temperatures a cause of worry? Higher ocean temperatures can have irreversible consequences for marine ecosystems. For instance, warmer oceans lead to an increase in ocean stratification — the natural separation of an ocean’s water into horizontal layers by density, with warmer, lighter, less salty, and nutrient-poor water layering on top of heavier, colder, saltier, nutrient-rich water. Usually, ocean ecosystems, currents, wind, and tides mix these layers. The rise in temperatures, however, has made it harder for water layers to mix with each other. Due to this, oceans are able to absorb less carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and the oxygen absorbed isn’t able to mix properly with cooler ocean waters below, threatening the survival of marine life. Nutrients are also not able to travel up to the surface of the oceans from below. This could threaten the population of phytoplankton — single-celled plants that thrive on the ocean surface and are the base of several marine food webs. Phytoplankton are eaten by zooplankton, which are consumed by other marine animals such as crabs, fish, and sea stars. Therefore, if the phytoplankton population plummets, there could be a collapse of marine ecosystems. Warmer oceans cause marine heat waves (MHWs), which occur when the surface temperature of a particular region of the sea rises to 3 or 4 degree Celsius above the average temperature for at least five days. MHWs contribute to coral bleaching, which reduces the reproductivity of corals and makes them more vulnerable to life-threatening diseases. They also impact the migration pattern of aquatic animals. Higher ocean temperatures may also result in more frequent and intense storms like hurricanes and cyclones. Warmer temperatures lead to a higher rate of evaporation as well as the transfer of heat from the oceans to the air. When storms travel across hot oceans, they gather more water vapour and heat. This results in more powerful winds, heavier rainfall, and more flooding when storms reach the land — meaning heightened devastation. Source: Indian Express Indo Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: India has decided to join at least one of the four cooperative work programmes unveiled last week under the ‘clean energy pillar’ of the U.S.-led Indo Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) – the one on facilitating and promoting carbon-market activities. Background: The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) is an economic initiative launched by U.S. President Joe Biden on May 23, 2022. The framework launched with fourteen participating founding member nations in the Indo-Pacific region with an open invitation for other countries to join. About Indo Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF): IPEF was launched jointly by the USA and other partner countries of the Indo-Pacific region on May 23, 2022 at Tokyo. IPEF has 14 partner countries including Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam & USA. It seeks to strengthen economic engagement among partner countries with the goal of advancing growth, peace and prosperity in the region. The framework is structured around four pillars relating to Trade (Pillar I); Supply Chains (Pillar II); Clean Economy (Pillar III); and Fair Economy (Pillar IV). Seen by many analysts as an attempt by the U.S. to counter China’s growing influence in the region, the IPEF aims at having a common set of rules and standards around the four pillars. Source: PIB GHOST PARTICLES Syllabus Prelims : Science Context: Recently, astronomers detected 7 potentials ‘ghost particles’ that passed through planet. Background: Scientists using data from the Ice Cube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica believe they have potentially found the first evidence for astrophysical tau neutrinos, called “ghost particles”. About Ghost Particles: “Ghost Particles” is a nickname for neutrinos, which are tiny subatomic particles. They are often called ‘ghost particles’ because they barely interact with anything else. Key points about Neutrinos: Source: Neutrinos come from various sources and are often the product of heavy particles turning into lighter ones, a process called “decay”. Family: They belong to the family of particles known as leptons. There are three main leptons, namely electrons, muons, and tau particles. The last has proven to be especially difficult to observe and detect, earning the moniker of “ghost particle.” Characteristics: A neutrino is very similar to an electron, but has no electrical charge and a very small mass. They are the most common particle in the universe. Approximately 100 trillion neutrinos pass completely harmlessly through our body every second. Detection: They are extraordinarily difficult to detect, as they rarely collide with atoms. Of the four fundamental forces in the

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   Vechur Cow and other indigenous cattle Syllabus Prelims & Mains – Agriculture Context: Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has written an article regarding vechur cow and Sosamma Iype who pioneered the initiative to conserve the breed. Background:- In its pursuit to boost milk production through the crossbreeding of indigenous cattle with high-yielding foreign breeds, the White Revolution’s corollary was the erasure of breeds such as the Vechur cow. Cross-breeding served to dilute the genetic purity of native breeds and diminish their population. Vechur Cow The Vechur Cow is a rare breed named after the village Vechoor in Vaikom Taluk, Kottayam district of the state of Kerala in India. With an average length of 124 cm (about 4 feet and 1 inch) and height of 87 cm (about 2 feet and 10 inches), it is the smallest cattle breed in the world. The Vechur animals were saved from extinction due to conservation efforts by Sosamma Iype, a Professor of Animal breeding and Genetics along with a team of her students. Siri Cow Siri is a small sized draught purpose breed of hilly region of West Bengal and Sikkim. The animals can graze in the steep slope of hilly forest. The males are mainly reared for draught purpose in the hilly area and sometimes they are the only source of draught power. The breed produces very less amount of milk. Tharparkar Tharparkar is an important dual-purpose breed originating from the THAR desert of Rajasthan. The home tract of this breed is in the Tharparkar district of southeast Sindh in present day Pakistan. In India, these animals are now found along the Indo-Pak border covering western Rajasthan and up to the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. The animals can thrive well on small bushy vegetation (Sewan grass) during drought and fodder scarcity condition and produce reasonabe amount of milk. Due to better heat tolerance and disease resistance, this breed was used for producing “Karan Fries” breed – a synthetic crossbred cattle breed at National Dairy Research institute (NDRI) The local breeds have following merits over exotic breeds Better disease resistance than exotic breeds. More suitable for low input management system. Survive better in local environment. Suitable for draught work Source: Mongabay India Front-running Syllabus Prelims – Current Event Context: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) on Wednesday said it has sacked an employee involved in a stock market front-running case which was under investigation by market regulator Sebi. Background: In April 2023, Sebi barred five entities, including an employee of Life Insurance Corporation from the securities market and impounded illegal gains of Rs 2.44 crore made by them, in a case pertaining to front-running the trades of the state-owned insurer. About Front-running : Front-running means usage of non-public information to directly or indirectly, buy or sell securities or enter into options or futures contracts, in advance of a substantial order, on an impending transaction, in the same or related securities or futures or options contracts, in anticipation that when the information becomes public, the price of such securities or contracts may change. For example; a broker receives a request from a client to purchase 50,000 Company A shares. He keeps the order from the client until he executes an order for his personal account for the same stock. Then, when he places the customer’s request, share price increases due to the scale of the customer’s order.The rise creates the broker an immediate benefit. Front-running offers unfair profits to the entity who has confidential information that will affect the price of the asset. Front running is also known as tailgating. Source: Indian Express PAPIKONDA NATIONAL PARK Syllabus Prelims : Environment Context: More than 200 bird species have been recorded in the Papikonda National Park (PNP) in a recent survey. Background: The three-day survey was carried out under the aegis of the Andhra Pradesh Forest department in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research (IISER-Tirupati). About PAPIKONDA NATIONAL PARK: Location: Papikonda National Park (PNP) is located in the East and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh. Area: The park spans over 1012.86 square kilometers. Geography: The park lies on both banks of the River Godavari and cuts through the Papikonda hill range of Eastern Ghats. Flora and Fauna: The majority of the park is covered with moist deciduous forest. It is home to various animal species such as tigers, mouse deer, gaur, and others. The park also has a unique dwarf breed of goat known locally as the “kanchu mekha”. Conservation History: The park has experienced varying levels of protection, beginning as a reserved forest in 1882, a wildlife sanctuary in 1978, and as a national park from 2008. Significance: The park has been recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area. Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q1. Which of the following Protected Areas are located in Cauvery basin? Nagarhole National Park Papikonda National Park Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 3 and 4 only 1, 3 and 4 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 EQUINOXES Syllabus Prelims – Geography Context: The March equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, occurs around March 20th each year. Background: During this celestial event, the sun crosses the celestial equator, moving from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere.   About EQUINOXES Equinoxes are astronomical events that occur twice a year when the Sun is exactly above the Equator, resulting in nearly equal lengths of day and night across the globe. The term “equinox” literally means “equal night”. The primary cause of equinoxes lies in the tilt of Earth’s axis. Earth orbits the Sun at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees. As Earth revolves around the Sun, different parts of our planet receive varying amounts of solar radiation at different times of the year. Vernal Equinox: Vernal Equinox, also known as the Spring Equinox, marks the transition from winter to spring in the Northern Hemisphere. The Vernal Equinox typically occurs between March 19 and 21, depending on the specific year. In 2024, it falls on