9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 13 March, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Shift in India’s urban development- A new sense of urbanisation that is dominating

This article discusses the shift in India's urban development, focusing more on religious cities like Ayodhya, contrasting with past emphasis on industry and modernism. Shift in India's urban development

Source: The post shift in India’s urban development has been created, based on the article “A new sense of urbanisation that is dominating” published in “The Hindu” on 13th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 1 – Society urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Context: This article discusses the shift in India’s urban development, focusing more on religious cities like Ayodhya, contrasting with past emphasis on industry and modernism. Shift in India’s urban development

How are colonial and new cities different?

1.Colonial cities like Mumbai and Kolkata were designed primarily for economic purposes, centered around trade, taxation, and the transport of goods. They facilitated rural to urban migration, supporting the nation’s industrial growth.

  1. In contrast, new cities such as Ayodhya are being developed with a strong focus on religious significance. Ayodhya, for instance, is receiving a massive investment of ₹85,000 crore for infrastructure, underlining this shift in urban development philosophy.

What is the trend in current urbanization?

  1. The current trend in urbanization is blending traditional workplaces with religious significance. Cities like Ayodhya are being developed not just as economic hubs but also as centers of pilgrimage and faith.
  2. This trend is attracting corporate investments in infrastructure. Ayodhya, for example, is witnessing heavy investment, indicating a significant shift from the traditional, industry-focused urban development.
  3. Unlike the past emphasis on modernism and industry, the focus now is on developing cities aligned with religious importance, marking a distinct shift in India’s urbanization approach.

What is the concern with the current trend?

Centralization of Finances: The trend shows a centralization of financial resources towards religious projects. This can lead to imbalanced economic development focused more on religious cities.

Diversion from Social Infrastructure Investment: The significant spending on religious projects, like ₹85,000 crore in Ayodhya, raises questions about the prioritization of funds. It is potentially diverting resources from much-needed social infrastructure such as education and healthcare.

Shift Away from Democratic Governance: The trend may indicate a move away from secular, democratic governance towards a religiously influenced urban development strategy.

What should be the role of the state in urbanization?

Focus on Social Good: The state should prioritize urban development that serves social good over religious purposes. This includes enhancing infrastructure for education, health, and social services.

Promoting Inclusive Urban Development: Urban planning should cater to diverse needs, ensuring inclusivity and democratic values in city development, as opposed to focusing primarily on religious significance.

Adhering to World Bank Recommendations: The World Bank has estimated that India requires an investment of $840 billion in urban infrastructure over the next 15 years. This suggests that the state should prioritize these broader developmental needs.

Question for practice:

Examine the implications of India’s shift towards emphasizing religious significance in urban development.

GS PAPER - 2

Achievements have come from the Khelo India Mission

Khelo India Mission

Source: The post achievements have come from the Khelo India Mission has been created, based on the article “Khelo India: Perfect present, bright future” published in “The Hindu” on 13th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Human Resources

Context: The article discusses the success and growth of the Khelo India Games, focusing on new achievements, infrastructure, talent identification, and support for athletes. It highlights the government’s efforts in promoting sports and nurturing young talent in India. Achievements have come from the Khelo India Mission

For details information on Khelo India Mission read here

What are the new additions to the Khelo India Games?

Youth Games in the South: For the first time, the Youth Games were held in Tamil Nadu, adopting a multi-city approach for better access to venues.

University Games in the Northeast: The first-ever University Games spanned seven northeastern States, with Assam hosting 16 sports.

Focus on Indigenous Sports: Added emphasis was placed on local sports like Yogasana, Gatka, Mallakhamba, Silambam, and Kalaripayattu, which saw overwhelming participation.

Winter Games in Ladakh: A portion of the Khelo India Winter Games was hosted in Ladakh for the first time, featuring ice hockey and ice skating.

What achievements have come from the Khelo India Mission?

Increased Medal Count: In 2022, Khelo India athletes won 312 medals, a significant rise from 2018 where 92 athletes won 82 medals.

International Success: Athletes from the Khelo India ecosystem have shown consistent success in international events like the Olympics, World Championships, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.

Balanced Participation: The male-to-female ratio in the four Khelo India Games this season was nearly 50:50, demonstrating a strong commitment to gender equality in sports.

What are the government efforts in promoting sports in India?

Supporting Athlete Careers: The government offers jobs to deserving Khelo India medal winners, ensuring a stable future for athletes beyond their sporting careers.

Infrastructure Development: Over 300 sports infrastructure projects have been approved in 34 States/UTs, with funding exceeding ₹3,000 crore, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing sports facilities.

Talent Identification: A two-tier structure, including a Scouting Committee and a Developmental Panel, is in place for selecting genuine talent. Currently, approximately 2,800 athletes across 21 sports disciplines have been chosen as Khelo India athletes.

Gender Equality in Sports: Efforts to maintain a near-equal male-to-female athlete ratio and the successful Asmita Khelo India Women’s League are examples of promoting gender equality in sports.

Question for practice:

Discuss the key initiatives and achievements of the Khelo India Mission in promoting sports and nurturing young talent in India.

Ramification of regime change in USA for India

Source – This post on Ramification of regime change in USA for India has been created based on the article “C Raja Mohan writes: The challenges of a Trump presidency for India” published in “The Indian Express” on 13 March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus GS Paper- 2 -International relations- Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s interests.

Context– There are chances of Donald Trump winning elections against President Joe Biden. Therefore, there is a greater degree of apprehension among US allies in Europe and Asia about his domestic and international policies.

What are the implications of regime change in the USA for its allies?

1) Damage to long-standing US alliance– Unlike previous term where Trump was restrained by “adults in the room” and the American “deep state”, in this term he will be less restrained. His impulsive character and transnational approach can do irreparable damage to long-standing US alliances.

2) Endangering security interest– The former President has believed that US allies can’t expect the American taxpayer to spend money for protecting their strategic and security interest. Trump even warned Europeans that he would let Russia invade allies who do not pay their share of the defence burden in NATO. This may endanger the sovereignty and integrity of smaller NATO nations.

3) Imposing high tariffs on allies– There will be an end to generous non-reciprocal access to the US market for its allies. As, Trump does not want the US market to trade for geopolitical gains. This can damage the economy of many smaller nations who are dependent on duty free export to the USA.

Read more- Recent Development in India-US Relations – Implications and Significance

What are the implications of regime change in the USA for India?

Negative implications

1) Shift in balance of power– Trump’s “America First” policies may lead to withdrawal of troops deployment from Eurasia. This would allow Russia and China to build a new regional order in this area which may alter the balance of power in this region. It is possible that without American presence, Asia could easily slip into the Chinese orbit. These outcomes are clearly unfavorable to India.

2) Economic implication– India was referred as “tariff king” by previous Trump administration. His administration has also criticized India’s protectionist policies. India-USA economic ties have deepened in last few years, and it will be a challenge to maintain this momentum under new regime.

3) Confluence of security interest – The US under Trump administration would be looking for capable partners who could contribute to regional security in Eurasia.This demand can be met by India. This will also help India meet its fits s own great power ambitions.

Question for practice

What are the geo-strategic and geo-economic implications of regime change in USA for its allies and India?

GS PAPER - 3

India’s Telecom Spectrum Auction: Predictable Frequency

India’s Telecom Spectrum Auction

Source: The post India’s Telecom Spectrum Auction has been created, based on the article “Predictable frequency: Annual spectrum auction will help telcos” published in “Business Standard” on 13th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy – Mobilization of Resources

News: The Indian government is organizing a telecom spectrum auction on May 20. They will sell many frequency bands for telecom companies to use. This frequent auction process helps companies avoid overspending and plan better financially. It includes options for both Indian and foreign companies. India’s Telecom Spectrum Auction 

What is the Upcoming India’s Telecom Spectrum Auction?

Date and Scope: The Indian government plans to hold a telecom spectrum auction on May 20, selling various frequency bands previously unsold in 2022.

Frequency Bands: The auction includes eight bands: 800, 900, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2500, 3300 MHz, and 26 GHz. Notably, the 700 MHz band is excluded.

Reserve Price: The total reserve price for the bands is close to ₹1 trillion.

Previous Auctions: In contrast, the 2022 5G auction involved a higher spend of ₹1.5 trillion by telecom companies.

Foreign Entity Participation: Foreign entities can directly participate in the auction. They can apply for a license through an Indian company and are allowed to own a 100% stake under the automatic route for foreign direct investment.

Requirements for New Telecom Entrants: New entrants in the telecom sector, who don’t currently hold spectrum, need to demonstrate a net worth of ₹100 crore per license area. In specific regions like Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast, the requirement is ₹250 crore.

What are the impacts of Upcoming India’s Telecom Spectrum Auction?

Reduced Financial Pressure on Telecom Companies: Annual auctions prevent companies from hastily buying spectrum at high costs, improving their financial management.

Strategic Purchases: Companies can now selectively buy frequencies that align with their current needs.

Focus on Expiring Frequencies: Most companies will prioritize refilling airwaves with frequencies close to their expiry dates.

Access for New and Foreign Players: The auction allows new entrants and foreign entities to participate, fostering competition and diversity in the telecom sector.

Way forward

To advance telecom in India, frequent spectrum auctions should continue, enabling strategic investments by companies. The government should also expedite satellite service airwaves allocation to broaden the sector’s service scope. Including the high-value 700 MHz band in future auctions could also be beneficial.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the potential impacts of the upcoming telecom spectrum auction in India

Challenges with nuclear waste: How is nuclear waste generated?”

Challenges with nuclear waste

Source: The post challenges with nuclear waste has been created, based on the article “How is nuclear waste generated?” published in “The Hindu” on 13th March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS 3 – Economy – infrastructure (nuclear energy) and Environment – Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation

Context: This article discusses how nuclear waste is created in nuclear reactors and the challenges of managing it. It explains the methods used to handle, store, and treat nuclear waste, including the reprocessing of spent fuel. Challenges with nuclear waste

What is nuclear waste?

Nuclear waste is the byproduct of nuclear reactors, like when uranium-235 splits into barium-144 and krypton-89. These leftover elements can’t undergo fission, so they become waste. This waste is very radioactive and needs careful storage to avoid environmental harm.

For more information read here

What are the challenges with nuclear waste?

Storage Duration: Nuclear waste requires isolation for millennia, far longer than modern humans have existed.

Accident Risks: For instance, an accident at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in the U.S. in 2014 released radioactive materials.

Environmental Impact: Concerns about contamination, like in Germany’s Asse II salt mine, where nuclear waste possibly affected water resources.

Cost: Managing nuclear waste is expensive, adding $1.6-7.1 per MWh to nuclear energy costs.

Liquid Waste Management: Challenges include how to safely treat and store liquid waste, as highlighted by issues with vitrification plants.

What are the best practices of nuclear waste management?

Cooling and Dry Cask Storage: Spent fuel is initially cooled underwater for decades, then transferred to dry casks for safer, long-term storage.

Liquid Waste Treatment: Treatment and controlled release into the environment, like Japan’s disposal of Fukushima’s treated water into the Pacific Ocean.

Geological Disposal: Burying waste underground in special containers, away from human activities, in stable geological formations like granite or clay.

Reprocessing: Separating fissile material from spent fuel for further use, reducing waste volume and increasing fuel efficiency, as practiced in India’s reprocessing plants in Trombay, Tarapur, and Kalpakkam.

How does India handle its nuclear waste?

Reprocessing Plants: India has facilities in Trombay, Tarapur, and Kalpakkam. Trombay reprocesses fuel for plutonium production, while Tarapur and Kalpakkam handle spent fuel from power reactors.

On-Site Management: Nuclear power stations in India manage low and intermediate-level waste on-site, treating and storing it in specialized facilities.

On-Site Management: Nuclear power stations in India manage low and intermediate-level waste on-site, treating and storing it in specialized facilities.

Operational Challenges: There are concerns about the efficiency of these plants. For example, the delays in the PFBR project suggested operational issues at Tarapur and Kalpakkam, with a combined capacity factor of around 15%.

Future Complications: Handling waste from the PFBR will introduce new challenges due to its unique fission product and transuranic element composition.

Question for practice:

Examine how India handles its nuclear waste, including the methods and challenges associated with its.

Need for policy coordination to boost Trans-Asia Pacific e-commerce

Need for policy coordination to boost Trans-Asia Pacific e-commerce

Source – This post on Need for policy coordination to boost trans-Asia Pacific ecommerce has been created based on the article “Policy coordination could boost trans-Asia Pacific e-commerce” published in “Live Mint” on 13 March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3- Science & technology-Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics,

Context– The Asia Pacific (APAC) region, with over 50 diverse countries, is currently experiencing phenomenal economic growth. Need for policy coordination to boost trans-Asia Pacific ecommerce

What is APAC Region?

The Asia Pacific (APAC) region has 50 diverse countries. It is home to more than half the world’s population (52% in 2023). The region’s GDP (35.4% of the worlds in 2023) has surpassed that of North America and Europe.

What is the status of e-commerce in the region?

The APAC region has become the world’s largest market for electronic commerce. According to a 2023 study by Data Bridge Market Research, the e-commerce sector of the region was valued at $2.9 trillion in 2022.

By 2030, it is projected to reach nearly $6.2 trillion.

In 2022, the region accounted for around 58% of the global retail e-commerce market.

Read more– E-Commerce

What are the reasons behind the APEC region becoming a hotbed of e-commerce activity?

1) Rise of middle-class– The region has an increasing middle-class with rising disposable income. It is projected to reach 3.5 billion by 2030 which will form a massive consumer base eager to shop online.

2) Enhanced participation of MSMEs – Around 72% of MSMEs in the region are leveraging e-commerce platforms for their businesses and vulnerable groups like women entrepreneurs are adapting fast to e-com platforms.

3) Better connectivity– There is fast internet penetration in the region coupled with a mobile-first population of over 4.8 billion users. This creates a ready online audience.

For ex- India has the second-highest number of smartphone users globally (659 million in 2022). A Significant part of these users is using digital wallets based on platforms like the Unified Payments Interface.

4) Advancement in technology-Rise of advanced technologies like faster telecom networks and big data, offer personalized experiences and improved logistics for businesses and consumers. This is contributing to the rise of e-commerce in APAC region.

What are the challenges in the e-commerce sector in APAC region?

1) Lack of adequate support to MSME’s- MSMEs face issues of high logistical costs, stiff customs rules and complex clearance procedures. It restricts their global expansion and complicates their cross-border trade.

2) Logistical issues-Many countries in Southeast Asia still prefers Cash on Delivery. This creates logistical challenges and limits access to credit.

3) Cybersecurity challenges– Cybersecurity threats such as data privacy concerns and the presence of counterfeit products on some platforms can discourage consumers and businesses from adopting an e-commerce path.

4) Issue of E-commerce regulation-The regulations are not uniform across region. For ex- countries (like Singapore with its 2014 E-Commerce Act) have established specific regulations, whereas others rely on broader consumer protection laws.

What should be the way forward?

1) Collaboration-There is a need for discussions, sharing of best practices and partnerships to facilitate trade and exports among countries.

2)Robust infrastructure– There should be infrastructure improvements, regulatory harmonization and robust cybersecurity measures to ensure a secure and trustworthy online environment

3) Enhanced role of India– An APAC policy forum, with India taking the lead, could help forge partnerships and lead to regional cooperation and policy harmonization. This can benefit businesses (especially MSMEs and women entrepreneurs) and consumers by fostering a more predictable and secure environment for online trade.

Question for practice

Highlight the potential of e-commerce in APAC region in boosting trade and businesses. Also enlist some of the challenges to realize its true potential?

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

New digital competition law proposed to regulate Big Tech

Source-This post on New digital competition law proposed to regulate Big Tech is based on the article “Panel recommends law to regulate Big Tech firms” published in “The Hindu” on 13th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Committee on Digital Competition Law, in its report, has recommended legislation to regulate the market power of Big Tech firms such as Google and Meta.

What does the report state?

New digital competition law proposed to regulate Big Tech
Source- The Hindu

1. Competition Act outdated in digital age– The committee says the Competition Act of 2002 deals with anti-competitive behavior after it occurs, without considering today’s digitalization pace. If adopted, the suggestions would improve the Competition Commission of India’s ability to address competition issues in the tech sector.

2. Market dominance of Big Tech– The report expresses concern about the market dominance of these Big Tech companies. It cites their “network effects,” which enable rapid growth of their user base and establish a market position that is challenging for new competitors to overcome.

3. New Digital law proposed– The recommendation suggests forming a new law, the Digital Competition Act, to introduce proactive legislation aimed specifically at large digital companies, to complement the Competition Act.

4. SSDEs identification:
a. A draft proposed by the panel identifies companies with a “significant presence” in the market for a “Core Digital Service” as “Systemically Significant Digital Enterprises (SSDEs).
b. According to the draft, companies would be required to assess if they fall into this category.
c. Failure to self-designate could result in penalties based on the entire global turnover of the corporate group, rather than just domestic revenues. Specific rules for SSDEs would be determined after public consultations.

About the Committee on Digital Competition Law

Constituted by– Ministry of Corporate Affairs

Committee Members: It consists of 16 members, including government officials, legal experts, and industry representatives.

Functions of the Panel:
a. Examine if the Competition Act of 2002 and the rules framed under it are equipped to address the challenges presented by the digital economy.
b. It also study the requirement of the digital competition law and give suggestions regarding competition norms.

UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy

India was the top arms importer in 2019-2023: SIPRI

Source– This post on India was the top arms importer in 2019-2023: SIPRI is based on the article “India world’s top arms importer between 2019-23: SIPRI” published in “The Hindu” on 12th March 2024.

Why in the News?

According to the latest data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India was the world’s leading arms importer for the period 2019-2023. India’s arms imports saw a 4.7% increase compared to the period from 2014 to 2018.

What are the key findings?

Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)
Source- The Hindu

1. Russia remains India’s top supplier– Russia is still India’s main arms supplier, making up 36% of imports. However, it’s the first time since 1960-1964 that Russia’s deliveries comprised less than half of India’s arms imports in a five-year period.

Note– After Russia, France (33%) stands as India’s second-largest arms supplier, while the US (13%) ranks as the third-largest provider of weapons to India.

2. Asia and the Middle East are the leading importers– In 2019-2023, nine of the top ten arms importers, including India, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, were from Asia, Oceania, or the Middle East.

3. Increase in European arms imports
a. The report shows a notable 94% rise in European arms imports from 2014-2018 to 2019-2023 which is likely due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
b. In 2019-2023, European countries imported over half of their arms, 55%, from the U.S., which increased from 35% in 2014-2018.

4. U.S. and France top arms exports– The United States, the biggest arms supplier globally, experienced a 17% increase in exports from 2014-2018 to 2019-2023. Meanwhile, France became the world’s second-largest arms supplier, with exports growing by 47%.

About Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)

About– It is an independent international institute headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, dedicated to researching conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament.

Vision– A world in which sources of insecurity are identified and understood, conflicts are prevented or resolved, and peace is sustained.

Established in 1966

Read moreStockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024

Source-This post on Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024 is based on the article “Government issues marketing code for pharmaceutical firms” published in “The Hindu” on 13th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The government has recently issued the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP), 2024. It aims to regulate unethical practices in the pharmaceutical industry.

What are the key provisions of UCPMP 2024?

Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024
Source- The Print

1. Prohibits gifts– The code prohibits pharmaceutical companies, agents, distributors, wholesalers, or retailers from offering or providing gifts that benefit healthcare professionals or their family members personally.

2. Restriction on Travelling facilities– The UCPMP 2024 limits providing travel and vacation benefits to healthcare professionals or their families, unless the individual is a speaker at an event.

3. Financial limitations– The code restricts financial benefits or perks from being offered, supplied, or promised to individuals qualified to prescribe or supply drugs by pharmaceutical companies or their representatives.

4. Ban on CME workshops abroad-The code prohibit companies from conducting continued medical education (CME) workshops in foreign countries.

5. Drugs promotion directive:
a. The UCPMP rules require drug promotion to adhere to marketing approval terms. The drugs must not be promoted before approval.
b. Claims of effectiveness of the drug must be backed by current evidence. Terms like ‘safe‘ must not be used without qualification.
c. Additionally, drugs can’t be labeled as ‘new‘ if they’ve been available or promoted in India for over a year.

6. Rules violation & adherence directive:
a. Violations of the code will be handled by Ethics Committees for Pharma Marketing Practices (ECPMP) set up within each association to ensuring accountability.
b. The CEOs of pharmaceutical companies are responsible for following the code and ensuring compliance with UCPMP 2024 regulations.
c. Companies must submit annual self-declarations of adherence to the code, which will be posted on the association’s website or the UCPMP portal of the Department of Pharmaceuticals.

UPSC Syllabus- Polity and Nation (Governance)

Sela Tunnel

Source-This post on Sela Tunnel is based on the article “PM Modi inaugurates Sela Tunnel” published in “Live Mint” on 9th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the strategically significant Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh.

About Sela Tunnel

Sela tunnel
Source- Tripoto

Location– The tunnel is situated at an altitude of 13,700 feet in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, on the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang road connecting Tezpur (Assam) to Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh).

Built by– Border Road Organisation.

Project details:
a. It is world’s longest twin tunnel built at an altitude of above 13,000 feet.
b. It consists of two tunnels-
Tunnel 1, a single tube tunnel spanning 980 meters
Tunnel 2, a twin tube tunnel covering 1555 meters. Tunnel 2 has one tube for traffic and another for emergencies.
c. The tunnel was constructed using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM).

What is its Significance?

1. All weather connectivity– It is the highest tunnel in the country. It provides all-weather connectivity to Tawang via the Sela Pass, as well as to other nearby areas along the border with China near the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

2. Travel time reduction– The tunnel will reduce the travel time from Tezpur to Tawang by over an hour. Travellers can avoid the risky snow-covered Sela top, which sits at 13,700 feet altitude.

UPSC Syllabus- Geography and Places in news

National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE)

Source- This post on National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE) is based on the article “Union Health Ministry launches National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming in India” published in “PIB” on 12th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Union Health Ministry recently launched the National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE) in India.

About NAPSE

National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAPSE)
Source- PIB

Vision– To reduce snakebite deaths by half by 2030.

Mission– To gradually decrease the sickness, death, and related issues in humans caused by snakebites.

Key Features of NAPSE

1. Guide for States:
a.
It is a guidance document for states to formulate their individual action plans for managing, preventing, and controlling snakebites using the ‘One Health‘ approach.
b. It aims to systematically reduce the risk of snakebite poisoning by ensuring continuous access to anti-snake venom, building capacity, establishing referral systems, and educating the public.

2. Role of stakeholders: The NAPSE has selected key stakeholders, supporting stakeholders, and other institutes based on their roles and responsibilities.

a. key stakeholders- They will oversee the implementation of activities outlined in the National and State Action Plans for Snakebite Prevention and Control, offering technical and logistical support at all levels. Additionally, they will assist in formalizing State Action Plans.

b. Supporting stakeholders will help key stakeholders coordinate and implement various parts of the NAPSE. They will offer technical support for activities aimed at preventing and controlling snakebite poisoning in India across different areas.

c. Other stakeholders or institutes will include NGOs in health, wildlife, and veterinary sectors, along with professional associations and international development organizations. They will assist in NAPSE implementation, providing resources and expertise to support stakeholders at the grassroots level.

Snakebite Helpline number:
a. A Snakebite Helpline number (15400) will be tested in five states (Puducherry, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Delhi).
b. This service will offer quick help, advice, and support to people and communities affected by snakebites, aiming to ensure swift access to medical care and information for the public.

Do you know?

1. In India, about 50,000 deaths happen from an estimated 3-4 million snakebites yearly, making up half of all snakebite deaths worldwide.

2. In India, about 90% of snakebites are from the ‘big four’ snakes: common krait, Indian cobra, Russell’s viper, and saw-scaled viper.

UPSC Syllabus- Schemes & Programmes

Parthenogenesis

Source-This post on Parthenogenesis has been created based on the article “Why it matters that scientists modified a ‘sexual’ fruit fly to be asexual” published in “The Hindu” on 11 March 2024.

Why in the news?

Researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough by engineering a sexually reproducing fruit-fly species to reproduce asexually.

What is Parthenogenesis?

It refers to the process of reproduction without fertilization by males, resulting in offsprings derived from unfertilized eggs.

Parthenogenesis
Source-The Hindu

Facultative Parthenogenesis– When organisms can give birth both sexually as well as asexually, then this process is known as facultative parthenogenesis. For ex- Few organisms such as crayfish, snakes, komodo dragons and sharks can reproduce sexually as well as asexually, exhibiting facultative parthenogenesis.

Some species, such as Drosophila mangebeirai and Drosophila mercatorum, exhibit facultative parthenogenesis, where isolated virgin females can produce offspring without mating.

What is the significance of Parthenogenesis?

1) It is a type of adaptive strategy to reproduce when environmental conditions are not proper and sexual reproduction is not possible.

2) It allows the species to continue thriving and multiplying in some environments where there is less male population.

3) It enables sex determination in some organisms like wasps, bees.

4) It is the simplest, most stable and easy process of reproduction.

5) It supports the chromosomal theory of inheritance, which proves that chromosomes are the vehicles of genetic heredity.

6) Advantageous mutant characters may develop through this method of reproduction.

Read more-Transgenic crops in India

UPSC Syllabus-Science & technology.

Gorsam Kora Festival

Source-This post on Gorsam Kora Festival has been created based on the article “Arunachal’s Gorsam Kora Festival celebrates India-Bhutan friendship” published in “India Today” on 10 March 2024.

Why in the news?

The Gorsam Kora Festival which takes place every year in Zemithang valley of Arunachal Pradesh has concluded on March 10.

About Gorsam Kora Festival

Gorsam Kora Festival
Source-The Economic Times

Location– It is held annually in Arunachal Pradesh’s Zemithang valley.

History– The festival is centred around the 93-foot tall stupa – ‘Gorsam Chorten’. This stupa was built in the 13th century. The 3-day event starts with prayers at the revered Khinzemane Holy Tree which is believed to be planted by the 14th Dalai Lama.

Organized by– It is organized by Zemithang community in collaboration with civil authorities and supported by local Indian Army Units.

What is the significance of this festival?

1) It honours the shared Buddhist cultural heritage and celebrates the longstanding friendship between India and Bhutan.

2) The festival featured various events, including cultural performances by local troupes and Indian army bands, as well as martial performances like Mallakhamb and Zanjh Pathaka.

3)  Zemithang valley is also part of the Vibrant Village Programme. Under the Vibrant Village Programme, there will be enhancement of tourist infrastructure. This will transform Zemithang valley to a thriving tourist destination.

UPSC Syllabus-Art & Culture.

Technological advancement in rural development

Source-This post on Technological advancement in rural development has been created based on the article “ministry of Rural Development signs a MoU with IIT Delhi to formalize their partnership in applications of geospatial technology and artificial intelligence” published in “PIB” on 12 March 2024.

Why in the news?

Ministry of Rural Development has recently signed a MoU with the IIT Delhi to formalize their partnership in applications of geospatial technology and artificial intelligence.

About recently signed MOU

Objective– To leverage ground and space-based geospatial technologies along with Artificial Intelligence to monitor and manage assets under MGNREGA.

Executed by– The project is to be executed by the HydroSense.

Significance of MOU for rural development

1) The MoU centres around the project “BhuPRAHARI” . This is an ambitious initiative aimed at leveraging ground and space-based geospatial technologies along with Artificial Intelligence to monitor and manage assets under the MGNREGA.

2) The integration of cutting-edge technologies will modernize the ways of planning, monitoring and execution of rural development projects. This will ensure accountability and help in optimizing resource allocation.

3) Through this partnership, IIT Delhi and MoRD are setting a precedent for academic institutions and government bodies about how can they work together to foster innovation and drive socio-economic progress in rural areas.

Read more-AI in Agriculture

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