Important Articles held on 23rd and 24th June

Food Corporation of India and Public Distribution System

Why in news: FCI not to consider request by States for more foodgrains under open market scheme

Relevance: Prelims and GS 3 (Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping)

Important Articles held on 23rd and 24th June

The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is a government-owned corporation responsible for the procurement, storage, and distribution of food grains in India. It was established in 1965 under the Food Corporations Act, 1964, and operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution.

Information related to Food Corporation of India:

Procurement Activities:
- FCI procures various food grains such as rice and wheat from farmers across the country.
- The corporation operates through a network of procurement centers called “mandis” or “purchase centers.”
- FCI procures grains at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) set by the government to ensure fair prices for farmers.
Storage Facilities:
- FCI has an extensive network of storage facilities across India.
- The corporation maintains godowns (warehouses) and silos for the proper storage of food grains.
- Storage capacities are regularly expanded to accommodate increasing procurement and buffer stock requirements.
Buffer Stock and Distribution:
- FCI maintains buffer stocks of food grains to stabilize prices and ensure food security in the country.
- Buffer stocks are used for various welfare schemes like the Public Distribution System (PDS) and other government programs.
- The corporation distributes food grains to state governments, which further distribute them to fair price shops for public distribution.
Transportation and Logistics:
- FCI manages a vast transportation network to move food grains from procurement centers to storage facilities and distribution points.
- Railways, roadways, and waterways are utilized for efficient transportation.
- The corporation also coordinates with various logistics providers and agencies to ensure timely delivery.
Food Grain Movement and Monitoring System (FGMMS):
- FCI has implemented the Food Grain Movement and Monitoring System, an online platform, to track the movement of food grains from procurement to distribution.
- This system enhances transparency, reduces leakages, and ensures the effective management of food grain stocks.

Important Articles held on 23rd and 24th June In addition to the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) and the National Food Security Act (NFSA) implemented by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) participates in issuing food grains under various welfare schemes. These schemes are designed to cater to specific needs and provide essential nutrition to different segments of the population. Here are the key facts about these welfare schemes:

Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS):
Centrally-Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Education.
Aims to enhance enrollment, retention, and attendance while improving the nutritional levels of students in Classes I to VIII.
Covers Government, Government-aided schools, Special Training Centres (STC), Madarasas, and Maktabs supported under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan.

Wheat Based Nutrition Programme (WBNP):
Implemented by the Ministry of Women & Child Development.
Utilizes food grains allocated under the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS).
Provides nutritious and energy-rich food to children below 6 years of age and expectant/lactating women.

Scheme for Supply of Foodgrains for SC/ST/OBC Hostels:
Eligible hostels with 2/3rd students belonging to SC/ST/OBC receive 15 kg of food grains per resident per month.
Allocations made by the Department of Food and Public Distribution based on requests from state and UT governments.

Scheme for Supply of Foodgrains to Welfare Institutions:
Supports welfare institutions such as charitable institutions, beggar homes, and nariniketans not covered under TPDS or other schemes.
Additional allocation of food grains (rice and wheat) not exceeding 5% of the BPL allocation is provided to states and UTs at BPL prices.

Annapurna Scheme:
Launched by the Ministry of Rural Development.
Provides 10 kg of food grains per person per month free of cost to indigent senior citizens aged 65 years and above not receiving pension under NOAPS.

Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (RGSEAG) – ‘SABLA’:
Implemented by the Ministry of Women & Child Development.
Aims to empower adolescent girls aged 11-18 years.
Enhances nutritional and health status while improving home skills, life skills, and vocational skills.
Requires a provision of 100 grams of food grains per beneficiary per day for 300 days in a year.

Supply of food grains to Defence and Para-Military forces:
FCI supplies food grains to defense personnel and para-military forces on a quarterly basis.
Allotment made by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution based on the requirement received from the Ministry of Defence.

These welfare schemes have a significant impact on addressing nutrition and empowering specific segments of the population, ensuring their overall well-being and development.

The Public Distribution System

The Public Distribution System (PDS) in India is a government-run initiative aimed at providing essential commodities such as food grains, sugar, and kerosene at subsidized prices to the economically disadvantaged sections of society. The PDS is administered by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) in collaboration with state governments and operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution.

Features and components of the Public Distribution System in India:

Target Beneficiaries: The PDS primarily caters to two main categories of beneficiaries:
- Below Poverty Line (BPL) Families: These families are identified based on defined poverty criteria and are entitled to receive subsidized food grains.
- Above Poverty Line (APL) Families: These families, although not eligible for subsidized grains, may still receive food grains at a relatively higher price than BPL families.
Essential Commodities: The PDS provides essential commodities at subsidized rates, including:
- Food Grains: Typically, rice and wheat are distributed through the PDS. The government determines the quantity and price of these grains.
- Sugar: In some states, sugar is also included as part of the PDS.
- Kerosene: Kerosene oil is distributed through the PDS for domestic use.
Ration Card System: The PDS operates on a ration card system, wherein eligible households are issued a ration card that serves as an identification and entitlement document.
- Below Poverty Line (BPL) Ration Cards: These cards are issued to households falling below the defined poverty line, entitling them to receive subsidized food grains.
- Above Poverty Line (APL) Ration Cards: These cards are issued to households that are not below the poverty line but still wish to purchase grains through the PDS.
Fair Price Shops (FPS): The distribution of subsidized commodities takes place through a network of Fair Price Shops.
- These shops, also known as ration shops, are established at various locations across the country.
- Fair Price Shops are responsible for distributing the allocated quantity of food grains to eligible ration cardholders.
Aadhaar Integration: The government has integrated the Aadhaar system (a unique identification number) with the PDS to streamline and ensure accurate identification of beneficiaries, reduce leakages, and prevent duplicate or fake ration cards.
Reforms and Digitization: Efforts have been made to reform the PDS and introduce technology-driven solutions to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
- Computerization and digitization of the PDS to eliminate manual processes and enhance transparency.
- Introduction of end-to-end computerization and online tracking systems to monitor the movement of food grains.
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme to transfer subsidies directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries, reducing leakages and diversions.

The PDS is a crucial social welfare program in India, aiming to ensure food security and alleviate poverty by providing subsidized food grains to those in need. The system continues to undergo reforms to enhance its effectiveness and reach the intended beneficiaries more efficiently.

Drone technology

Why in news: Drones used to monitor road blocks in Manipur

Relevance: Prelims and GS 3 (Internal security, Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life and Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights)

Drone technology refers to the development and use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. Drones are aircraft that are either remotely piloted or operated autonomously using onboard computers and sensors. They come in various sizes, ranging from small handheld models to larger aircraft capable of carrying significant payloads.

Features of drone technology:

Design and Components: Drones typically consist of a lightweight frame, electric motors, propellers, a power source (such as batteries), sensors (e.g., GPS, gyroscopes, accelerometers), and a control system (either manual remote control or autonomous programming). The design can vary based on the drone’s purpose, such as aerial photography, package delivery, military surveillance, or scientific research.
Remote Control and Autonomy: Drones can be remotely controlled by a human operator using a remote control device or a computer interface. Advanced drones also incorporate autonomous capabilities, allowing them to perform pre-programmed tasks, follow flight paths, and make decisions based on sensor inputs.
Applications: Drones have a wide range of applications across various industries. Some common uses include aerial photography and videography, monitoring and inspecting infrastructure (e.g., power lines, pipelines, bridges), search and rescue operations, agricultural monitoring, environmental research, and even recreational activities.
Payloads and Sensors: Drones can carry different types of payloads, depending on their purpose. These can include high-resolution cameras for aerial photography and videography, multispectral sensors for agricultural analysis, thermal imaging cameras for search and rescue operations, and LiDAR systems for mapping and surveying.
Regulations: Due to safety and privacy concerns, the operation of drones is regulated by aviation authorities in many countries. These regulations often include restrictions on flight altitude, operating in designated areas, and obtaining permits or licenses for commercial drone use. It’s important for drone operators to be aware of and comply with these regulations.
Advancements and Future Trends: Drone technology is rapidly evolving. Advancements include increased flight range and endurance, improved obstacle avoidance systems, enhanced image stabilization for better aerial photography, and the development of swarming technology, where multiple drones can collaborate on complex tasks. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms is enabling drones to perform more sophisticated tasks autonomously.

Overall, drone technology has the potential to revolutionize industries and change the way we approach tasks that were previously difficult or costly to accomplish. However, it’s essential to balance technological advancements with responsible and ethical use to ensure safety, privacy, and regulatory compliance.

According to The Drones Rules – 2021

Categories of Drones: The regulations classify drones into five categories based on their maximum take-off weight (including payload). The categories are Nano (up to 250 grams), Micro (250 grams to 2 kg), Small (2 kg to 25 kg), Medium (25 kg to 150 kg), and Large (above 150 kg).
Drone Pilot Requirements: To operate drones in India, individuals must obtain a Remote Pilot License (RPL) issued by the DGCA. To be eligible for the license, pilots need to be at least 18 years old, pass a relevant ground training program, and pass a written exam conducted by the DGCA.
Drone Operator Requirements: Drone operators need to obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN) for each drone they intend to fly. Additionally, for drones falling under the Micro and above categories, operators need to obtain an Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP) from the DGCA.
No-Fly Zones and Restricted Areas: Certain areas are designated as “No-Fly Zones” or restricted airspace, including airports, military installations, and other sensitive areas. Drone operators are prohibited from flying in these zones without prior permission from the authorities.
Drone Operations: The regulations outline various operational restrictions and guidelines for drone flights. These include limitations on maximum altitude (e.g., 400 feet above ground level), maintaining a visual line of sight with the drone, avoiding flights near populated areas, and not flying drones over public gatherings or near emergency response operations.
Payload Restrictions: The regulations specify that drones should not carry any hazardous material or payload that may endanger the safety of the aircraft or people on the ground.
Insurance: Drone operators are required to have third-party liability insurance for their drones, as specified by the DGCA.

Click on the link below for The Drone rules – 2021

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Important Articles held on 22nd and 23rd June

Governor and State Election Commissioner

Why in news: West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose on Thursday blamed the State Election Commission (SEC) for the violence during the ongoing panchayat poll process in the State

Relevance: Prelims and GS 2 (Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies)

In Important Articles held on 22nd and 23rd June As per the Indian Constitution, a Governor is the constitutional head of a state in India. The role and powers of the Governor are outlined in the Constitution of India, specifically in Articles 153 to 162.

Here are some key points about the Governor’s role:

Appointment: The Governor is appointed by the President of India. The Governor’s post is not an elected position but is rather a political appointment.
Executive Powers: The Governor acts as the representative of the President at the state level. The executive powers of the state are vested in the Governor and are exercised by him/her either directly or through subordinate officers.
Legislative Powers: The Governor plays a crucial role in the legislative process. The Governor summons and prorogues the sessions of the state legislature and also addresses the legislature at the beginning of each session. The Governor gives assent to bills passed by the state legislature and can also withhold his/her assent in certain cases.
Role in the Council of Ministers: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister of the state. In the appointment of other ministers, the Governor acts on the advice of the Chief Minister. The Governor also has the power to dismiss the Council of Ministers if they lose the majority support in the state assembly.
Discretionary Powers: The Governor has some discretionary powers, which can be exercised in certain circumstances. These powers include the appointment of certain high-level officials, withholding assent to bills, and sending reports to the President about the state’s constitutional breakdown.
Relationship with the President: The Governor acts as a link between the state government and the President of India. The Governor submits reports to the President regarding the administration and conditions of the state.

It’s important to note that the role of the Governor varies from that of the President, who is the constitutional head of the entire country. The Governor’s position is specifically related to the administration of a state within the Indian federal system.

State Election Commission

The State Election Commission (SEC) in India is an independent constitutional authority responsible for conducting elections to local bodies, such as municipalities, panchayats (village councils), and other urban and rural local bodies, within a particular state. Each state has its own State Election Commission, which operates under the provisions of the Constitution of India and the respective State Election Commission Acts.

Here are some key points about the State Election Commission:

Composition: The State Election Commission is typically headed by a State Election Commissioner who is appointed by the Governor of the state. In some cases, the State Election Commissioner may be a retired judge of the High Court.
Conduct of Local Government Elections: The primary responsibility of the State Election Commission is to conduct elections for local government bodies such as Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, Panchayats, and other similar bodies within the state.
Superintendence, Direction, and Control: The State Election Commission exercises superintendence, direction, and control over the entire electoral process, including the preparation of electoral rolls, the delimitation of constituencies, and the conduct of elections. It ensures that elections are conducted fairly, impartially, and in accordance with the law.
Election Schedule and Notification: The State Election Commission is responsible for announcing the election schedule, issuing notifications regarding the elections, and setting the dates for various stages of the electoral process, such as filing nominations, scrutiny, withdrawal of candidature, polling, and counting of votes.
Election Code of Conduct: The State Election Commission enforces the Model Code of Conduct, which lays down guidelines and rules of conduct for political parties and candidates during the election period. The code aims to ensure a level playing field and prevent any misuse of power or unfair practices.
Powers and Independence: The State Election Commission has the powers of a civil court, including the ability to summon witnesses, receive evidence, and enforce its orders. It enjoys financial and administrative autonomy to ensure its independence and impartiality in conducting elections.
Electoral Disputes: The State Election Commission is also involved in resolving disputes related to the conduct of elections. It may deal with complaints, objections, and appeals concerning the electoral process and take appropriate action to address them.

It’s important to note that the State Election Commission is separate from the Election Commission of India (ECI), which is responsible for conducting elections to the Parliament and state legislative assemblies. The ECI is a constitutional body established at the national level, while the State Election Commission operates at the state level specifically for local body elections.

Stem cell

Why in news: Upasana Kamineni,wife of actor Ram Charan, announced on Twitter that she had chosen to preserve her baby’s cord blood.

Relevance: Prelims and GS 3 (Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology)

In Important Articles held on 22nd and 23rd June Stem cells are a special type of cells found in the human body that have the remarkable ability to differentiate into various other types of cells and tissues. They are characterized by their self-renewal capacity, which means they can divide and produce more identical stem cells, as well as their ability to differentiate into specialized cell types with specific functions.

Characteristics of stem cells:

Self-renewal: Stem cells have the ability to divide and produce more identical stem cells. This self-renewal capacity allows them to maintain a constant population of undifferentiated stem cells.
Potency: Stem cells have different levels of potency or developmental potential. Totipotent stem cells, found in the early embryo, can give rise to any cell type and even an entire organism. Pluripotent stem cells, like embryonic stem cells, can differentiate into cells from all three germ layers. Multipotent stem cells, such as adult stem cells, are more limited in their differentiation potential and can give rise to specific cell types within a particular tissue or organ.
Differentiation: Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into specialized cell types with specific functions. Through a process called differentiation, stem cells can transform into cells of various tissues and organs, including nerve cells, muscle cells, blood cells, and more.
Plasticity: Some stem cells display plasticity, which means they can differentiate into cell types beyond their tissue of origin. For example, adult stem cells found in the bone marrow may have the capacity to differentiate into cells of other tissues, such as the liver or heart.
Quiescence: Stem cells can enter a quiescent or dormant state, where they are not actively dividing or differentiating. This quiescent state helps protect the stem cells from damage or depletion and allows them to remain available for future tissue regeneration or repair.
Immunomodulation: Stem cells possess immunomodulatory properties, meaning they can influence the immune response. They can modulate the activity of immune cells and reduce inflammation, which is beneficial in certain diseases and conditions.
Longevity: Stem cells have the potential for long-term survival. Some stem cells, particularly those found in specific niches within the body, can persist throughout a person’s lifetime, continuously providing a source of new cells for tissue maintenance and repair.
Genetic stability: Stem cells often have mechanisms in place to maintain the integrity of their genetic material during replication and differentiation. This helps ensure that the newly formed cells retain the correct genetic information and reduces the risk of genetic abnormalities.

The properties of stem cells can vary depending on their source and stage of development.

Ways stem cells can be used for human purposes:

Regenerative Medicine: One of the primary goals of stem cell research is to develop regenerative therapies. Stem cells can potentially be used to replace or repair damaged or diseased tissues and organs. By differentiating stem cells into the desired cell types, they can be transplanted into patients to restore lost or impaired function. For example, stem cell-based treatments are being explored for conditions such as heart disease, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.
Drug Discovery and Development: Stem cells can be used to create disease models in the laboratory, allowing researchers to study the progression of diseases and test the efficacy and safety of potential drugs. This approach can help identify new drug targets, accelerate the drug discovery process, and reduce the need for animal testing.
Disease Modeling: By deriving stem cells from patients with specific genetic diseases or conditions, scientists can generate disease-specific cell lines. These cells can be used to study the disease mechanisms, investigate the effects of genetic mutations, and test potential therapies in a personalized manner.
Tissue Engineering: Stem cells can be combined with scaffolds and growth factors to create engineered tissues and organs in the laboratory. These tissues can potentially be used for transplantation, reducing the need for organ donors and the risk of organ rejection. Tissue-engineered organs are currently being developed for applications such as skin grafts, blood vessels, and even more complex structures like kidneys and hearts.
Understanding Developmental Processes: Studying stem cells allows researchers to gain insights into the early stages of human development. By observing how stem cells differentiate and organize themselves into complex structures, scientists can better understand normal development and identify the causes of developmental disorders.
Gene Editing and Gene Therapy: Stem cells can serve as a platform for gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, to correct genetic mutations associated with inherited diseases. By modifying the genetic material of stem cells and then differentiating them into specific cell types, it may be possible to replace faulty genes and provide therapeutic benefits.
Transplantation Compatibility: Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be generated from a patient’s own cells, such as skin cells, and then differentiated into the desired cell type. These patient-specific cells can potentially be used for transplantation without the risk of immune rejection, as they would be genetically matched to the individual.
Understanding Cancer: Cancer stem cells, a small subset of cells within tumors, have properties similar to normal stem cells. Studying these cancer stem cells can help researchers understand the mechanisms behind tumor growth, recurrence, and drug resistance, potentially leading to more effective cancer treatments.

While stem cell research and its potential applications are promising, many of these approaches are still in the experimental or early stages of development. Extensive research, rigorous testing, and clinical trials are necessary to ensure their safety and efficacy before widespread implementation.

Monetary Policy Committee

Why in news: Monetary Policy Committee stresses need for inflation vigil.

Relevance: Prelims and GS 3 (Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment)

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is a committee established by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to determine the monetary policy of India. The MPC was set up in 2016 following the enactment of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, which amended the previous system of monetary policy decision-making in India.

Composition: The MPC consists of six members – three members nominated by the Government of India and three members from the RBI. The Governor of the RBI serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the MPC.
Objectives: The primary objective of the MPC is to maintain price stability and control inflation within a specified target range. The current inflation target is set at 4% with a tolerance band of +/- 2%.
Monetary Policy Meetings: The MPC meets at least four times a year to review the economic and financial conditions in the country and make decisions regarding the monetary policy stance. These meetings are usually held over two days and are accompanied by a detailed statement explaining the policy decisions.
Policy Decisions: The MPC decides the benchmark policy interest rate, known as the repo rate, which is the rate at which commercial banks borrow money from the RBI. Changes in the repo rate have a significant impact on borrowing costs and liquidity in the economy. The MPC also determines the reverse repo rate, the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate, and other policy rates.
Deliberations and Voting: During the MPC meetings, members discuss various factors such as inflation, growth, fiscal policy, global economic conditions, and other relevant indicators before taking a decision. Each member has one vote, and the decisions are made by a majority vote. In case of a tie, the RBI Governor has a casting vote.
Transparency and Accountability: The MPC follows a transparent approach, and its decisions are communicated through policy statements and press conferences. The minutes of the MPC meetings are published after a lag of two weeks, providing detailed insights into the deliberations and individual views of the members.

The establishment of the Monetary Policy Committee in India has brought greater transparency and accountability to the decision-making process, providing a framework for managing monetary policy in a systematic and independent manner.

G20 on Artificial Intelligence

Why in news: G-20 Education Ministers agree on equitable use of AI.

Relevance: Prelims and GS 2&3 (Education, AI and its impact on education – Benefits and challenges – Solution to overcome the challenges)

The Education Ministers of G-20 countries convened in Pune and reached a consensus on promoting the equitable use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and skilling while upholding human rights. The ministers emphasized the significance of education as a catalyst for global human dignity and empowerment.

The outcome statement from the meeting highlighted the shared commitment among G-20 members to collaborate in building a resilient, equitable, inclusive, and sustainable future through education. It was unanimously agreed that individuals from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, socio-economic background, cultural diversity, or those facing learning difficulties or special needs, should have access to high-quality, inclusive, and fair education and training opportunities. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of education, the ministers emphasized the importance of nurturing not only academic knowledge but also life skills, technical proficiencies, and vocational capabilities, ensuring learners are prepared for the future. The statement also stressed the significance of lifelong learning.

Furthermore, the meeting acknowledged the pivotal roles played by digital transformations, women-led development, the green transition, and education on sustainable development and lifestyles as accelerators for achieving sustainable development goals.

Addressing the digital divide emerged as a critical concern, and the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to bridging the technological infrastructure gaps for all learners. They expressed the collective need to develop affordable and easily accessible technology ecosystems, learning resources, and localized content in various languages. In doing so, they emphasized the importance of ensuring that the use of AI in education and skilling respects human rights and promotes equity and inclusivity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his video message to the G-20, stressed the importance of continuously equipping the youth with the necessary skills for the future. He emphasized the need to align their competencies with evolving work profiles and practices. India, he mentioned, has undertaken a skill mapping initiative, with the Education, Skill, and Labour Ministries working collaboratively. Prime Minister Modi encouraged G-20 countries to undertake similar skill mapping efforts globally to identify and address existing gaps.

AI or Artificial Intelligence, refers to the development and implementation of computer systems that can perform tasks and make decisions that typically require human intelligence. It is a multidisciplinary field of study that combines computer science, machine learning, mathematics, and other related disciplines. AI enables machines to simulate intelligent behavior by processing vast amounts of data, recognizing patterns, learning from experience, and adapting to new information. It encompasses various subfields, including:

Machine Learning: This involves training algorithms to learn from data and make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed. Machine learning algorithms improve their performance over time as they gain more experience and data.
Deep Learning: Deep learning is a subset of machine learning that focuses on training artificial neural networks to process and interpret complex patterns in data. It has been particularly successful in areas such as image and speech recognition.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP deals with the interaction between computers and human language. It enables machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language, facilitating tasks such as speech recognition, language translation, and sentiment analysis.
Computer Vision: Computer vision involves teaching computers to understand and interpret visual information from images or videos. It enables machines to recognize objects, understand scenes, and perform tasks such as facial recognition or autonomous driving.
Robotics: AI plays a crucial role in the field of robotics by enabling machines to perceive their environment, make decisions, and manipulate objects. AI-powered robots can perform complex tasks autonomously or with minimal human intervention.

AI has a wide range of applications across various industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, education, and entertainment. It has the potential to revolutionize industries, improve efficiency, and solve complex problems. However, ethical considerations, transparency, and responsible development are important factors to address in the advancement of AI technologies.

The impact of AI on education as follows:

Personalized Learning: AI enables adaptive learning systems that can tailor educational content and methods to individual students’ needs and learning styles. This personalized approach can enhance student engagement and comprehension, as the content is more relevant and suited to their specific requirements.
Intelligent Tutoring: AI-powered tutoring systems can provide students with personalized feedback, guidance, and support. These systems can analyze student performance data, identify areas of improvement, and offer targeted assistance, thereby enhancing learning outcomes.
Automated Grading: AI algorithms can automate the grading and assessment process, saving teachers time and effort. By analyzing student responses and patterns, AI can provide quick and accurate feedback on assignments and exams, enabling teachers to focus on higher-level instructional activities.
Virtual Assistants and Chatbots: AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots can provide instant support to students, answering their questions, providing explanations, and guiding them through various educational resources. These AI companions can enhance student self-paced learning and offer 24/7 availability.
Smart Content Creation: AI can assist in the creation of educational content, such as generating automated summaries, creating interactive materials, and even developing virtual simulations. This automation can save educators time and enable them to create more engaging and effective learning materials.
Early Intervention and Support: AI can help identify students who may be at risk of falling behind or experiencing learning difficulties. By analyzing data on student performance, behavior, and engagement, AI systems can provide early intervention and targeted support to ensure timely assistance and improve student outcomes.
Data Analysis and Predictive Analytics: AI can analyze vast amounts of educational data, including student performance, attendance, and engagement, to identify patterns and trends. This data analysis can provide insights for educational institutions to make informed decisions, optimize teaching strategies, and predict future outcomes.
Accessibility and Inclusion: AI technologies can help bridge the accessibility gap for students with disabilities or special needs. Through speech recognition, text-to-speech, and other assistive technologies, AI can provide customized learning experiences that accommodate diverse learning requirements.
Administrative Efficiency: AI can streamline administrative tasks, such as scheduling, enrollment, and record-keeping, freeing up valuable time for educators and administrators to focus on instructional activities and student support.
Ethical Considerations: The integration of AI in education also raises ethical considerations, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the responsibility to ensure AI technologies are used ethically and fairly. Educators and policymakers need to address these concerns to ensure the responsible and equitable use of AI in education.

Overall, AI has the potential to revolutionize education by enhancing personalized learning, supporting teachers, improving administrative efficiency, and enabling inclusive and accessible education. It is important to approach the integration of AI in education with careful planning, teacher training, and ethical guidelines to maximize its benefits and mitigate potential challenges.

Reserve Bank of India (Relief Measures by Banks in Areas Affected by Natural Calamities) Directions, 2018

Why in news: Manipur Invokes RBI’s Riot Provisions to Aid Borrowers

Relevance: Prelims – “Reserve Bank of India (Relief Measures by Banks in Areas Affected by Natural Calamities) Directions, 2018,”

The Manipur government has declared that the entire state has been affected by riots and violence, causing significant impact on the economic activities and livelihood of the public.
In response, the state government has utilized a rarely employed provision of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) that deals with the restructuring and rescheduling of loans to provide relief. This provision specifically assists borrowers when economic activity comes to a halt and includes a moratorium on loan repayments. Typically, these guidelines are invoked in areas affected by natural calamities rather than law and order situations.
According to an order issued on June 21 by Vineet Joshi, Chief Secretary of Manipur, several Deputy Commissioners have reported significant damage to properties and businesses due to the prevailing law and order situation. The order states that borrowers who have taken loans are currently unable to repay them and have requested the State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC) to provide relief to the affected individuals. The SLBC discussed this matter on June 9.
The order also references Chapter No. 7 of the “Reserve Bank of India (Relief Measures by Banks in Areas Affected by Natural Calamities) Directions, 2018,” which is applicable to the state of Manipur.
Therefore, the Governor of Manipur declares in the order that the entire state of Manipur is being affected by violence/riots, resulting in an impact on economic activities and the public’s livelihood. The order suggests that relief measures may be implemented following the RBI’s guidelines.

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Important Articles held on 21st and 22nd June

Habeas corpus

Important Articles held on 21st and 22nd June Article 32 of the Indian Constitution is a fundamental right that grants individuals the right to seek enforcement of their fundamental rights through the Supreme Court of India.

Habeas Corpus It is a Latin term which literally means ‘to I have the body of’ . It is an order issued by the court to a person who has detained another person, to produce the body of the latter before it. The court then examines the cause and legality of detention. It would set the detained person free, if the detention is found to be illegal. Thus, this writ is a bulwark of individual liberty against arbitrary detention.

The writ of habeas corpus can be issued against both public authorities as well as private individuals . The writ, on the other hand, is not issued where the

detention is lawful
the proceeding is for contempt of a legislature or a court
detention is by a competent court, and
detention is outside the jurisdiction of the court .

Brief explanation of Article 32:

Article 32 states that an individual has the right to move the Supreme Court of India for the enforcement of fundamental rights when they are violated.
This article empowers the Supreme Court to issue writs, including habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari, for the protection of fundamental rights.
The purpose of Article 32 is to ensure that citizens have an effective and direct remedy when their fundamental rights are infringed upon by the state or any other authority.
It allows any person, regardless of their citizenship, to approach the Supreme Court directly without having to go through the lower courts first, in cases involving the violation of fundamental rights.
The Supreme Court has the power to issue directions, orders, or writs as necessary to protect and enforce fundamental rights.
Article 32 is considered a cornerstone of the Indian Constitution and plays a crucial role in upholding the rights and liberties of individuals.
Suspension of Remedies: The power of the Supreme Court to issue writs can be suspended during a state of emergency declared by the President of India.

Article 32 is considered to be a cornerstone of the Indian Constitution as it ensures the protection and enforcement of fundamental rights. It enables individuals to directly approach the Supreme Court as a safeguard against any violation of their fundamental rights.

Superconductors

The origins of superconductivity can be traced back to 1911 when the Dutch physicist Heike Kamerlingh Onnes made a groundbreaking discovery. Onnes, while studying the properties of materials at low temperatures, managed to cool mercury to a temperature of 4.2 Kelvin (-268.95 degrees Celsius), which is just above absolute zero. To his surprise, he observed that the electrical resistance of mercury suddenly vanished, marking the first documented observation of superconductivity.

A major breakthrough occurred in 1957 with the discovery of a new class of superconducting materials called Type II superconductors. Unlike the previously known Type I superconductors, Type II materials exhibited a mixed state in which they could partially resist magnetic fields. This finding opened up new possibilities for applications of superconductivity, as it allowed for the creation of superconducting magnets capable of producing powerful magnetic fields.

Another significant development came in 1986 when two IBM scientists, Karl Alex Müller and Johannes Georg Bednorz, discovered a high-temperature superconductor. They found that a copper-based ceramic material called a cuprate compound could exhibit superconductivity at a temperature of 35 Kelvin (-238.15 degrees Celsius). This breakthrough shattered the long-held belief that superconductivity could only occur at extremely low temperatures and sparked an explosion of research into high-temperature superconductors.

Superconductors are a special class of materials that exhibit zero electrical resistance when cooled below a critical temperature. In other words, they allow for the flow of electric current without any energy loss due to resistance. This phenomenon is known as superconductivity.

Superconductors also have the unique property of expelling magnetic fields from their interior, a behavior called the Meissner effect. When a superconductor is subjected to a magnetic field, it generates an equal and opposite magnetic field, effectively repelling the applied field and causing the material to levitate or float above a magnet, a phenomenon known as magnetic levitation.

The critical temperature at which a material becomes superconducting varies depending on the specific material. In conventional superconductors, such as certain metals and alloys, the critical temperature is typically very low, ranging from a few Kelvin (close to absolute zero) to a few tens of Kelvin.

Superconductors possess several unique properties and advantages that make them valuable in various fields. Some key properties of superconductors include:

Zero electrical resistance: Superconductors can carry electrical currents without any loss of energy due to resistance. This property makes them highly efficient for applications involving electrical power transmission and high-performance electrical devices.
Meissner effect: Superconductors expel magnetic fields from their interior, allowing for the creation of powerful and stable magnetic fields. This property is utilized in applications such as superconducting magnets for particle accelerators, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, and magnetic levitation systems.
Critical magnetic field: Superconductors can withstand a certain level of external magnetic field before they transition from the superconducting state to a normal conducting state. This critical magnetic field is a crucial parameter for determining the practicality and performance of superconducting materials.
Flux pinning: Superconductors can trap magnetic flux lines within their structure, a phenomenon known as flux pinning. This property helps to stabilize the superconducting state and allows for the creation of strong and persistent magnetic fields.
Josephson effect: Superconductors exhibit a phenomenon called the Josephson effect, where a supercurrent can flow between two superconductors separated by a thin insulating barrier. This effect is utilized in superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) and high-precision sensors.

The study and development of superconductors continue to advance, with ongoing research aimed at discovering new materials with higher critical temperatures and exploring their applications in various fields such as energy transmission, computing, and medical technologies.

India and NATO

NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is a political and military alliance established in 1949. It consists of 30 member countries, primarily in North America and Europe, who have agreed to collective defense and cooperation. The alliance aims to promote stability, security, and peace in the North Atlantic region.

India, on the other hand, is a sovereign country located in South Asia. It is not a member of NATO but maintains a significant geopolitical presence in the region. India pursues its own foreign policy goals and has engaged in strategic partnerships and collaborations with various countries and regional organizations.

While NATO and India do not have a formal alliance, there have been interactions and cooperation between India and NATO member countries on specific issues. For instance, India has engaged in dialogue and joint military exercises with NATO members to promote military cooperation and enhance interoperability.

India’s engagement with NATO primarily focuses on areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and peacekeeping operations. There have been instances of information sharing, capacity-building programs, and discussions on regional security challenges. India has also participated in NATO-led operations, including peacekeeping missions in the Balkans and Afghanistan.

It’s worth noting that India follows a policy of non-alignment and prioritizes maintaining strategic autonomy in its foreign relations. As such, while India engages with NATO and other international partners, it seeks to balance its relationships and avoid formal alignment with any particular military alliance.

“NATO Plus five” refers to a grouping that includes the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and five countries: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, and South Korea. The purpose of this group is to enhance global defense cooperation and collaboration.

If India were to become a member of NATO Plus, it could potentially benefit in several ways:

Seamless intelligence sharing: India would have access to enhanced intelligence sharing among the member countries. This would provide valuable information and insights, contributing to India’s national security and counterterrorism efforts.
Access to advanced military technology: Membership in NATO Plus would give India the opportunity to access the latest military technology and equipment from the member countries. This access could be expedited, reducing the time lag typically associated with acquiring advanced defense systems.
Strengthened defense partnership with the United States: Joining NATO Plus would further solidify India’s defense partnership with the United States. The United States, being a NATO member, would potentially deepen its military cooperation with India, leading to increased defense collaboration and strategic alignment.

It’s important to note that NATO Plus is a hypothetical scenario, and India’s actual foreign policy decisions regarding alliances and partnerships are determined by a range of factors, including its own strategic interests, regional dynamics, and maintaining its policy of non-alignment. Overall, while NATO and India do have some areas of cooperation and dialogue, their relationship is not characterized by formal alliance membership. Instead, India maintains its own independent foreign policy and engages with various countries and organizations based on its national interests.

Rethinking the Retention of Sedition Law in India

The Law Commission of India, in its 279th report released in April 2023, has recommended retaining Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with the offense of sedition. This recommendation comes in response to the Supreme Court of India’s directive in May 2022 to put all pending sedition cases on hold, citing concerns about the compatibility of the section with the current social milieu. The Law Commission argues that retaining the sedition law is necessary to counter threats to India’s internal security. However, there are contrasting views on the effectiveness and potential misuse of this controversial law.

Maoist Violence and the Need for Stringent Measures: The Law Commission’s report highlights the violence perpetrated by Maoist groups in India and emphasizes the need to tackle this threat effectively. Data from the Ministry of Home Affairs reveal that Maoist incidents have ranged from 1,533 in 2004 to 509 in 2021, with fatalities varying from 566 to 147 during the same period. The Maoists’ objective is to overthrow the democratically elected government through an armed struggle, posing a significant challenge to internal security. The Law Commission argues that retaining Section 124A IPC provides a legal tool to counter this threat.
Limited Use of Sedition Law in Maoist Cases: Despite the prevalence of Maoist violence, the Law Commission’s report highlights the minimal use of Section 124A IPC in combating Maoism. In Chhattisgarh, a state heavily affected by Maoist activities, the number of cases registered solely under this section was negligible. Between 2014 and 2021, there were no cases registered under Section 124A IPC in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2020, and the numbers varied from one to a maximum of three in the remaining years. Instead, provisions under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Explosive Substances Act, IPC, and state-specific laws like the Chhattisgarh Special Public Safety Act, 2005, are commonly employed to curb unlawful activities by Maoists, considering their use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and ambush attacks.
Objective Definition of ‘Unlawful Activity’ under UAPA: The Law Commission draws attention to the provision of ‘unlawful activity’ under Section 2(1)(o) of the UAPA, which includes actions intended to cause disaffection against India. The punishment prescribed under this provision is imprisonment up to seven years and a fine. The Supreme Court has consistently held that criticizing the government does not constitute sedition. Comparatively, the UAPA’s definition of ‘unlawful activity’ seems more objective and less problematic than Section 124A IPC. To address any hurdles related to prosecution under the UAPA requiring central government sanction, the Law Commission suggests amending Section 45 of the UAPA to authorize state governments to grant prosecution sanction.
Lessons from the United Kingdom: The Law Commission’s report cites the example of the United Kingdom, which abolished its law on sedition in 2009. The UK justified the decision based on the availability of a sufficient range of other offenses and the political nature of the offense. The Indian scenario is not significantly different from the UK’s, raising questions about the necessity of retaining Section 124A IPC.
Conflict with Established Jurisprudence: The Law Commission’s recommendation for conducting a preliminary inquiry to determine prima facie evidence supporting allegations of sedition conflicts with established jurisprudence, as outlined in the Supreme Court’s Lalita Kumari v. Govt. of Uttar Pradesh and others (2014) case. The Supreme Court has ruled that if information discloses the commission of a cognizable offense, the officer-in-charge must register an FIR and initiate an investigation. Preliminary inquiries are permissible only when a case does not clearly disclose the basis of a cognizable offense. The introduction of provisions mandating preliminary inquiries and seeking permission from the central or state government before registering an FIR may be challenged as arbitrary under Article 14 of the Constitution.

Conclusion

Given the contentious nature of the sedition law, it is essential for all state governments and political parties to engage in comprehensive and inclusive deliberations on the Law Commission’s report. Seeking public opinion can help arrive at a more participative and agreeable decision, even if unanimity is not feasible. Balancing the preservation of democratic principles and addressing the country’s security concerns is of utmost importance in determining the future of the sedition law in India.

Gati Shakti Scheme

The Government of India has launched the transformative Gati Shakti scheme, also known as the National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity. This ambitious initiative seeks to accelerate infrastructure development, reduce logistics costs, and attract private capital investments. Recently, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and various industries have expressed their interest in gaining access to the PM Gati Shakti portal.

Gati Shakti Scheme: Objectives and Integration:

The primary aim of the Gati Shakti scheme is to ensure integrated planning and execution of infrastructure projects over the next four years. It focuses on expediting work, reducing costs, and generating employment opportunities. The scheme incorporates the National Infrastructure Pipeline, a project worth Rs 110 lakh crore, initiated in 2019. By integrating the pipeline, the scheme ensures continuity and comprehensive planning for infrastructure development.

Key Objectives of the Gati Shakti Scheme:

Reducing Logistics Costs: The scheme targets reducing logistics costs, which will enhance India’s export competitiveness in the global market, foster economic growth, and facilitate trade.
Enhancing Cargo Handling Capacity: By improving cargo handling capacity, the scheme aims to streamline transportation and logistics operations, enabling efficient movement of goods and reducing bottlenecks.
Improving Turnaround Time at Ports: The scheme intends to enhance port infrastructure and processes, reducing turnaround time for ships and promoting seamless import and export activities.
Establishing Industrial and Defense Corridors: The scheme focuses on establishing dedicated corridors for industries and defense, facilitating efficient transportation and promoting economic development in these sectors.
Extending 4G Connectivity to Villages: With the aim of bridging the digital divide, the scheme seeks to provide 4G connectivity to all villages, enabling access to information, services, and opportunities.
Expanding Gas Pipeline Network: The scheme aims to expand the gas pipeline network, promoting the use of clean energy sources and fostering sustainable development.

Integrated Approach and Gati Shakti Digital Platform:

The Gati Shakti scheme adopts an integrated approach by bringing together 16 infrastructure-related ministries. This collaborative effort addresses issues related to planning, standardization, clearances, and timely creation and utilization of infrastructure capacities. Additionally, the scheme includes the development of a digital platform, the PM Gati Shakti portal, facilitating real-time coordination and planning of infrastructure projects among various ministries and departments.

Expected Outcomes:

Mapping of Connectivity Projects: The scheme aims to map existing and proposed connectivity projects, providing clarity on regional and industrial hub linkages, particularly for last-mile connectivity.
Holistic Transport Connectivity: By integrating different modes of transport, the scheme supports the “Make in India” initiative and establishes a comprehensive and efficient transport connectivity strategy.
Enhanced Competitiveness: Reduction in logistical costs will improve India’s export competitiveness, thereby promoting economic growth and expanding international trade.
Economic Growth and Employment: The development of quality infrastructure is expected to stimulate economic activities, foster sustainable development, and create employment opportunities on a large scale.

Challenges to Address:

While implementing the Gati Shakti scheme, addressing certain challenges is crucial for its success. These challenges include declining credit offtake, lack of private demand, land acquisition delays, and litigation. To ensure long-term success, the initiative should be accompanied by a stable and predictable regulatory and institutional framework.

Conclusion:

The Gati Shakti scheme serves as a catalyst for infrastructure development and private investments in connectivity. By promoting integrated planning, improving logistics, and fostering public-private collaboration, the scheme aims to reduce costs, enhance competitiveness, and drive economic growth. Granting industry access to the PM Gati Shakti portal’s non-sensitive data will further facilitate planning and attract much-needed private capital investments, strengthening India’s infrastructure backbone. The successful implementation of the Gati Shakti scheme will not only transform India’s connectivity but also contribute to the overall development and prosperity of the nation.

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Important Events held on 18th and 19th May

RBI issues framework for acceptance of green deposits by banks, NBFCs

Important Events held on 18th and 19th May – 01

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a framework for the acceptance of green deposits by regulated entities (REs) such as banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).
The purpose of the framework is to encourage REs to offer green deposits to customers and promote sustainability.
The framework aims to protect the interests of depositors, aid customers in achieving their sustainability agenda, address concerns related to greenwashing, and increase credit flow to green activities and projects.
The guidelines will be effective from June 1, 2023.
Green deposits will be utilized for financing activities related to renewable energy, green transport, and green buildings.
The allocation of proceeds raised from green deposits should be based on the official Indian green taxonomy.
In the absence of a finalized taxonomy, REs will be required to allocate the funds to a specified list of green activities/projects.
The specified projects/activities should focus on energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and greenhouse gases, promoting climate resilience and adaptation, and enhancing natural ecosystems and biodiversity.
Projects involving extraction, production, and distribution of fossil fuels, nuclear power generation, and direct waste incineration are excluded from the green deposit framework.
Banks and NBFCs must establish a comprehensive board-approved policy on green deposits.

Implications of EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism on Indian Businesses

Important Events held on 18th and 19th May – 02

Introduction:

The EU has introduced the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) as part of its Green Deal initiative.
CBAM aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prevent carbon leakage by imposing a fee on the carbon emissions contained in specific imports.

Implementation and Phases:

The European Parliament passed legislation for the implementation of CBAM on April 18, 2023.
CBAM will be rolled out in four phases, with the Carbon Border Tax (CBT) becoming applicable from January 2026.
The CBT will be imposed on imports of products like steel, aluminum, fertilizer, electricity, cement, and hydrogen.

Concerns and Criticisms from India:

India, a developing country with a target of becoming carbon neutral by 2070, has expressed concerns about CBAM.
India has raised objections to CBAM at international forums, including the World Trade Organization (WTO).
The country emphasizes the importance of non-discriminatory treatment for similar products and warns about potential protectionist practices arising from CBAM.

Functionality of CBAM:

CBAM ensures fair competition by addressing the carbon cost borne by EU installations under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and imported products.
It applies a fee on the carbon emissions in certain imports, equal to the fee imposed on domestic products under the ETS.
The goal is to discourage companies from relocating their manufacturing operations outside the EU to evade climate regulations.

Implications for Indian Businesses:

Indian manufacturing entities and exporters may face challenges due to the additional costs imposed by the carbon border tax.
It could impact the competitiveness of Indian products in the EU market, potentially leading to reduced export volumes.
Businesses in sectors like steel, aluminum, fertilizer, electricity, cement, and hydrogen may need to adapt their operations to comply with the EU’s carbon standards.

Business Actions to Prepare for CBAM:

Assess the potential impact of CBAM on the business’s products and competitiveness in the EU market.
Explore opportunities to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency to mitigate the impact of the carbon border tax.
Engage in dialogue with EU counterparts, industry associations, and government bodies to advocate for fair treatment and address concerns regarding CBAM.

Overall, the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism poses trade restrictions that could impact Indian businesses. To prepare for the implementation of the carbon border tax, businesses should evaluate the implications, seek ways to reduce emissions, and engage in proactive communication and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

The transitional phase of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will be in effect from October 1, 2023, until December 31, 2025.
During this phase, quarterly reports on greenhouse gas emissions of specific products imported into the EU will be required, covering both direct and indirect emissions.
Starting from 2026, the purchase of CBAM certificates will be mandatory to cover GHG emissions.
The cost of these certificates will be linked to carbon prices under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS).
CBAM will impose an additional cost on exporting to the EU market, which will be shared between the exporter or producer.
This additional cost could impact the marketing strategies of exporters or producers.
CBAM has drawn criticism from countries like China, India, some US industries, and many industries in developing countries.
These countries rely heavily on coal-fired electricity, and the CBAM regulation could affect their manufacturing sectors.
The regulation requires companies exporting iron, steel, fertilizers, or cement to the EU to calculate and pay for greenhouse gas and carbon emissions associated with each product.
If the added cost cannot be absorbed, companies may have to explore trading with countries that do not have such a tax or revise their production methods to emit fewer greenhouse gases or carbon.
While CBAM may benefit the environment, it could lead to supply chain fragmentation and increased costs.
Businesses should carefully assess the potential impact of CBAM on their operations.
They should also explore ways to become more environmentally sustainable in the long term to avoid disruptions to their business activities.

Products and Sectors Covered by CBAM:

Iron and Steel: CBAM applies to the iron and steel industry, which is responsible for a significant amount of global carbon emissions.
Cement: CBAM covers the cement sector, taking into account indirect emissions associated with cement production.
Fertilizers: Only indirect emissions from the fertilizer industry are considered under CBAM.
Aluminum: CBAM includes the aluminum industry, which is known for its high carbon intensity.
Electricity: The scope of CBAM extends to the electricity sector, targeting carbon-intensive electricity generation.
Hydrogen: CBAM also covers hydrogen production, particularly in relation to its carbon intensity.
Precursors and Downstream Products: CBAM includes certain precursors and a limited number of downstream products in the covered sectors.

Timeline for Expansion:

The CBAM Regulation mandates the European Commission to establish a timeline for gradually integrating all products covered under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) into CBAM, including indirect emissions and emissions from international transportation, by 2030.

Impact on Indian Exports and Mitigation Strategies:

Economic Impact: The implementation of CBAM by the EU is expected to have a significant economic impact on India’s exports of energy-intensive products such as steel, aluminum, cement, and fertilizers. Indian exporters may face higher prices, reduced competitiveness, and lower demand in the EU market.
Steel Industry: The steel industry is considered a hard-to-abate sector and a major contributor to global emissions. The rise in steel demand and energy-intensive production processes have led to increased carbon emissions.
Challenge to Indian Metal Sector: The CBAM implementation poses a significant challenge to India’s metal sector. In 2022, a substantial portion of India’s iron, steel, and aluminum exports went to the EU, and the CBAM will result in Indian firms paying a carbon tax on each consignment, potentially amounting to 20-35 percent of tariffs.
Impact on Product Competitiveness: The impact of CBAM on Indian exports depends on the carbon intensity of the products and their substitutes in the EU market. Products with high carbon intensity may face higher charges, reducing their competitiveness. However, if low-carbon substitutes are not readily available in the EU market, the impact on Indian exports may be limited.
Lack of Emissions Trading System: India’s lack of an emissions trading system like the EU ETS presents a challenge. Without such a system, it may be difficult for Indian businesses to demonstrate low-carbon production methods, potentially resulting in higher CBAM charges.

Mitigation Strategies:

Carbon Pricing Mechanism: India needs to implement a carbon pricing mechanism to incentivize low-carbon production and provide a basis for demonstrating compliance with CBAM regulations.
Development of Low-Carbon Technologies: To remain competitive, Indian businesses should invest in and develop low-carbon technologies to reduce the carbon intensity of their products.
Export Strategy Review: India should review its export strategy and explore alternative markets where its products can remain competitive despite the impact of CBAM in the EU market.

Business Support:

Indian businesses can seek assistance with various aspects related to international trade and market entry strategies, such as business matchmaking, location analysis, market research, market entry strategy, and supply chain re-engineering in Asia.

Impact of CBAM on manufacturing in India:

Increased tax burden: The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) may impose higher taxes on Indian manufacturers exporting products to the EU compared to their EU counterparts. This could reduce the competitiveness of Indian manufacturers and potentially shift demand towards EU-made products.
Compliance requirements: Indian companies will need to comply with CBAM regulations, which may require them to provide data on carbon emissions associated with their products. This could create additional administrative burdens and compliance costs for manufacturers.
Market disruption: The implementation of CBAM could disrupt the Indian manufacturing industry, as companies may need to reevaluate their export strategies and adapt to changing market dynamics. The shift in demand towards EU-made products may impact the growth and profitability of Indian manufacturers.

Mitigation strategies for Indian companies:

Investment in renewable energy: Indian manufacturers can invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce their carbon emissions. This will not only help them comply with CBAM requirements but also make their products more environmentally friendly and competitive in the EU market.
Supply chain optimization: Companies can optimize their supply chain processes to reduce the carbon footprint of their products. This includes sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers, implementing energy-efficient manufacturing practices, and promoting recycling and waste reduction.
Diversification of export markets: To reduce dependence on the EU market and mitigate the impact of CBAM, Indian companies can explore opportunities in other regions. By diversifying their export markets, they can minimize the potential loss of demand from the EU and maintain a stable customer base.
Engaging with policymakers: Indian manufacturers should engage with policymakers, both in India and the EU, to provide inputs on the design and implementation of CBAM. By actively participating in policy discussions, they can influence the development of regulations that are fair and considerate of their specific challenges and capabilities.

Mitigation strategies for the Indian government:

Negotiating with the EU: The Indian government can engage in negotiations with the EU to secure exemptions or reduced rates for Indian manufacturers under CBAM. This would help ensure that Indian companies are not disproportionately penalized for their emissions and maintain a level playing field.
Development of a domestic carbon pricing mechanism: The government can work on establishing a domestic carbon pricing mechanism, incentivizing companies to reduce their emissions. This would align India’s policies with the EU’s carbon reduction goals and make Indian businesses more competitive globally.
Promotion of renewable energy: The Indian government can continue promoting renewable energy sources, providing incentives and support for the adoption of solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies. This would facilitate the transition of Indian manufacturers to cleaner energy sources, reducing their carbon emissions.
Investment in carbon capture technology: Exploring and investing in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology can help Indian manufacturers reduce their carbon emissions. CCS captures CO2 emissions from manufacturing processes and stores them underground, minimizing their impact on the environment.

By implementing these mitigation strategies, both Indian companies and the government can navigate the potential impact of CBAM on the manufacturing industry, reduce carbon emissions, and maintain competitiveness in the global market.

Above Provided contents are Important Events held on 18th and 19th May

Kandela IAS recognizes the value of keeping abreast of current events and offers a diverse range of courses to help you stay informed of the latest developments and trends. Kandela IAS team of experienced faculty members is committed to delivering top-quality education that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your profession. Our blog post, “Important Events held on 18th and 19th May,” provides you with valuable information about significant happenings worldwide. Moreover, Kandela IAS provide comprehensive current affairs courses that encompass a broad range of topics, including politics, economics, sports, and entertainment.

Enroll in our courses today and embark on a journey of continuous learning and growth. Stay informed, stay ahead, and unlock your full potential with Kandela IAS.

Important Events held on 15th and 16th May

India’s Exports Experience 12.7% Decline in April, Trade Deficit at 20-Month Low

⦁ Merchandise exports in April witness a sharp decline, reaching a six-month low, due to sluggish demand and easing commodity prices affecting India’s trade basket.
⦁ The value of outbound shipments from India contracts by 12.7% to $34.66 billion, marking the third consecutive month of export contraction.
⦁ Inbound shipments see a sharper decline, contracting by 14% to $49.9 billion, resulting in a 20-month-low trade deficit at $15.24 billion.

Important Events held on 15th and 16th May – 01

⦁ Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) expresses a lack of optimism regarding demand in the next few months, with reduced demand observed from major export markets like the United States and Europe.
⦁ Recession in developed economies and the lingering impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict contribute to the downturn, coupled with cooling commodity prices affecting both imports and exports.
⦁ April sees a significant contraction in imports, primarily due to cooling commodity prices and reduced demand for items such as gems and jewellery.
⦁ Non-oil items drive the decline in the merchandise trade deficit, partly offsetting the fall in crude oil prices with higher volumes.
⦁ On a sequential basis, imports and exports contract by 17.2% and 16.8%, respectively, in April.
⦁ Core exports, including non-petroleum products and non-gems and jewellery, contract by 9.2% to $25.76 billion, accompanied by a 12.5% decline in imports to $31.49 billion.
⦁ Analysts predict an overall contraction of 5% in merchandise exports for FY24 due to the weak global growth outlook.
⦁ Non-oil and non-gold imports, which reflect domestic demand, experience a year-on-year contraction for the fourth consecutive month, raising concerns.
⦁ India’s merchandise exports witness contraction in 19 out of 30 sectors in April, with petroleum products, plastics, linoleum, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, and cotton yarn experiencing significant declines.
⦁ Sectors such as electronic goods and drug and pharmaceuticals demonstrate positive growth during the same period.
⦁ Merchandise imports contract in 23 out of 30 items, including coal, crude petroleum, chemicals, precious stones, transport equipment, electronic goods, and gold.
⦁ The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development warns of headwinds facing world trade, indicating weaker economic activities globally leading to subdued international trade.

India and EFTA Engage in Discussions for a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement

Important Events held on 15th and 16th May – 02

⦁ Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal visited Brussels to engage in discussions with representatives from the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
⦁ The purpose of the discussions was to work towards the establishment of a comprehensive Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and EFTA.
⦁ The bilateral free trade agreement is expected to bolster trade, encourage investment flows, stimulate job creation, and foster economic growth.
⦁ The implementation of TEPA holds significant potential for integrated and resilient supply chains, new opportunities for businesses and individuals, increased trade and investment flows, job opportunities, and overall economic growth.
⦁ The ministerial meeting in Brussels was attended by Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and representatives from EFTA member countries.
⦁ The leaders discussed strategies to advance the comprehensive TEPA and built upon prior expert meetings conducted online.
⦁ The discussions emphasized the mutual recognition of trust and respect as the foundation for achieving a fair, balanced, and equitable agreement.

WHAT IS TEPA

⦁ TEPA is a comprehensive agreement between nations or economic blocs aimed at enhancing trade relations and promoting economic cooperation.
⦁ It covers aspects such as reducing or eliminating trade barriers, facilitating trade and investment, protecting intellectual property rights, and promoting regulatory cooperation.
⦁ TEPA aims to create a favorable environment for businesses by providing increased market access, a level-playing field, and encouraging the flow of goods, services, and investments.
⦁ The prime goal of TEPA is to foster economic growth, job creation, and mutual benefits for the countries or regions involved.

About EFTA:

⦁ EFTA countries are not part of the European Union (EU).
⦁ EFTA is an inter-governmental organization that promotes and intensifies free trade, serving as an alternative for states not wishing to join the European Community.
⦁ India is the 9th largest trading partner of EFTA, accounting for around 2.5% of India’s total merchandise trade in 2020-21.

Objectives of the agreement:

⦁ Discussions are based on modalities of engagement for a comprehensive Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) with representatives from EFTA states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
⦁ The delegations are committed to increasing efforts and continuing discussions at a steady pace, with further meetings planned to address critical issues related to TEPA.
⦁ The agreement emphasizes the importance of trust, respect, fairness, equity, and balance in building a common understanding.

Significance of the agreement:

⦁ The agreement has the potential to bring significant economic benefits, including integrated and resilient supply chains, new opportunities for businesses and individuals on both sides, increased trade and investment flows, job creation, and economic growth.
⦁ Such agreements often involve a substantial reduction or elimination of customs duties on traded goods, as well as eased norms to promote trade in services and investments.

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Important Events held on 14th and 15th May

Government’s New GST Compliance Measures

⦁ Lowering of Threshold for e-Invoicing:
⦁ The threshold for businesses to generate e-invoices for B2B transactions under GST has been lowered from Rs 10 crore to Rs 5 crore.
⦁ The change will be effective from August 1.
⦁ Previously, businesses with a turnover of Rs 10 crore and above were required to generate e-invoices for B2B transactions.
⦁ Automated Return Scrutiny Module:
⦁ The government will introduce an automated return scrutiny module for GST returns.
⦁ This module will enable officers to scrutinize GST returns of selected taxpayers based on data analytics and identified risks.
⦁ Discrepancies related to return risks will be identified and displayed to tax officers.
⦁ Tax officers will communicate discrepancies to taxpayers through the GSTN common portal and take necessary actions, such as issuing acceptance orders, show cause notices, or initiating audits/investigations.
⦁ The module has already started scrutinizing GST returns for the financial year 2019-20.
Significance and Implications:
⦁ Boosting Compliance and Curbing Tax Evasion:
⦁ These measures aim to increase compliance and curb tax evasion under the GST regime.
⦁ Lowering the e-invoicing threshold will broaden the compliance mandate for businesses, including small and medium enterprises.
⦁ The automated return scrutiny module will help identify discrepancies and take appropriate actions, ensuring better compliance.
⦁ Increasing GST Revenue Collections:
⦁ The reduction in the e-invoicing threshold is expected to boost GST revenue collections.
⦁ By capturing real-time data through e-invoicing, tax authorities can monitor transactions more effectively and detect potential frauds.
⦁ The automated return scrutiny module will assist in identifying tax evasion cases, leading to enhanced revenue collections.
⦁ Standardization and Reconciliation:
⦁ E-invoicing ensures a common standard for all invoices across the GST ecosystem.
⦁ It enables interoperability and reduces reconciliation issues for both taxpayers and tax authorities.
⦁ With pre-populated returns based on e-invoicing data, the chances of errors and mismatches in filing returns are minimized.
⦁ Impact on Small Businesses:
⦁ The lowering of the e-invoicing threshold to Rs 5 crore increases compliance requirements for smaller businesses.
⦁ These businesses will need to implement e-invoicing systems and adhere to the new threshold, which may require adjustments in their processes and systems.
Overall, these new GST compliance measures aim to enhance transparency, streamline processes, and strengthen the effectiveness of tax administration in India.

India’s Trade Performance in 2022-23: Services Boost Exports While Merchandise Trade Faces Challenges

India’s overall exports, including both merchandise and services, reached a record high of $770.18 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23, indicating a growth of 13.84%. However, overall imports surged by 17.38% to $892.18 billion, resulting in a merchandise trade deficit of $266.78 billion, a significant increase of over 39% compared to the previous year. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released this data, highlighting the impact of a global economic slowdown on merchandise trade, while services exports experienced a robust growth of 26.79%.
Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal expressed satisfaction with the trade performance, surpassing the target of $750 billion for overall exports. He acknowledged the challenging global conditions but emphasized India’s ability to not only meet but exceed the export target. The information technology (IT) and IT-enabled services (ITES) sectors remain dominant contributors to services exports. However, the government aims to diversify and expand the list to include non-IT services, such as financial services and transport services, while also seeking improvements in tourism.
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), computer services accounted for a significant portion of the trade surplus in services, amounting to $97 billion out of the $104.2 billion surplus from April to December. Professional and management consulting services followed at $29.2 billion. However, there were deficits in transport and travel services, while financial services showed a surplus.
The increase in merchandise imports to $714.24 billion, driven in part by a 29.5% rise in oil imports to $209.57 billion, contributed to the widening merchandise trade deficit. Despite a decline in China’s share of India’s import basket, it remained the largest source with imports worth $98.51 billion in 2022-23. Additionally, imports from Russia surged by 369.44% to $46.33 billion during the same period.
While 17 out of 30 major export sectors experienced growth, the overall increase in merchandise exports was 6.03%. However, experts have noted that weak global demand and a slowdown in H2 FY2023, along with moderating global commodity prices, impacted non-oil exports, which declined marginally by 0.5%. Aditi Nayar, Chief Economist at ICRA, predicts that these challenges will continue in FY2024, leading to a deeper contraction in India’s merchandise exports, affecting the manufacturing sector and GDP growth.
In conclusion, India’s trade performance in 2022-23 showcased robust growth in services exports, compensating for challenges faced by merchandise trade due to a global economic slowdown. The government aims to diversify the services export sector, focusing on non-IT services, while also addressing the trade deficit through measures such as quality control orders and Production Linked Incentive schemes to reduce non-essential imports. However, experts warn that weak global demand may impact future export growth.

First UK Baby with DNA from Three People Born after Groundbreaking IVF Procedure

A groundbreaking in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure has resulted in the birth of the first UK baby with DNA from three individuals. The innovative technique, known as mitochondrial donation treatment (MDT), aims to prevent the inheritance of incurable diseases by utilizing healthy tissue from female egg donors.
MDT involves the creation of IVF embryos using eggs from healthy female donors, which are free from harmful mutations carried by the mothers. By combining the sperm and egg from the biological parents with a small amount of genetic material (about 37 genes) from the donor’s egg, the resulting baby inherits DNA from both parents along with a small contribution from the donor.
While the term “three-parent babies” has been used to describe these babies, more than 99.8% of their DNA comes from the biological mother and father. The MDT research, also known as mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), was pioneered by doctors at the Newcastle Fertility Centre in the UK. Its primary goal is to assist women with mitochondrial mutations in having children without the risk of passing on genetic disorders. Mitochondria, responsible for providing energy to cells, are inherited solely from the mother, and any harmful mutations can affect all the children she bears.
For women with mitochondrial mutations, natural conception is often uncertain, as some babies may inherit only a small proportion of the mutated mitochondria, while others can inherit a larger amount, leading to severe and potentially fatal diseases. Mitochondrial disorders affect approximately one in 6,000 babies.
The MDT procedure was authorized in the UK in 2015 following progress in research. The Newcastle clinic became the first and only national center licensed to perform the procedure in 2018, with approval granted on a case-by-case basis by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). As of late April 2023, the HFEA confirmed that fewer than five babies have been born in the UK following MDT, with precise figures withheld to protect patient confidentiality.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic caused significant delays in the treatment program, with some potential donors and couples opting out, the Newcastle process involves multiple steps. Sperm from the father is used to fertilize eggs from the affected mother and a healthy female donor. The nuclear genetic material from the donor’s egg is then substituted with the couple’s fertilized egg, resulting in an egg with the full set of chromosomes from both parents but carrying the donor’s healthy mitochondria instead of the mother’s faulty ones. This modified egg is subsequently implanted in the mother’s womb.
While MDT offers hope to families affected by severe inherited mitochondrial illnesses, it is not without risks. Recent research has revealed the possibility of reversion or reversal, where a small number of abnormal mitochondria carried over from the mother’s egg can multiply during fetal development, potentially leading to a disease in the child. Further understanding of the timing and mechanisms of reversal is needed.
Given the sensitive nature of the procedure and the experiences of families seeking MDT, it is crucial to employ a measured and carefully regulated approach. Long-term follow-up of children born through MDT is essential to assess the safety and efficacy of the treatment. The HFEA continues to review clinical and scientific developments in MDT.
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Reserve Bank of India Launches 100-Day Campaign to Settle Unclaimed Deposits

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a special campaign aimed at tracing and settling the top 100 unclaimed deposits in every district of the country. Scheduled to commence on June 1, 2023, this initiative seeks to address the issue of unclaimed deposits held by banks. The campaign was discussed during a meeting of the high-powered Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC), chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Unclaimed deposits refer to balances in savings or current accounts that have remained inactive for 10 years, as well as term deposits that have not been claimed within 10 years of maturity. Such deposits are classified as “unclaimed deposits,” and banks transfer these amounts to the “Depositor Education and Awareness” (DEA) Fund maintained by the RBI.
The RBI’s “100 Days 100 Pays” campaign mandates banks to trace and settle the top 100 unclaimed deposits of each bank in every district of the country within 100 days. This initiative complements the ongoing efforts by the RBI to reduce the amount of unclaimed deposits in the banking system and ensure that these funds are returned to their rightful owners or claimants.
In addition to the campaign, the RBI has announced the establishment of a centralized web portal that allows the public to search for unclaimed deposits across multiple banks. The central bank has been actively promoting public awareness regarding unclaimed deposits through various initiatives, encouraging individuals to identify and approach the respective banks to claim their funds.
As of February 2023, public sector banks (PSBs) have transferred a total of Rs 35,012 crore in unclaimed deposits to the RBI. The RBI’s measures, including the 100-day campaign and the centralized web portal, aim to address this issue and ensure that unclaimed deposits are reunited with their rightful owners.

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Important Events held on 12th and 13th May

LIGO-India

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently, laid down the foundation
stone of LIGO-India on the occasion of National Technology Day.

About LIGO-India:
⦁ LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) is the world’s most powerful observatory.
⦁ It detects and helps understand the origins of gravitational waves by utilizing the physical properties of light and space.
⦁ Currently, there are two LIGO observatories in the US, which work together to detect gravitational waves, with a separation of 3000 kilometers.
⦁ Each LIGO detector consists of two arms.
⦁ LIGO-India will be the fifth node in the international network of gravitational wave observatories.
⦁ The location of LIGO-India will be in Maharashtra, India.
⦁ It is a collaborative project between a consortium of Indian research institutions, the LIGO Laboratory in the USA, and international partners.
⦁ The Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Science and Technology in India will oversee its construction, with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the National Science Foundation of the US, as well as several national and international research and academic institutions.
⦁ LIGO-India involves collaboration between the LIGO Laboratory, Raja Ramanna Center for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) in Indore, Institute for Plasma Research (IPR) in Ahmedabad, and the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune.
⦁ Once completed, LIGO-India will join the global network of gravitational-wave observatories, which includes Virgo in Italy and KAGRA in Japan.
Significance:
⦁ LIGO-India will provide research opportunities for Indian youth in cutting-edge areas of science and technology.
⦁ It will contribute to advancements in gravitational-wave astronomy and astrophysics.
⦁ The project will foster the development of cutting-edge technologies.
Gravitational Waves:
⦁ Gravitational waves are invisible ripples in space that travel at the speed of light (186,000 miles per second).
⦁ These waves cause squeezing and stretching effects on objects as they pass through.
⦁ Einstein predicted that the motion of celestial bodies, such as planets or stars orbiting each other, creates these ripples in space.
⦁ Scientists refer to these ripples as gravitational waves, which propagate similarly to the ripples in a pond caused by a stone thrown in.

ABOUT INDIGO
⦁ IndIGO is an Indian initiative focused on gravitational-wave observations.
⦁ It aims to establish advanced experimental facilities and provide theoretical and computational support for a national project in gravitational-wave astronomy.
⦁ The IndIGO Consortium has been involved in developing the Indian road-map for Gravitational Wave Astronomy since 2009.
⦁ The consortium has devised a phased strategy for Indian participation in the construction of a crucial gravitational-wave observatory in the Asia-Pacific region.
⦁ The current major plan of IndIGO is the LIGO-India project.
⦁ LIGO-India is an advanced gravitational-wave detector that will be built and operated in collaboration with LIGO USA and international partners.
⦁ The detector will be located in India and contribute to global efforts in detecting and studying gravitational waves.

Gravitational-wave astronomy
⦁ Gravitational-wave science has the potential to answer important questions in fundamental physics, astrophysics, and cosmology.
⦁ It can help verify the theory of General Relativity and explore its validity under extreme gravity conditions.
⦁ Gravitational-wave research aims to understand the properties of gravitational waves and the nature of black holes.
⦁ It can provide insights into the equation of state of neutron stars and the abundance of stellar-mass and intermediate-mass black holes.
⦁ The merger history of galaxies and supermassive black holes, the central engine of gamma ray bursts, and the internal processes of supernovae can also be studied through gravitational waves.
⦁ It can shed light on the nature of dark energy and phase transitions in the early Universe.
⦁ Gravitational waves cause distortions in spacetime, resulting in small changes in physical distances.
⦁ Laser interferometers are used to detect these changes with high precision.
⦁ Interferometric GW detectors like LIGO, GEO600, Virgo, and TAMA300 have been constructed in the USA, Europe, and Japan.
⦁ These detectors use Michelson interferometers with Fabry-Perot cavities in each arm, ranging from several hundred meters to several kilometers in length.
⦁ By recycling laser power and utilizing power build-up techniques, strain sensitivity of h ~ 10^-22/√Hz can be achieved.
⦁ The KAGRA project in Japan, currently under construction, incorporates novel techniques such as cryogenic cooling and an underground location.
⦁ Over the next five years, these detectors will be upgraded to their advanced configurations.
⦁ With these advancements, the detectors will be capable of detecting binary neutron star coalescence up to a distance of 500 Mpc and binary black holes at a redshift of z = 2.
⦁ Advanced ground-based detectors are expected to observe gravitational wave signals at a rate of monthly or even weekly.
⦁ The design study for the third-generation ground-based interferometer, the Einstein Telescope, has been completed.
Indian Initiative in Gravitational-wave Observations: Ongoing Activities
LIGO-India Project:
⦁ Concept Proposal: The LIGO-India project aims to establish an advanced gravitational-wave detector in India. The concept proposal for LIGO-India is currently being actively considered by science funding agencies in both India and the USA.
⦁ Collaborative Effort: LIGO-India is envisioned as a collaborative project involving a consortium of Indian research institutions, the LIGO Laboratory in the USA, and international partners.
Importance of a Worldwide Detector Network:
⦁ Limitations of GW Detectors: GW detectors have inherent limitations such as limited sky coverage and poor pointing accuracy. Additionally, astrophysical signals can be weak. Therefore, a global detector network is crucial to establish confidence in initial detections and explore new astrophysics from these sources.
⦁ Optimal Location: Studies have identified the Indian Ocean region, with Australia and India as potential choices, as the optimal location for another detector to enhance the sensitivity of the existing global network.
⦁ GWIC Support: The GW International Committee’s Road Map Document strongly supports the GW experimental effort in India, recognizing the need for a worldwide detector network.
Opportunity for Indian Science:
⦁ Promising Research Frontier: Gravitational-wave observations present a promising experimental research frontier. India has the opportunity to launch a major initiative in this field well in advance of its expected growth.
⦁ IndIGO Collaboration: The IndIGO collaboration, consisting of Indian scientists and international advisory committee members, has conducted several meetings over the past year. They have discussed a phased strategy for constructing a large-scale GW detector in the Asia-Pacific region.
By focusing on the LIGO-India project and recognizing the importance of a worldwide detector network, India’s initiative in gravitational-wave observations is poised to contribute significantly to the field of astrophysics and advance scientific understanding of the universe. Important Events held on 12th and 13th May

Monlam Chenmo:

⦁ Annual Five-Day-Long Great Prayer Festival of Ladakh
⦁ Held annually in Ladakh, Monlam Chenmo is a significant festival.
⦁ Duration: Five days.
⦁ Purpose: Mass prayer camp by Buddhist monks and nuns for world peace and happiness.
⦁ Organized by: All Ladakh Gonpa Association.
⦁ Resuming after Covid: The event is taking place this year after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
Details of Monlam Chenmo:
⦁ Gathering of the Sangha Community
⦁ Major annual prayer of the Sangha Community of Ladakh.
⦁ Represents a gathering of the Buddhist monastic community at one platform.
⦁ Date: Falls on the 21st to 25th days of the third month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.
⦁ Commencement: The festival has been held since 1991.
Seva for Sangha:
⦁ Special Camp for Sangha Community
⦁ A camp specifically organized for the Sangha Community.
⦁ Objective: Facilitate the Sangha Community in availing benefits from various government schemes.
⦁ Led by: Member of Parliament for Ladakh Constituency, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, in collaboration with district administration Leh.
⦁ Inaugural event: The camp is being organized for the first time for the Sangha Community.
⦁ Government Scheme Benefits
⦁ Participation of different government departments and banks.
⦁ Purpose: Offer benefits of approximately 20 government schemes to the monks and nuns.
⦁ Collaboration with ITBP: Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has joined hands with the organizers to set up medical camps during the event. Important Events held on 12th and 13th May

Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi: Strengthening Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE)

About Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi:

⦁ Initiative launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
⦁ Objective: Establish the world’s largest, universal, high-quality preschool network in India, aligned with NEP 2020.
⦁ Emphasizes the connection between primary education, early childhood health, and nutrition services.
Salient Features:
⦁ Targeting children’s development in various domains as per the National Curriculum Framework.
⦁ Physical and motor development, cognitive development, socio-emotional-ethical development, etc.
⦁ All States to adopt play-based, activity-based learning pedagogy recommended by the national ECCE task force.
⦁ Focus on developmental milestones of 0-3-year olds and 3-6-year olds.
⦁ Special support for Divyang (specially-abled) children.
⦁ Provision of at least two hours of high-quality preschool instruction daily for every child.
⦁ Strengthening Anganwadi Centres with:
⦁ High-quality infrastructure and play equipment.
⦁ Well-trained Anganwadi workers/teachers.
⦁ Mother tongue as the primary medium of instruction for teaching.
⦁ Provision of different teaching-learning materials (visual aids, audio aids, audio-visual aids, and bodily-kinesthetic aids) to Anganwadi Sewikas.
⦁ Building a Jan Andolan (people’s movement) to engage communities in strengthening the foundation of future generations. and this the Important Events held on 12th and 13th May

Reserve Bank of India’s Greenwashing TechSprint Application Window:

⦁ Application Window:
⦁ The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has opened the application window for all India based firms and innovators.
⦁ The application window is for participating in the Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN)’s first ever Greenwashing TechSprint.
⦁ The application window will close on May 21, 2023.
RBI’s Participation in GFIN’s Greenwashing TechSprint:
⦁ Involvement of RBI:
⦁ RBI will be one of the 13 international regulators taking part in GFIN’s Greenwashing TechSprint.
⦁ The TechSprint aims to address GFIN’s priority on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and sustainable finance.
Objective and Participants of the TechSprint:
⦁ Objective:
⦁ The objective of the TechSprint is to develop a tool that can effectively tackle or mitigate the risks of greenwashing in financial services.
⦁ Participants:
⦁ The TechSprint will bring together 13 international regulators, firms, and innovators.
⦁ It will provide firms the opportunity to work with regulatory experts, stakeholders, and professionals from around the world.
TechSprint Process and Timeline:
⦁ TechSprint Process:
⦁ The TechSprint will be a virtual event hosted on the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) Digital Sandbox.
⦁ The event will involve collaborative efforts between regulators, firms, and innovators to address sustainable finance.
⦁ Timeline:
⦁ Application process support will be provided by GFIN through an information pack for interested firms.
⦁ Successful firms will proceed to on-boarding on June 1 and 2, which includes training on the Digital Sandbox and an overview of the TechSprint process.
⦁ The TechSprint will officially launch on June 5 and run for three months.
⦁ The event will conclude with a showcase day in September 2023.

this are the Important Events held on 12th and 13th May

Kandela IAS recognizes the value of keeping abreast of current events and offers a diverse range of courses to help you stay informed of the latest developments and trends. Kandela IAS team of experienced faculty members is committed to delivering top-quality education that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your profession. Our blog post, “Important Events held on 12th and 13th May,” provides you with valuable information about significant happenings worldwide. Moreover, Kandela IAS provide comprehensive current affairs courses that encompass a broad range of topics, including politics, economics, sports, and entertainment.

Important Events held on 12th and 13th May

Supreme Court Invalidates Governor’s Call for Floor Test in Maharashtra- 2023

Supreme Court Invalidates Governor’s Call for Floor Test in Maharashtra

Misinterpretation by Former Governor Koshyari: The Supreme Court declared that former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari misunderstood the expression of “discontent” among some Shiv Sena MLAs with the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government as a withdrawal of their support.

Two-Day Deadline for Floor Test: The Supreme Court ordered a floor test to be conducted within two days in June 2022, following the Governor’s call for the test on June 28.

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray’s Resignation: As a result of the Governor’s call for the floor test, Uddhav Thackeray resigned as Chief Minister the day after the announcement.

Insufficient Discontent for Floor Test: The Constitution Bench stated that mere expressions of discontent by MLAs are not enough grounds for the Governor to call for a floor test.

Internal Party Disputes: The court emphasized that disagreements and dissent within a political party should be resolved according to the remedies outlined in the party’s constitution. The political turmoil in Maharashtra stemmed from intra-party differences, as highlighted by the court.

Floor Test not for Party Disputes: Chief Justice Chandrachud clarified that a floor test should not be utilized to resolve internal party disputes or disagreements. He distinguished between a party’s non-support of a government and individuals expressing discontent with their party leadership and functioning.

No Authority for Governor in Party Disputes: The Constitution and parliamentary laws do not provide a mechanism for settling disputes within a political party. Furthermore, the Governor lacks the power to intervene in inter-party or intra-party disputes, as noted by the Chief Justice in the verdict.

Inference of Withdrawal Insufficient: The Governor acted based on an inference that a faction within the Shiv Sena intended to withdraw their support for the government during the floor test. However, the Supreme Court deemed this inference inadequate for the Governor’s actions.

Kandela IAS recognizes the value of keeping abreast of current events and offers a diverse range of courses to help you stay informed of the latest developments and trends. Kandela IAS team of experienced faculty members is committed to delivering top-quality education that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your profession. Our blog post, “Important Events by Kandela IAS,” provides you with valuable information about significant happenings worldwide. Moreover, Kandela IAS provide comprehensive current affairs courses that encompass a broad range of topics, including politics, economics, sports, and entertainment.

8th-9th May Important Events By Kandela IAS || Nirmala Sitharaman’s Address on Global Stress Spillovers and Financial Stability

⦁ Financial regulators urged to remain vigilant: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the importance of financial sector regulators staying alert to prevent the impact of global economic challenges on India’s financial markets.
⦁ Shared responsibility for financial stability: Sitharaman highlighted that maintaining financial stability is a collective responsibility, involving all regulators. She called for the development of early warning indicators to identify potential stress in the financial sector and take corrective action promptly.
⦁ Confidence in the resilience of India’s financial sector: Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth assured that the Indian financial sector is well-protected against global spillovers, emphasizing its strong regulatory framework.
⦁ Increased focus on cyber security: Sitharaman stressed the need for enhanced preparedness and cybersecurity measures in digitized segments of the market. Large regulated entities, systematically important financial entities, and financial market infrastructure were specifically highlighted as areas requiring higher levels of protection.
⦁ Facilitating the return of unclaimed financial savings: The Minister urged regulators to establish a system to help investors and depositors or their nominees and legal heirs reclaim unclaimed funds. Special drives and outreach efforts, especially when nominee details are available, were recommended to settle these claims promptly.
⦁ Streamlining the KYC process: The Financial Stability and Development Council discussed simplifying and streamlining the Know Your Customer (KYC) process. An expert committee report was submitted, and regulators were tasked with reviewing their legislative frameworks to propose necessary changes.
⦁ Legislative reforms and parliamentary support: Regulators were instructed to conduct an expedited review of their legislative frameworks and suggest amendments where needed. These proposals would then be considered by the government for enactment through the parliamentary process.
⦁ Enhancing retail investors’ experience: The FSDC highlighted the importance of providing a simplified and seamless investing experience for retail investors in government securities. Regulators were assigned the responsibility of utilizing technology to facilitate this process, with a time-bound approach.
In summary, Nirmala Sitharaman’s address to the Financial Stability and Development Council emphasized the need for regulators to remain vigilant against global stress spillovers, maintain financial stability, strengthen cybersecurity measures, facilitate the return of unclaimed funds, streamline the KYC process, propose legislative reforms, and enhance the investing experience for retail investors.

Chief Justice Questions Manipur High Court’s Power to Modify Scheduled Tribes List

⦁ Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, expressed surprise at the Manipur High Court’s lack of awareness of a 23-year-old Constitution Bench judgment that clearly stated that no court or state has the authority to alter the Scheduled Tribes List.
⦁ The Chief Justice emphasized that a High Court does not possess the power to direct changes in the Scheduled Tribes List, as it is solely within the purview of the President.
⦁ Following a directive by a Single Judge Bench of the Manipur High Court on March 27, violent clashes and deaths erupted in the state.
⦁ Article 342(1) of the Constitution explicitly establishes that the power to designate a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe lies with the President.
⦁ The Constitution Bench ruling in the State of Maharashtra versus Milind case in November 2000 clearly stated that no state government, court, tribunal, or authority can modify the list of Scheduled Tribes specified in the notification issued under Article 342.
⦁ The Constitution Bench held that only Parliament, through legislation, can amend the notification issued under Article 342 to include or exclude tribes or tribal communities.
⦁ The judgment emphasized that the Scheduled Tribes Order must be interpreted as it is, and no tribe, sub-tribe, part, or group within a tribe or tribal community can be considered synonymous with those mentioned in the Scheduled Tribes Order if they are not explicitly listed.
⦁ The Milind verdict, which established these principles, was cited in a July 2017 judgment authored by Justice Chandrachud (at the time) for a three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court in CMD, FCI versus Jagdish Balaram Bahira, reaffirming the finality of the Presidential Order under Article 342 regarding Scheduled Tribes.

Celebrating World Thalassemia Day: Key Points to Know

⦁ World Thalassemia Day is an annual event observed on May 8th to raise awareness about thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder.
⦁ Thalassemia affects the production of hemoglobin, leading to anemia and various health complications.
⦁ The event aims to educate the public about thalassemia, its causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
⦁ Thalassemia is primarily inherited and can be passed on from parents to children.
⦁ There are two main types of thalassemia: alpha thalassemia and beta thalassemia, each with different subtypes.
⦁ Symptoms of thalassemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, slow growth, bone deformities, and organ damage.
⦁ Regular blood transfusions and chelation therapy are common treatments for thalassemia patients to manage their condition.
⦁ Bone marrow transplantation can be a potential cure for thalassemia, especially in severe cases.
⦁ Genetic counseling plays a crucial role in helping individuals understand the risk of thalassemia and make informed decisions about family planning.
⦁ The importance of blood donation is emphasized on World Thalassemia Day as thalassemia patients often require frequent blood transfusions.
⦁ Awareness campaigns, educational programs, and support groups are organized globally on this day to advocate for thalassemia patients and their families.
⦁ Early diagnosis through prenatal testing and newborn screening programs can lead to better management and improved quality of life for affected individuals.
⦁ Governments, healthcare organizations, and NGOs collaborate to improve access to thalassemia treatment, genetic counseling, and support services.
⦁ Efforts are ongoing to promote research and development for more effective treatments and potential cures for thalassemia.
⦁ World Thalassemia Day serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by thalassemia patients and the need for continued support, understanding, and empathy from society.

⦁ Celebrated on the 8th of May, the International Thalassaemia Day is devoted to raising awareness amongst the general public and decision-makers about thalassaemia, promoting and strengthening the lifelong and difficult struggle of patients against this severe blood disease, and commemorating all the people who are no longer with us, while renewing our promise to keep fighting until the final cure for thalassaemia is found.
⦁ Every year since 1994, the Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF) is organising many diverse activities for the International Thalassaemia Day, with the objective to draw the attention of general public, patient associations, public authorities, healthcare professionals, and industry representatives, to fuel discussions and promote actions on a particular theme related to the prevention, management or treatment of the disease in a patient-centred manner.

Themes:

⦁ 2021 – ”Addressing Health Inequalities Across the Global Thalassaemia Community”.
⦁ 2020 – ”The dawning of a new era for thalassaemia: Time for a global effort to make novel therapies accessible and affordable to patients”
⦁ 2019 – “Universal access to quality thalassaemia healthcare services: Building bridges with and for patients”
⦁ 2018 – “Thalassaemia past, present and future: Documenting progress and patients’ needs worldwide”
⦁ 2017 – “Get connected: Share knowledge and experience and fight for a better tomorrow in thalassaemia”
⦁ 2016 – “Access to safe and effective drugs in thalassaemia”
⦁ 2015 – “Enhancing partnership towards patient-centred health systems: good health adds life to years!”
⦁ 2014 – “Economic Recession: Observe – Joint Forces – Safeguard Health”
⦁ 2013 – “The right for quality health care of every patient with Thalassaemia: major and beyond”
⦁ 2012 – “Patients’ Rights Revisited”

What is Thalassemia?

⦁ Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder caused by a deficiency in the production of a protein called hemoglobin, an essential component of red blood cells.
⦁ Inadequate hemoglobin production leads to the improper functioning of red blood cells, resulting in their shorter lifespan and a reduced number of healthy red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream.
⦁ Red blood cells play a crucial role in delivering oxygen to all cells in the body, serving as their source of energy.
⦁ Insufficient healthy red blood cells result in reduced oxygen supply to the body’s cells, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
⦁ This condition is known as anemia, which can range from mild to severe in individuals with thalassemia.
⦁ Severe anemia poses a risk to organ health and can even be life-threatening if left untreated.
In summary, thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by insufficient hemoglobin production, leading to the impaired function and decreased lifespan of red blood cells. This condition causes anemia, resulting in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Understanding the impact of thalassemia is crucial in managing the disorder effectively and preventing potential complications.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF THALASSEMIA?

Understanding Different Types and Severity of Thalassemia
⦁ Thalassemia can refer to either the specific part of hemoglobin affected (alpha or beta) or the severity of the condition.
⦁ Hemoglobin is composed of two parts, alpha and beta, and when either part is not produced adequately, it results in thalassemia.
⦁ Low production of alpha leads to alpha thalassemia, while low production of beta leads to beta thalassemia.
⦁ The severity of thalassemia is described using terms like trait, carrier, intermedia, or major.
⦁ Thalassemia trait may exhibit no symptoms or only mild anemia, whereas thalassemia major can present severe symptoms requiring regular blood transfusions.
⦁ Thalassemia traits are inherited from parents and determine the type of thalassemia an individual has.
⦁ The number and type of thalassemia traits inherited from parents influence the type of thalassemia an individual develops.
⦁ For example, inheriting two beta thalassemia traits results in beta thalassemia major, while inheriting one alpha thalassemia trait and one normal alpha part leads to alpha thalassemia trait (also known as alpha thalassemia minor).
⦁ Having a thalassemia trait means no symptoms may be present, but there is a risk of passing the trait to children, increasing their chances of having thalassemia.
⦁ Certain thalassemias may have alternative names, such as Constant Spring, Cooley’s Anemia, or hemoglobin Bart hydrops fetalis.
⦁ Cooley’s Anemia is synonymous with beta thalassemia major.
⦁ How do I know if I have thalassemia?

How It’s Diagnosed and Its Familial Connection

⦁ Thalassemia is typically diagnosed in childhood for individuals with moderate and severe forms, as they exhibit symptoms of severe anemia early on in life.
⦁ People with milder forms of thalassemia may discover their condition when they experience anemia symptoms or when routine blood tests or tests conducted for other reasons reveal anemia.
⦁ The hereditary nature of thalassemia means that it can run in families, leading some individuals to become aware of their condition due to the presence of relatives with a similar disorder.
⦁ Certain regions of the world have a higher prevalence of thalassemia traits, increasing the risk for individuals with family origins from these areas. Mediterranean countries like Greece and Turkey, as well as regions in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, have a higher incidence of thalassemia traits.
⦁ If a person exhibits anemia symptoms and has family members hailing from these high-risk regions, their doctor may conduct additional blood tests to determine if thalassemia is the underlying cause.

Can I prevent thalassemia?

Because thalassemia is passed from parents to children, it is very hard to prevent. However, if you or your partner knows of family members with thalassemia, or if you both have family members from places in the world where thalassemia is common, you can speak to a genetic counselor to determine what your risk would be of passing thalassemia to your children.

Kandela IAS recognizes the value of keeping abreast of current events and offers a diverse range of courses to help you stay informed of the latest developments and trends. Kandela IAS team of experienced faculty members is committed to delivering top-quality education that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your profession. Our blog post, “Important Events by Kandela IAS,” provides you with valuable information about significant happenings worldwide. Moreover, Kandela IAS provide comprehensive current affairs courses that encompass a broad range of topics, including politics, economics, sports, and entertainment.

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Findings of India’s Inaugural National Water-Body Census

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has released India’s first water bodies census report, which provides comprehensive data on ponds, tanks, lakes, and reservoirs in the country.
⦁ The census was conducted in 2018-19 and documented over 2.4 million water bodies across all states and Union Territories.
⦁ Water bodies are defined as units used for storing water for various purposes, including irrigation, industrial use, domestic use, recreation, and religious activities.
⦁ According to the report, 97.1% of water bodies (approximately 23.5 lakh) are located in rural areas, while only 2.9% (around 69,500) are in urban areas.
⦁ The majority of water bodies identified are ponds (59.5%), followed by tanks (15.7%), reservoirs (12.1%), water conservation schemes/percolation tanks/check dams (9.3%), lakes (0.9%), and others (2.5%).
⦁ Maharashtra leads in water conservation schemes, while West Bengal has the highest number of ponds and reservoirs. Andhra Pradesh has the highest number of tanks, and Tamil Nadu leads in the number of lakes.
⦁ The census aims to develop a national database on water bodies, collecting information on their size, condition, encroachments, storage capacity, and usage.
⦁ In Maharashtra, 97,062 water bodies were enumerated, with the majority (99.3%) located in rural areas. The state also has a higher percentage of public-owned water bodies (99.7%).
⦁ Out of all water bodies in Maharashtra, 98.9% are in use, primarily for groundwater recharge, domestic/drinking purposes, and irrigation.
⦁ Aurangabad, Jalna, and Nashik are among the top five districts in Maharashtra with varied uses of water bodies.
⦁ Maharashtra has 574 natural and 96,488 man-made water bodies, with the majority located in rural areas.
⦁ Based on the filling capacity in the last five years, the report categorizes water bodies as filled up every year (63.2%), usually filled up (35.8%), rarely filled up (0.7%), and never filled up (0.3%).
⦁ Around 60.7% of water bodies in Maharashtra are covered in District Irrigation Plan/State Irrigation Plan, benefiting cities/towns.
⦁ The report provides information on storage capacity, encroachments, and the distribution of water bodies by ownership and use.
⦁ The detailed reports can be downloaded from the provided links for further reference.

Ministry of Jal Shakti

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Kandela IAS recognizes the value of keeping abreast of current events and offers a diverse range of courses to help you stay informed of the latest developments and trends. Kandela IAS team of experienced faculty members is committed to delivering top-quality education that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your profession. Our blog post, “Important Events by Kandela IAS,” provides you with valuable information about significant happenings worldwide. Moreover, Kandela IAS provide comprehensive current affairs courses that encompass a broad range of topics, including politics, economics, sports, and entertainment.