9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 22 February, 2024
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 2
Supreme Court’s decision on women’s employment- Ending discrimination
Source: The post Supreme Court’s decision on women’s employment has been created, based on the article “Ending discrimination: Workplaces must ensure fair treatment of women employees” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-governance-mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of vulnerable sections.
News: The article discusses a Supreme Court of India ruling that it’s unconstitutional to fire women for getting married. Supreme Court’s decision on women’s employment
What challenges do women face in the civilian workforce?
Personal Questions in Interviews: Women often face uncomfortable personal questions about their marriage and motherhood plans during job interviews.
Low Workforce Participation: Data shows that only 19.9% of women in India participate in the workforce, highlighting a significant gender gap in employment.
Education Barriers: Many girls, especially among the poor, drop out of school due to various reasons, ranging from economic challenges to lack of proper facilities like toilets.
Restrictive Social Norms: Women are often bound by societal and cultural expectations, which limit their opportunities and advancement in the workforce.
Unequal Domestic Responsibilities: The UN’s Gender Snapshot 2023 indicates that women are expected to undertake a disproportionate amount of housework and caregiving duties compared to men.
What was the Supreme Court’s decision on women’s employment?
Ruling on Marriage and Employment: The Supreme Court of India ruled that terminating women’s employment for getting married is unconstitutional.
Case Example – Selina John: This decision came from the case of Selina John, a former lieutenant in the Military Nursing Service, who was discharged in 1988 for getting married.
Compensation Ordered: The Court directed the Indian Government to pay Ms. John ₹60 lakh in compensation.
How does this affect gender equality?
Promotes Equal Treatment: The Supreme Court’s decision against penalizing women for marriage supports equal treatment in employment.
Encourages Women’s Participation: It may encourage more women to join and stay in the workforce, knowing their marital status won’t affect their employment.
Supports Broader Gender Parity Efforts: This decision aligns with efforts to achieve gender parity in areas like the military, where women recently gained the right to permanent commission.
Challenges Patriarchal Norms: It challenges patriarchal norms and societal expectations that restrict women’s professional opportunities.
Read More UPSC Topics-
Way forward
To move forward, societal and cultural norms that restrict women’s opportunities must change. Organizations should make workplaces supportive, not limiting women based on marriage or domestic roles. Increasing women’s participation in the workforce, currently at 19.9% in India, is crucial for achieving gender parity.
Question for practice:
Evaluate the impact of the Supreme Court of India’s ruling against terminating women’s employment for marriage on gender equality and women’s workforce participation in India.
Allocation of Funds between The Centre and States- On financial devolution among States
Source: The post allocation of funds between the Centre and states has been created, based on the article “On financial devolution among States” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-polity-issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.
News: The article discusses the financial arrangement in India where taxes collected by the central government are shared with states. On financial devolution among States
What is the basis for the allocation of funds between the Centre and states?
Under Article 270 of the Indian Constitution, a scheme is established for distributing net tax proceeds, collected by the central government, between the Centre and the States.
The divisible pool, which includes taxes like corporation tax, income tax, GST, and the Centre’s share of IGST, is shared with the states but excludes cess and surcharges.
The Finance Commission, formed every five years, recommends how these funds are allocated. The 15th Finance Commission has advised a 41% share from this pool for the states.
For information on Finance Commission read here
Now, the basis for allocation includes:
Income Distance: States with lower per capita incomes receive more to promote equity. The benchmark is the state with the highest per capita income, which is Haryana.
Population: The 2011 Census data is used for population considerations, moving away from the 1971 Census data used earlier.
Forest and Ecology: States with larger forest cover get a bigger share, recognizing their ecological contribution.
Demographic Performance: States that have better controlled their population growth receive more funds.
Tax Effort: States with higher tax collection efficiency are rewarded with a greater share.
What are the issues with the allocation of funds between the Centre and states?
Exclusion of Cess and Surcharge: About 23% of the central government’s gross tax receipts come from cess and surcharge, which are not part of the divisible pool. For instance, in the 2024-25 budget, the total tax revenue of the Union government is ₹38.8 lakh crore, but states only receive around 32%, less than the recommended 41%.
Variation in Returns to States: There is a noticeable disparity in what states get back for every rupee contributed. For example, industrially developed states receive less than a rupee for every rupee contributed, compared to states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Decreasing Share for Southern States: Over the last six Finance Commissions, the share in the divisible pool for southern states has been reducing due to the criteria focusing more on equity and needs than on efficiency.
Read More UPSC Topics-
What should be done?
Include Cess and Surcharge in Divisible Pool: Currently, cess and surcharge are not shared with states. Including them in the divisible pool would increase the funds available for states.
Reconsider Efficiency Criteria in Fund Allocation: Give more importance to the efficiency of tax collection by states in the allocation process, which would encourage states to improve their tax collection systems.
Enhanced State Participation in Finance Commission: Similar to the GST Council, states could have a more formal role in both forming and working with the Finance Commission, leading to a more collaborative and transparent fiscal federalism.
For more information read here.
Question for practice:
Discuss the key challenges in the current allocation of funds between the Centre and states in India, and suggest potential reforms to address these challenges.
On India’s Public Education System
Source: This post on India’s public education system has been created based on the article “Our school infrastructure needs a revamp to flatten its pyramid” published in “Live Mint” on 22nd February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 Social Justice – Issues relating to Education.
News: The article discusses the importance of investing in education. It also highlights the improvements being seen in India’s public education system, and the challenges which still remain. Public Education System in India
Why is investing in education important?
- Leveraging Demographic Dividend: Investing in public education systems is crucial for countries seeking to leverage their demographic dividend.
For instance, South Korea’s emphasis on education significantly improved literacy rates and provided the necessary skills for industrial and technological sectors, which contributed to its economic development. - Economic Growth: Empirical research shows that educational investment is positively correlated with economic growth.
For instance, according to World Bank studies, each additional year of schooling is associated with up to a 10% increase in individual earnings, and countries prioritizing educational quality generally exhibit higher economic growth rates.
What are the improvements being seen in India’s public education system?
The Unified Digital Information on School Education (UDISE+) 2023 data shows that there were significant advancements seen in India’s public education system. These include:
- Decrease in Pupil-Teacher ratio (PTR): It has seen a remarkable decrease across all levels of education, signifying smaller class sizes and more individualized attention to students. It reflects an effort to improve the quality of education through increased teacher recruitment.
- Gender Parity in Teaching Staff: The teaching staff has attained a gender balance, with female teachers now comprising 52.3% of the workforce in 2022-23, up from 46.9% in 2014-15.
- Rise in Learning Outcomes: Between 2013 and 2022, the number of students within the public education system passing with 60% and above has surged, with ‘pass’ students in Class 10 rising from 5.8 million to nearly 9.8 million and in Class 12 from 3.6 million to over 4.3 million.
- Rise in Female Education: The pass rates of female students rose by 72% in Class 10 sand 87% in Class 12, surpassing the improvement rates of male students.
What is the ‘Pyramidal Structural’ challenge in India’s public education system?
The Right to Education (RTE) Act of 2009 mandated distance norms for primary and upper-primary schools (1km and 3km respectively). This significantly increased accessibility to education. It expanded educational infrastructure, particularly at the primary and upper-primary levels.
However, the Act’s focus on elementary education has led to:
- Scarcity of secondary and higher secondary schools: There are 743,000 schools at the primary level, accounting for 50.7% of all schools. However, only 150,000 schools (10.3%) are present at the higher-secondary level.
- Disproportionate allocation of resources for elementary schooling: As a result, according to UDISE+ data, there are 122.5 million enrolments in primary schools. However, it decreases to 38 million at the secondary level, and only 27.8 million at the higher-secondary level.
Read More UPSC Topics-
What should be done?
- Increasing secondary and higher-secondary seats.
- Enhancing educational access.
- Ensuring a smooth educational progression with sufficient infrastructure and teachers at the state level.
According to the authors, it is the responsibility of state governments to implement these critical steps. Addressing this pyramidal shrinkage is crucial to tackle educational disparities and unlock India’s human capital potential.
Question for practice:
What is the ‘Pyramidal Structural’ challenge in India’s public education system? What should be done to resolve it?
GS PAPER - 3
New housing plan in India- Beyond shelter, dweller needs within the four walls
Source: The post new housing plan in India has been created, based on the article “Beyond shelter, dweller needs within the four walls” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Economy- infrastructure
News: The article discusses India’s plan to build more houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. It focuses on using modern technologies like Mivan for faster, eco-friendly construction. However, it raises concerns about increased energy use due to poor insulation in these houses. New house plans in India
What is the new housing plan in India?
India’s Finance Minister announced a plan to build two crore more houses in the next five years under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G) and introduced a new housing scheme for the middle class.
For information on Middle class housing scheme read here
This plan continues the work of PMAY, which has already helped build nearly three crore rural and 80 lakh urban affordable houses since 2015.
The plan is a key component of the broader ‘Housing for All’ initiative, aiming to provide inclusive housing solutions across various income groups in India.
For information on “Housing for all” read here
How can sustainable housing be achieved in India?
Modern Technology:
Modern technology plays a crucial role in sustainable housing in India.
Techniques like Mivan, which uses recyclable aluminium formwork, are revolutionizing construction. This method not only speeds up the building process but also offers a more environmentally friendly approach by reducing waste.
Also, the adoption of Light House Projects (LHPs) under the Global Housing Technology Challenge is effective. These projects focus on resilient and affordable housing, using innovative technologies to improve both construction quality and efficiency, aligning with India’s broader housing goals.
Thermal Comfort:
Thermal comfort is crucial. Passive design strategies, guided by Eco Niwas Samhita, tailor buildings to climate zones. The Smart Ghar III project in Rajkot exemplifies this, ensuring comfort while minimizing energy use.
What are the challenges in implementing sustainable housing designs?
Multi-Stakeholder Complexity: Implementing sustainable housing involves architects, engineers, contractors, and material suppliers, each with different priorities and awareness levels.
Homeowner Awareness: There’s a lack of understanding among homeowners about the long-term benefits of energy-efficient designs. Passive designs offer reduced energy bills and improved comfort, but these advantages aren’t immediately obvious to them.
Challenges in Adoption of Codes: While there are guidelines like Eco Niwas Samhita for passive design, translating these into practice is difficult due to diverse stakeholder interests.
Read More UPSC Topics-
Way forward
The way forward involves obligatory implementation of building codes for thermal comfort, like the Eco Niwas Samhita, across all housing projects. Additionally, fostering collaboration and raising awareness among all stakeholders, from architects to homeowners, about the benefits of sustainable designs is essential. This approach will help align housing development with environmental and climate goals.
Question for practice:
Examine how India’s housing initiatives, such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and the use of modern technologies like Mivan, are addressing the challenges of sustainability and energy efficiency in housing construction.
On the Implications of India’s Indigenous Cryogenic Engine
Source: This post on the Implications of India’s Indigenous Cryogenic Engine has been created based on the article “Next stage – Indigenous cryogenic engine lift-off for India’s space programme” published in “Business Standard” on 22nd February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Science & Technology – Awareness in the fields of Space.
News: The article discusses the recent launch of Insat-3DS by ISRO. It also discusses the various applications of Indigenous Cryogenic Engine India.
Background:
Recently, 3rd-generation weather satellite Insat-3DS was launched by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Why was this significant?
- Enhances India’s weather-prediction abilities: Insat-3DS offers enhanced coverage of oceans.
- Indigenous Cryogenic Engine Capabilities: The engine, the GSLV F14 rocket with a cryogenic third stage performed as expected. There are only 6 nations, including India, which possess this capability.
What are Cryogenic engines?
Cryogenic engines use mixes of liquefied gases (usually hydrogen and oxygen), which deliver greater thrust to weight. These rockets can carry greater payload at higher speeds (Over 6,000 kg into Low Earth Orbit and over 2,000 kg into higher geostationary orbits).
Liquid hydrogen and oxygen are stored separately at very low temperatures and combust explosively when brought together. These complexities require expertise in design and material sciences.
Read More UPSC Topics-
What are the implications?
- Aerospace implications: Since it can put greater payloads into higher orbits, it would be vital to future missions to the Moon or Mars, setting up a space station, or putting Gaganauts into orbit.
- Military implications:
(i) Material science capabilities can be harnessed in many applications.
(ii) The capacity to put more and larger payloads into space translates into more robust communications, including military communications.
(iii) Modern ballistic missiles with intercontinental ranges generally use semi-cryogenic engines (mix of kerosene and liquid oxygen). Expertise in cryogenic technologies will also make semi-cryogenic R&D easier.
c. Commercial implications: Since it can put larger loads into higher orbits, it will make India a significant player in the global satellite launching business.
Question for practice:
What are Cryogenic engines? What are its applications in the space, military and commercial sector?
On Reforming India’s Government Procurement System
Source: This post on Reforming India’s Government Procurement System has been created based on the article “Unleashing govt’s procurement power” published in “Business Standard” on 22nd February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Indian Economy – Issues relating to growth.
News: The article discusses the issues with government procurement process in India and suggests reforms to tackle them.
The government and its agencies are large buyers of a wide range of goods and services. Public sector undertakings procure inputs for their production processes and are required to comply with a procurement system. On Reforming India’s Government Procurement System
What are the issues with government procurement process in India?
The procurement system in India has become increasingly rigid. For instance:
- Supply bids must be invited with precise specifications.
- Prequalification criteria for bidders are prescribed.
- The lowest bidder, or L1, must be awarded the contract.
- Retendering takes place if only one bid is received.
- Negotiations in procurement are not allowed.
- It is subject to strict process oversight, including auditing and vigilance.
What are the implications of this on innovation and startups?
The government cannot purchase new innovative technologies and products from a single monopoly supplier (since retendering takes place if only one bid is received). The consequence is that nothing is bought in the field of innovative frontier technologies (since innovative technologies usually have a monopoly in the initial few years).
This harms innovation as Indian companies and startups may be having the potential for innovation, but they do not have any market openings.
Read More UPSC Topics-
What should be done?
- Opportunity for Innovators: There should be an open window for receiving offers from those who have developed a new product or process.
- Forming an Empowered Committee: This may include experts from outside the organization, which examines all such offers. In case the benefits are significantly higher than the cost, the Committee may then take up the offer, satisfy itself about the claims being made, negotiate to settle the price, and place a trial order.
- Relaxing the Oversight Mechanism: Investigative agencies should not investigate the empowered Committee’s bona fide decisions. Failure as well as time and cost overruns are natural in such an initiative and must be accepted to avoid subsequent audit investigations.
- Assigning Responsibility: A firm, consortia, technical institution, individuals or any combination of these could be given the task of finding a solution to a problem based on the real need of the government agency.
- Funding: The effort to be undertaken in a project mode would need to be fully funded by the sponsoring agency.
- Negotiated Procurement: After success, the price at which the product would be purchased would have to be settled through negotiations. There is no alternative to accepting procurement at a negotiated price and trusting the negotiators.
- Expanding to all Government Agencies: Successful work has been done along these lines by the departments of atomic energy, space and DRDO. It should be extended to cover all public procurement.
After this process results in initial success, other players would start to identify a gap, innovate, come up with a solution, and get orders from the government and its agencies. Innovation would then start taking place in the economy.
Question for practice:
What are the issues with government procurement process in India? What steps should be taken to tackle these issues?
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
Proton Improvement Plan Project- (PIP-II)
Source-This post on Proton Improvement Plan Project- (PIP-II) has been created based on the article “India formally begins construction phase for contributions to Fermilab’s new particle accelerator” published in “NEWS” on 15 February 2024.
Why in the news?
India’s Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has recently stared the construction phase for contributions to Proton Improvement Plan II (PIP-II) project.
What is Proton Improvement Plan Project- (PIP-II)?
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About– It is the 1st particle accelerator on U.S. soil.
Location– Fermilab (USA)
Objective– To generate the world’s most intense beam of neutrinos.
International Collaborators – It is built with significant contributions from international partners. Indian institutions, including the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, the Inter-University Accelerator Centre, and others, will provide technical components for PIP-II.
Function– It will power the world’s most high-energy neutrino beam to the under construction Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) at Long-Baseline Neutrino Facility (LBNF).
Significance– It provides Indian scientists and engineers the training, technical insight and know-how for the development of their domestic particle accelerator program and future projects.
What are Particle Accelerators?
It is a device that produces a beam of fast-moving, electrically charged atomic or subatomic particles. It propels charged particles (Protons, Atomic Nuclei, Electrons etc.) at high speeds, close to the speed of light.
What are the application of Particle accelerators?
1) Fundamental Research– It enables the collision of sub-nuclear particles at near-light speeds. This facilitates the search for new particles and forces, and advancing understanding of the universe’s origins.
2) Health Applications– It is used for sterilizing medical equipment and synthesizing radiopharmaceuticals for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
3) Environmental Impact– It helps in detection of trace chemical elements in air, water, or soil. This can be used for monitoring environmental efforts.
4) Industrial Applications– It finds utility in improving material durability and enhancing industrial processes through research and development.
What are some other Large Particle Accelerators?
Types | Location | Significant discovery |
Large Hadron Collider (LHC). This is the most powerful accelerator | CERN (Geneva) | Discovery of Higgs Boson, previously unknown hadrons etc |
European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) | France | Researchers demonstrated a novel X-ray imaging technique-“HiP-CT” for 3D cellular-resolution scans of whole organ |
Stanford Linear Accelerator Centre (SLAC) | USA | Discovery of quark and tau leptons |
UPSC Syllabus-Science & Technology.
National Livestock Mission (NLM)
Source-This post on National Livestock Mission (NLM) is based on the article “Cabinet approves inclusion of additional activities in National Livestock Mission” published in “PIB” on 21st February 2024.
Why in the News?
The union cabinet recently approved the incorporation of additional activities into the National Livestock Mission.
What is National Livestock Mission (NLM)?
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Aspect | Details |
About | 1. It is a government scheme designed to enhance both the quantity and quality of livestock production systems. Additionally, it seeks to improve the capabilities of all stakeholders involved. 2. The scheme was implemented as a sub scheme of White Revolution – Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana since April 2019. |
Objective | This mission is formulated with the objective of sustainable development in the livestock sector. It focuses on improving the availability of quality feed and fodder. |
Launched | It was launched in financial year 2014-15. It has been updated and realigned from fiscal year 2021-22. |
Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Fisheries, Animal husbandry and Dairying. |
Sub-Missions | 1. Sub-Mission on Breed improvement of Livestock and Poultry 2. Sub-Mission of Feed & Fodder 3. Sub-Mission on Innovation and Extension. |
Activities | The realigned NLM comprises 10 activities aimed at fostering entrepreneurship development, improving feed and fodder, promoting research and innovation, and enhancing livestock insurance. |
What additional activities have been included in the National Livestock Mission?
1. Entrepreneurship in conservation of horse, donkey, mule, camel –
a. Individuals, FPOs, SHGs, Joint Liability group (JLGs), Farmers Cooperative societies (FCOs), and Section 8 companies can receive a 50% capital subsidy, up to 50 lakhs, for establishing entrepreneurship in horse, donkey, mule, and camel sectors.
b. The state government will receive assistance for conserving horse, donkey, and camel breeds.
2. Fodder seed processing Infrastructure- Entrepreneurs can establish Fodder seed processing Infrastructure with a 50% capital subsidy up to Rs. 50 lakhs. It covers private companies, start-ups, SHGs, FPOs, FCOs, JLGs, FCO, and Section 8 companies.
3. Fodder cultivation- To expand fodder cultivation, the state government will receive assistance for cultivating fodder in non-forest lands, wastelands, range lands, non-arable areas, and degraded forest lands.
4. Livestock Insurance programme-
a. The Livestock Insurance program has now been simplified, with reduction in farmers’ premium to 15% from current rates of 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%.
b. The premium will be shared by the Centre and the State at 60:40 for all states, 90:10 for certain regions.
c. The number of animals to be insured has also been increased to 10 cattle units instead of 5 units for cattle, sheep, and goats.
UPSC Syllabus- Schemes & Programmes/Indian Economy
Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)
Source-This post on Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP) has been created based on the article “Cabinet approves Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP) for the period 2021-26” published in “PIB” on 21 February 2024.
Why in the news?
The Cabinet has recently approved the proposal for continuation of centrally sponsored Scheme- Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP).
About Flood Management and Border Areas Programme
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Aspect | Details |
Description | The Scheme “FMBAP” has been framed by merging the components of two continuing XII Plan schemes titled “Flood Management Programme (FMP)” and “River Management Activities and Works related to Border Areas (RMBA)”. |
Objective | To assist the State Governments to provide reasonable degree of protection against floods in critical areas by adopting optimum combination of structural and non-structural measures. |
Coverage | The FMBAP Scheme will be implemented throughout the country for effective flood management, erosion control and anti-sea erosion. |
Components | The Scheme has two components:- 1) Flood Management Programme (FMP)– This includes work related to flood control, anti-erosion, drainage development and anti-sea erosion. 2) River Management and Border Areas (RMBA) component-This includes flood control and anti-erosion works on common border rivers with neighbouring countries, including hydrological observations and flood forecasting. |
Funding pattern | 1) Under Flood Management Programme (FMP)-The pattern of funding that is to be followed is for Special Category States (8 North-Easter States and Hilly States of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and UT of Jammu & Kashmir)- 90% (Centre) and 10% (State) For General/ Non-Special Category States– 60% (Centre) and 40% (State) 2) Under River Management and Border Areas (RMBA) component- 100% central assistance. |
What is the significance of the scheme?
1) It will benefit towns, villages, industrial establishments, communication links etc. from floods and erosion in the country.
2) The catchment area treatment works will help in reduction of sediment load into rivers.
3) It will encourage the state governments to promote & adopt modern technology and innovative materials/approach.
4) The works implemented under RMBA component will also protect important installations of security agencies, border out-posts, etc. along the border rivers from flood and erosion.
Read more about- Floods in India
UPSC Syllabus-Schemes & programmes.
PM-USHA SCHEME
Source-This post on PM-USHA SCHEME has been created based on the article “PM-USHA SCHEME: Six UP varsities secure ₹100 crore funding” published in “Hindustan Times” on 19 February 2024.
Why in the news?
Uttar Pradesh has recently secured ₹740 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) programme.
About Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) Scheme
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Aspect | Details |
Description | It was initially launched as Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) in 2013. It was renamed as PM-USHA in 2023. |
Objective | To improve the overall quality of existing state of higher educational institutions by ensuring their conformity to prescribed norms and standards. |
Concerned Ministry | Ministry of Education |
Type of scheme | Centrally Sponsored scheme |
Funding | 90:10 ratio for certain states and 60:40 for others, UTs without Legislature receive 100% central funding. |
Salient features | 1) Rs 100 crore support to each of 35 state universities for multidisciplinary education and research (MERU) Transformation 2) Establishment of Model Degree Colleges. 3) Grants for strengthening universities. 4) Focus on remote, LWE-affected, Aspirational, and low Gross Enrollment Ratio regions 5) Aid to state governments for gender inclusion, equity, and ICT-based employability skills. 6) It is in alignment with the National Education Policy. |
Eligibility criteria to get PM-USHA funding | The colleges of any discipline under the Section 2(f) of the UGC Act are eligible for the funds. The colleges must have grade A of NAAC accreditation or a good NBA score. |
Significance | 1) It has the potential to transform higher education. 2) It is in consonance with the objective of National Education Policy. 3) It will promote quality, equity, and innovation in higher education. |
Read more about-National Education Policy
UPSC Syllabus-Schemes & programmes.
United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP)
Source-This post on United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific has been created based on the article “Asia-Pacific region 32 years behind 2030 target on achieving SDGs: UNESCAP” published in “Down to Earth” on 19 February 2024.
Why in the news?
According to a new report by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), at the current pace of growth, the region will not attain the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) until 2062, and it will be 32 years behind the scheduled year of achievement.
About United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP)
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Aspect | Details |
Description | It is the most inclusive intergovernmental platform in the Asia-Pacific region. It is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations. |
Established | It was established in 1947. |
Objective | To promote economic and social development in the Asian and Pacific region by fostering cooperation between its members and associate members. |
Headquarter | Bangkok, Thailand |
Members | It has 53 member States and 9 associate members. |
Functions | 1) Its secretariat supports inclusive, resilient and sustainable development in the region by generating action-oriented knowledge. 2) It provides technical assistance and capacity-building services to support of national development objectives, regional agreements and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 3) It provides support to partners at the national level. |
Area of work | It carries out work in the areas like Macroeconomic Policy, Poverty Reduction and Financing for Development, Trade, Investment and Innovation, Transport, Environment and Development etc. |
Important reports | Asia-Pacific SDG Progress Report |
Read more about-Sustainable Development Goals
UPSC Syllabus-International Organization.
Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme
Source-This post on Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme is based on the article “Centre allocates ₹20 crore to bail out poor prisoners ” published in “The Hindu” on 21st February 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, the Union government has allocated an annual fund of Rs. 20 crore to aid poor prisoners nationwide. This initiative is part of its “Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme” under the priority of “reaching the last mile: no one to be left behind.”
What is the significance of this Initiative?
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1. It will offer assistance to poor prisoners who cannot afford to pay fines or obtain bail because of financial limitations.
2. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data of 2020, roughly 76% of individuals in Indian prisons were under-trials. Among these, approximately 68% were either illiterate or school dropouts.
3. Lengthy detention of under-trials is often linked to their economic status. Many lack the financial resources to pay for bail or legal representation.
What is Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme?
Aspect | Details |
Launched by | Ministry of Home Affairs |
Aim | To provide financial support to poor prisoners who are not being released from jails as they are unable to pay the fine imposed on them or are not able to secure bail due to financial constraints. |
Identification of beneficiaries | An Empowered Committee at the district level and an “Oversight Committee” at the headquarters level will be established to identify prisoners. |
Nodal Agency | The National Crime Records Bureau(NCRB) has been designated as the Central Nodal Agency(CNA) for this scheme. |
Funding | Funds to the States/UTs will be provided through the Central Nodal Agency(CNA). |
Note- Guidelines for the utilization of the fund and a standard operating procedure (SOP) were also introduced for the implementation of the Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme.
UPSC Syllabus- Schemes and Programmes
100% FDI in space sector
Source-This post on 100% FDI in space sector is based on the article “100% FDI to be allowed in space sector: Centre” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd February 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the space sector, under the revised FDI policy.
What new changes have been made in foreign direct investment (FDI) norms?
Under the updated FDI policy, the satellite sub-sector has been divided into three different types, with defined limits for foreign investment in each type.
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1. Manufacturing of components and systems/sub-systems for satellites, ground segment, and user segment- Under the Automatic route, FDI of up to 100% will be permitted.
Note– Until now, foreign investment in this sub-sector was only permitted up to 100 percent through the government route.
2. Satellite manufacturing and operation, satellite data products, and ground/user segment– The updated policy allows up to 74% FDI under the automatic route. For investments beyond 74%, government approval is required.
3. Launch vehicles and their components– Up to 49% FDI under the automatic route will be allowed. Investments beyond 49% will require government approval.
What is the significance of this initiative?
1. The revised policy aims to attract investors to invest in Indian space companies.
2. It will boost the Indian space sector growth, as the Indian space economy is expected to increase from approximately $8.4 billion now to $44 billion by 2033.
3. This increased private sector involvement will create jobs, facilitate the adoption of modern technology, and promote self-sufficiency in the sector.
4. The revised policy is expected to link Indian firms with global supply chains, allowing them to set up manufacturing plants locally.
What is Foreign Direct investment Investment (FDI)?
About: It refers to investments made by foreign entities in businesses or corporations located in another country.
This can take the form of either establishing business operations or acquiring business assets in the other country, such as ownership or controlling interest in a foreign company.
Routes of FDI in India:
1. Automatic Route– Under the Automatic Route, neither the foreign investor nor the Indian company needs approval from the Government of India for the investment.
2. Government Route– Approval from the Government of India is necessary before making an investment. Proposals for FDI under this route are reviewed by the respective Administrative Ministry/Department.
FDI Prohibited sectors in India:
a. Real Estate Business
b. Gambling and Betting
c. Chit Funds
d. Nidhi Company
e. Trading in Transferable Development Rights (TDR)
f. Manufacturing of Tobacco Products
g. Sectors Not Open to Private Sector Investment: Includes atomic energy and railway operations except for activities allowed under the Consolidated FDI policy
h. Lottery Business: Including government or private lotteries, and online lotteries.
UPSC Syllabus-Indian Economy/ Science & Technology
Gaganyaan mission- ISRO completes human rating of CE20 cryogenic engine
Source-This post on Gaganyaan mission: ISRO completes human rating of CE20 cryogenic engine” is based on the article “ISRO completes key test, CE20 cryogenic engine is now human-rated for Gaganyaan missions” published in “The Hindu” on 21st February 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed the human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine. It marks a significant milestone in India’s Gaganyaan mission to send humans into space.
What is the CE20 cryogenic engine, and what is its human-rating means?
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1. About– The CE20 cryogenic engine is an advanced propulsion system developed by ISRO.
2. Operate– It is designed to operate using cryogenic fuel, which is stored at extremely low temperatures.
3. Application– CE20 cryogenic engine powers the cryogenic stage of the human-rated LVM3 (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III) launch vehicle for Gaganyaan missions.
Human rating
1. Human-rating is the process of certifying a spacecraft or its parts to meet safety standards for human space travel.
2. For the CE20 cryogenic engine, being human-rated means that it has been extensively tested and has been confirmed safe and reliable for crewed space missions like India’s Gaganyaan.
Note– ISRO has also completed acceptance tests for the flight engine selected for the first unmanned Gaganyaan mission.
What is Gaganyaan Mission?
1. About– It is India’s first human spaceflight program, aiming to send a crew of three humans into a 400 km orbit around Earth for a three-day mission and safely return them to Earth.
2. Launch– It is aimed for launch in 2024-2025.
Read more– Gaganyaan Mission |
UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology
Shompen Tribe
Source-This post on Shompen Tribe has been created based on the article “Great Nicobar: Indian president visits island as fears grow for tribe” published in “BBC NEWS” on 21 February 2024.
Why in the news?
India’s president recently visited an island earmarked for multi-billion-dollar development. As per some experts, the project could wipe out the indigenous Shompen tribe.
About Shompen Tribes
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Aspects | Details |
Description | The Shompen or Shom Pen are the indigenous people of the interior of Great Nicobar Island. They are a designated as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group within the list of Scheduled Tribe. |
Characteristics | 1) Nature-They are one of the most isolated tribes on Earth. Most of them are uncontacted, refusing all interactions with outsiders. 2) Livelihood-They are semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers, and their main sources of livelihood are hunting, gathering, fishing, and a little bit of horticultural activities in a rudimentary form. 3) Food-They collect a wide variety of forest plants, but their staple food is the pandanus fruit, which they call larop. |
Population | According to the Census (2011), the estimated population of Shompen is 229. |
Language | They speak their own language, which has many dialects. Members of one band do not understand the dialect of the other. |
Social structure | 1) They have nuclear families comprising husband, wife, and their unmarried children. 2) The family is controlled by the eldest male member, who controls all activities of the women and kids. 3) Monogamy is the general rule, although polygamy is allowed too. |
Some other important tribes of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
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Tribes | Location |
Andamanese | Strait island |
Jarawas | Middle and south Andaman |
Nicobarese | Great Nicobar |
Onges | Little Nicobar |
Sentinelese | Sentinel island |
Read more about-PVTGs
UPSC Syllabus-Art & Culture