9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 4 March, 2024
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 2
Issues associated with university ranking system
Source-This post on Issues associated with university ranking system has been created based on the article “On the relevance of university rankings” published in “The Hindu” on 2 March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus–GS Paper-2– Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education.
News-The article highlights various issues associated with the global university ranking systems. Issues associated with university ranking system
What are the world’s most popular ranking systems?
The Times Higher Education (THE), the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the Academic Ranking of World Universities (also known as the ‘Shanghai Ranking’), and the U.S. News & World Report are the most popular rankings schemes worldwide.
Read more- Rankings, and the realities of higher education
How do ranking systems evaluate countries?
The ranking system orders the higher education institutes in a country by their achievements on various fronts. This includes teaching, research, reputation, industry-focused research, and collaborative efforts.
What are issues associated with these ranking systems?
1)Unidimensional parameter– There is an over emphasis on pursuit of high GDP for ranking of universities. University rankings overlook important roles that universities play in overall well-being of society and focus on GDP only.
2) Dominated by global north– The highest ranked universities in various ranking systems are mostly old, large, wealthy, research-intensive, science-focused, English speaking. They are mainly from the Global North.
3) Conflict of interest
A) As per ‘University Ranking Watch’ initiative, THE’s(The Times Higher Education) regional rankings have favored universities that hosted an important THE summit.
B) Most of these ranking agencies are private and they sometimes consult with universities to help the universities achieve better ranks in their own systems.
For example, in a 2021 paper released by University of California, universities which had contract with QS-related agencies saw an increase of 0.75 standard deviations (~140 positions) in QS World University Rankings.
4) Data Security-Universities and institutes must give ranking agencies free control over their data. This compromises their data security.
For example, to use the THE platform, website, and related services, Universities have to provide data of institutional, industry, and research incomes, and of patents.
Rankings may have incentivized some improvement in the quality of some universities.However,they have also promoted several perverse and harmful behaviors which produce systemic long-term negative effects.
Question for practice
Critically analyze the significance of university ranking systems?
WTO 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13): Key Outcomes, Challenges
Source-This post on WTO 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13): Key Outcomes, Challenges has been created based on the article “Few gains at WTO” published in “Business Standard” on 3rd February 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic– GS Paper 2- Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
News– The World Trade Organization’s 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) recently concluded in Abu Dhabi. This article discusses the various outcomes of the conference and the challenges that remain unanswered. 13th WTO Ministerial Conference
What are some of the positive outcomes of the conference?
- E-commerce tariff moratorium extended– WTO members agreed to extend the moratorium on e-commerce tariffs for two more years. India, Indonesia and South Africa had signaled their opposition to renewing the e-commerce moratorium, but supported it in the end. They are among countries worried about losing control of data flows.
- Strengthen Multilateral Trading System– Members pledged to uphold and enhance the capacity of the multilateral trading system, with the WTO as its foundation, to address present trade challenges.
Challenges remain unanswered
- US Obstructionism in WTO– The appointment of new members to the Appellate Body (AB) has been unilaterally blocked by the US. The body was supposed to be reformed by 2024, but that deadline has been missed.
- Fisheries subsidies– Developing countries like Brazil emphasized their commitment to discussions on fisheries subsidies, as the West attempted to ban such subsidies. They highlighted the importance of resolving the issue to advance sustainable fishing practices globally.
- India’s Food security Challenge– India urged for a permanent solution to the public stockholding (PSH) issue for food security at the ministerial meeting. India stated that resolving the pending issue of PSH is crucial for achieving food security and improving the livelihoods of millions.
Read More UPSC Topics-
Way forward
India, as a leader of the Global South, should form alliances with like-minded nations such as South Africa and small island states. Through this approach, India can offer alternative viewpoints and initiatives that better reflect the concerns and objectives of developing countries.
Question for Practice:
Discuss the outcomes and challenges arising from the World Trade Organization’s 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) held in Abu Dhabi.
Developing rail networks to improve economic ties and transportation efficiency- Railways holds the key to regional growth
Source: The post developing rail networks to improve economic ties and transportation efficiency has been created, based on the article “Railways holds the key to regional growth” published in “Indian express” on 4th March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-International relations- India and its neighbourhood- relations.
News: The article discusses the development of railway connections among Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal (BBIN). This network aims to reduce transportation costs and time, improve trade, and support economic growth in these countries. BBIN railway connection
What is the BBIN initiative?
Regional Collaboration: The BBIN Initiative involves Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal working together to enhance regional connectivity.
Focus on Railway Development: The initiative prioritizes developing rail networks to improve economic ties and transportation efficiency.
Economic Growth and Development: By connecting these countries more effectively, the initiative aims to boost economic growth and reduce transportation costs.
For more information on BBIN initiative read here
How are railways helpful in the regional growth of these countries?
Cost and Time Efficiency: Railways reduce transportation costs and times significantly. For instance, rerouting a freight train from Kolkata to Agartala through Bangladesh cuts transit time and costs by two-thirds.
Access to Ports: Landlocked Nepal and Bhutan gain access to major ports like Chattogram and Mongla, enhancing their trade capabilities.
Economic Integration: Improved rail connectivity fosters economic interdependence and growth among BBIN countries.
Revenue Generation: Enhanced railway links can increase revenue for countries like Bangladesh through transit fees and other charges.
Environmental Benefits: Railways offer a greener mode of transport, reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to road transport.
What are the key projects in the BBIN initiative?
Agartala-Akhaura Rail Link: This crucial link connects Northeastern India with Bangladesh, reducing the Kolkata to Agartala route from 1,600 km to just 500 km.
Khulna to Mongla Port Railway: This line in Bangladesh enhances connectivity between western, northern Bangladesh, India, and Bhutan.
Tongi-Akhaura Line Dual Gauging: Upgrading this line is part of the India-Bangladesh joint initiatives, improving connectivity and efficiency.
Hilli-Birampur Connection: This new link is aimed at enhancing cross-border rail connections between India and Bangladesh.
Jayanagar-Bijalpura-Bardibas Line in Nepal: The only cross-border rail link between India and Nepal, with plans to extend it further.
Gelephu-Kokrajhar Link Between Bhutan and India: A proposed rail line connecting Bhutan directly to the Indian railway network, facilitating easier access to Bangladesh through the Haldibari-Chilahati interchange.
How are regional rail connectivity projects being funded and executed?
Joint Funding and Execution: Unlike traditional individual country financing, these rail projects are being funded and executed through collaboration among the BBIN countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal).
Support from the Indian Government: India is playing a significant role by extending lines of credit, offering assistance from the MDoNER (Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region) budget, and supplying rolling stock.
Involvement of International Organizations: The World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are providing long-term loans and viability gap funding, contributing to the financial support of these projects.
Development Plans by Each Country: Governments of Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal have also put forth their own development plans, showing commitment to the project and shared regional growth.
Read More UPSC Topics-
Way forward
To progress, the BBIN initiative should focus on timely completion of key railway projects like the Agartala-Akhaura link and the Khulna-Mongla line. Additionally, establishing effective cross-border protocols and regulatory frameworks is crucial for seamless operation and maximizing the economic and environmental benefits of these rail networks.
Question for practice:
Examine how the BBIN initiative aims to enhance regional connectivity and foster economic growth through railway development, joint funding, and cooperation among Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal.
GS PAPER - 3
Problems of plastic waste in Himalayan states
Source-This post on Problems of plastic waste in Himalayan states has been created based on the article “Mountains of plastic are choking the Himalayan States” published in “The Hindu” on 2 March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus–GS Paper-3– Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.
News-The article discusses issues of unsustainable plastic waste management practice. Problems of plastic waste in Himalayan states
What is the status of Plastic waste in Himalayan states?
As per The Himalayan Clean up (2018-21) drive and the National Productivity Council of India’s waste and brand audit, there is an increase in plastic waste (especially non-recyclables) in Himalayan states.
For ex-A) The Himalayan Clean up (2022) waste audit results showed that 92.7% of trash was plastic, with 72% of waste being non-recyclable plastic.
B) In Assam, at the Ramsar site of Deepor Beel, Greater adjutant storks are eating the plastic waste in the landfill instead of fish from the wetland.
What are the legal and statutory provisions to deal with plastic pollution?
1) Legal mandates-The government has brought Solid Waste Management Rules (SWM) 2016, Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules 2016 and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) 2022 to regulate plastic pollution in India.
2) Initiatives by the state government–
A) Himachal Pradesh has a buy back policy for non-recyclable and single-use plastic waste since 2019.
B) Sikkim banned packaged mineral water use from January 2022.
C) Tripura has made policy changes, enacted municipal by-laws and had a State-level task force to eliminate Single Use Plastic
Read more- Plastic Pollution in India: An Overview
What are the reasons for increasing plastic waste in Himalayan States?
1) Urbanization and Changing Consumption Patterns-Rapid and unplanned urbanization, coupled with changing production and consumption patterns, contribute to the plastic waste crisis.
2) Unsustainable Tourism-Unsustainable tourism and a rapid rise in the number of tourists is contributing to an increase of plastic pollution problems in the region.
For ex- the National Green Tribunal has issued notices to Cental Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board and Environment ministry on waste dumping in eco-sensitive areas by tourists and commercial establishments.
3) Unscientific plastic disposal– India has one of the highest mismanaged waste index (MWI), at 98.55%, in the world (after Kenya, Nigeria and Mozambique). This index measures the gap in waste management capacity and plastic consumption.
As per Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India is recycling (through mechanical recycling) 12% of its plastic waste, burning 20% of its plastic waste and 68% is unaccounted for.
4) Lack of adequate power for local bodies– Under the SWM, PWM and EPR, local bodies are required to perform the task of collection and scientific disposal of plastic waste.
However, only a few States have enacted model by-laws to empower local bodies.
5) Data gaps- There is a need for scientific method of data collection on quantum and quality of plastic waste.
What should be the way forward?
1) Resource Allocation and Support-Adequate resource allocation, infrastructure development, and empowerment of local bodies are crucial for effective waste management, considering the region’s ecological sensitivity.
2)Public Participation and Education-Public engagement through sustained education campaigns and waste segregation initiatives is essential to address the plastic waste crisis.
3) Convergence of Schemes-Convergence of existing schemes like Swachh Bharat Mission, Finance Commission grants, and corporate social responsibility funds can enhance resources for waste management infrastructure and operations.
Question for practice
Why is plastic pollution increasing in Himalayan states despite various statutory and legal measures?
Women’s Urban Employment Guarantee Act (WUEGA)
Source– This post on Women’s Urban Employment Guarantee Act (WUEGA) has been created based on the article “A women’s urban employment guarantee act” published in “The Hindu” on 4th March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic– GS Paper 3- Indian Economy- Issues relating development and employment.
News– There is a growing discussion regarding including women’s empowerment and narrowing gender disparities, especially in employment, under the Sustainable Development Goals. This article emphasizes the necessity of enhancing the involvement of urban women in the workforce. Women Urban Employment
What are the current challenges in Urban Women’s Employment?
- Variations in Employment Rates – More than half of the MGNREGA workers are women. However, in cities, women encounter challenges such as societal norms, safety issues, and inadequate transportation, which discourage them from entering the workforce.
The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) shows that the employment rate for women in urban areas was 22.9% in the last quarter of 2023.
- Unfulfilled Employment Needs– Urban women, despite being educated and willing to work, experience higher unemployment rates than rural areas. For example- In urban areas, the unemployment rate, reflecting those who desire jobs whether actively seeking or not, stands at 9%, while in rural areas, it is 4%.
- Need for Urban Job Programs– Some states have started urban employment programs, but a national initiative like the Women’s Urban Employment Guarantee Act (WUEGA) is needed to address urban women’s employment challenges effectively.
What are the key features of proposed Women’s Urban Employment Guarantee Act (WUEGA)?
Aim– The proposed act seeks to achieve gender equality in job opportunities by requiring the inclusion of at least 50% (ideally 100%) women in program management.
- Inclusivity– The WUEGA would provide diverse job options within a 5-km radius and necessary amenities such as childcare services at work locations. Additionally, it offers free public transportation for women and provides incentives such as automatic enrollment in welfare boards to empower and assist women in the workforce.
- Skill Building Programs– The proposal aims to tackle skill disparities and ease the shift from education to employment by suggesting apprenticeships, information hubs, and empowerment programs specifically designed to meet the needs of women.
Read More UPSC Topics
Is a separate Women focused employment program feasible?
- Example of Women-Led Initiatives– Waste management initiatives led by women in Karnataka showcase the effectiveness and achievements of programs focused on women, indicating the possibility of similar efforts under WUEGA.
- Costs and Benefits– Despite fiscal concerns, the implementation of WUEGA remains feasible, with projected costs amounting to approximately 2% of GDP. The program promises significant advantages in terms of women’s empowerment, economic growth, and social inclusion.
- Future Prospects– By implementing WUEGA in phases and conducting regular assessments with necessary adjustments, we can lay the groundwork for wider urban employment initiatives. This will guarantee income security and empowerment for women.
Question for Practice:
Discuss the challenges faced by urban women in employment and evaluate the key features proposed under the Women’s Urban Employment Guarantee Act (WUEGA) to address these challenges effectively.
Why are farmers protesting? – Rethink the way we grow food
Source: The post why are farmers protesting has been created, based on the article “Rethink the way we grow food” published in “Business Standard” on 4th March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-economy-Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices;
News: Why are farmers protesting? The article discusses the high costs and challenges in modern farming, both in Europe and India. It highlights issues like climate change, government policies, and the need for sustainable practices.
Why are farmers protesting?
Protest in India:
Demand for Higher MSP: Farmers want increased minimum support prices for their crops due to high production costs.
Lack of Subsidies: Unlike European farmers, Indian farmers receive minimal government support, impacting their profitability.
Climate Challenges: Erratic weather and pest attacks increase risks for farmers.
Protest in Europe:
Climate Regulation Impact: European farmers face challenges with new climate rules, like reducing pesticides and fertilizers, which increase their costs.
Financial Burdens: Policies like reducing livestock numbers and cutting fossil fuel subsidies add to the financial stress of farmers in Europe.
Dependency on Subsidies: European agriculture heavily relies on government subsidies, such as the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy. For example, each farmer received approximately €6,700 annually in 2021 as direct income support.
What are the issues in modern farming?
Farm consolidation: Farms have become larger, making it harder for small farmers to compete due to increased costs and bureaucracy.
Rising costs: Both small and large farms face high input costs and debt. Organic farming, covering 10% of EU land, increases cultivation costs.
Intensive agriculture: To improve productivity, there’s more use of chemicals and bio-inputs, leading to higher costs and environmental damage.
Price control dilemma: Governments need to control food prices, but this affects farmers’ income, especially when costs rise due to climate change and pests.
Lack of subsidies: In India, unlike Europe, farmers lack substantial government subsidies, making it hard to cope with increasing costs.
Environmental impact: Intensive farming practices compromise environmental protection efforts.
Conflict between productivity and affordability: Increasing productivity requires expensive inputs, but this isn’t sustainable in regions needing affordable food.
What should be done?
Promote Sustainable Practices: Shift towards regenerative or natural farming to reduce cultivation costs and improve environmental health.
Local Market Support: Implement policies like Odisha’s millet procurement for midday meals to provide farmers with assured markets.
Balance Subsidies and Costs: Adjust subsidy systems to support farmers adequately, especially in regions like India where current support is minimal.
Manage Consumer Prices: Develop strategies to maintain affordable food prices while ensuring fair compensation for farmers.
Reduce Food Waste: Address the global issue of food wastage, ensuring efficient use of agricultural produce.
Enhance Environmental Policies: Integrate environmental standards with agricultural practices, focusing on long-term sustainability.
Read More UPSC Topics-
Question for practice:
Examine the key challenges faced by farmers in both Europe and India, as well as the proposed solutions to address the issues faced by modern farming.
India’s plan for semiconductor production- India’s microchip leap: Now for the hard part
Source: The post India’s plan for semiconductor production has been created, based on the article “India‘s microchip leap: Now for the hard part” published in “Live mints” on 4th March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-Science and technology-Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology.
News: The article discusses India’s plan to set up three semiconductor foundries with foreign partnerships, including a major project by Tata Electronics and Taiwan’s Powerchip.
What is India’s plan for semiconductor production?
India aims to establish three semiconductor foundries with private sector involvement. A significant partnership involves Tata Electronics and Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation.
The total investment in these semiconductor projects exceeds 71.5 trillion.
The objective is to create a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem in India, covering design, fabrication, assembly, testing, marketing, and packaging.
These efforts are driven by the desire for strategic autonomy in semiconductor technology and to reduce reliance on foreign chip suppliers.
What are the potential benefits of India’s plan for semiconductor production?
Establishing a semiconductor ecosystem: The foundries will develop a full value chain from design to packaging.
Strategic autonomy: Reducing dependence on foreign chip suppliers enhances India’s self-sufficiency in key technologies.
Economic boost: The combined investment of over 71.5 trillion is expected to strengthen India’s global economic ranking.
Job creation: The project will generate about 20,000 direct and 60,000 indirect jobs, impacting employment positively.
Technological advancement: By producing chips of 28 nanometres, these foundries will contribute to India’s technological progress, although they are behind the global curve of 3nm chip production.
What are the challenges of India’s plan for semiconductor production?
Limited technological edge: The plants will initially produce 28 nanometre chips, while the global standard is advanced at 3 nanometres.
Modest job creation: The projects are expected to generate 20,000 direct and 60,000 indirect jobs, which may not significantly impact the unemployment crisis.
Skilled labor shortage: Concerns about the availability of adequately trained workers for these specialized operations.
Infrastructure challenges: Questions about the assurance of uninterrupted power and clean water supply, crucial for semiconductor manufacturing.
Geopolitical risks: U.S. export controls and India’s reliance on high-tech imports could affect operations. Additionally, domestic political factors, especially with investments focused in Gujarat, which lacks a strong tech base, present potential business risks.
Way forward
To progress, India should focus on developing more advanced semiconductor technology, addressing the skilled labor gap, ensuring stable infrastructure, and navigating geopolitical challenges. Strengthening partnerships, like the one with Tata Electronics and Taiwan’s Powerchip, is also key to enhancing India’s semiconductor industry.
Question for practice:
Discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by India’s plan to establish semiconductor foundries.
The projections for oil and gas demand impact the clean energy transition- This is what’s slowing down the clean energy transition
Source: The post the projections for oil and gas demand impact the clean energy transition has been created, based on the article “This is what’s slowing down the clean energy transition” published in “Indian express” on 4th March 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-economy-infrastructure (Energy)
News: This article discusses how major oil companies’ projections for oil and gas demand in 2050 could slow down the transition to clean energy and affect achieving net-zero carbon emissions. It highlights concerns about their investment strategies reinforcing reliance on fossil fuels.
What are the projections of major oil companies for 2050?
ExxonMobil’s Projection: They predict oil consumption in 2050 will be the same as today’s level, around 100 million barrels per day (mbd).
Chevron’s Projection: Chevron estimates oil consumption by 2050 to range between 75-112 mbd, showing some variation but not a significant decrease.
European Companies’ Scenarios:
Shell’s “Archipelago” scenario suggests slow electrification leading to a demand of about 90 mbd.
In Shell’s “Sky 50” scenario, faster electrification reduces demand to around 40 mbd.
BP and Total Energies project oil demand to be between 50-70 mbd, assuming a moderate pace of transition to clean energy.
How could these projections impact the clean energy transition?
- If these companies plan based on high fossil fuel demand, they might invest more in oil and gas, making it harder to switch to clean energy.
- ExxonMobil and Chevron have already invested heavily in oil and gas. ExxonMobil bought Pioneer Natural Resources for about $60 billion. Chevron acquired Hess Corporation for $53 billion.
- Despite acknowledging the need for clean energy, European oil companies are also focusing on their existing petroleum businesses. The CEOs of Shell and BP plan to use their petroleum portfolios to improve returns, indicating a continued emphasis on fossil fuels.
What do these trends mean for global warming and energy transition?
Recognition of Global Warming: These companies recognize global warming but also consider economic and social realities, like the current dependence on fossil fuels.
Rising Energy Demand: They argue that energy demand, especially in the Global South, will rise and will likely be met by fossil fuels because clean energy infrastructure is lacking.
Challenge in Transitioning: They suggest that transitioning to clean energy will be costly and challenging, especially without a significant carbon tax.
Way forward
The way forward must include a significant reduction in oil demand, as the International Energy Agency (IEA) states it must drop by at least 75% to meet the net-zero target. This underscores the need for a rapid shift to clean energy and strong policy measures like carbon taxes to encourage this transition.
Question for practice:
Evaluate how the projections of major oil companies for 2050 could impact the global transition to clean energy and the achievement of net-zero carbon emissions.
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
Semiconductor fabrication
Source-This post on Semiconductor fabrication is based on the article “Cabinet approves 3 chip plants, including two by Tata, at estimated investment of Rs 1.26 lakh crore” published in “Business Today” on 29th February 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, the Union Cabinet approved three semiconductor plant proposals. Two semiconductor plant will be set up in Gujarat and one will be set up in Assam.
About Semiconductor fabrication
1. About: Semiconductor device fabrication is the intricate process used to create integrated circuits (ICs) which are the building blocks of modern electronic devices.
2. The fabrication process is the toughest part in manufacturing semiconductors, as it requires clean rooms to maintain sterile conditions and prevent contamination by air particles.
3. It’s a very lengthy process to manufacture the final product of a semiconductor, which includes around 500 and 1,500 steps in the overall manufacturing process of semiconductor wafers.
4. This process also conducts various inputs like silicon wafers, commodity chemicals, speciality chemicals along with clean water supply and uninterrupted power supply.
5. Technology used in semiconductor fabrication: In semiconductor fabrication, various technologies come together to transform raw silicon wafers into intricate integrated circuits (ICs).
a. Wafer Preparation: The process starts with a wafer, which is typically made of pure single-crystal semiconducting material (usually silicon). The wafer undergoes several steps, including thermal oxidation and thin-film deposition, gradually forming electronic circuits.
b. Photolithography: This step involves masking and exposing the wafer to light. This creates intricate patterns on its surface which define the locations of transistors, capacitors, and other components.
c. Ion Implantation: In the process of Ion Implantation, high-energy ions are precisely implanted into the wafer to alter its electrical properties. This step helps create doped regions necessary for transistor operation.
d. Etching: In this process, unwanted material is selectively removed from the wafer using chemical etchants. This process shapes the various components.
e. Thin-Film Deposition: Thin layers of materials (such as silicon dioxide or metal) are deposited onto the wafer which serve as insulators, conductors, or gate oxides.
f. Annealing and Activation: In this process, the wafer is heated to activate dopants and repair any damage caused during previous steps. The wafer’s surface is polished to achieve a flat and smooth finish.
h. Die Singulation: The wafer contains multiple integrated circuits, known as dies. In this process, these dies are separated from the wafer in a process called die singulation or wafer dicing.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
Amrabad Tiger Reserve
Source-This post on Amrabad Tiger Reserve is based on the article “Amrabad Tiger Reserve plagued with staff and funds crunch” published in “Telengana today” on 5th February 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, it was found that the Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) is facing challenges such as understaffing and financial constraints.
About Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR)
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Aspect | Details |
About | 1. This Tiger Reserve (ATR) is one of the largest tiger reserves in India. 2. Amrabad is the second-largest Tiger Reserve in terms of core area. 3. It is also the sixth largest in terms of total area among 51 Tiger Reserves in India. |
Location | It is located in the Nagarkurnool and Nalgonda districts in the southern part of Telangana. |
History | The reserve was notified as a sanctuary in the year 1983. |
Distinct feature | 1. Amrabad Tiger Reserve Forest is home to the largest number of Tigers in Telangana State. 2. The hilly terrain of this Tiger Reserve, with deep valleys and gorges, forms the catchment of the Krishna River. |
Flora | 1. Dense grass occurs in 30% of the area and scattered in an additional 20%. 2. Dominant tree species include Terminalia tomentosa, Hardwickia binata, Madhuca latifolia. Diospyros melanoxylon, Gardenia latifolia, Anogeissus latifolia, Chloroxylon swietenia, Terminalia spp. |
Fauna | 1. Major wild animals found are Tiger, Leopard, Wild dog, Indian Wolf, Indian fox, Rusty-spotted cat, Small Indian civet, Sloth bear, Honeybadger, Wild boar etc. 2. Over 303 bird species have been identified in this region. Some important groups include Eagles, Pigeons, Doves, Cuckoos, Woodpeckers, Drongos etc |
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT)
Source-This post on National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) is based on the article “NEFT records 4.1 cr transactions on Feb 29, highest single-day volume” published in “Economic Times” on 1st March 2024.
Why in the News?
National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) reported its highest-ever daily number of transactions at 4.10 crore on February 29, 2024.
About National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT)
1. National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) is a nationwide payment system that facilitates convenient one-to-one electronic fund transfers.
2. Under this scheme, individuals, firms, and corporations can electronically transfer funds from their accounts in any bank branch to the account of another individual, firm, or corporate located in any other bank branch within the country.
3. The NEFT system is available round the clock throughout the year on all days.
4. Transaction Limit: There is no minimum or maximum limit for the amount of money that can be transferred using NEFT.
a. A person who does not have a bank account can also remit funds through NEFT to a beneficiary having a bank account, with another NEFT member bank. It can be done by depositing cash at the nearest NEFT enabled branch of any bank. Such cash remittances will, however, be restricted to a maximum of ₹50,000 per transaction.
b. However, for cash-based remittances within India and under the India-Nepal Remittance Facility, the maximum amount per transaction is restricted to ₹50,000/-.
7. Difference between NEFT and RTGS: Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) operates on a continuous and real-time basis for individual transactions. NEFT transactions occur in batches, so there might be a slight delay for actual transfers.
UPSC Syllabus: Economy
Vikramadtiya Vedic Clock
Source-This post on Vikramadtiya Vedic Clock is based on the article “Vikramaditya Vedic Clock: PM Modi inaugurates world’s 1st Indian ‘panchang’-based timepiece in Ujjain” published in “Live Mint” on 29th February 2024.
Why in the News?
The Vikramadtiya Vedic Clock which is mounted on an 85-foot tower at Jantar Mantar in Ujjain, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister in a recent ceremony.
About Vikramaditya Vedic Clock
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1. About– The ‘Vedic Clock’ is the world’s first timepiece engineered to display time based on the ancient Indian traditional Panchang (time calculation system).
2. Developed by– Lucknow-based Sanstha Arohan
3. Features:
a. It offers details on planetary positions, Muhurat, astrological computations, and forecasts.
b. It also displays Indian Standard Time (IST) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
c. It can be connected to the internet and offers numerous features through a mobile app named after the clock.
Note– Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is the average solar time at the Prime Meridian, located at 0 degrees longitude in Greenwich, London. The Shepherd Gate Clock at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich always displays GMT.
4. Operational Mechanism– The clock will measure time between two sunrises.
a. The time span between the two sunrises will be split into 30 segments, with each hour comprising 48 minutes, according to ISD.
b. The measurement will begin at 0:00, coinciding with sunrise, and will continue for 30 hours (where each hour equals 48 minutes).
Why was Ujjain chosen for its establishment?
1. Ujjain has a long-standing heritage in timekeeping, spanning centuries. Ujjain has played a crucial role in establishing India’s time zones and differences.
2. Ujjain is situated precisely at the intersection point of the zero meridian and the Tropic of Cancer.
3. Before the adoption of the 82.5E longitude for IST, Ujjain (75.78E) was regarded as India’s time meridian.
4. The Vikrami Panchang and Vikram Samvat calendars are also released from Ujjain, making it the perfect location for the Vedic Clock.
UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology/Places in news
Non-lapsable defence modernisation fund
Source-This post on Non-lapsable defence modernisation fund is based on the article “Non-lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund off govt. agenda for now” published in “The Hindu” on 3rd March 2024.
Why in the News?
The government has abandoned the proposal to establish a Non-lapsable Defense Modernization Fund, citing drawbacks related to its impact on parliamentary scrutiny and accountability.
About Non-lapsable defence modernisation fund
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Background– The 15th Finance Commission has proposed the establishment of a dedicated non-lapsable Modernisation Fund for Defence and Internal Security (MFDIS). The idea behind is to address the disparity between projected budget needs and the allocation for defense and internal security.
In 2021, the government placed an action-taken report in Parliament alongside the Commission’s report. The government mentioned that it has “in-principle” agreed to create such a fund in the Public Account of India.
What is the need for Non-Lapsable Funds?
1. In India, the defense budget is assigned annually. At the close of each fiscal year, any remaining funds are reverted to the government’s consolidated fund.
2. Consequently, the defense services miss the chance to utilize these allocated funds for unforeseen needs or future requirements. Establishing a Non-Lapsable Defense Modernization Fund (DMF) offers a solution to this challenge.
3. Once operational, the DMF would allow the three services to keep any unspent budget allocation beyond the fiscal year’s end.
Why did the government abandon this proposal?
1. Traditionally, only funds raised through cesses for specific purposes are non-lapsable.
2. Apart from items funded through a cess, deferring today’s allocations with the intention of using them later contradicts the fundamental principles of parliamentary financial accountability.
3. The government says it is working on a separate plan to explore a special arrangement for establishing a “Non-lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund.”
Difference between lapsable and non lapsable funds in India
1. In India, lapsable funds are budget allocations that must be spent within a set time or they return to the government’s general funds.
2. Non-lapsable funds, however, don’t expire at the end of the fiscal year and can be carried over if unused. They’re usually earmarked for specific purposes and don’t lapse at year-end for example– funds raised through cesses for specific purposes are non-lapsable.
UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy