9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 1st July, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Changes in India’s population perspectives

Source: The post changes in India’s population perspectives has been created, based on the article “India’s new trilemma” published in “Business standard” on 1st July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper1-Society-population and associated issues and GS paper 3-Indian Economy – Growth, development and employment

Context: The article discusses India’s demographic changes, contrasting past fears of overpopulation with current hopes for economic growth due to a young workforce. It also highlights the intense competition for education, brain drain to Western countries, and millennials’ choice to prioritize careers over having children.

For detailed information on Challenges of Demographic dividend in India read this article here

Why are millennials not having children?

Many millennials prioritize their careers over having children. They believe children would distract them from their professional goals. This choice affects India’s expected demographic dividend.

How did India approach population control in the past?

  1. Government Initiatives: The government organized “vasectomy camps” in 1971, targeting sterilizations as a form of population control.
  2. Sterilization Statistics: In 1971 alone, approximately 1.3 million men underwent sterilization, with a target of 3.1 million by the following year.

3.International Support and Pressure: The World Bank provided $66 million in aid for sterilization programs from 1972 to 1980. Additionally, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson linked food aid to India’s adoption of sterilization policies in 1965.

How has the perspective on India’s population changed?

  1. 1970s Perspective: Previously, India viewed its high population growth as an economic burden. Efforts focused on aggressive population control measures, such as sterilization.
  2. Modern View: Today, India sees its large, young population as a demographic dividend. A high proportion of working-age individuals (15-64 years old) is now considered a potential economic advantage, expected to drive growth.
  3. Historical Context: In 1971, efforts included 1.3 million sterilizations, reflecting the urgency of controlling population growth, compared to current policies emphasizing economic utilization of the population.

How is demographic impacting education and employment in India?

  1. Intense Competition: Over a million students compete for limited seats at IITs, medical colleges, and IIMs. For example, 1 million applicants for 10,000 IIT seats.
  2. Brain Drain: Many qualified Indians, like Satya Nadella and Sundar Pichai, seek opportunities abroad, contributing to $125 billion in remittances.
  3. High Costs: Real estate prices in metro cities are high, pushing many to look for jobs overseas.
  4. Family-Run Businesses: Limited top management roles in India’s family-owned businesses drive professionals to seek better prospects abroad.

Question for practice:

Discuss how the changing demographics in India are influencing the country’s approach to population management and economic development.

James Lawson: A Bridge Between Movements

Source-This post on James Lawson: A Bridge Between Movements has been created based on the article “Remembering James Lawson: Man who connected Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr” published in “The Indian Express” on 1 July 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-1- The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.

Context- James Lawson, an American non-violence activist and trainer who passed away on June 9, 2023, at the age of 95, played an important role in bridging Gandhian non-violence principles with the American civil rights movement.

Martin Luther King Jr. praised Lawson as a crucial figure in the American civil rights movement and a global leader in nonviolence strategy. His life and work demonstrate the global impact of India’s freedom struggle ideology.

What are the contributions of James Lawson in advancing the principle of non-violence?

1) Empowering African Americans through Gandhian Nonviolence– Lawson used his study of Gandhi’s nonviolence to create effective methods and training tools that empowered African Americans in their fight for equal rights and justice.

2) Promoted Inclusivity and Grace-He combined Gandhi’s methods with Christian teachings. This way, he tried to promote inclusivity and grace in his activism.

3) Militant Nonviolence in the Southern United States -He trained many direct-action activists across the southern United States. His strategy of militant nonviolence involved organizing interracial teams to peacefully occupy segregated lunch counters, challenging discriminatory laws.

3) Critique of US Military Actions-He strongly criticized America’s global military actions, describing the US as the primary barrier to global peace and justice in a 2022 interview.

4) Support for Black Lives Matter-He viewed the Black Lives Matter movement as important in tackling racial violence, urging the adoption of new forms of unity to replace outdated racist practices and strengthen the nation.

6) Advocated Love as a Powerful Tool– His legacy provides practical advice on using love as a powerful tool in social movements. This offers an alternative to today’s trends of division and vilification.

Read more– Contributions of Ahilya Bai Holkar

What challenges does Lawson’s legacy face today?

1) Worldwide, attempts to build new relationships encounter significant obstacles because “cancel culture” is often linked with being progressive.

2) It’s simpler and more appealing to depict adversaries in the most negative manner possible. This evokes intense emotions and quickly captures public attention.

Thus, Lawson’s legacy is paradoxical yet impactful. It continues to attract those who believe in love as a force for justice.

Question for practice

What are the contributions of James Lawson in advancing the principle of non-violence?

GS PAPER - 2

Issue with University Admissions

Source: The post issue with university admissions has been created, based on the article “The rot in India’s higher education system” published in “The Hindu” on 1st July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources

Context: The article discusses the delays in university admissions due to the National Testing Agency’s (NTA) Common University Entrance Test (CUET) system. It highlights issues faced by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and critiques the centralization of entrance exams, affecting university autonomy and efficiency.

For detailed on Issues and trends in India’s higher education system read this article here

What is the Issue with University Admissions?

  1. Introduction of CUET: The academic year 2022-23 saw significant delays in university admissions due to the introduction of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
  2. Impact on PhD Admissions: Initially, CUET was planned for PhD admissions but was dropped in September 2022. Despite this, PhD admissions were only completed by mid-March 2023, a delay of eight months.
  3. JNU’s Challenges: Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), which used to complete admissions by August 14 each year, faced issues due to CUET. JNU has a long-standing tradition of conducting its entrance exams, ensuring a smooth process for nearly 50 years without incidents of cheating or paper leaks.

What Changes Were Made in Regulations?

  1. Introduction of UGC Regulations, 2022: In November 2022, the Gazette of India notified the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations, 2022. These regulations allowed universities to conduct their own PhD entrance exams again.
  2. Anticipated Autonomy: Several central universities, with established admission tests, expected to return to their traditional exam formats due to these new regulations.
  3. Continued NTA Influence: Despite the regulatory changes, some university heads, influenced by NTA-friendly policies, continued to use NTA for PhD entrance exams. For example, JNU was part of a consortium with Delhi University and Jamia Millia Islamia, adhering to the NTA’s guidelines even after the regulation change.
  4. Controversial UGC Decision: In March 2024, the UGC issued a non-binding notice that only the June 2024 UGC-NET scores would count for this year’s PhD admissions. This decision lacks clear documentation and official approval, as reflected in the absence of recorded explanations in the UGC’s meeting minutes.

How will all this impact higher education?

  1. Reduced Autonomy: The NTA’s control over entrance exams has diminished the autonomy of universities like JNU, which previously managed its own efficient and leak-proof admission processes for nearly 50 years.
  2. Potential for Declining Trust: The confusion and lack of transparency in decisions, such as the UGC’s abrupt change in admission criteria for PhD programs, could erode student confidence in the fairness and integrity of the higher education system.

Question for practice:

Examine how the introduction of the CUET by the NTA and subsequent regulatory changes have impacted university admissions and autonomy in India’s higher education system.

New projects and agreements between Nepal and India

Source: The post new projects and agreements between Nepal and India has been created, based on the article “Nepal and India’s special relationship – and how it is getting better” published in “Indian express” on 1st July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- international relations- India and its neighbourhood- relations.

Context: The article discusses the unique relationship between Nepal and India. It highlights their open border, shared culture, and economic ties. The countries are focusing on reducing trade deficits, enhancing digital financial connectivity, and improving infrastructure to boost trade and people-to-people ties.

For detailed information on India-Nepal Relationship read this article here

What is the nature of the relationship between Nepal and India?

  1. Open Borders and Cultural Ties: Nepal and India share an open border and deep-rooted cultural ties, enabling free movement and close people-to-people relationships.
  2. Economic Interdependence:

India is Nepal’s largest trading partner and the biggest source of tourists.

It is the sole supplier of petroleum products to Nepal.

India accounts for a significant share of Nepal’s inward remittances and handles the majority of its third-country trade.

During disasters, India is the first responder, providing rescue, relief, and financial packages (e.g., $75 million for earthquake-hit areas).

  1. Trade and Deficit Focus:

Nepal’s trade deficit with India stands at nearly 18% of its GDP.

High transaction costs and inadequate infrastructure make Nepal a high-cost economy.

Both countries are focusing on initiatives like cross-border digital financial connectivity and infrastructure improvements to reduce this trade deficit.

What new projects and agreements have been initiated between Nepal and India?

  1. Electricity Cooperation:

Exported around 650 MW of electricity to India in 2023, earning over Rs 10 billion.

Signed a long-term agreement to export 10,000 MW of electricity to India over 10 years.

  1. Hydroelectricity Projects:

Increased investment in hydroelectricity production and cross-border transmission lines.

Nepal plans to export 40 MW of electricity to Bangladesh in 2025 under a tripartite agreement.

  1. Digital Financial Connectivity:

Indians can make mobile payments in Nepal; Nepalis will soon follow.

Simplified process for Nepalis to open bank accounts in India and obtain Aadhaar cards.

  1. Petroleum Pipelines:

Constructing new pipelines between Siliguri-Jhapa and Amlekhgunj-Chitwan.

Existing Motihari-Amlekhgunj pipeline saves Nepal Rs 1 billion annually.

  1. Transportation Infrastructure:

Building two new integrated check posts (ICPs) in Bhairahaba and Dodhara-Chandani.

Upgrading border roads and operational cross-border freight rail.

Completed feasibility study for the Raxaul-Kathmandu railway; considering Ayodhya-Janakpur rail service.

How will Nepal’s relationship be helpful for India?

Electricity Imports: India will import 10,000 MW of clean energy from Nepal over 10 years, reducing reliance on coal and gas.

Pollution Reduction: Importing clean energy from Nepal will help India reduce pollution.

Economic Boost: Enhanced digital financial connectivity will facilitate hassle-free payments for Indian tourists and traders in Nepal.

Transportation Efficiency:

New petroleum pipelines will streamline fuel supply and reduce transportation costs.

Upgraded border roads and integrated check posts will ease trade and travel between the countries.

Regional Energy Cooperation: Nepal’s participation in regional grids will promote renewable energy development in BIMSTEC and SAARC regions, benefiting India.

Question for practice:

Discuss the various initiatives and agreements that have been undertaken to strengthen the economic and infrastructure cooperation between Nepal and India.

Climate Legislation for India

Source-This post on Climate Legislation for India has been created based on the article “Court on climate right and how India can enforce it” published in “The Hindu” on 1 July 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2- Indian Constitution—Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure.

Context– The recent judgment in M.K. Ranjitsinh and Ors. vs Union of India & Ors. by the Supreme Court of India has marked a positive development in India’s climate change legal framework.

The Supreme Court has introduced the right to ‘be free from the adverse effects of climate change’ into the Constitution of India, deriving from both the right to life (Article 21) and the right to equality (Article 14).

The judgment states that there is no ‘umbrella legislation’ in India that relates to climate change.Thus,it implicitly suggests the enactment of climate legislation.

Read More- SC Ruling on right against Climate Change- Explained Pointwise

What are the advantages of bringing climate legislation?

1) It can set the vision for engaging with climate change across sectors and regions.

2) It can establish essential institutions, empower them, and implement structured governance processes to anticipate and respond to climate change.

What are the issues with single climate legislation?

1) Comprehensive Law-Creating a single comprehensive law that addresses all these aspects isn’t practical, especially given the current legal framework covering most of these issues.

2) Anticipating the Unpredictable Challenges– It’s impossible to predict in advance all the ways society needs to prepare for climate change.

3) Challenges of Adopting Foreign Models – Many countries’ climate laws, like those modeled after the United Kingdom, concentrate narrowly on controlling carbon emissions. For ex– they establish regular five-year national carbon budgets and mechanisms to achieve them. This approach isn’t well-suited for India.

 What should be the way forward?

1) Promoting Sustainable Development Across Sectors– India should consider adopting a law that encourages decisions fostering sustainable development across various sectors like urban planning, agriculture, water management, and energy.

2) Supportive Regulatory Environment-Climate legislation should also create a supportive regulatory environment for more sustainable cities, buildings, and transport networks. It should enable adaptation measures such as heat action plans sensitive to local context

3) Resilient Agriculture and Social Equity-Climate legislation should include ways to transition to crops resilient to climate change. It should also safeguard crucial ecosystems like mangroves, which serve as barriers against severe weather. Further, it should promote social equity.

4) Indian Federalism- Climate legislation should function well within India’s federal structure. Various domains like urban policies, agriculture, water management, and electricity, are under the jurisdiction of state or local governments. Thus, the state must be given due importance in climate change related policy making and funding.

5) Multi-stakeholders Approach– Businesses, civil society, and communities impacted by climate change must actively participate in decision-making processes. This will ensure that diverse viewpoints for climate resilience and transitioning to sustainable energy practices are accommodated.

Question for practice

What are the challenges associated with enacting a single climate law? What steps should be taken moving forward?

Place of Education in India’s Federal Structure

Source-This post on Place of Education in India’s Federal Structure has been created based on the article “Should education be brought back to the State list?” published in “The Hindu” on 1 July 2024.

UPSC SyllabusGS Paper-2- Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

Context– The NEET-UG exam has faced controversies involving grace marks, allegations of paper leaks, and other irregularities. The article discusses the debate surrounding the place of education in concurrent list.

In the United States, educational standards are set by state and local governments, with federal oversight on financial aid and key issues. Canada delegates education entirely to its provinces, while Germany gives legislative power to its states (landers). South Africa has national departments overseeing education with provincial departments implementing policies locally.

What is the historical background?

1) British Era-The Government of India Act, 1935 introduced a federal structure in India. Legislative subjects were divided between federal legislature and provinces. Education was placed under the provincial list.

2) Post-Independence Era-

A) Initially, education remained on the ‘State List’.

B) During the Emergency, the Swaran Singh Committee suggested shifting education to the ‘Concurrent List’. This recommendation was enacted through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment in 1976 without thorough discussion.

C) The Janata Party government tried to undo this through the 44th Amendment in 1978, which did not pass in the Rajya Sabha.

What are the arguments for placing education in Concurrent List?

A) Uniform education policy across the country.

B) Potential for improved standards.

C) Enhanced synergy between Centre and States.

Read More– Issues with India’s education system

What are the arguments against placing education in Concurrent List?

1) Recent Controversies– NEET- Opposition to returning ‘education’ to the State list cites concerns about corruption and a lack of professionalism.However,recent issues with NEET and NTA have shown that centralization does not automatically resolve these problems.

2) Expenditure on Education– According to the Ministry of Education’s 2022 report on budgeted expenditure, in the fiscal year 2020-21, education departments in India spent a total of ₹6.25 lakh crore. Of this amount, the Centre accounted for 15%, while states contributed 85%. This highlights the significant role of states in funding education.

What should be the way forward?

1) Most education funding comes from the states, suggesting a need for constructive dialogue about returning ‘education’ to the State list. This change would enable states to formulate tailored policies for curriculum, exams, and admissions, especially for professional courses like medicine and engineering.

2) Regulatory mechanisms for higher education can continue to be governed by central institutions like the National Medical Commission, University Grants Commission and All India Council for Technical Education.

Question for practice

Should education be brought back to the State list? Critically analyze?

GS PAPER - 3

Issues with Government Response to Forest fire

Source: The post issues with government response to forest fire has been created, based on the article “Uttarakhand Forest fires: Why villagers don’t help the state in risk management” published in “Indian express” on 1st July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- disaster and disaster management

Context: The article discusses the devastating forest fires in Uttarakhand’s Binsar forest. It highlights the problems caused by uncoordinated government efforts, inadequate resources, and poor infrastructure. It also suggests that involving and incentivizing local villagers could improve forest fire management.

For detailed information on Forest fire in India read Article1, Article2

What Happened in Binsar Forest?

A massive fire engulfed Uttarakhand’s Binsar forest, raging for days. Five firefighters died, and three were hospitalized. The fire reached very close to the sanctuary’s core.

Why Are Forest Fires Increasing?

  1. Increase in Frequency and Severity: In the first half of this year, Uttarakhand reported 1,309 forest fires, a significant increase from 241 in the same period last year.
  2. Climatic Factors: The temperature exceeded 30 degrees Celsius for the first time in the Binsar Forest region of Uttarakhand. This increase in temperature intensified the risk of forest fires, as chir pine leaves, which are highly flammable, contribute significantly to the spread of fires.
  3. Human Factors: Carelessness with cigarette butts and mismanaged controlled burns exacerbate the situation. Additionally, there are reports of deliberate arson by villagers frustrated with restricted economic opportunities due to sanctuary policies.

What Are the Issues with Government Response to Forest fire?

  1. Lack of Coordination: Different government agencies struggled to work together effectively.
  2. Inadequate Resources: Firefighters lacked proper equipment, like fire-resistant clothing and oxygen masks. Most were untrained volunteers.
  3. Poor Infrastructure: Bad roads prevented fire engines and ambulances from reaching the fire.
  4. Local Involvement: Villagers, who used to help fight fires, are now less motivated due to lack of incentives.

How Can Future Fires Be Managed Better?

  1. Improved Coordination: Better leadership is needed to manage different agencies.
  2. Better Resources: The government should provide modern equipment and training for firefighters.
  3. Infrastructure Improvement: Roads should be maintained to allow access during emergencies.
  4. Involving Villagers: Incentives for villagers to help fight fires should be reintroduced, using their local expertise.

Question for practice:

Discuss the main factors contributing to the increase in forest fires in Uttarakhand’s Binsar forest and the challenges faced by the government in managing these fires.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Holistic Progress Card

Source-This post on Holistic Progress Card has been created based on the article “New report card for Classes 9 -12 to cover post-school plans, entrance exams prep and college applications” published in “The Indian Express” on 1 July 2024.

Why in the news?

PARAKH, a standard-setting body under NCERT, recently released the Holistic Progress Card, a report card designed for secondary school students (Classes 9 to 12). Similar HPCs were earlier designed for students from classes 1 to 8.

About Holistic Progress Card

Objective-To transform evaluations by focusing on diverse skills and competencies, instead of just the performance in periodic pen-and-paper tests and exams.

Applicability-Classes 9 to 12

Implementation– It will not be used in the ongoing 2024-25 academic session.

Features-

A) Teachers and officials will receive training for its implementation. States have the option to either implement the HPC released by NCERT or adapt it according to their requirements..

B) The HPC differs from internal marks in Board exam evaluations. It reflects the child’s academic achievements over the years and is intended to enhance the Board exam results. It will be integrated with the Board results.

C)The progress card includes various sections like the one where students assess themselves on skills like ‘time management‘ and ‘plans after school‘.

D) It includes an ‘accomplishments inventory‘ covering academic skills such as independent work/research and critical and creative thinking, as well as life skills like understanding the value of money and budgeting etc.

E) It includes the teacher’s assessment of the student in group projects, the student’s reflections on their own performance, and peer feedback on their understanding and contributions to the project.

What is the significance of Holistic Progress Card for classes 9 to 12?

1) It will realign school report cards with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE).

Read More-Govt. releases pre-draft of National Curriculum Framework for school

2) It will contribute towards bringing equivalence across different boards.

UPSC Syllabus-Index and Reports

Bustard conservation Plan

Source-This post on Bustard conservation Plan has been created based on the article “Rewilding, artificial insemination, population study; Rs 56 crore approved for next phase of Bustard conservation” published in “The Indian Express” on 1 July 2024.

Why in the news?

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has recently approved Rs 56 crore for the next phase of the conservation of Great Indian Bustard (GIB) and Lesser Florican.
The conservation programme has been running since 2016 for long-term recovery of critically endangered GIB and Lesser Florican. As of now, around 140 GIBs and fewer than 1,000 Lesser Floricans are surviving in the wild.

Component of Plan-

Source-The Indian Express

A)The first component includes targets like completing the conservation breeding centre in Ramdevra, Jaisalmer, developing the Sorsan Lesser Florican facility, preparing for releasing captive-bred birds, releasing Great Indian Bustards (GIBs) in Rajasthan and other areas, monitoring them after release, and conducting artificial insemination.

B) The second component comprises in-situ conservation of GIBs in other range states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. This component will be implemented by WII along with state governments.

C)From 2024 to 2026, Wildlife Institute of India will survey the population of Great Indian Bustards (GIBs) in Jaisalmer and other states where they live, and also estimate the population of the lesser florican across its entire range.

D) During the 2024-2029 phase, there will be a focus on developing and implementing artificial insemination techniques as a backup to captive-breeding conservation efforts. The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has partnered with the Abu Dhabi-based International Fund for Houbara Conservation for this initiative.

Threats to Species

A) Both species have declined due to hunting, habitat loss, and predators preying on their eggs.

B) Overhead power lines have become a significant threat to Great Indian Bustards, with a study from 2017-18 estimating that 88,000 birds of various species die annually from collisions with these lines.

UPSC Syllabus-Species in News

Unveiling of three initiatives

Source-This post on Unveiling of three initiatives has been created based on the article “three initiatives at the आयुष्मान भारत, गुणवत्त स्वास्थ्य event” published in “PIB” on 1 July 2024.

Why in the news?

Union Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare has recently launched three initiatives at the आयुष्मान भारत, गुणवत्त स्वास्थ्य event today. These initiatives aim to enhance healthcare services and facilitate business operations in India.

Unveiling of three initiatives
Source-PIB

1) Virtual Assessment for Ayushman Arogya Mandir

A) National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) were developed for various healthcare centres including District Hospitals, Community Health Centres, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Sub Centres) etc to ensure quality healthcare services.

B) The target is for all healthcare facilities to achieve full compliance with NQAS by 2026.

C) Online evaluations, including virtual tours and interactions, simplify the assessment process. Each facility undergoes a rigorous multi-level assessment conducted by MoHFW-certified National Quality Assurance Standard Assessors to attain quality certification.

2) IPHS Dashboard for Real-time monitoring of Public Health Facilities

A) The IPHS Dashboard is a digital platform for real-time monitoring of public health facilities.
It provides an overview of assessment and compliance status for District Hospitals, Sub-District Hospitals, Community Health Centers.Ayushman Arogya Mandirs etc.

B) The dashboard uses the Open Data Kit (ODK) for real-time data collection and analysis.
It assists health officials in quickly identifying gaps and making necessary improvements to uphold standards in infrastructure, equipment, and human resources.

C) The Ministry aims to ensure all healthcare institutions meet IPHS 2022 benchmarks for delivering high-quality health services.

3) Food Safety and Compliance System (FoSCoS)-

A) FoSCoS is an advanced IT platform across India for food safety regulation. It simplifies licensing and registration processes, enhancing user experience.

B) FoSCoS supports self-compliance with online return filings, hygiene ratings, and third-party audits. Integrated with other FSSAI IT platforms, it offers a comprehensive solution for food business operators.

C) FSSAI introduced instant issuance of licences and registrations for low-risk food businesses through digital verification.

D) Instant licences will be available for categories like wholesalers, retailers, transporters, and more, excluding high-risk foods such as milk, meat, and fish.

E) Petty food businesses like snack retailers and mobile vendors also qualify for instant registration under this initiative.

Read more-Food Safety Regulations in India

UPSC Syllabus-Schemes & Programmes.

Shyok River

Source- This post on ” Shyok River” has been created based on the article “Five soldiers swept away by Shyok river during military training in Ladakh: Army” published in the Hindu on 30th June 2024.

Why in News

Five soldiers of the Indian army have been swept away by the Shyok River during military training in Ladakh.

Key Facts about the Shyok River

Shyok River
Source- Wikipedia
Aspects  Details
Origin It originates from the Rimo Glacier. The Rimo glacier is one of the tongues of the Siachen Glacier. The river gets its name from a Ladakhi word meaning ‘the river of death‘.
Course It flows through northern Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir, India, and enters the Pakistan-administered region of Gilgit-Baltistan. It meanders through the high-altitude desertsand mountain ranges of Ladakh before converging with the Indus.
Length The total length of the river is around 550 km (340 mi) and it is regularly fed by meltwater from numerous glaciers on its journey.
Tributaries Its main right-bank tributary is the Nubra River.

Read More- Geography in News

DRDO study on development of indigenous conventional submarine

Source- This post on ‘DRDO study on development of indigenous conventional submarine’ has been created based on the article ‘ DRDO takes up study on development of indigenous conventional submarine‘ published in ‘The Hindu’ on 01st July 2024.

Why in News

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has taken up a preliminary study on the design and development of an indigenous conventional submarine under Project-76. The process of procurement of new submarines under P-75I will be continued.

Project 76
Source- The Economic Times

What is the Focus of Project-76

1. Indigeneous Content- There will be substantial indigenous content, including weapons, missiles, combat management system, sonars, communications, electronic warfare suite, mast and periscope.

2. Development of Conventional Submarines- After the P-75I, under Project-76 the Navy intends to design and build conventional submarines indigenously.

3. Development of Propulsion Module- Air independent propulsion (AIP) module is being designed and developed by the DRDO. (The first Scorpene-class submarine Kalvari is expected to go for refit of this AIP in 2025 when the fitment process will begin and is expected to take two to three years). This AIP module acts as a force multiplier as it enables conventional submarines to remain submerged for a longer duration thereby increasing their endurance and reducing chances of detection.

UPSC Syllabus- Defence

Coconut Husk for Supercapacitor fabrication

Source- This post on ‘Coconut Husk for supercapacitor fabrication‘ has been created based on the article ‘Carbon derived from coconut husks can power supercapacitors‘ published in ‘The Hindu’ on 01st July 2024

Why in News?

Researchers at the Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, have devised a method to produce activated carbon. This activated carbon is suitable for supercapacitor fabrication. These activated carbon can be produced from coconut husks, which are a major agricultural residue in Kerala.

What is the significance

1. Immense potential for green Solutions- The coconut husk biowaste-derived activated carbon holds immense promise for sustainable and efficient green solutions for high-performance supercapacitors. This is due to their high availability, low cost, and eco-friendly nature.

2. Provides a material for Super capacitor development- This method provides another material in the mix for the search of an ideal supercapacitor electrode material.

3. Higher efficiency- The prototype supercapacitors made of coconut husk-derived activated carbon is found to be four-times more efficient than the existing supercapacitors.

UPSC Syllabus- Science and technology

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