9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Brief 24 Jan, 2024
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 2
Gender Equity in Education and Need to Focus on Early Childhood Education
Source: This post has been created based on the article “Gender equity in education: the need to focus on early childhood education” published in “The Hindu” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 Social Justice – Issues relating to Education.
Gender Equity in Education and Need to Focus on Early Childhood Education, The article discusses the status of gender equity in education in India. It also suggests steps to tackle the various issues.
Background:
The 2023 Annual Status of Education Report shows that while girls and boys from rural India equally aspire to become doctors or engineers, when it comes to choosing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses, it is boys who take up STEM courses more than girls.
Current Status of Gender Equity in Education in India
1. Gender Equity in Learning Outcomes: National Achievement Survey (2017) shows parity in learning levels between boys and girls in elementary and secondary classes across the country.
2. Gender Gap in Mean Years of Schooling: Over the past two decades, the mean years of schooling for girls has almost tripled from just 1.7 years in 1990 to 4.7 in 2018, while for males from 4.1 to 8.2 years. The gender gap has increased from 2.4 years to 3.5 years.
3. Widening Gender Gap with Level of Education: Girls have higher dropout rates compared to boys as the level of education increases. This is due to greater barriers to schooling for girls due to social norms and gender stereotypes correlated with female adolescence.
4. Gender Gap in Enrolment in Private Schools: More boys than girls tend to be enrolled in private institutions. Girls’ enrolment is free government schools highlights societal gender biases in exercising school choice.
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What Should be The Way Forward?
Focus on early childhood education (ECE): Focus should be shifted to early childhood education (ECE) where the roots of the gender gap in education lie. This is because gender norms, biases and stereotypes are ingrained in early childhood.
Addressing Structural Challenges: The lack of a regulatory framework, inadequate funding, poor quality and no legislation for universal access to early childhood education must be addressed urgently.
Eliminating Gender Stereotypes: Early childhood education should also focus on imparting education that eliminates gender stereotypes and helps erase the gender gap.
Government Schemes: Schemes such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and the new National Education Policy places importance on ECE and hence, should be implemented at the earliest in mission mode.
There are positive social externalities and intergenerational benefits to girls’ education. It leads to a virtuous cycle of reduced poverty, infant mortality, crime and improved economic development. Hence, it must be given attention.
Question for practice:
Women’s education is important for society to flourish. However, it faces several challenges in the Indian context. Discuss.
Concerns Related to The India-Myanmar Border
Source: The post concerns related to the India-Myanmar border has been created, based on the article “Express View on India-Myanmar border: Keep it porous” published in “Indian express” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-International relations- India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Concerns Related to The India-Myanmar Border, The article discusses India’s decision to fence its 1,643-km border with Myanmar, and formally ending the Free Movement Regime.
What is The Free Movement Regime (FMR)?
The FMR, started in 2018, let people living along the Indo-Myanmar border travel 16 km into the other country without a visa. This regime has been suspended since September 2022. Now Government is planning to formally end the Free Movement Regime (FMR) regime.
For more information read here
What are The Major Concerns Related to The India-Myanmar Border?
Security Concerns: The decision to fence the border stems from concerns over security, particularly due to the trafficking of arms and drugs.
Refugee Influx: Since the military takeover in Myanmar in 2021, the Chin province has become a battleground, leading to an influx of refugees into India’s Northeast.
Local Opposition to Fencing: Tribal groups like the Kukis in Mizoram and Manipur, who have kinship ties with Myanmar’s Chin community, oppose the fencing, as it might exacerbate ethnic tensions.
Varied State Responses: Mizoram has provided sanctuary to refugees, while Manipur’s government has framed the crisis differently, highlighting the diverse political responses.
Disrupt local lives: The FMR allowed border residents to travel 16 km into either country without a visa. Its suspension could disrupt local lives.
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What is India’s Stance on Myanmar?
Engagement with Military Regime: Unlike Western countries focused on democracy, India has chosen to engage with Myanmar’s military regime.
Look East Policy: Myanmar is an integral part of India’s Look East Policy, highlighting economic and strategic interests over political ideology.
Limited Condemnation: Despite occasional admonitions, like the External Affairs Minister’s comment in 2021, India has largely refrained from strong opposition against Myanmar’s actions that affect Indian interests.
Balancing Security and Diplomacy: India’s approach reflects a balance between security concerns and maintaining diplomatic relations with Myanmar’s military government.
Way forward
To address the India-Myanmar border issues, a balance between security needs and humanitarian concerns is essential. India should consider the impact of border fencing on local communities and maintain a diplomatic approach towards Myanmar, while addressing the refugee crisis and ethnic tensions in the Northeast.
Question for practice:
Examine India’s approach towards the Free Movement Regime (FMR) with Myanmar and its implications for the border region.
India and French Bilateral Relations
Source: This post on India-French Bilateral Relations has been created based on the article “C Raja Mohan writes: As Modi meets Macron, the challenges that they will need to reflect on” published in “Indian Express” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 International Relations – Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
India and French Bilateral Relations, The article discusses French President Macron’s visit to the Republic Day Parade in light of the emerging geopolitical scenario.
A detailed article on India-France Relations can be read here.
Background:
French President Macron is set to visit India as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day Parade.
Last year, India and France had issued an ambitious new framework — Horizon 2047— to advance cooperation in many areas, including defence, space, and nuclear energy over the next 25 years.
What is The Emerging Geopolitical Scenario?
- Russia-Ukraine crisis and the question of war and peace in Europe.
- Middle East disturbances, including terrorist attacks on Israel on October 7 last year by Hamas and the massive retaliation by Israel. Also, attacks on Red Sea shipping by the Houthis of Yemen are having a big effect on the global economy.
- Chances of a return of Donald Trump as the US President. This may lead to renewed political chaos and radical changes of policies in the US. For example, policies on climate change, tariffs on all imports into the US, renegotiation of the terms of engagement with the allies and partners in Europe and Asia.
What Could be The Points of Discussion During Macron’s Visit?
Emerging International Geopolitical Scenario: The rapidly changing regional and international context will be part of the discussion.
This includes bringing peace to Ukraine and security in Central Europe.
Defence Cooperation: Progress on in-principle deals such as India buying 26 Rafale Marine aircraft, building 3 Scorpene submarines and the plans of transfer of jet engine technology to India. This also includes protecting the SLOCs (maritime trade routes) in West Asia.
Want To Read More Topics-
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What Could The Impact Of The Changing Leadership in The USA?
India and France will have challenges managing the many consequences of Trump’s regional and global policies.
Issues for France:
- Trump’s hostility to the NATO, of which France is a part.
- French insistence on a multipolar world.
Issues for India:
- India, too, is anxious about the dangers of a unipolar world and the potential harm that the US could do to India.
The notion of strategic autonomy is important to foreign policy in India and France both.
Question for practice:
What is the importance of India-French cooperation in light of the emerging geopolitical scenario?
Basic Structure Doctrine- How Basic Structure doctrine became one of the strongest safeguards for Indian democracy
Source: The post Basic Structure Doctrine has been created, based on the article “How Basic Structure doctrine became one of the strongest safeguards for Indian democracy” published in “Indian express” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
News: The article discusses the Basic Structure doctrine in India’s Constitution, which prevents Parliament from making amendments that could lead to dictatorship or violate core constitutional principles.
What is the Basic Structure Doctrine?
The “Basic Structure” doctrine is a legal doctrine made from judicial innovation specific to the Indian context. The doctrine prescribes that certain constitutional features are essential for the state’s functioning. Such features are beyond the limits of the amending powers of the Parliament.
For more information read here
How did the Basic Structure Doctrine evolve in India?
Early Cases: The Shankari Prasad (1951) and Sajjan Singh (1964) cases initially allowed Parliament extensive amendment powers, but also started discussions on constitutional limitations.
Introduction of “Basic Features”: In the Sajjan Singh case, Justice J.R. Mudholkar first used the term “basic features,” while expressing his thoughts about the potential limits of Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution. He drew inspiration from the Fazlul Chowdhury case in the Supreme Court of Pakistan, which used the phrase “essential features.” This discussion laid the groundwork for what would later become the Basic Structure doctrine in India.
Influence of Professor Dieter Conrad: His lecture at BHU in 1965, discussing implied limitations on constitutional amendments, influenced Indian legal thought and laid the groundwork for the Basic Structure concept.
Shift in Golaknath Case: The Golaknath verdict in 1967 marked a pivotal change, with the Supreme Court ruling that fundamental rights are unamendable, thus laying the groundwork for the Basic Structure concept.
Establishment in Kesavananda Bharati Case: The Kesavananda Bharati case in 1973 officially established the Basic Structure Doctrine, stating that Parliament can’t alter the essential elements of the Constitution.
Why is the Basic Structure Doctrine important?
Protection Against Tyranny: The Basic Structure Doctrine prevents Parliament from creating amendments that could lead to dictatorship or undermine democratic values, as emphasized in the Kesavananda Bharati case.
Checks Unlimited Power: It serves as a safeguard against the absolute power of the majority in Parliament, ensuring that even popular decisions cannot violate core constitutional principles.
Guarantees Constitutional Consistency: The doctrine ensures that essential features of the Constitution, like fundamental rights and democratic principles, remain unchanged, despite parliamentary amendments.
Balances Judiciary and Legislature: By allowing the judiciary to review constitutional amendments, it maintains a balance between legislative authority and constitutional integrity.
Upholds Democratic Ideals: The doctrine is pivotal in sustaining democracy by preventing the institutionalization of tyranny, even if proposed amendments have unanimous parliamentary support.
Way forward
The way forward requires steadfast adherence to the Basic Structure doctrine, as a means to protect democratic principles and avert authoritarian rule. It’s essential for the judiciary to consistently monitor and ensure that Parliament’s amendments do not contravene the core values of the Constitution. This approach, rooted in the precedent set by the Kesavananda Bharati case, will maintain the crucial balance between legislative power and constitutional sanctity.
Question for practice:
Discuss the evolution and significance of the Basic Structure Doctrine in India’s Constitution.
Regulating coaching centres
Source: This post has been created based on the article “Regulating coaching centres” published in “Business Standard” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 Social Justice – Issues relating to Education.
News: The article discusses the provisions in the guidelines for regulating coaching centres and the challenges in implementing them.
Background:
The government recently laid out guidelines for coaching centres due to news of a growing number of student suicides and accusations of misleading claims in advertisements.
What are the provisions in the guidelines for coaching centers?
- A coaching centre must have more than 50 students with a minimum age limit of 16 years.
- All teachers must be graduates.
- The centre must not make false promises.
- Fees from students leaving a course halfway must be refunded.
- Classes must not be held during regular school hours, and they should not exceed five hours a day.
- Periodic sensitisation sessions for students with mental health professionals.
- Assessment tests should remain confidential.
- Basic requirements such as fire and building safety codes, medical treatment facilities and adequate ventilation and lighting in classrooms.
What are the challenges in regulating coaching centres?
According to the author, these guidelines are unlikely to bring about any significant change due to the following reasons:
- Large Number of Coaching Centres: This will make it challenging to monitor standards with any degree of efficacy.
- Lack of Clarity regarding Redressal Mechanism: The guidelines refer to a “competent authority” without specifying the nature of this body.
- Jurisdictional Issues: The regulation of education at the 10+2 level falls within the jurisdiction of states and Union Territories. Monitoring standards could be different based on the local governments.
- Small Amount as Penalty: The penalties are unlikely to act as a deterrent. It is just Rs. 25,000 for the first offence and Rs. 1 lakh for the second, and registration revocation for any subsequent breach.
- Online Classes not Covered: The guidelines also do not appear to cover online classes, where violation of standards could be more rampant.
- Structural Issues:
- Lack of Quality Institutions: A lack of quality engineering, management and medical institutes intensifies competition for a limited number of seats at IITs, IIMs, etc.
- Deficiency in the Job Market: The low availability of employment, especially one that offers perks and benefits, leads to cut-throat competition.
Thus, changing this will require deeper economic reforms to expand the job market so that coaching centres gradually lose their current significance.
Question for practice:
Regulating coaching centres in India is the need of the hour but will be a huge challenge. Discuss.
increase in BSF operational jurisdiction- Limits and borders
Source: The post increase in BSF operational jurisdiction has been created, based on the article “Limits and borders” published in “The Hindu” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Internal Security – Issues related to Border Management, GS paper 2 – Polity- issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure.
News: The article discusses a dispute between Punjab and the Indian central government about increasing the Border Security Force’s (BSF) operational area from 15 km to 50 km in Punjab.
What changes have been made by the October 2021 Centre notification under the BSF Act?
1.The BSF’s operational jurisdiction was expanded from 15 km to 50 km from the border in Punjab, West Bengal and Assam.
2.In Gujarat, the BSF’s jurisdiction was decreased from 80 km to 50 km.
3.For Rajasthan, the operational area of the BSF remained the same at 50 km.
How does the BSF operate?
Preventing Trans-Border Crimes: The BSF’s primary role is to stop unauthorized entries and exits across India’s borders.
However, the BSF does not have authority to investigate or prosecute offenders. It has to hand over those arrested, and the contraband seized from them to the local police.
Coordination with Local Police: They work closely with the police for law enforcement, especially in border areas.
Search and Seizure Operations: The BSF conducts searches and seizures, especially in cases where offenders penetrate deep into the country.
What are the different arguments related to this dispute?
Arguments from the States (Punjab and West Bengal)
Expansion Oversteps Powers: expansion from 15 km to 50 km infringes on their jurisdiction over law and order. Using Article 131, Punjab filed a lawsuit against the Union government, claiming that the increase in jurisdiction violates the Constitution. State governments are constitutionally responsible for maintaining public order and exercising police powers.
Note: Article 131 vests the Supreme Court with original jurisdiction over disputes occurring between states or between states and the Centre.
For more information read here
Violation of Federal Principles: The move is seen as a breach of federalism, where state powers should be respected.
Legislative Action: Both states have passed resolutions in their assemblies opposing the BSF’s expanded jurisdiction.
Arguments from the Central Government
Enhanced Border Security: The increase to 50 km is justified to improve border patrol effectiveness.
Standardizing Operations: The expansion aims to unify the operational area across different states for consistency.
Perspective of the Supreme Court
Legal Examination: The Supreme Court is reviewing whether the expansion encroaches upon state government’s domain.
Constitutional Balance: The court is assessing the balance of powers between the central and state governments under the constitutional framework.
Way forward
The way forward involves a balanced approach respecting both national security needs and state autonomy. Effective consultation between the central and state governments, along with the Supreme Court’s guidance, can lead to a solution that upholds constitutional principles and federalism.
Question for practice:
What are the key legal disputes and arguments regarding the increase in the BSF’s operational jurisdiction.
Canada’s Foreign Students Cap: Impact on Indian Students
Source-This post on the Canada Foreign Students Cap has been created based on the article “Why Canada has put curbs on foreign students, and how Indians are impacted” published in “The Indian Express” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – International Relations – Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
News– Recently, Canada has decided to cap the number of international student visas for a two-year period. It will begin with the upcoming academic session. This article explores the various implications of this decision.
What decisions has been taken by the Canadian Government?
1) Foreign students visa cap– It has announced a 35% reduction in the number of new international student permits (as compared to 2023) for the academic session starting on September 1, 2024.
2) PGWP modifications– It has also announced modifications to the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP). PGWP enabled international students to work in Canada upon finishing their studies.
3) Restriction on spousal work permits– Work permits for spouses of international students will no longer be issued, except for those enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs.
Note– A review will take place at the end of this year to determine the number of study permits for 2025. The limit on permits is temporary.
What are the implications of this decision for foreign students, especially for Indians?
1) The two-year cap on student permits applies only to undergraduate courses. Masters, PhD, and elementary/secondary school courses are exempted.
2) The restrictions will apply to only new applicants. Current international students in Canada, whether in undergraduate or other programs, remain unaffected.
3) The visa cap will hit Indian students. As per data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the majority of student visas are granted to applicants from Asia, with India ranking as the top country on the list (followed by China).
Why has the decision been made?
1) Housing crisis in Canada– The growing influx of foreign students has triggered a housing crisis, leading to increased rentals and living costs. Also, the job opportunities are not proportionally abundant as compared to the intake of students.
2) Poor quality education by institutes– Some students have expressed concerns about private institutions charging high tuition fees and delivering subpar education.
Question for Practice:
Examine the reasons behind Canada’s decision to impose a cap on foreign student visas and analyze its implications, with a particular emphasis on the impact on Indian students.
GS PAPER - 3
On the Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme
Source: This post on the Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme has been created based on the article “The need to overhaul a semiconductor scheme” published in “The Hindu” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Indian Economy – Changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
News: The article discusses India’s semiconductor strategy and the issues with the Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme.
A detailed article on Semiconductor Manufacturing in India can be read here.
Background:
The Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme has approved only 7 start-ups till now, falling short of its target of supporting 100 over 5 years.
What are the goals of India’s semiconductor strategy?
- Reduce dependence on semiconductor imports, particularly from China, and especially in strategic and emerging sectors.
- Build supply chain resilience by integrating into the semiconductor global value chain (GVC).
- Taking advantage of India’s comparative advantage such as the presence of the design houses of every major global semiconductor industry player and Indian chip design engineers.
What are the issues with the DLI scheme?
- Barriers on FDI: It mandates that beneficiary start-ups maintain their domestic status for at least 3 years after receiving incentives, and for this they cannot raise more than 50% of their funds via FDI.
- Lack of Domestic Funding: Costs for semiconductor design startups are significant. The funding landscape for chip start-ups in India continues to be challenging due to an absence of a mature start-up funding ecosystem.
- Incentives Not Enough: Incentives under the DLI scheme are not very high, making it unattractive for start-ups (For e.g. it is capped at ₹15 Crore for Product DLI).
- Issues with the Nodal Agency: As the nodal agency Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) is also a market player in the Indian chip design sector, there are concerns of conflict of interest.
What should be the way forward?
1) Focusing on the Broader Objective: The scheme should focus on facilitating design capabilities within the country, as long as the entity engaging in the design development process is registered in India.
2) Focusing on the Design Stage: Stimulating the design ecosystem is less capital-intensive than the foundry and assembly stages of the semiconductor GVC. The financial outlay of the scheme must be enhanced.
3) Regarding Nodal Agency Reform: The Karnataka government’s Semiconductor Fabless Accelerator Lab (SFAL), with its specific partnerships with the Indian Electronics and Semiconductor Association, vendors, IP, and testing companies, could be an appropriate example for an implementing agency for DLI.
A recalibrated policy focused on chip design implemented by a capable institution can help establish India’s foothold in this high-tech sector.
Question for practice:
What is the Semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme? What are the various issues plaguing it? Suggest steps to reform it.
On India’s toy industry- The truth about India’s booming toy exports
Source: The post India’s toy industry has been created, based on the article “The truth about India’s booming toy exports” published in “The Hindu” on 24th January 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 3- Indian economy- changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
News: The article discusses how India’s toy industry became a net exporter since 2020-21.
What is the current state of India’s toy industry?
Net Exporter Status: The trade balance was negative ₹1,500 crore in 2014-15, which turned positive from 2020-21 after a gap of 23 years.
Significant Export Growth: There was a 239% increase in toy exports between 2014-15 and 2022-23.
Decline in Imports: Imports of toys decreased by 52% in the same period.
Rise in Import Duty: Customs duty on toys was raised from 20% to 60% in 2020 and then to 70% in 2023.
What are the factors responsible for the improvement of India’s toy industry?
Protectionist Policies: The shift in the toy industry’s performance is attributed to the government’s protectionist measures, such as increased tariffs and import restrictions.
Implementation of Non-Tariff Barriers: The introduction of quality control orders and mandatory testing for each import consignment made it tougher for foreign toys to enter the Indian market.
Global Supply Chain Disruption: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, affecting toy imports and indirectly benefiting domestic producers.
Government Initiatives: The ‘Make in India’ campaign, initiated in 2014, aimed to boost domestic manufacturing, which included the toy industry.
What are the major concerns related to India’s toy industry?
Over-Reliance on Protectionism: The industry’s growth is attributed to high import duties and trade barriers, which may not be viable long-term strategies. Prolonged reliance on protectionist measures might hinder the industry’s global competitiveness.
Limited Improvement in Domestic Production: There’s been no significant enhancement in domestic toy manufacturing, with labor productivity declining from ₹7.5 lakh per worker in 2014-15 to ₹5 lakh in 2019-20.
Potential for Rent-Seeking Behavior: There’s a concern that continuous protective measures could lead to inefficiencies and focus on maintaining government support instead of improving productivity or innovation.
What should be done?
Complementing Protectionism with Investment: Pair protectionist policies with investment in the toy industry to enhance productivity and innovation.
Focus on Domestic Capability Expansion: Invest in developing local manufacturing capabilities, considering the lack of significant improvement in domestic toy production.
Providing Industry-Specific Infrastructure: Develop public infrastructure tailored to the needs of the toy industry to support its growth.
Preventing Policy Entrenchment: Avoid the long-term entrenchment of protectionist policies, which could lead to inefficiency and rent-seeking behavior.
Transparent Policy Review and Dialogue: Make research studies like the IIM-L report public for better policy understanding and effective decision-making.
Question for practice:
What are the key factors responsible for the improvement of India’s toy industry, and what are the major concerns associated with it?
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
Gir and Kankrej cows
Source:-This post has been created based on the article “India imports bull semen from Brazil to raise milk production” published in “Livemint” on 21 January 2024.
Why in the news?
India has imported 40,000 doses of bull semen from Brazil for the first time to boost milk output via artificial insemination.
About Gir cow
Aspect | Detail |
About | The Gir or Gyr is an Indian breed of zebuine cattle. It originated in the Kathiawar peninsula in the state of Gujarat, and the name of the breed derives from that of the Gir Hills. Other names include Bhodah, Desan, Gujarati, Kathiawari, Sorthi and Surti. |
Features | 1. Size- Average weight of Gir Cow is 385 kg with 130 cm in height; Gir bull weighs 545 kg on average, with a height of 140 cm. 2. Harsh Climate adaptability- It is suited to hot and arid climate. 3. Milk Yield- Indian breed of Gir cows can give 6-10 litres. |
Population Distribution | They have originated in west India in the state of Gujarat. It has since spread to neighbouring Maharashtra and Rajasthan. |
About Kankrej cow
Aspect | Details |
About | It originated from Southeast Rann of Kutch of Gujarat and adjoining Rajasthan (Barmer and Jodhpur district). It is also called as Wadad or Waged and Wadhiar. |
Features | Colour- Coat colour of the animal varies from silver grey to iron grey and steel black. Harsh climate adaptability- It is suited to hot and arid climate. Resistance to disease- It is resistant to tick fever, heat stress, very little incidence of contagious abortion and tuberculosis. |
Why was there a need to import semen from Brazil?
1) Brazil has preserved the original breed of Gir cows (the original breed of Gir cows that was gifted by the Maharaja of Bhavnagar to Brazil in the 18th century). This breed has become a high milk-producing breed due to its ability to survive in extreme weather.
2) India is the world’s largest milk producer, contributing 24% to global output, followed by the US and China. However, the demand is going to rise rapidly in future, thus it needs more milk yielding cows.
3) The government is targeting to produce 330 million tonnes (mt) of milk per annum by FY34. However, average yield of Indian animals is around 8-10 litres as opposed to Brazilian animals whose average is 20–22 litres per animal. Thus India is targeting animals that have Brazilian genetics with a capacity of producing more than 80 litres of milk per animal.
Read More- Bull Semen Imports Are A Pragmatic Experiment |
The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB)
About: It is a statutory body set up by an Act of the Parliament of India.
Establishment: 1965
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
Headquarter: Gujarat
Artificial insemination– Artificial insemination is the technique in which semen with living sperms is collected from the male and introduced into female reproductive tract at proper time with the help of instruments.
Other government schemes
Rashtriya Gokul Mission- The objective of the scheme is to promote indigenous cattle rearing and conservation scientifically. Sahiwal, Bargur, Onglore are some of the well known indigenous cow breed in India.
IndiGau- This is India’s first Cattle Genomic Chip for the conservation of pure varieties of indigenous cattle breeds like, Gir, Kankrej, Sahiwal, Ongole etc.
UPSC SYLLABUS– Indian economy (species in news)
Srirangam Temple
Source-This post is based on the article “Modi the first serving Prime Minister to visit Srirangam temple” published in “The Hindu” on 20 January 2024.
Why in the news?
The Prime Minister has recently visited Srirangam temple also called the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.
About the temple
1. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Ranganatha (a form of Vishnu), located in Srirangam, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, India.
2. The temple has the unique distinction of being the foremost among the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to the god Vishnu.
3. The Srirangam temple is the largest temple compound in India and one of the largest religious complexes in the world
4. In 2017 the temple won the UNESCO Asia Pacific Award of Merit 2017 for cultural heritage conservation, making it the first temple in Tamil Nadu to receive the award from the UNESCO.
What are the architectural features of the temple?
Style | Dravidian (the temple is glorified by Alvars in their Naalayira Divya Prabhandam) |
Size | The temple occupies an area of 63 hectares (155 acres) with 81 shrines, 21 towers, 39 pavilions. |
Shrines | The temple complex includes over 50 shrines dedicated to Vishnu, Lakshmi, as well as various Vaishnava scholars and poets. |
Mandapa | The Ranganathaswamy Temple has many mandapams like thousand pillar mandapa, garuda mandapa. |
Gopuram | There are 21 gopurams (tower gateways), among which the towering Rajagopuram (shrine of the main gateway) is the tallest temple tower in Asia |
Inscriptions | The historic inscriptions at the Ranganathaswamy Temple are in six major Indian languages: Tamil, Sanskrit, Kannada, Telugu, Marathi and Odia. The inscriptions have provided information about South Indian history, culture, economy and social role. |
What is the historical and cultural significance of the temple?
1) The main deity of the temple is mentioned in various Sanskrit literature and epics such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Padma Purana, Brahmanda Purana and Garuda Puranam.
2) Medieval scholars like Nathamuni, Ramanuja, Pillai Lokacharya, Vedanta Desika and Manavala Mamunigal are associated with the temple.
3) Bhakti movement- Ranganathaswamy temple is the only one out of the 108 temples that was sung in praise by all the Alvars (follower of Vaishnavism).
UPSC SYLLABUS:-ART AND CULTURE
Elusive binturong and the small-clawed otter
Source:-This post has been created based on the article “Two new mammalian species added to Kaziranga’s fauna” published in “The Hindu” on 21 January 2024.
Why in the news?
Elusive binturong and the small-clawed otter have recently been added to the list of mammals in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.
About the Binturong
Aspect | Details |
About | The binturong, is also known as bearcat. It is native to South and Southeast Asia. |
Characteristics | Size-The binturong is long and heavy, with short, stout legs. The binturong is one of only two carnivores that has a prehensile tail. (The other is the kinkajou). A prehensile tail is the tail of an animal that has adapted to grasp or hold objects Family-It belongs to the same family as other small carnivores including Civets, Genets, Mongooses, and Fossa Behaviour- The binturong is active during the day and at night. Diet-The binturong is omnivorous which feeds on small mammals, birds, fish, earthworms, insects and fruits. |
Conservation status | IUCN: Vulnerable Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule I CITES: Appendix III |
Population Distribution | China, India, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and on the island of Borneo. |
Threats | It is threatened by habitat loss due to logging and agribusiness, especially the oil palm industry. It is also hunted for bushmeat, traditional medicine and the pet trade. |
About Small-clawed otter
Aspect | Detail |
About | The Small-Clawed otter is also known as Asian small clawed otter/Oriental Small Clawed Otter. The small-clawed otter is an otter species native to South and Southeast Asia. |
Characteristics | Size-Body length-730 to 960 mm and maximum weight can be 5kg. It has short claws that do not extend beyond the pads of its webbed digits. It is the smallest otter species in the world. Behaviour-It is nocturnal in nature as it is mostly active after the dark. Diet-It feeds mainly on crabs, mudskippers and Trichogaster fish. |
Conservation status | IUCN: Vulnerable Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule I CITES: Appendix I |
Population Distribution | South East Asian Distribution- The Asian small-clawed otter’s native range comprises parts of India to Southeast Asia, including the islands of Sumatra, Java, Borneo and Palawan. India- It is mainly found in West Bengal, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, and in coastal regions of Odisha and Karnataka. It is also found in the Nilgiri and Palni hills in Tamil Nadu. |
Threats | Habitat destruction, deforestation, illegal pet trade etc. |
Kaziranga national park
Location– Located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of the state of Assam, India.
Legal status– It is a national park as well as tiger reserve.
International recognition– It is a UNESCO world heritage site.
Important species– It has ‘big four’ species— Rhino, Elephant, Royal Bengal tiger and Asiatic water buffalo.
UPSC SYLLABUS-ENVIRONMENT (Species in News)
Madhika Language
Source:-This post is created based on the article “With just two speakers, a language in Kerala with no script is on the brink of extinction” published in “The Hindu” on 24 January 2024.
Why in the news?
Kerala’s Chakaliya community is facing the threat of extinction of its unique language Madhika as just 2 speakers remaining.
About the madhika language
1. The language is spoken by Chakaliya community.
2. It is a blend of Telugu, Tulu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
3. It may sound like Kannada but it has its own uniqueness due to diverse influences.
4. It is largely influenced by Havyaka Kannada, an old form of Kannada.
5. The language does not have its own script thus it faces the threat of extinction.
Facts about Chakaliya Community
Origin-They have a nomadic origin. They worship gods like Thiruvenkatramana and Mariamma.
Location– Kannur district (Kerala)
Migration to Kerala– They have migrated to northern Malabar from the hilly regions of Karnataka centuries ago.
Status-Initially they were given the S.T. status, but later they were brought under S.C. category. The mention of the community can be found in the book Caste and Tribes of Southern India
Social position– They were considered untouchables.
What are the government’s steps to preserve endangered language?
1. The Government of India has initiated a Scheme known as “Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages of India” (SPPEL). Under this scheme, the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysore works on protection, preservation and documentation of all the mother tongues/languages.
NOTE- Endangered Language– As per UNESCO, any language spoken by less than 10,000 persons is considered “potentially endangered”.
Some important constitutional provisions for protection of language
Article 29– Any section of the citizens residing in the territory of India or any part thereof having a distinct language, script or culture of its own shall have the right to conserve the same.
Article 350B-It provides for a Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities to investigate all the matters relating to the Safeguards provided for the linguistic minorities.
International steps:-UNESCO’s flagship activity in safeguarding endangered languages is the Atlas of the World’s Languages in danger.
UPSC Syllabus:-Art and culture in news.
Late former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur to be awarded Bharat Ratna
Source-This post is based on the article “Late former Bihar CM Karpoori Thakur to be awarded Bharat Ratna” published in “Times of India” on 23rd January 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently Government of India has announced that Late former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur will be posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna.
Who was Karpoori Thakur?
Aspect | Details |
About | 1. He was an Indian politician who served two terms as the Chief Minister of Bihar. 2. He was born on January 24, 1924, in the village of Pitaunjhia (now Karpuri Gram) in the Samastipur District of Bihar. 3. He passed away in February 1988. 4. He was popularly known as Jan Nayak. He was also known as the champion of the poor. 5. He drew inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi and Satyanarayan Sinha. |
Political career | 1. He began his political journey with the Praja Socialist Party and later aligned himself with the Janata Party. 2. He was elected as a member of the Bihar Vidhan Sabha in 1952 from the Tajpur constituency as a candidate of the Socialist Party. 3. He served as a minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, before becoming the first non-Congress socialist Chief Minister of Bihar in 1970. 4. He also enforced total prohibition of alcohol in Bihar. 5. He served as the President of Samyukta Socialist Party. |
What is Bharat Ratna?
1) Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award of India.
2) The award, initially focused on arts, literature, science, and public services. It was broadened to encompass ‘any field of human endeavor‘ in December 2011.
3) The provision of Bharat Ratna was introduced in 1954.
4) The first recipients of the award were scientists Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, C. Rajagopalachari and Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan.
5) The award has also been given to non-Indians – Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Nelson Mandela.
6) The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of three in a particular year.
UPSC Syllabus- History and Art & Culture/ Personalities in news
VAIBHAV Fellowship Scheme
Source-This post is based on the article “VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme announced to connect Indian STEMM diaspora with Indian Higher Educational Institutions” published in PIB on 15th June 2023.
What is the News?
Government of India has launched the Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik(VAIBHAV) fellowship programme.
What is VAIBHAV Fellowship?
Aspect | Details |
Aim | To connect the Indian Science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) diaspora with academic and R&D institutions in India for collaborative research. |
Nodal Ministry | Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology |
Eligibility (for applicants) | 1. The applicant should be a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO) and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI), currently living abroad. 2. The applicant must have obtained a Ph.D/M.D/M.S degree from a recognized University. 3. Applicant must be a researcher engaged in an overseas academic / research / industrial organization with proven track record of research & development working in the top500 QS World University Ranking. |
Eligibility (for Institutions) | Higher Educational Institutions / Universities ranked in the top 200 in NIRF overall rankings and having NAAC ‘A’ grade (3.0 and above) and scientific institutes. |
Funding | Fellowship would include a fellowship grant (INR 4,00,000 per month), international and domestic travel, accommodation and contingencies. |
Features | 1. Under this, 75 VAIBHAV fellowships would be awarded to outstanding scientists/technologists of Indian origin (NRI/OCI/PIO) who are engaged in research activities in their respective countries. 2. The selected fellows would be invited to work in 18 identified knowledge verticals including quantum technology, health, pharma, electronics, agriculture, energy, computer sciences, and material sciences amongst others. 3. The VAIBHAV Fellow would identify an Indian Institution for collaboration and may spend up to two months in a year for a maximum of 3 years. |
About first batch of Fellows of the Vaibhav scheme
1) Recently DST has announced the first batch of 22 scientists under Vaibhav scheme.
2) They will spend a month or two each year, up to a maximum of three years, at Indian institutes including the Indian Institute of Science, IITs, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research etc.
3) The host institutions will receive a research grant to host the fellows, who are expected to initiate a project or technology start-up within three years.
Note– Two ‘distinguished fellowships‘ were extended to senior professors Arogyaswami Paulraj from Stanford University and Jitendra Malik from the University of California, Berkeley.
UPSC Syllabus- Schemes & Programmes