9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 19 November, 2024
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 2
India’s foreign policy towards its neighbors
Source: The post India’s foreign policy towards its neighbors has been created, based on the article “Yogendra Yadav writes: Is India really ‘neighbourhood first’?” published in “Indian Express” on 19th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 2- polity-India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Context: This article discusses India’s foreign policy towards its neighbors. It questions whether trying to dominate the region and using force is in India’s long-term interest. It suggests that a more respectful and non-interfering approach might serve India better, focusing on trust and mutual respect. India’s foreign policy towards its neighbors
For detailed information on India’s relationship with its neighboring countries read this article here
What is India’s Current Approach Towards Its Neighbours?
India’s foreign policy often emphasizes dominance in the region. This includes flexing muscles and influencing political developments in neighboring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Maldives, and Sri Lanka. However, this has created mistrust and anti-India sentiments.
Why is India’s Neighbourhood Policy Facing Challenges?
- Hostile Regimes: Countries like Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka currently have leaderships critical of India. Nepal’s PM K P Oli and Maldives’ Mohamed Muizzu have opposed Indian influence.
- Shift in Alliances: Nepal and Bhutan are leaning towards China for counter-balancing India’s dominance.
- Perceived Interference: India’s role in Nepal’s democratic transition, the 2015 blockade, and meddling in Nepalese domestic politics are viewed negatively.
- Growing Anti-India Sentiment: Anti-India narratives in Bangladesh, Maldives, and other nations are gaining traction, often exploited for political gains.
- Strategic Failures: India’s interventions often lack clear benefits. For example, Indian agencies’ alleged covert actions in Nepal are perceived poorly.
- Competition with China: China’s growing economic and political influence challenges India’s position in the region.
For detailed information on Challenges in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy in 2024 read this article here
What should be done?
- Follow “Neighbourliness First”: Respect sovereignty, avoid interference, and peacefully resolve disputes.
- Adopt Gujral Doctrine: India should accommodate its neighbors without expecting reciprocity, promoting goodwill and trust.
- Address Mistrust: Take responsibility for past actions, as seen in Nepal, and heal strained relationships.
- The policy of respecting neighbors and prioritizing mutual trust could improve India’s relations. Rather than trying to control its neighbors, India could focus on building goodwill, strengthening relationships, and promoting regional stability for long-term benefits.
For detailed information on India’s role in its neighboring countries’ political developments read this article here
Question for practice:
Evaluate whether India’s approach of regional dominance has been effective in fostering trust and stability among its neighboring countries.
Challenges in India’s Commitment to the Global South
Source: The post challenges in India’s commitment to the Global South has been created, based on the article “This time for Africa: India must take forward its commitment to Africa, the Global South” published in “The Hindu” on 19th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2- International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Context: The article discusses Prime Minister Modi’s visits to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana. It highlights India’s commitment to the Global South, strong ties with Nigeria, defense cooperation, economic investments, and the need for active follow-through on global partnerships and forums. Challenges in India’s Commitment to the Global South
For detailed information on India and Global South read this article here
What is the purpose of PM Modi’s visits to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana?
- Strengthen Ties: PM Modi’s visits aimed to strengthen diplomatic and strategic relationships with Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, emphasizing India’s commitment to the Global South.
- Economic Cooperation: Modi discussed investments and economic cooperation, particularly in Nigeria where Indian companies have invested approximately $27 billion in various sectors like healthcare and energy.
- Addressing Common Challenges: The discussions covered shared challenges like terrorism and piracy.
- Global Representation: In Brazil, during the G-20 Summit, Modi participated in discussions that included the induction of the African Union as a member, enhancing the representation of the Global South.
For detailed information on “Development Compact” Proposed by India read this article here
How is Nigeria significant to India?
- Economic Importance: Nigeria stands as one of the top African economies in terms of GDP and has recently become a BRICS partner country, positioning it as a vital player in regional and global economic contexts.
- Historical Cooperation: After Nigeria’s independence in 1960, India sent teachers and doctors to assist.
- Shared Challenges: Both nations face issues like poverty, pollution, and population density, offering opportunities for collaboration.
For detailed information on India-Nigeria Relations read this article here
What are the Challenges in India’s Commitment to the Global South?
- While India has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Global South and South-South cooperation, especially appreciated in Africa, there have been criticisms regarding the lack of follow-through on such commitments.
- The participation in the “Voice of the Global South” conference was not as enthusiastic as expected.
- Delayed Summits: The India-Africa Forum summit has not been held since 2015, despite its importance for Africa-India relations.
What Future Actions are Anticipated?
- There is an anticipation for India to host the overdue India-Africa Forum summit, last held in 2015.
- The Foreign Secretary indicated plans to conduct this summit early next year, aiming to enhance cooperation and address global challenges like governance, food, energy, and health security across the developing world.
Question for practice:
Discuss the significance of Prime Minister Modi’s visits to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana in strengthening India’s commitment to the Global South.
Manipur Crisis: Constitutional Breakdown, Judicial Delays, and Government Inaction
Source: The post Manipur Crisis: Constitutional Breakdown, Judicial Delays, and Government Inaction has been created, based on the article “Manipur as a case for imposing Article 356” published in “The Hindu” on 19th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure
Context: The article discusses the ongoing violence in Manipur since May 2023. It argues that the constitutional machinery has failed, urging the President to invoke Article 356 for central intervention to restore peace, citing historical debates and constitutional obligations. Manipur Crisis: Constitutional Breakdown, Judicial Delays, and Government Inaction
For detailed information on Manipur unrest and its impact on regional security read this article here
What is the current situation in Manipur?
- Since May 2023, Manipur has faced severe ethnic violence.
- Over 250 people have been killed, and more than a lakh displaced. Houses, temples, and churches have been destroyed.On November 9, 2024, a mother of three was raped and killed, and 17 houses were burned.
- Unlike insurgencies in Nagaland or Mizoram, violence in Manipur involves ordinary people as both victims and perpetrators.People are forced to defend themselves, escalating the unrest.
What is the meaning of the expression “failure of machinery”?
- The term “failure of machinery” refers to a situation where the State government is unable to function according to constitutional provisions.
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar linked this phrase to the Government of India Act, 1935, indicating situations where governance collapses entirely.
- K. Santhanam described it as the inability to maintain law and order due to internal disturbances or external aggression.
- Thakur Das Bhargava explained it as a state where people lose basic liberties and peace.
- Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar stated it is the Union’s duty to restore constitutional order.
What does the Constitution say about such situations?
- Article 356 allows the President to intervene when a State government cannot function as per the Constitution.
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar stated that this provision is essential during constitutional breakdowns.
- Article 355 obliges the Union to assist States in maintaining constitutional order.
- The President of India can act under Article 356 when a State’s constitutional machinery fails.
How has the Supreme Court responded?
- On May 8, 2023, the Supreme Court recorded that violence had decreased temporarily but emphasized the need for law and order and rehabilitation.
- By July 2023, the Court was alarmed by incidents like women being paraded naked.
- Despite 27 hearings, the Supreme Court’s intervention has been criticized as slow and ineffective.
Why has the government been criticized?
- Prime Minister’s Role: The Prime Minister has been criticized for not taking decisive action to ensure peace, harmony, and justice.
- Constitutional Duty Ignored: Article 355 obliges the Union to assist states during constitutional breakdowns, but it failed to fulfill this responsibility effectively.
- Critics argue that the lack of proactive measures undermines citizens’ fundamental rights to life, liberty, and dignity.
What are the key takeaways?
- Manipur’s situation highlights constitutional failure, judicial delays, and government inaction.
- Immediate central intervention is required to restore peace, justice, and fundamental rights.
- This crisis demands decisive leadership and proactive measures.
Question for practice:
Examine how the constitutional provisions and the roles of the judiciary and executive have been implemented or neglected in addressing the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
GS PAPER - 3
India’s Rs 1,000 crore venture capital fund for the space sector
Source: The post India’s Rs 1,000 crore venture capital fund for the space sector has been created, based on the article “Space, India’s final frontier and through the government, a gateway to the stars” published in “Indian Express” on 19th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper3- Economy and Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
Context: The article discusses India’s Rs 1,000 crore venture capital fund for the space sector. It supports startups, boosts innovation, creates jobs, and strengthens the economy. The fund aims to make India a global leader in space technology and exploration. India’s Rs 1,000 crore venture capital fund for the space sector
For detailed information on Venture Capital Fund read this article here
What is the Rs 1,000 crore venture capital fund for the space sector?
- The Indian government has approved a Rs 1,000 crore venture capital (VC) fund to support the private space sector.
- IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) will oversee the fund, acting as a gateway for startups in space technology.
- The fund will enable startups to develop and scale innovative ideas in a capital-intensive sector.For example, a startup like StarTech can use the fund to launch satellites for high-speed internet in remote areas, bridging the digital divide.
- The fund is critical for creating a multiplier effect, attracting private investment, and retaining companies in India.
- By fostering innovation, the fund aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and aims to grow India’s space economy to $44 billion by 2033.
- Countries like the UK, Japan, and Saudi Arabia have similar space-focused VC funds. India’s initiative aims to position it as a leader in global space technologies.
How will space technology impact different sectors?
- Supply Chain and Transportation: Satellite data will optimize routes, reduce costs, and improve delivery efficiency. For example, logistics companies can navigate traffic and weather using satellite navigation.
- Food and Beverage: Precision technology will enhance last-mile delivery.
Space labs may develop nutrient-rich foods to fight malnutrition. - Defense: Satellites will improve intelligence and surveillance for national security.
- Retail and E-Commerce: Satellite internet will enable online shopping in remote areas.
- Disaster Management: Space-based systems will provide early warnings for natural disasters.
- Humanitarian Aid: Satellites will monitor infrastructure and track human trafficking for better response efforts.
What challenges could limit growth?
- Space Debris: Increasing debris can pose risks to satellites and space missions, impacting efficiency and safety.
- Regulatory Constraints: Complex regulations could slow innovation and delay projects, affecting private sector participation.
- High Costs: The space sector is capital-intensive, requiring sustained investment. Without private funding, growth could be stunted.
- Competition from Alternatives: Terrestrial technologies, like fiber optics, could compete with satellite-based solutions.
- Collaboration Issues: Lack of standardization and harmonization between public and private stakeholders may hinder progress.
What is the significance of the VC fund?
- Job Creation: Each investment can create hundreds of direct jobs in engineering, software, and manufacturing. Thousands of indirect jobs will emerge in logistics, component manufacturing, and services.
- Strengthens National Security: Enhances defense capabilities through satellite-based intelligence and surveillance.
- Global Leadership: Positions India as a global leader in space technologies, competing with countries like the UK and Japan.This initiative supports long-term growth and global competitiveness in the space sector.
Question for practice:
Examine how the Rs 1,000 crore venture capital fund for the space sector will contribute to India’s economic growth and global leadership in space technology
RBI’s likely decision to keep interest rates unchanged
Source: The post RBI’s likely decision to keep interest rates unchanged has been created, based on the article “For RBI, a choice: Vegetable prices, growth or currency” published in “Indian Express” on 19th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper3-Economy- inflation
Context: The article discusses the RBI’s likely decision to keep interest rates unchanged due to inflation concerns, weak domestic demand, and rupee pressures. It highlights growth slowdown, muted wages, weak private investment, and external factors like U.S. interest rates impacting policy decisions. RBI’s likely decision to keep interest rates unchanged
For detailed information on The RBI decided to maintain interest rates but change its policy stance read this article here
What is the RBI’s Current Stance on Interest Rates?
- The RBI is expected to keep interest rates the same because inflation is above their target range.
- Even though food prices increased, especially for vegetables, the overall inflation without vegetables was low (3.3% in September and 3.6% in October).
- The RBI fears food inflation could spill over into core inflation through a wage-price spiral.
- The RBI maintains an optimistic growth forecast, but indicators show a slowdown. Real GDP growth is expected to fall below 7% this year, down from 8.2% last year. Nominal GDP growth could stay below 10% for the second consecutive year.
Why is the RBI’s Concern About Food Inflation Affecting Core Inflation Misplaced?
The concern is misplaced for two reasons.
First, the recent food inflation surge is mainly due to vegetable prices, and excluding vegetables, inflation was only 3.3% in September and 3.6% in October.
Second, significant and persistent food price shocks are needed to affect core inflation, but there is no evidence of such shocks or a wage-price spiral. Labour markets remain weak, wages are subdued, and firm costs are low.
How does the global economy impact India’s policy?
- Impact of US Fed Rates: The US Federal Reserve cut short-term rates by 75 basis points since September. However, long-term US Treasury yields rose from 3.61% to 4.44%, strengthening the dollar.
- Capital Outflows: Foreign investors withdrew $14 billion from Indian stock markets in two months, putting pressure on the rupee.
- Rupee Depreciation: A weaker rupee impacts firms with large foreign currency loans.
- Policy Constraints: Cutting Indian interest rates could worsen capital outflows and rupee depreciation.
- Global Trade Policies: Expectations of higher US tariffs under Trump may drive inflation and global uncertainty, complicating RBI’s decisions.
What are the RBI’s key challenges?
The RBI is balancing inflation concerns, growth slowdown, and rupee stability. Currency pressures and weak domestic demand dominate its considerations. The central bank may reassess its policy direction after December, as external and domestic factors evolve.
Question for practice:
Examine how the RBI balances inflation concerns, growth slowdown, and rupee stability in its monetary policy decisions.
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20)
Source: This post on GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20) has been created based on the article “SpaceX’s Falcon-9 deploys Indian satellite into orbit” published in The Hindu on 19th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, SpaceX Falcon-9 Launches India’s GSAT-N2 Satellite at Space Launch Complex 40, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. Falcon-9 rocket launched GSAT-N2 into a geosynchronous transfer orbit. It is the first-ever collaboration between SpaceX and India.
About GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20)
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1. Operator: NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) (a commercial arm of ISRO).
2. Mission Objective: It enhances broadband and in-flight connectivity across India, including remote regions like Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.
3. It is part of India’s space sector reforms initiated in June 2020.
4. Predecessor: GSAT-24 (June 2022), entirely secured by Tata Play.
5. Mission Life: 14 years.
Key Features of GSAT-N2
1. Payload Capacity: Ka-band High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) with advanced communication capabilities. The liftoff Mass is 4,700 kg.
2. Communication Payload: It operates in Ka-band with throughput of approximately 48 Gbps. It is equipped with 32 user beams: It has 8 Narrow Spot Beams covering the northeast region and it also has 24 Wide Spot Beams covering the rest of India.
iii) It features multi-beam architecture for frequency reuse, boosting system throughput. Hub stations located within mainland India.
3 . Reflectors and Sensors: Three parabolic 2.5-metre deployable reflectors with single-feed-per-beam technology. Sun Sensor, Earth Sensor, Inertial Reference Unit (IRU), and Star Sensor for precise attitude data.
Impact of GSAT-N2
1. Broadband Connectivity: Pan-India coverage, improving internet access and in-flight connectivity.
2. Technology Leap: Multi-beam design and frequency reuse enhance service efficiency.
3. Strategic Importance: Strengthens India’s presence in global satellite communications and space technology.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
Aphantasia
Source: This post on Aphantasia has been created based on the article “Aphantasia: When some people cannot see in their mind “ published in Indian Express on 19th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, a study by University of Glasgow delved deeper into the connection between humans’ auditory and visual senses with regards to Aphantasia.
About Aphantasia
1. Aphantasia is a condition where individuals have limited or no ability to form visual images in their mind.
For individuals with aphantasia, the “mind’s eye”, the mental faculty that allows most people to visualize objects, scenes, and people is effectively “blind.”
2. It is not classified as a disability but rather a variation in cognitive processing.
3. Origins: It was first noted by British polymath Francis Galton in the 1880s. The term “aphantasia” was coined in 2015 by neurologist Adam Zeman.
4. Characteristics: People with aphantasia cannot create mental images when imagining scenes, objects, or memories. For example, hearing the cry of a baby may not evoke a visual representation of a crying infant in their mind.
5. Connection Between Auditory and Visual Senses: Research shows that in individuals without aphantasia, auditory stimuli activate the brain’s visual cortex, creating mental imagery. This connection is less pronounced in individuals with aphantasia.
6. Prevalence: It affects approximately 2% of the population, although more research is needed for precise figures.
7. Possible Causes: The exact reasons for aphantasia remain unknown. Studies suggest differences in brain connectivity and activity patterns.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
Poorvi Prahar Exercise
Source: This post on Poorvi Prahar Exercise has been created based on the article “Poorvi Prahar tri-service exercise” published in PIB on 19th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, the Poorvi Prahar exercise was conducted in Arunachal Pradesh.
About Poorvi Prahar
Aspects | Description |
About | 1. Poorvi Prahar is a tri-service military drill held in the forward areas of Arunachal Pradesh. 2. The exercise spanned from November 10 to November 18, 2024. |
Objective | The primary objective is to enhance combat effectiveness, inter-service coordination, and operational readiness in the challenging mountainous terrain of the region. |
Key focus | 1. Integrated Joint Operations: The exercise emphasized synchronized operations between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It tested the capability of the armed forces to operate cohesively in a multi-domain, joint command environment.
2. Technological Advancement: Advanced military platforms and next-generation technologies were employed to simulate modern warfare scenarios. The focus was on leveraging cutting-edge tools to strengthen operational capabilities. 3. Operational Readiness: Forces were trained to handle real-world combat scenarios, particularly in the difficult topography of Arunachal Pradesh. The exercise sought to bolster India’s defensive posture along its eastern frontier. |
Technology Integration |
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Strategic Significance |
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UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
Source: This post on Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve has been created based on the article “56th Tiger Reserve of the country notified in Chhattisgarh” published in PIB on 19th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve has been notified as the 56th Tiger Reserve of the country.
About Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
1. Location: It is located in Chhattisgarh. It is nested in the Chota Nagpur plateau and partly in Baghelkhand plateau.
The reserve spreads across four districts in Chhattisgarh: Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Korea, Surajpur, and Balrampur.
2. Area: The Tiger Reserve spans a total area of 2,829.38 square kilometers, including a core or critical tiger habitat of 2,049.2 square kilometers that encompasses the Guru Ghasidas National Park and Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary.
3. It also has a buffer zone of 780.15 square kilometers, making it the third-largest tiger reserve in India.
4. Adjacent preserved areas: It also links with the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) in the west and the Palamau Tiger Reserve (Jharkhand) in the east.
5. Significance: It forms a contiguous landscape with the Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, creating a complex of nearly 4,500 sq. km.
6. Flora: It comprises of blend of sub-tropical and deciduous forests. The reserve boasts abundant flora, including sal, saja, dhavda, and kusum, representing a variety of vegetation types.
7. Fauna: The reserve is home to 753 documented species, including 365 invertebrates and 388 vertebrates. It shelters 230 bird species and 55 mammal species including several threatened species.
Its insect diversity, mainly from the class Insecta, contributes to a healthy ecosystem balance.
It hosts a diverse array of wildlife species, excluding tigers, such as elephants, sloth bears, vultures, peacocks, wolves, leopards, otters, chitals, jackals, nilgai, bison, hyenas, langurs, and cobras, among others.
Implications of the New Reserve
Ecological Impact: The expansive area of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve will bolster tiger population growth while also safeguarding other fauna and flora. Its connectivity with adjacent reserves enhances gene flow and strengthens regional biodiversity.
Economic and Social Benefit: Tiger reserves significantly contribute to ecotourism, benefiting local communities through sustainable livelihoods. Conservation programs often involve local participation, ensuring harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Strengthening Global Commitments: This milestone reinforces India’s dedication to international conservation goals, such as the Global Tiger Initiative and the Global Tiger Recovery Program which aim to double tiger numbers worldwide.
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
PM Internship Scheme Pilot Project
Source: This post on PM Internship Scheme Pilot Project has been created based on the article “Around 6.5 lakh applications come in for PM’s Internship Scheme pilot project” published in The Hindu on 19th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, the pilot project for the PM Internship Scheme received 6.5 lakh applications by the deadline, which was extended from November 10 to November 15.
About the scheme
1. The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme was announced in the Budget 2024-25.
2. Aim: It aims to provide one crore internships in top companies over five years, with a 12-month pilot project targeting 1.25 lakh youth in FY 2024-25.
3. The program enables real-world business exposure, focusing on bridging the gap between academic learning and industry demands.
4. Pilot Project Goals: The scheme aims to provide on-the-job training to 1 crore youth over five years.
5. In the pilot phase, 1.27 lakh internship opportunities were offered by 280 companies, including Tata Steel, ITC Limited, ICICI Bank, and the Mahindra Group.
Key Features of the Pilot Project:
1. Eligibility: Youth aged 21–24 (as of the application deadline), not in full-time employment or education.
Candidates must have completed high school, ITI, diploma, or undergraduate degrees (e.g., BA, B.Sc, B.Com).
Exclusions: Graduates from IITs, IIMs, NLUs, and similar institutions, holders of higher professional degrees, those earning over ₹8 lakh annually, or having a regular government employee in the family.
2. Each applicant could apply for up to five different internships, so the total number of applications does not represent unique applicants.
3. Internship Structure: The duration is of 12 months with at least half spent in a working environment. Interns receive ₹5,000/month: ₹500 from the company’s CSR funds and ₹4,500 from the government via DBT. A one-time grant of ₹6,000 covers incidental expenses.
Companies bear training costs through CSR funds and can utilize 5% for administrative costs.
4. Participation: Top 500 companies (based on CSR expenditure) and other eligible entities can join voluntarily. Companies may also collaborate with supply chain partners or group entities.
5. Implementation: An online portal manages applications, shortlisting, and selection. Candidates can apply to five internships, prioritized for inclusivity and diversity. Companies issue offers and monitor interns’ progress.
6. Completion: Interns receive completion certificates and ongoing performance evaluation. Dropouts will be ineligible for future cycles.
UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programmes
GRAP Stage IV
Source: This post on GRAP Stage IV has been created based on the article “Why GRAP stage IV has been announced now, what is allowed under it” published in Indian Express on 16th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, the Supreme Court questioned the Delhi government about the “delay” in implementing stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
About GRAP
1. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a framework of emergency measures designed to tackle air pollution in Delhi-NCR.
2. It was approved by the Supreme Court in 2016 and operational since 2017.
3. The plan is incremental:
Stages | Description/ criteria |
Stage I: | When AQI is ‘poor’ (201-300). |
Stage II: | When AQI is ‘very poor’ (301-400). |
Stage III: | When AQI is ‘severe’ (401-450). |
Stage IV: | When AQI reaches ‘severe +’ (above 450). |
Why Stage IV Now?
1. AQI in Delhi-NCR reached 441 on Sunday evening and breached the severe+ threshold by night.
2. Deterioration caused by heavy fog, variable wind and unfavorable meteorological conditions.
3. The Supreme Court criticized the delay in implementing GRAP IV despite worsening air quality.
4. Authorities have directed the measures to continue even if AQI drops below 450 until further notice.
Restrictions Under GRAP Stage IV
1. Truck Entry Ban: Stop entry of trucks into Delhi except: Trucks carrying essential commodities/services and LNG/CNG/Electric/BS-VI Diesel trucks.
2. Restrictions on Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs): LCVs registered outside Delhi are banned unless:
i) They are electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel vehicles.
ii) Carry essential commodities/services.
3. Ban on Medium and Heavy Diesel Goods Vehicles (MGVs/HGVs): BS-IV and below diesel-operated MGVs and HGVs are prohibited unless carrying essential goods/services.
4. Construction Ban: Halt all construction and demolition activities, including linear public projects such as: Highways, roads, flyovers, overbridges, power transmission lines, pipelines, and telecom projects.
5. Education and Work Adjustments:
Schools: States to consider closing physical classes for grades VI-IX and XI and move to online lessons.
Workplaces: 50% workforce limit for public, municipal, and private offices. Central government to decide on work-from-home measures.
6. Other Measures: Consider closure of colleges and non-essential commercial activities, and introduce odd-even vehicle rules if necessary.
7. Public Advisory: Citizens urged to follow the Citizen Charter to aid effective implementation of GRAP measures. Vulnerable groups (children, elderly, and those with chronic illnesses) should avoid outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible.
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
India’s First Long-Range Hypersonic Missile
Source: This post on India’s First Long-Range Hypersonic Missile has been created based on the article “DRDO carries out successful flight-trial of India’s first long-range hypersonic missile off the Odisha coast” published in pib on 19th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight trial of India’s first long-range hypersonic missile. India’s First Long-Range Hypersonic Missile
About the missile
A long-range hypersonic missile is capable of travelling at speeds exceeding Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound) over extended distances, typically beyond 1,500 kilometres.
India’s first long-range hypersonic missile is indigenously developed by DRDO laboratories, led by the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad.
Key Features of the Hypersonic Missile
1. Range & Payload: It is capable of carrying various payloads over distances exceeding 1,500 kilometers.
2. Tracking Systems: It is monitored by an array of advanced tracking systems deployed across multiple domains.
3. Performance Metrics: Terminal maneuvers and impact were confirmed with a high degree of accuracy through data from downrange ship stations.
4. Global Implications: This achievement underscores India’s growing expertise in critical and advanced military technology, cementing its place among nations with hypersonic weapon capabilities.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology