Why is it in the News?

India ranked 93 out of 180 countries on the corruption perceptions index for 2023 as its overall score remained largely unchanged, according to a Transparency International report.

Key Facts About Corruption Perceptions Index 2023:

• India ranked 93 out of 180 countries on the corruption perceptions index for 2023 tied with Maldives, Kazakhstan, and Lesotho also ranking at 93 out of 180 countries.
• In 2023, India's overall score was 39 while in 2022, it was 40.
  • India's rank in 2022 was 85.
• Denmark (90) tops the index for the sixth consecutive year, with Finland and New Zealand.
• In South Asia, both Pakistan (133) and Sri Lanka (115) grapple with their respective debt burdens and ensuing political instability.
• Bangladesh (149) emerges from the least developed country (LDC) status, with economic growth supporting a continued reduction in poverty and improving living conditions.
• China (76), with its aggressive anti-corruption crackdown, has punished more than 3.7 million public officials for corruption over the last decade.
• Somalia (11), Venezuela (13), Syria (13), South Sudan (13) and Yemen (16) take the bottom spots in the index.

What is the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI)?

• The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) scores and ranks countries/territories based on how corrupt a country’s public sector is perceived to be by experts and business executives.
• It is a composite index, a combination of 13 surveys and assessments of corruption, collected by a variety of reputable institutions including the World Bank, World Economic Forum, private risk and consulting companies, think tanks and others.
• The CPI ranks 180 countries and the results are given on a scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean).
• The CPI is released annually by Transparency International, an independent nonprofit organization that aims to fight corruption, especially in the public sector.

• Transparency International is a global independent, nongovernmental nonprofit organization (NPO) that aims to stop corruption by promoting transparency in various sectors of society.
• The organization's international secretariat is located in Berlin and it has national chapters in more than 100 countries.
• The agency is funded through donations from governments, individuals, private donors, and other organizations.
• The organisation conducts research, and advocacy work, and undergoes various projects in its fight against corruption.
• In 1995, the organization created the first Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking 45 countries based on how much corruption they were perceived to have in the public sector.

Economic Impact of Corruption:

• Corruption continues to be a big hurdle to political, economic, and social development.
• Those who are economically challenged are the most affected by the effects of corruption and related fraud.
  • That's because they often rely heavily on public services and can't afford to pay bribes.
• The International Finance Corporation also cites increases in the cost of business as a result of corruption.

Why is it in the News?

Recently, Elon Musk announced his brain chip company, Neuralink, has completed its first implant on a human patient.

What is Neuralink?

• Neuralink is an upcoming medical device called a brain-computer interface that can help paralysed persons or amputees regain some sense of movement.
• It will decode signals from a part of the brain that plans movements.
• These signals will then be used to control external devices such as computers and mobile phones, allowing the participants to browse the web or play online games with just their thoughts even as their limbs are immobile.
• Under the PRIME Study (short for Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface) an N1 implant will be surgically placed by an R1 robot in the brain.
  • The N1 implant has 1,024 electrodes distributed across 64 threads that are thinner than human hair.
  • The R1 robot has been designed to insert these threads very accurately in a specific region of the brain.

Current Scenario in the Brain-Computer Interface?

• Recent breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces have led to remarkable advancements, including systems capable of translating neural signals into speech at nearly the speed of natural speech and bi-directional interfaces that offer sensory feedback to the brain.
• In a notable development, researchers in Switzerland documented a case involving a man paralyzed from the waist down who regained the ability to walk.
  • This feat was achieved through the use of a digital bridge that bypassed the damaged portion of his spinal cord.
  • By employing a brain-spine interface, the signals from his brain were converted into stimulation for his spine, enabling him to walk again.
• While it may take several years before such devices are commercially available, the scientific progress in this field is remarkable.
• These advancements hold promise for individuals paralyzed due to accidents, offering potential mobility with the assistance of spinal implants.

What are the Challenges?

• One of the main challenges of the technology is establishing the connection between the brain and the chips, allowing it to reliably interpret the signals from the brain.”
• The use of conventional electronics for developing brain-computer interfaces results in a “mismatch with the soft tissue of the brain.”
  • This can lead to tissue damage and immune response to the sensors.
• Flexible electronics with tissue-like properties can help build interfaces that do not face these problems.
• It can also help the systems adapt to changes in the brain volume during development, ageing and disease.

Why is it in the News?

The Eravikulam National Park (ENP), the natural habitat of the Nilgiri tahr, will be closed for the calving season of the species from February 1 to March 31.

About Eravikulam National Park:

• Eravikulam National Park also known as Rajamala National Park, is located in Kerala's Idukki district.
• The park is administered under the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department and became a National park in 1978.
• It is a 97 km2 national park located along the Western Ghats, Kerala.
  • Anamudi, the highest peak in south India was located on the southern side of the park.
• This is also the land of "Neelakurinji", a flower that blooms once in twelve years.
• Wildlife in the Park: The park holds the maximum viable population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr including other little-known fauna Nilgiri marten, ruddy mongoose, small clawed otter, dusky striped squirrel etc.
• Flora: Important flora includes Microtropis ramiflora, Actinodaphne bourdilloni, Pittosporum tetraspermium, Chrysopogon Zelanieus, Strobilanthus Kunthianus (Neela Kurinji) etc.
• Mostly the park is busted with rolling grasslands, but several patches of shola forests are also found in the upper part of the valley.
• The shola grasslands are exceptionally rich in balsams and orchids including the long thought extinct variety Brachycorythis wightii.
• The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is seen in this park.

Key Facts about Nilgiri Tahr:

• Nilgiri Tahr is a rare mountain animal found only in the southern part of the Western Ghats.
• Scientific Name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius
• Local Name: Varayaadu
• They are famous for their ability to climb steep cliffs, which has earned them the nickname Mountain Monarch.
• It is the official state animal of Tamil Nadu.
• Distribution: Nilgiri Tahrs are mainly found in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, covering only about 5% of the Western Ghats.
• Eravikulam National Park in Kerala is home to the largest population of Nilgiri Tahrs.
• Habitat: They live in open grasslands at elevations between 1200 and 2600 meters in the South Western Ghats.
• Characteristics: Nilgiri Tahrs have a sturdy body with short, coarse fur and a rough mane.
  • Both males and females have curved horns, with males having larger horns, up to 40 cm long.
  • Adult males have a light grey area on their backs, known as a 'saddle,' hence the name 'saddlebacks.'
  • They have a short grey-brown or dark coat.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Endangered
  • Protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: Schedule I

Why is it in the News?

To bolster the representation of women in the workforce and advance gender equality, various ministries of the central government issued a series of advisories and surveys on Tuesday, aimed at industries and employers.

About the Survey:

• This survey aims to evaluate the prevalence of women-friendly practices across the nation's workplaces.
• The government is collecting information on several key aspects, including the establishment of internal complaints committees (ICC) for preventing sexual harassment, the provision of childcare facilities, ensuring pay equity, offering flexible or remote work options for women, and providing safe transportation during late hours.
• Additionally, various ministries of the Central government have issued advisories to enhance women's representation in the workforce.

Factors Affecting Low Women Workforce Participation:

• Cultural and Social Norms: Traditional gender roles and societal expectations often discourage women from pursuing full-time employment due to responsibilities for caregiving and homemaking, limiting their participation in the workforce.
• Educational Barriers: Limited access to quality education can hinder women from acquiring the necessary skills and qualifications for certain jobs, further reducing their workforce participation.
• Gender Pay Gap: Disparities in wages between men and women discourage women from entering or remaining in the workforce, contributing to lower participation rates.
• Structural Constraints: India's manufacturing and service sectors often have rigid structures that limit employment opportunities, particularly in the informal sector where many women work.
• Security Concerns: Instances of sexual harassment in the workplace create safety concerns for women, acting as a barrier to their participation in the labour force.

Government Initiatives Supporting Women's Empowerment:

• Code on Wages, 2019: Ensures equal pay for equal work without discrimination based on gender, fostering fairness in wage practices across establishments.
• Code on Occupational Safety, Health And Working Conditions (OSH), 2020: Proposes amendments to improve employment conditions for women workers, particularly in above-ground mines, ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Maternity Benefit Act, 2017: Enhances maternity benefits and fosters a healthier work environment for pregnant and nursing women, promoting their well-being and work-life balance.
• Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK): A national organization offering microfinance services to empower economically disadvantaged women, supporting their livelihood projects and economic independence.
• National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM): Focuses on creating sustainable self-employment opportunities for rural women through skill training, capacity building, and financial assistance, enabling them to engage in income-generating activities.
• MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act): Guarantees 100 days of wage employment annually to rural households, actively encouraging women's participation and ensuring equitable employment opportunities.

Way Forward

Continued government initiatives aimed at empowering women in the workforce through skill development and expanded employment opportunities have yielded positive results, as evidenced by the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) released by the Labour Bureau in 2023. This survey indicated a notable increase in women's participation, rising from 23.3% in 2017-18 to 37% in 2022-23.

Why is it in the News?

The Centre has proposed repealing the Indian Stamp Act, of 1899 and bringing in a new law for the stamp duty regime in the country.

What is Stamp Duty?

• A stamp duty is essentially a government tax, which is levied to register documents, like an agreement or transaction paper between two or more parties, with the registrar.
• Usually, the amount specified is fixed based on the document’s nature or is charged at a certain percentage of the agreement value stated in the document.
• Stamp duties can be levied on bills of exchange, cheques, promissory notes, bills of lading, letters of credit, policies of insurance, transfer of shares, debentures, proxies and receipts.
• Accepted as valid evidence in a court of law, stamp duties are levied by the Centre but appropriated by the concerned states within their territories under Article 268 of the Constitution.

Notable Provisions of the Draft Indian Stamp Bill, 2023:

Several provisions of the Indian Stamp Act, of 1899 have now become “redundant” or “inoperative” Therefore, the ministry has proposed repealing the existing Act and substituting it with new legislation to “reflect the present realities and objectives.”

• The draft Bill has introduced provisions for digital e-stamping.
  • “Electronic stamp” or “e-stamp” means an electronically generated impression denoting the payment of stamp duty by electronic means or otherwise, according to Section 2 (18) of the Bill.
• There are also provisions for digital signatures.
  • Section 2 (17) of the Bill states that the words “executed” and “execution”, used for instruments, will mean “signed” and “signature” and include attribution of electronic records and electronic signatures, as defined under the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000.
• The IT Act defines “electronic records” as “data, record or data generated, image or sound stored, received or sent in an electronic form or micro film or computer generated microfiche.”
  • Meanwhile, digital or electronic signature refers to the authentication of any electronic record by a subscriber through an electronic method or procedure.
• The draft Bill also proposes to raise penalties.
  • It seeks to increase the maximum penalty amount from Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 for contravening any provisions of the law and impose Rs 1,000 per day for repeated offences.

What is the Indian Stamp Act, of 1899?

• The Indian Stamp Act, of 1899 is a fiscal or money-related statute that lays down the law relating to tax levied in the form of stamps on instruments recording transactions.
• Under Section 2 of the Act, an instrument includes every document by which any right or liability is or purports to be, created, transferred, limited, extended, extinguished or recorded.
• According to this Act, a “stamp” has been defined as “any mark, seal or endorsement by any agency or person duly authorised by the State Government, and includes an adhesive or impressed stamp, for the purposes of duty chargeable under this Act”.
• Section 3 of the 1899 Act prescribes that certain instruments or documents shall be chargeable with the amount indicated in Schedule 1 of the Act.
  • These include bills of exchange or promissory notes.

Why is it in the News?

The central government recently launched a framework to promote voluntary carbon markets in the agriculture sector.

What are Carbon Markets?

• Carbon markets are trading systems in which carbon credits are sold and bought.
• Companies or individuals can use carbon markets to compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing carbon credits from entities that remove or reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• One tradable carbon credit equals one tonne of carbon dioxide or the equivalent amount of a different greenhouse gas reduced, sequestered or avoided.
• When a credit is used to reduce, sequester, or avoid emissions, it becomes an offset and is no longer tradable.

Why are Carbon Markets Important?

• Scientists warn that 2°C of warming will be exceeded during the 21st century unless we achieve deep reductions in GHG emissions now.
• Effective action will require concerted and sufficient investment, knowing also that the costs of inaction will be far higher.
• The latest IPCC report finds all countries are falling way short, with financial flows three to six times lower than levels needed by 2030 – and even starker differences in some regions of the world.
• Many countries are turning to carbon markets as a key component in driving and financing the necessary transformation to tackle the climate crisis.

How Many Types of Carbon Markets Are There?

• There are broadly two types of carbon markets: compliance and voluntary.
  • Compliance markets are created as a result of any national, regional and/or international policy or regulatory requirement.
  • Voluntary carbon markets (VCM)– national and international – refer to the issuance, buying and selling of carbon credits, on a voluntary basis.
• The current supply of voluntary carbon credits comes mostly from private entities that develop carbon projects, or governments that develop programs certified by carbon standards that generate emission reductions and/or removals.

Importance of Establishing a VCM Framework in the Agricultural Sector:

• Emission Concerns: Agriculture in India contributes approximately 15% of the nation's greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the urgent need for mitigation strategies.
• Vulnerability: With around 50% of cultivated land being rainfed and more than 80% of farmers categorized as small or marginal, the sector is highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change.
• National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (2010): This initiative focuses on promoting adaptation measures such as agroforestry, micro irrigation, and soil health management, which not only reduce emissions but also offer opportunities for carbon sequestration.
• Additional Income Opportunities: Through the implementation of these practices, farmers can potentially generate additional income streams.

Why is it in the News?

'Maratha Military Landscapes' representing extraordinary fortification and military system envisioned by the Maratha rulers will be India's nomination for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List for the 2024-25 cycle, the Culture Ministry said on January 29.

About Maratha Military Landscapes:

• Developed between the 17th and 19th centuries, the nomination comprises the 12 components of Salher Fort, Shivneri Fort, Lohgad, Khanderi Fort, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Suvarnadurg, Panhala Fort, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, and Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.
• These components are strategically distributed across diverse geographical and physiographic regions, highlighting the military prowess of the Maratha rule.
• The landscapes showcase the integration of landscape, terrain, and physiographic characteristics distinctive to the Sahyadri mountain ranges, the Konkan Coast, the Deccan Plateau, and the Eastern Ghats in the Indian Peninsula.
• Out of the more than 390 forts in Maharashtra, only 12 have been chosen under the 'Maratha Military Landscapes of India'.
• The inception of the Maratha Military ideology dates back to the 17th century during the reign of the Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, continuing through subsequent rules until the Peshwa rule of 1818 CE.

UNESCO Nomination Criteria:

• There are two categories of nomination- cultural and natural criteria.
• The Maratha Military Landscapes is nominated under cultural criteria.
• To fulfil this criterion, a site should bear unique testimony to cultural tradition, it should be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble, or landscape that illustrates significant stage(s) in human history and it should be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, ideas or beliefs, artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.

World Heritage Sites In India:

• India presently boasts 42 World Heritage sites, with 34 cultural sites, 7 natural sites, and 1 mixed site.
• Maharashtra alone has six World Heritage Sites including:
  • The Ajanta Caves
  • Ellora Caves
  • Elephanta Caves
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
  • Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai, and
  • The Western Ghats (a natural site)

Tentative List Recognition:

• The Maratha Military Landscapes of India, included in the Tentative List of World Heritage sites in 2021, is the sixth cultural property nominated for inclusion in the World Heritage List from Maharashtra.

Why is it in the News?

The Modi government has brought di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), muriate of potash (MOP) and all other fertilisers that receive nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) support under “reasonable pricing” controls.

What is the Central Government's Decision on Non-Urea Fertilizers?

• The Department of Fertilisers (DoF) under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers has issued comprehensive guidelines for assessing the fairness of Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs) for all non-urea fertilisers covered by the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme.
• Effective from April 1, 2023, these guidelines set maximum allowable profit margins for different types of fertilizer companies: 8% for importers, 10% for manufacturers, and 12% for integrated manufacturers.
• Companies deemed to be earning excessive profits beyond these thresholds during a financial year (April-March) are required to reimburse the surplus to the DoF by October 10 of the following fiscal year.
• Failure to comply within the specified timeframe will result in the imposition of a 12% per annum interest rate on the refund amount, calculated from the day after the end of the financial year.
• Any unreasonable profits will be deducted from future fertilizer subsidy payments by the government.

How will Companies Unreasonable Profit be Determined?

• Fertilizer companies are required to conduct a self-assessment of unreasonable profits, using cost auditor's reports and audited cost data approved by their board of directors.
• This information must be submitted to the Department of Fertilisers (DoF) by October 10 of the subsequent fiscal year.
• The DoF will then review the reasonableness of Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs) submitted by companies by February 28 for each completed previous financial year.
• Subsequently, it will prepare a report on any unreasonable profits earned and to be recovered from the companies.

Significance of the New DoF Guidelines:

• Non-urea fertilizers are already informally price-controlled, a measure expected to continue until the conclusion of the Lok Sabha elections.
• The new guidelines establish indirect MRP controls on non-urea fertilizers by limiting the profits companies can earn from their sales.
• These limits will be based on the total cost of sales, encompassing production or import costs, administrative overheads, selling and distribution expenses, as well as net interest and financing charges.
• Essentially, the new guidelines extend the detailed cost monitoring and price control regime currently applied to urea to other fertilizers.

What is the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme?

• NBS fertilisers are technically decontrolled unlike urea, whose maximum retail price (MRP) is fixed by the government.
• Under the NBS scheme, introduced in April 2010, their MRPs are supposed to be market-determined and set by the individual companies selling them.
• The government merely pays a fixed per-tonne subsidy on each of these fertilisers, linked to their nutrient content or specific percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), potassium (K) and sulphur (S).
• Unlike the previous system, where subsidies were product-specific, the NBS Scheme encourages balanced fertilization by discouraging excessive use of high-nutrient fertilizers like urea, DAP, and MOP.
• It aims to promote innovation in fertilizer products and encourages the use of complex fertilizers and single super phosphate to address nutrient imbalances.
• However, the scheme faced challenges as urea consumption increased significantly, leading to nutrient imbalances and subsequent failure.

Why is it in the News?

Delhi High Court has upheld the constitutional validity of the anti-profiteering clause in the GST law, which mandates companies to pass on the benefit of lower taxes and input tax credits to consumers.

What is an ‘Anti-profiteering’ Activity?

• Any reduction in the rate of GST tax on any supply of goods or services or the benefit of input tax credit should have been passed on to the recipient by way of a commensurate reduction in prices.
• The wilful action of not changing the final price of the good or service by various means, despite the reduction in the rate of the tax for that particular good or service, amounts to “profiteering”.

How is the Anti-profiteering Mechanism Under the CGST Act?

• CGST mandate a 3-tier structure for investigation and adjudication of the complaints regarding profiteering.
  • a) National Anti-profiteering
  • b) Authority Directorate General of Safeguards
  • c) State-level screening committees and standing committee

How Does the Screening Committee and Standing Committee Work?

• GST council may constitute a standing committee, having members from both state and central government.
• Every state shall constitute one state-level screening committee.
  • It will have one member from the state government and one member from the central government as nominated by the respective appropriate authority.
  • The complaints or issues of local nature will be first examined by the screening committee.
• State-level screening and standing committee will examine the complaint and determine the prime facie evidence to support the validity of the complaint.
• If any committee satisfies that the supplier has contravened section 171 of the CGST Act, the case shall be transferred to DG Safeguards for further investigation.
• The committees shall complete the investigation within a period of a month from the date of the receipt of the application.

What is the Role of DG Safeguards in the Anti-profiteering Mechanism?

• DG safeguards are the main investigation arm in the anti-profiteering mechanism.
• It can summon the interested parties make inquiries or call the relevant documents.
• It can seek help from technical experts in the due course of investigation.
• DG Safeguards shall complete the investigation within a period of three months from the date of receipt of the report from either screening or standing committee.
• The period can be extended for another three months.

Who Can File the Complaint Against Profiteering?

• Any consumer or organisation experiencing a non-reduction in the price of the goods or service despite the reduction in the rate of GST can file a complaint with proper evidence.
• Any supplier, trader, wholesaler or retailer, who could not get the benefit of input tax credit on account of a reduction in the rate of GST, can also file the complaint with proper evidence.

Why is it in the News?

UN officials recently urged countries to reconsider their decision to suspend funding for UNRWA, promising strict action against any staff member implicated in Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel.

Context:

• Recently UN officials urged countries to reconsider their decision to suspend the funding for the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).
  • The agency highlighted that two million Palestinians in Gaza are dependent on UNRWA services.
• The US and eight other Western countries, which together provided more than half of UNRWA’s 2022 budget, cut the money after Israel accused some of the agency’s staff members of involvement in the October 7 attack.

What is the United Nations Refugee Agency for Palestinians (UNRWA)?

• UNRWA stands for UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East.
• It was founded in 1949 to provide aid to about 700,000 Palestinians who were forced to leave their homes in what is now Israel during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
• The UN agency operates in Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank, as well as Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan — countries where the refugees took shelter after their expulsion.
• It runs education, health, relief and social services, microfinance and emergency assistance programmes inside and outside refugee camps based in the aforementioned areas.
  • Currently, around 5.9 million Palestine refugees — most of them are descendants of original refugees — access the agency’s services.
  • Over 1 million are sheltering in UNRWA schools and other facilities in Gaza.
• Funding: UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions by donor states like the US.
  • It also gets a limited subsidy from the UN, which is used only for administrative costs, the agency’s website said.

What has Israel accused UNRWA of?

• Israel has alleged that 12 staff members of UNRWA were involved in the October 7 attack.
• It has also claimed that Hamas siphons off funds given to UNRWA and fights from in and around the agency’s facilities.
• Israel has alleged that “Hamas tunnels (are) running next to or under UNRWA facilities and accuses the agency of teaching hatred of Israel in its schools.

How has UNRWA Responded?

• The UNRWA has denied all the allegations, saying it has no links to Hamas.
• In the statement, UN officials said out of 12 staff members who were accused of being involved in the attack, nine have been terminated.
• One is confirmed dead and the identity of the two others is being clarified.

What Happens Now?

• UNRWA is crucial for the survival of people living in Gaza, which has plunged into a humanitarian crisis after the outbreak of the conflict.
• The agency has been the main supplier of food, water and shelter to civilians of the enclave.
• UNRWA, however, would run out of money needed for its aid work within weeks if the funding isn’t restored.

Why is it in the News?

An MoU was signed by Rajasthan and MP with the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti Sunday for implementation of the Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal-ERCP (Modified PKC-ERCP) Link Project.

What is the Modified PKC-ERCP?

• The Modified PKC-ERCP is an inter-state river linking project.
• A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) will be finalised among Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and the Centre, covering the sharing of water, exchange of water, sharing of costs and benefits, implementation mechanisms, arrangements for management and control of water in the Chambal basin, etc.

What is the PKC link project?

• The Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal (PKC) link project is one of the 30 links included in the National Perspectives Plan formulated by the erstwhile Union Ministry of Irrigation (now Ministry of Water Resources) and the Central Water Commission in the year 1980.
• As per the National Water Development Agency (NWDA), the preliminary feasibility report of the Kalisindh-Chambal link canal project was prepared and circulated to the states concerned in September 1991.
• The report proposed the diversion of water from river Newaj (a tributary of Kalisindh) and Kalisindh to the river Chambal at either the Rana Pratap Sagar dam or the Gandhi Sagar dam.
• Rajasthan came up with the proposal of the ERCP in 2019, and to utilise water resources optimally, the Task Force for Interlinking of Rivers (TFILR) discussed its merger with the PKC link project.
  • This integration was approved by the Special Committee for Interlinking of Rivers in December 2022.

What is the ERCP?

• The Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) is aimed at the intra-basin transfer of water within the Chambal basin, by utilising surplus monsoon water available in the Kalisindh, Parvati, Mej and Chakan subbasins and diverting it into water deficit sub-basins of Banas, Gambhiri, Banganga and Parbati.
• This will provide drinking and industrial water to 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan, namely Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur, Karauli, Sawai-Madhopur, Dausa, Jaipur, Ajmer, Tonk, Bundi, Kota, Baran, and Jhalawar.

What are the benefits of the modified project?

• According to the Jal Shakti Ministry, the link project proposes to provide drinking and industrial water in 13 districts of eastern Rajasthan, and Malwa and Chambal regions of Madhya Pradesh, apart from providing irrigation in 2.8 lakh ha. area (or more) each in both states (total of 5.6 lakh ha or more).

What is River Interlinking?

• River Interlinking involves the creation of artificial channels to connect rivers and water bodies, facilitating the transfer of water from regions of surplus to those facing deficits.
• Importance of River Interlinking:
  • Disaster Management: River Interlinking plays a crucial role in mitigating floods and droughts, aiding in effective disaster management strategies.
  • Economic Benefits: It offers economic advantages such as enhanced irrigation facilities, increased hydro-power generation capacity, and improved inland navigation, contributing to regional development.
  • Ecological Restoration: River Interlinking initiatives contribute to the restoration of river ecosystems and provide support to biodiversity in water-deficient regions, fostering ecological balance.
• Concerns Associated with River Interlinking:
  • Biodiversity Loss: One major concern revolves around the potential loss of biodiversity resulting from altering natural river courses and habitats.
  • Community Displacement: Another significant issue is the displacement of communities residing in areas affected by river interlinking projects, highlighting social and humanitarian challenges.

About the National Perspective Plan:

• The National Perspective Plan was formulated in 1980 under the purview of the Ministry of Irrigation (currently known as the Ministry of Jal Shakti) and the Central Water Commission.
• Objective:
  • The plan aims to address regional disparities by facilitating the inter-basin transfer of water resources, thereby minimizing imbalances across different regions of the country.
• Components:
  • The plan consists of 30 link projects categorized into two main components:
    • the Himalayan component, comprising 14 projects, and
    • the Peninsular component, consisting of 16 projects.

Why is it in the News?

Odisha is gearing up to provide an unparalleled experience to visitors through its upcoming black tiger safari, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

What are Black Tigers or Melanistic Tigers?

• Black tigers, also known as melanistic tigers, are a unique phenomenon resulting from a genetic condition called melanism.
  • Melanism causes an increased production of melanin, a pigment responsible for hair, eye, and skin colouration, resulting in black or nearly black skin, feathers, or hair in animals.
• In Simlipal Tiger Reserve, many royal Bengal tigers belong to a distinct lineage characterized by higher-than-normal levels of melanin.
• These tigers exhibit black and yellow interspersed stripes on their coats, though they are not entirely black.
  • Therefore, they are more accurately described as pseudo-melanistic.
• As per the 2022 All-India Tiger Estimation, 16 tigers were recorded in Similipal Tiger Reserve, out of which 10 were melanistic.
• However, ongoing tiger surveys conducted by the state government suggest that the actual number of royal Bengal tigers in Similipal Tiger Reserve may be higher than reported by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.

• Factors Contributing to (Pseudo) Melanism:

• Research conducted by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) in Bengaluru indicates that a single mutation in the gene Transmembrane Aminopeptidase Q (Taqpep) is responsible for the enlargement or spreading of black stripes into the yellow background of black tigers.
• Genetic analyses and computer simulations suggest that Similipal's black tigers may have originated from a very small founding population of tigers and are likely inbred.
• Additionally, the isolation of tigers in Similipal Tiger Reserve leads to breeding within the population, further contributing to the prevalence of melanism among these tigers.

About Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR):

• Similipal, which derives its name from the ‘Simul’ (Silk Cotton) tree, is a national park and a Tiger Reserve situated in the northern part of Orissa’s Mayurbhanj district.
• It spans an expansive area of 2,750 square kilometres (1,060 square miles), bordering Jharkhand and West Bengal.
• Similipal Tiger Reserve is a key component of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve, which encompasses three protected areas:
  • Similipal Tiger Reserve
  • Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and
  • Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary
• Biodiversity: Similipal is renowned for its rich biodiversity, boasting a diverse array of wildlife including the majestic Bengal tiger, the iconic Asian elephant, the formidable gaur, and the elusive chausingha.
• Recognized as a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves site since 2009, it stands as Asia's second-largest biosphere reserve, following the Gulf of Kachchh in Gujarat.
• Notably, Similipal Tiger Reserve holds the distinction of being the sole natural habitat in India for melanistic royal Bengal tigers, adding to its ecological significance.

Why is it in the News?

Janata Dal (United) president Nitish Kumar took oath as Bihar Chief Minister for a record ninth time on Sunday, returning to the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance just 18 months after he left it, in his fifth switch in political loyalties since 2015.

About Chief Minister:

• According to Article 163 of the Indian Constitution, each state shall have a Council of Ministers led by the Chief Minister (CM) to assist and provide advice to the Governor in carrying out the state's functions.
• In the parliamentary system of governance, the Chief Minister holds the actual executive authority within states.
• While the Governor serves as the ceremonial head of the state, the Chief Minister serves as the head of the government.
• In the Indian political framework, the Chief Minister's role is analogous to that of the Prime Minister at the national level.

Appointment Process of Chief Minister:

• The Constitution of India does not lay down specific criteria for the appointment of a Chief Minister.
• Article 164 of the Indian Constitution stipulates that the Governor is responsible for appointing the Chief Minister, albeit with certain limitations.
• Traditionally, the leader of the largest party in the state legislature is typically chosen as the Chief Minister, following parliamentary conventions.
• Even individuals who are not members of the state legislature (both Houses) can be appointed as Chief Minister for a temporary period of six months, during which they must secure election or nomination (in the case of a bicameral legislature).
• In situations where no single party or pre-poll coalition secures a majority in the assembly (known as a hung assembly), the Governor exercises discretionary powers to appoint the Chief Minister, relying on individual judgment.
• The Constitution does not mandate the Chief Minister-elect to demonstrate majority support in the state assembly before assuming office.
• However, after the formation of the ministry, the Governor may request the Chief Minister to prove majority support within a reasonable timeframe.

Oath and Affirmation of Chief Minister:

• The third Schedule of the Indian Constitution outlines the "Forms of Oaths or Affirmations" to be taken by public officials.
• Typically, the Chief Minister's oath, solemnly administered by the Governor, constitutes a formal commitment to uphold the constitution and execute the responsibilities of the position with integrity and diligence.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Chief Minister:

• The Chief Minister serves as the principal advisor to the Governor on matters pertaining to the convening and adjournment of state legislative sessions.
• As the head of the State Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister acts as the primary liaison between the Governor and the Council of Ministers.
• The Chief Minister possesses the authority to propose the dissolution of the legislative assembly to the Governor when deemed necessary.
• Additionally, the Chief Minister assumes the role of vice-chairman of the relevant zonal council on a rotational basis, serving a term of one year.

Why is it in the News?

Alabama inmate Kenneth Smith was executed on January 25 by nitrogen hypoxia, marking the United States’ first execution using the method, and the first time in over four decades that a new method of execution was introduced since lethal injection was first used in 1982.

News Summary:

• An Alabama death row inmate has been put to death by nitrogen gas, in the first known execution of its kind in the US.
• His case marks the first known execution by nitrogen hypoxia, which his lawyers had argued amounted to a form of “cruel and unusual punishment”.
  • Death by nitrogen gas is an untested procedure, and its opponents say it can cause unnecessary suffering.
• Kenneth Smith, 58, was a contract killer who had been on the death row since 1996.

What is Nitrogen Hypoxia?

• Nitrogen hypoxia is a style of execution wherein an inmate is made to inhale nitrogen instead of oxygen, leading to gradual asphyxiation.
• To achieve this, a respirator mask is placed over the head of the inmate on death row.
  • While the air we breathe is made up of 80 per cent nitrogen, it exists in combination with oxygen, rendering the colourless, odourless gas harmless.
• However, if a person is deprived of oxygen and made to breathe in just nitrogen, the gas proves lethal.
• When a high concentration of nitrogen is inhaled, it replaces the oxygen in the body and disables the respiratory system, causing death.

Why Nitrogen Hypoxia?

• Nitrogen hypoxia is the first new method of execution to be introduced since 1982 when lethal injections began being used.
• The drug needed to administer lethal injections to inmates on death row became harder to access over time, pushing authorities to scout for alternatives.
• Further, there were reports of a surge in complications associated with the procedure as well.
• As of now, only three states in the United States have approved the use of nitrogen gas to execute death row inmates, namely, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Mississippi.

Is Nitrogen Hypoxia Ethical?

• There is little research regarding death by nitrogen hypoxia.
• When the State is considering using a novel form of execution that has never been attempted anywhere, the public has an interest in ensuring the State has researched the method adequately and established procedures to minimise the pain and suffering of the condemned person.
• The risks associated with this method of execution include the risks surrounding the chances of a gas leak if the mask is not secured well on the inmate.
• The law requires that this execution not be cruel.

Key facts about Nitrogen:

• The air around us, the atmosphere, is made up of about 78% nitrogen and only 21% oxygen.
• The rest comprises water vapour, argon, neon, helium, hydrogen and xenon.
  • Those are known as "permanent gases".
• There is also a range of "variable gases" in the atmosphere.
  • They include methane, ozone and carbon dioxide — with concentrations that can vary from day to day and region to region.
• At a concentration of 78% in the atmosphere, nitrogen is safe to breathe.
  • But it grows dangerous and potentially fatal once levels of nitrogen reach 80% or more.
• Nitrogen has no odour,  is tasteless, and colourless.
• Nitrogen gas is inert, but certain soil bacteria can "fix" nitrogen into a usable form for plants and animals.
• French chemist Antoine Laurent Lavoisier named nitrogen azote, meaning without life.
• Nitrogen was sometimes referred to as 'burnt' or 'dephlogisticated' air.
• Nitrogen compounds are found in foods, fertilizers, poisons, and explosives.
• It is responsible for the orange-red, blue-green, blue-violet, and deep violet colours of the aurora.
• Nitrogen has a valence of 3 or 5.
• Discovery: Scottish physician Daniel Rutherford in 1772
• Nitrogen is the fifth most abundant element in the universe.

Why is it in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said ?800 crore has been approved for the expansion of the Supreme Court building complex while underlining that “ease of justice is the right of every Indian citizen and the Supreme Court is its medium”.

About the Supreme Court of India (SC):

Historical Context:

• The Supreme Court of India, inaugurated on January 26, 1950, coinciding with India's Republic Day, stands as the apex judicial body of the nation.
• Article 124 of the Constitution states that “There shall be a Supreme Court of India.”
• Situated on Tilak Marg, New Delhi, it initially operated from the Parliament House before relocating to its current edifice.
• The present building of the Supreme Court was inaugurated on August 4, 1958, by the first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

Judicial Composition:

• The original Constitution envisioned a Supreme Court comprising a Chief Justice and seven puisne Judges, with subsequent increments authorized by Parliament to meet the burgeoning caseload.
  • Presently, the Supreme Court consists of 34 Judges, including the Chief Justice, who convene in smaller benches of two or three, while larger benches of five or more, known as Constitution Benches, address critical constitutional matters or resolve conflicting decisions.

Jurisdiction and Powers:

• Endowed with original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction, the Supreme Court serves as the final interpreter of the Constitution and the ultimate court of appeal.
• Its exclusive original jurisdiction extends to disputes between the Government of India and States or between States (Article 131), while Article 32 empowers it to safeguard Fundamental Rights through writs.
• Additionally, the Supreme Court exercises appellate jurisdiction over High Courts and other judicial bodies, with the power to entertain appeals on substantial questions of law and issue special leave to appeal under Article 136.
• Special advisory jurisdiction is vested in the Supreme Court under Article 143, allowing it to deliberate on matters referred by the President of India.

Judicial Powers and Enforcement:

• Empowered to issue writs and directions for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights, the Supreme Court wields authority to punish for contempt of court, including self-contempt.
• It can reconsider its final judgments through curative petitions and holds the authority to transfer cases between High Courts and adjudicate on election petitions.

Binding Authority:

• As the apex judicial body, judgments rendered by the Supreme Court carry binding precedent on all subordinate courts and tribunals across India, ensuring uniformity and consistency in legal interpretation and application.

Why is it in the News?

In the last eight years, more women have enrolled in higher education compared to men, according to the 2021-22 All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) released recently.

Major Highlights of the AISHE Report 2021-22:

• The All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) for 2021–2022 has recently been released, and it highlights a notable change in enrolment trends.
• Women have enrolled in higher education at a higher rate than men during the last eight years, which is a significant step toward gender parity in academic fields.

Women Lead the Surge:

• According to the AISHE report, women now constitute 55 percent of the total increase in higher education enrollment, accounting for a staggering 91 lakh individuals since the academic year 2014-15.
• The latest statistics indicate that out of the overall enrollment of 4.33 crore, 48 percent, or 2.07 crore, are women—a marginal uptick from the 2.01 crore recorded in the previous academic year.
• The trend, characterized by a continuous surge in female enrollment since 2014-15, is particularly noteworthy.
• The report highlights an 18.7 percent increase in the enrollment of women from 2017-18 to 2021-22, showcasing a consistent upward trajectory.

Narrowing the Gender Gap:

• The gender gap in higher education is steadily narrowing, with the science stream standing out as a domain where women are making significant strides.
• Notably, 52.1 percent of the 57.18 lakh students enrolled in science at the undergraduate, postgraduate, MPhil, and PhD levels are women.
• The undergraduate level alone witnesses 51 percent of women in the science stream.
  • However, disparities persist in certain disciplines, such as engineering and technology, where female enrollment lags significantly behind.
  • The AISHE survey reveals that of the total students in undergraduate engineering programs, only 11.3 lakh are females, while 27.6 lakh are males.
• In addition to undergraduate programs, the report sheds light on postgraduate and PhD levels, showcasing a remarkable 61.2 percent of women in postgraduate science programs and a significant 62 percent representation in PhD programs in the sciences.
• State-wise Enrolment: The top 6 states in terms of student enrollment are Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Rajasthan, constituting 53.3% of total enrollment.

• Number of Foreign Students: There are 46,878 foreign students enrolled in higher education, with the highest share from Nepal (28%).
• Teaching Staff in Higher Education: The total number of faculty/teachers in 2021-22 is 15.98 lakh, with about 56.6% male and 43.4% female, showing an increase of 46,618 teachers over 2020-21.

• This emerging trend is not only indicative of changing societal dynamics but also underlines the need for continued efforts to foster inclusivity and equal opportunities within the realm of higher education.
• The report serves as a testament to the progress made while emphasizing the areas that still require attention and intervention.

About the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) Report:

• The All India Survey on Higher Education serves as the primary source of comprehensive data regarding the state of higher education in India.
• Published by the Ministry of Education, this survey has been ongoing since 2011, covering all higher educational institutions across the country.
• It gathers detailed information on various aspects including student enrollment, faculty data, infrastructure, and finances.
• The report relies on voluntary data submission by higher education institutions listed on the aishe.gov.in portal, with the accuracy of the data overseen by the respective institution's Nodal Officers.

Why is it in the News?

Delhi High Court this week rejected a challenge to the constitutionality of Section 5(v) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (HMA), which prohibits marriage between two Hindus if they are “sapindas” of each other — “unless the custom or usage governing each of them permits of a marriage between the two”.

What was the Case?

• In 2007, the marriage of a woman was declared void after her husband proved it was a sapinda marriage and she did not come from a community where such marriages were customary.
• This decision was challenged in the Delhi High Court, which dismissed the appeal in October 2023.
• The woman then petitioned the High Court again, challenging the legality of the sapinda marriage ban.
  • She claimed that sapinda marriages take place even when there is no evidence of custom.
• As a result, Section 5(v), which prohibits sapinda marriages unless an established custom exists, violates the right to equality guaranteed by Article 14 of the Constitution.
• The petitioner also claimed the marriage had received the consent of both families, demonstrating its legitimacy.

What are Sapinda Marriages?

• A sapinda marriage is one between two people who are related to each other to some extent.
  • According to Section 3(f)(ii), “Two persons are said to be sapindas of each other if one is a lineal ascendant of the other within the limits of sapinda relationship, or if they have a common lineal ascendant who is within the limits of sapinda relationship with reference to each of them.”
• According to the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA), on the mother's side, a Hindu person cannot marry anyone within three generations of them in the "line of ascent".
  • On the father's side, this prohibition applies to anyone within five generations of the individual.
• This means that on their mother's side, a person cannot marry their sibling (first generation), parents (second generation), grandparents (third generation), or anyone else who shares this ancestry within the three generations.
• On their father's side, this prohibition would apply to their grandparents' grandparents as well as anyone within five generations of this ancestry.

Exceptions to the Prohibition Against Sapinda Marriages?

• The only exception can be found within the same provision.
• An exception arises when the customs of the individuals involved permit sapinda marriages.
• The term "custom" is defined in Section 3(a) of the HMA.
  • According to this section, a custom must have been consistently and uniformly practised for an extended period and must have gained sufficient recognition among Hindus in a specific locality, community, or family to be deemed legally binding.

Are Marriages Similar to Sapinda Marriages Allowed in Other Countries?

• In several European countries, the laws on relationships that are considered incestuous are less stringent than in India.
  • In France, the crime of incest was abolished under the Penal Code of 1810, so long as the marriage was between consenting adults.
• Portuguese law also does not criminalise incest.
• Under Italian law, incest is a crime only if it causes a “public scandal”.
• In the United States, incestuous marriages are banned in all 50 states, though incestuous relationships between consenting adults are allowed in New Jersey and Rhode Island.

Why is it in the News?

The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research's Republic Day Tableau highlighted the unleashing of a Purple Revolution ushered through Lavender cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir.

What is the Purple Revolution?

• The Purple Revolution or Lavender Revolution, launched by the Ministry of Science & Technology, aims to promote the indigenous aromatic crop-based agro-economy through the ‘aroma mission’ of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
• The mission aims to increase the income of the farmers and promote lavender cultivation on a commercial scale.
  • Lavender oil, which sells for, at least, Rs. 10,000 per litre, is the main commodity.
• Other popular products include medicines, incense sticks, soaps, and air fresheners.
• The cultivation of lavender is very cost-effective as it yields revenue immediately.
• Jammu and Kashmir’s climatic conditions are conducive to lavender cultivation since the aromatic plant can withstand both chilly winters and pleasant summers.
• Additionally, it is a low-maintenance crop, which can be used from its second year of plantation and blossoms for fifteen years.
  • In its entirety, lavender production gives better returns when compared to other traditional crops.
• Under the One District One Product-Districts as Export Hubs (ODOP-DEH) initiative, lavender cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir has experienced a significant boom.
  • Lavender has been designated by the central government as a "Doda brand product" to promote the rare aromatic plant and boost the morale of farmers, entrepreneurs, and agribusinesses involved in its cultivation as part of this Aroma Mission.
• The Aroma Mission through the Purple Revolution aims to bring about a revolutionary change in the fragrance industry, consequently promoting the expansion of the aroma sector and generating rural employment, through targeted interventions during cultivation, product refinement, market development and curating an expansion strategy for the lavender crop.

About Aroma Mission:

• The Aroma Mission, launched in 2016, aims to enhance the cultivation of plants like lavender, Aloe Vera, Mehndi, Menthol, and Mint, known for their aromatic and medicinal properties.
• Developed by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), this mission employs new technologies.
• It seeks to revolutionize the aroma sector by improving agricultural practices, processing methods, and product development.
• Additionally, it provides technical and infrastructure support to farmers and growers nationwide, ensuring fair prices through buy-back mechanisms.
• The mission targets to expand cultivation by 30,000 hectares and catalyze aromatic crop cultivation in 60,000 hectares overall.
• This expansion is expected to yield an extra 700 tonnes of essential oils used in perfumery, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, creating a business worth at least 200 crores.

Why is it in the News?

Ahead of the interim Budget 2024, exporters have urged the government to allocate funds worth $3.88 billion for the Market Access Initiative (MAI) scheme to promote Indian exports and help them hit the ambitious $2 trillion target by 2030.

What is the Market Access Initiatives (MAI) Scheme?

• The Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme is an Export Promotion Scheme envisaged to act as a catalyst to promote India’s exports on a sustained basis.
• The scheme is formulated on a focus product-focus country approach to evolve specific markets and specific products through market studies/surveys.
• Assistance would be provided to Export Promotion Organizations/Trade Promotion Organizations/National Level Institutions/ Research Institutions/Universities/Laboratories, Exporters etc., for enhancement of exports through accessing new markets or through increasing the share in the existing markets.
• Under the Scheme, the level of assistance for each eligible activity has been fixed.
• The following activities will be eligible for financial assistance under the Scheme:
  • Marketing Projects Abroad
  • Capacity Building
  • Support for Statutory Compliances
  • Studies
  • Project Development
  • Developing Foreign Trade Facilitation Web Portal
  • To support Cottage and handicraft units

How does the MAI Scheme work?

• The scheme’s primary goal is to facilitate export growth by enabling entities to enter new markets or enhance their presence in existing markets.
• To accomplish this, the scheme provides predetermined levels of assistance for each eligible activity.
• By directing attention to key products and specific markets, the MAI Scheme serves as a catalyst for driving India’s export expansion in a sustainable and strategic manner.

Who is eligible to receive assistance under the MAI Scheme?

• Various entities are eligible to receive financial assistance under the MAI Scheme, including:
  • Export promotion organizations
  • Trade promotion organizations
  • National level institutions
  • Research institutions
  • Universities
  • Laboratories
  • Individual exporters
  • Start-ups

Who administers the MAI Scheme?

• The MAI Scheme is administered by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

Why is it in the News?

A rare golden tiger was recently spotted in Kaziranga National Park taking a stroll and is the only known golden big cat in India.

What is a Golden Tiger?

• A Golden Tiger, also called a Golden Tabby Tiger, is a Bengal tiger with a unique colour variation caused by a recessive gene.
• The tiger looks golden because it has a mutation or a genetic variant.
  • Basically, tigers have three colours: black, orange and white.
• In the Golden Tiger, the black colour is missing and it is slightly faded.
  • The golden colouring of these tigers comes from a recessive trait called 'wideband,' affecting how black pigments are produced during hair growth.
• Golden tigers are not a distinct subspecies but rather a product of genetic diversity among Bengal tigers.
• They are extremely rare in the wild and even more so in captivity.

About Kaziranga National Park:

• Kaziranga National Park lies partly in the Golaghat District and partly in the Nagaon District of Assam.
• It is the oldest park in Assam and covers an area of 430 sq km along the river Brahmaputra on the North and the Karbi Anglong hills on the South.
• The National Highway 37 passes through the park area and tea estates, hemmed by table-top tea bushes.
• Kaziranga National Park a world heritage site is famous for the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros, the landscape of Kaziranga is of sheer forest, tall elephant grass, rugged reeds, marshes & shallow pools.
  • It was declared a National Park in 1974.
• It is one of the last areas in eastern India undisturbed by a human presence.
• It is inhabited by the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds.
• Vegetation: Due to the difference in altitude between the eastern and western areas of the park, mainly four main types of vegetation’ like alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests.
• Flora: Kumbhi, Indian gooseberry, cotton tree, and elephant Apple are among the famous trees that can be seen in the park.
• Fauna: The forest region of Kaziranga Park is home to the world’s largest population of Indian Rhinoceros.
  • Other animals that can be seen in the elephant grass, marshland and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests of Kaziranga are Hoolock Gibbon, Tiger, Leopard, Indian Elephant, Sloth Bear, Wild water buffalo, swamp deer, etc.
  • Also in this park the good number of migratory bird species from Central Asia.

• With the increase in tiger population every year, the government authorities declared Kaziranga a Tiger Reserve in the year 2006.

Why is it in the News?

The Army has launched Operation Sarvashakti in the Rajouri-Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir, deploying forces on both sides of the Pir Panjal range to target terrorists who have carried out a series of attacks on troops in the area.

What is Operation Sarvashakti?

• In a bid to combat increasing terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, the Army has initiated Operation Sarvashakti, under which terrorists operating on both sides of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges in the Union Territory will be neutralised.
  • There were three major attacks on the security forces in 2023, and over the past few years, 20 soldiers have been killed in terrorist ambushes in this area.
• Operation Sarvashakti, as part of which at least three brigades of additional troops are being deployed in the sector from various reserve and strike corps formations in order to increase the density of troops and, therefore, the likelihood of contact with terrorists, recalls an earlier operation by the Army in the same forests more than two decades ago.
• Back in 2003, Indian forces launched Operation Sarpvinash to flush out terrorists who had infiltrated from across the border and set up camps in the thick forests south of the Pir Panjal range, especially in the Hilkaka area in Poonch.

What was Operation Sarpvinash?

• Operation Sarpvinash, launched in April 2003, marked a significant counter-insurgency effort in Jammu and Kashmir.
• In response to intelligence indicating over 300 foreign terrorists establishing secure camps in Surankote and Hilkaka post-infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC), the three-month-long operation involved 10,000 troops in a challenging 150 sq km area.
• Employing helicopters and ground forces, the operation neutralized approximately 100 terrorists, dismantled bunkers, and recovered weapons, explosives, and supplies.
• Operation Sarpvinash successfully restored peace to the region until 2017-18, impacting the region's security dynamics.
  • However, since 2021, there has been a resurgence of high-intensity attacks on security forces in this area.

Why is this area important strategically?

• The areas south of Mendhar leading to the Pir Panjal range through Hilkaka constitute among the shortest routes of access for infiltrators from across the LoC into the Kashmir valley.
• The terrorists chose this region to set up camps because dominating this area can potentially provide a conduit to personnel in the event of a military operation by the Pakistanis, and easier infiltration of terrorists.
• The dense forests and steep mountain slopes offer both adequate cover and visual domination of the area.
• Terrorists were able to merge with the foliage whenever Indian troops carried out searches in the area and inflicted casualties in case of contact.
• All of these locational advantages for terrorists remain intact to some degree even now.

Why is it in the News?

In a bid to achieve the target of coal gasification of 100 million tonnes (MT) of coal by 2023 in India, the government recently approved Rs 8,500 crore incentives.

What is Coal Gasification?

• Coal gasification is a thermo-chemical procedure wherein the pressure and heat of the gasifier disintegrate coal into its chemical components.
• The resulting "syngas" are mostly carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen, with some other gaseous substances thrown in for good measure.
• Coal gasification is an in-situ method wherein oxygen is infused into the seam together with water and ignited at high temperatures, causing coal to partly oxidised into hydrogen, CO, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and hydrogen sulphide (H2S).
• Ex-situ reactors are designed to simulate the gasification process above the ground's surface.
  • Sulphur in coal is transformed to H2S and trace volumes of carbonyl sulphide during the gasification process (COS).
  • Acid gas removal technology can easily and cost-effectively discard these sulphur compounds.
• There is no scrubber sludge produced by coal gasification plants, which necessitates careful and expensive disposal.
• The majority of the wash water is reprocessed, and residual wastewater from gasification plants can be treated effectively.
• As a result, coal gasification is regarded as a cleaner coal technology when compared to coal combustion.
• Furthermore, coal could be used to generate a range of products using clean coal innovations such as hydrogen, methanol, and fertilisers via coal gasification.
• Carbon fibres and plastic composites made from coal power plant ash/residue.

How can it be used?

• Syngas, according to proponents of coal gasification, can be used to generate power, in energy-efficient fuel cell technology, or as chemical "building components" for industrial applications.
  • The hydrogen can also be extracted and used to power a hydrogen economy.
• Coal gas can also be transformed into a transportation fuel to be used in automobiles as a replacement for gasoline, but it is less efficient than the current output and combustion of petroleum-based gasoline.
• Coal gasification is said to be more efficient than traditional coal burning since it can use the gases two times: the coal gases are first purified of contaminants before being fired inside a turbine to produce energy.
• The gas turbine exhaust heat can be then collected and used to produce steam for a steam turbine generator.
  • This is known as a combined process, and according to DOE, a coal gasification processing facility using this dual method can possibly attain an efficiency of 50% or higher, compared to the customary coal power plant, which is typically just above 30%.

Significance of Coal Gasification:

• India announced environmental targets as its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement in 2016.
  • In order to meet these objectives, coal gasification aids in the decrease of emission levels and the advancement of non-fossil fuel-based energy resources.
• The syngas produced by coal gasification can be used to generate urea and a variety of products such as methanol, Dimethyl ether (DME), and olefins, allowing India to minimise imports and become self-sufficient.
• Syngas CO and H2 are essential reducing agents for steel production and are regarded as an environmentally friendly technique of steel production because they reduce the import of furnace oil.
• India has ambitious plans to produce active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) domestically rather than importing them from China.
  • As a result, the potential of Syngas requirement for making APIs, as well as methanol as a solvent, is being investigated.
• The synthesis gas can be used in an Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) system to generate electricity in an efficient and environmentally friendly manner.

Initiatives taken by India:

• The Ministry of Coal, through Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, has taken the initiative, National Coal Gasification Mission, that is to utilise coal through coal gasification, with the goal of achieving 100 MT coal gasification by 2030.
  • It has also been recommended that all coal companies assign a nodal officer and formulate a plan for gasifying at least 10 per cent of their coal production.
• SHAKTI policy was implemented in coal gasification projects to minimise operating costs by allocating long-term coal linkages through auction.

Why is it in the News?

India today is celebrating its 14th National Voters’ Day. It is celebrated annually on January 25 since 2011 to mark the foundation day of the Election Commission of India. The ECI was founded on January 25, 1950.

Why is National Voters’ Day celebrated?

• National Voters’ Day aims to promote people’s participation in elections by encouraging and felicitating young voters and increasing voter enrolment.
• It is also utilised to spread awareness among voters and to promote informed participation in the electoral process.
• The day is celebrated at the national, state, district, constituency and polling booth levels, which makes it one of the largest celebrations in the country.
• The date chosen for National Voters' Day commemorates the formation of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on January 25, 1950.
  • The ECI is an autonomous constitutional body under Article 324 entrusted with the sacred responsibility of conducting free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
  • Since its inception, the ECI has played a pivotal role in upholding the democratic principles of India, ensuring the voice of every citizen is heard.
• The first National Voters’ Day was celebrated in 2011 under the leadership of the then Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) S Y Quraishi.
  • Emulating India’s example, six countries, including Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal and Bhutan, have started celebrating National Voters Day.
• National Voters’ Day pledge: As a part of the celebrations, all government offices, autonomous bodies, and organisations take a pledge on the day.
  • Schools and educational Institutions across the country are encouraged to conduct activities such as debates, discussions, and competitions on the theme of Voters’ Day.

What is the theme for National Voters’ Day 2024?

• The theme for this year is ‘Nothing Like Voting, I Vote For Sure’, which is a continuation of last year’s theme, and conveys an individual’s feeling and aspiration towards participation in the electoral process through the power of their vote.
• The logo for this year’s theme is designed in such a way that it showcases the festivity and inclusivity of the electoral process.
  • The Ashoka Chakra in the background represents the largest democracy in the world, whereas the inked finger represents the participation of each and every voter of the country.
  • The tick mark in the logo stands for informed decision-making by the voter.

Why is it in the News?

Scientists have discovered a lake that could be a good match for Darwin's "warm little ponds" where life got started on the primordial Earth.

What is a Soda Lake?

• A soda lake is a lake with a pH value of more than the usual measure of 6 or 7, usually between 9 and 11.
• High carbonate concentration, especially sodium carbonate, is responsible for the alkalinity of the water.
  • A soda lake may also contain a high concentration of sodium chloride and other salts making it saline or hypersaline Lake.
• Soda lakes are highly productive ecosystems compared to freshwater lakes with a global primary production rate of over 10 grams of carbon per square meter per day.
• Therefore Soda lakes are the most productive aquatic environment on Earth because of the availability of dissolved carbon dioxide.
• Soda lakes occur naturally in both arid and semi-arid areas.

Geology And Genesis Of Soda Lakes:

• A topography that limits the outflow of water from the lake is needed.
• An endorheic basin is formed when the water is confined without the outflow.
• The pH of the water in the depression rises through the evaporation of the lake which requires a suitable climate like the desert climate to balance between the inflow and evaporation.
  •  The rate at which carbonate salt dissolves in the lake water depends on the ecology of the surrounding area.
• The relative absence of magnesium and calcium is critical in the formation of the soda lake since magnesium or calcium is likely to dissolve quickly and displace the carbonate ion thus neutralizing the PH of the lake water.

Biodiversity Of Soda Lakes:

• Soda lakes are inhabited by a rich diversity of microbial life making them a productive ecosystem.
• They are permanent and seasonal habitats for algae which are visible in many of the lakes.
• Soda lakes are dominated by prokaryotes like bacteria and archaea, especially in lakes with higher levels of alkalinity.
• Multicellular organisms such as brine shrimp and fish are found in plenty if not most of the soda lakes.
• Soda lakes also harbour unique species which are adapted to the alkali conditions.
  • These organisms which are adapted to the high alkalinity are called haloalkaliphiles.

Examples Of Soda Lakes:

• Africa and Asia have the highest number of soda lakes since the two continents have vast desert conditions which are perfect for the formation of soda lakes.
  • Most of the soda lakes in Africa are located in Eastern Africa, especially in Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia.
• Lake Natron in Tanzania is one of the most outstanding soda lakes in Africa because of the high PH of water which is always about 12.
• India and China have the highest number of soda lakes in Asia.
  • Some of the soda lakes in India include Tso Kar Salt Lake, Pangong Salt Lake, and Lonar Lake.

Why is it in the News?

The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is going to inspect the Big Four audit firms as well as other top auditors of large listed entities in 2024, an official familiar with the development told FE.

What is the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA)?

• The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is a statutory body and was constituted on 1st October 2018 by the Government of India under Sub Section (1) of section 132 of the Companies Act, 2013.
• It is responsible for setting accounting standards in the country.
  • The Punjab National Bank fraud prompted the government to establish an NFRA as the legal regulator for the auditing profession.
• Its mandate is to improve the quality and consistency of financial statements in the country and ensure that businesses and financial institutions disclose accurate and fair information.
• The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is located in New Delhi.
• The chairperson since March 2022 is Ajay Bhushan Pandey.
• The NFRA can probe listed as well as unlisted public companies.
  • Companies must have a paid-up capital of ?500 crores and an annual turnover of ?1,000 crores.

Functions and Duties:

• As per Sub Section (2) of Section 132 of the Companies Act, 2013, the duties of the NFRA are to:
• Recommend accounting and auditing policies and standards to be adopted by companies for approval by the Central Government;
• Monitor and enforce compliance with accounting standards and auditing standards;
• Oversee the quality of service of the professions associated with ensuring compliance with such standards and suggest measures for improvement in the quality of service;
• Perform such other functions and duties as may be necessary or incidental to the aforesaid functions and duties.

Composition of the NFRA:

• As mandated by the Companies Act, NFRA is comprised of a chairperson appointed by the Central Government and a maximum of 15 members.
• The individuals selected for these roles must possess expertise in accountancy, auditing, finance, or law.
• Furthermore, they are required to declare to the Central Government that there is no conflict of interest or lack of independence in their appointment.

Membership Qualifications:

• All members, including the chairperson, who are in full-time employment, are prohibited from association with any audit firm (including related consultancy firms) during their term of office and for a period of two years after the completion of their term.

Powers of the NFRA:

• The NFRA has the same powers as the Civil Court.
• The NFRA has the authority to investigate matters of misconduct involving CAs and Chartered Accountants.
• It can impose a penalty of not less than ?1 lakh but not exceeding 5 times the fees collected.
• Also, the NFRA may also investigate and take action against individuals who violate the rules of professional conduct.
• It has the power to initiate investigations on its own and upon referral from the Central Government.

Why is it in the News?

There are several ways to encrypt information depending on the level of secrecy and protection required.

What is End-to-end Encryption (E2EE)?

• End-to-end encryption (E2EE) is a type of messaging that keeps messages private from everyone, including the messaging service.
  • When E2EE is used, a message only appears in decrypted form for the person sending the message and the person receiving the message.
  • The sender is one "end" of the conversation and the recipient is the other "end"; hence the name "end-to-end."

How Does Encryption Work?

• Encryption works by altering data so that only someone who possesses a specific piece of knowledge — known as the key — can interpret the data.
• Keys can take different forms in different contexts.
  • With communications over the Internet, a key is a string of bits that plays a role in the complex mathematical equations used to scramble and unscramble data.
• With E2EE, the key that can encrypt and decrypt messages remains saved on a user's device.

What Kind of Encryption Does E2EE Use?

• End-to-end encryption uses a specialized form of encryption called public key encryption (also sometimes called asymmetric encryption).
  • Public key encryption enables two parties to communicate without having to send the secret key over an insecure channel.
• Public key encryption relies on using two keys instead of one: a public key and a private key.
  • While anyone, including the messaging service, can view the public key, only one person knows the private key.
  • Data encrypted with the public key can only be decrypted with the private key (not the public key).
  • This contrasts with symmetric encryption, where only one key is used to both encrypt and decrypt.

How Does End-to-end Encryption Support Privacy?

• E2EE ensures that no one can see messages except for the two people who are communicating with each other.
• When implemented properly, it does not require users to trust that a service will handle their data properly.
• Thus, E2EE gives people total control over who can read their messages, enabling them to keep their messages private.

What are the Limitations of End-to-end Encryption?

• E2EE keeps messages secure in transit (as they pass from one person to another).
  • But it does not protect messages once they reach their destination.
• E2EE is not guaranteed to be future-proof. When implemented correctly, modern encryption methods are strong enough to resist encryption-breaking efforts from even the most powerful computers in the world.
• But the more powerful in the future like Quantum computers, if developed, would be able to crack modern encryption algorithms.
• Using E2EE keeps messages secure in the present, but it may not keep them secure permanently.

Why is it in the News?

The semiconductor Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme, set to undergo a mid-term appraisal, has so far approved only seven start-ups, falling significantly short of its intended goal of supporting 100 over a span of five years since its announcement.

About Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme:

• Under the DLI scheme, government will provide financial incentives and design infrastructure to domestic companies, start-ups and MSMEs focussed on semiconductor design.
• The DLI scheme has been announced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to offset the disabilities in the domestic industry involved in semiconductor design in order to not only move up in value-chain but also strengthen the semiconductor chip design ecosystem in the country.
• C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing), a scientific society operating under MeitY, will serve as the nodal agency for implementation of the DLI scheme.

Objectives:

• • Nurturing and facilitating the growth of the domestic companies, startups and MSMEs.
  • Achieving significant indigenization in semiconductor content and IPs involved in the electronic products deployed in the country, thereby facilitating import substitution and value addition in the electronics sector.
  • Strengthening and facilitating access to semiconductor design infrastructure for startups and MSMEs.

Duration: The scheme shall initially be for three (3) years from 01-01-2022.

• The scheme has three components – Chip Design infrastructure support, Product Design Linked Incentive and Deployment Linked Incentive.
  • Under the Chip Design infrastructure support, C-DAC will set the India Chip Centre to host the state-of-the-art design infrastructure (viz. EDA Tools, IP Cores and support for MPW (Multi Project Wafer fabrication) & post-silicon validation) and facilitate its access to supported companies.
  • Under the Product Design Linked Incentive component, reimbursement of up to 50% of the eligible expenditure subject to a ceiling of ?15 Crore per application will be provided as fiscal support to the approved applicants who are engaged in semiconductor design.
  • Under the Deployment Linked Incentive component, an incentive of 6% to 4% of net sales turnover over 5 years subject to a ceiling of ?30 Crore per application will be provided to approved applicants whose semiconductor design for Integrated Circuits (ICs), Chipsets, System on Chips (SoCs), Systems & IP Cores and semiconductor linked design are deployed in electronic products.
• The DLI Scheme will also take a graded and pre-emptive approach to Identify the Products of national priorities and implement strategies for their complete or near complete indigenisation & deployment thereby taking steps towards the import substitution & value addition in strategic & societal sectors.

Why is it in the News?

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently prevented from visiting Assam’s Batadrava Than, where he was going as part of his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

What is the Batadrava Than?

• The Batadrava Than, or Bordowa Than, is a temple complex at the birthplace of revered Vaishnavite reformer-saint Srimanta Sankardeva (1449-1568).
• Located in Nagaon district, the Batadrava Than, or Bordowa Than, is one of the most sacred sites for Assamese Vaishnavites.
• Sankardeva founded the first-ever Kirtan Ghar at Bordowa in 1494 AD to practise and preach the neo-Vaishnavite faith during the fifteenth century in Assam and propagated the Ek Saran Naam Dharma.
• Various structures within the campus include Natghar (drama hall), Alohighar (guest room), Sabhaghar (assembly hall), Rabhaghar (music room), Hatipukhuri, Aakashi Ganga, Doul mandir (festive temple), and more.
• There is also a mini-museum displaying historical articles and artefacts.
  • Bordowa Than has a history of disputes over ownership, leading to its division into two satras: Narowa and Salaguri. In 1958, it was reunified under the banner of 'Bordowa Than,' with both former Satras combined, and a single Namghar was established.

What was Srimanta Sankardeva’s Philosophy?

• He propagated the Ek Saran Naam Dharma.
• The Ek Saran Naam Dharma focussed on worship in the form of bhakti (devotion) to Lord Krishna, through singing and congregational listening of His name and deeds.
• Sankardeva espoused a society based on equality and fraternity, free from caste differences, orthodox Brahmanical rituals and sacrifices.
  • His teaching focused on prayer and chanting (naam) instead of idol worship. His dharma was based on the four components of deva (god), naam (prayers), bhakats (devotees), and guru (teacher).
• The Neo-Vaishnavite reformist movement that Sankardeva started is behind the monastic institutions called Thans/Sattras that dot Assam.
  • As the saint travelled across Assam, spreading his teachings, these Sattras/Thans were established as centres of religious, social and cultural reforms in the 16th century.
• Today, the Sattras promulgate Sankardeva’s unique “worship through art” approach with music (borgeet), dance (xattriya) and theatre (bhauna).
• Each Sattra has a naamghar (worship hall) as its nucleus and is headed by an influential “Sattradhikar”.

Literary Contributions:

• Srimanta Sankardev's significant literary works include 'Kirtan Ghosa' and 'Gunamala.'
  • He is credited with composing sacred songs known as 'Borgeet.'
• His penned dramas, recognized as 'Ankia Naat,' featured Sattriya Dance as an integral component during that era.
  • In these 'Ankia Naats,' Srimanta Sankardev employed a narrative style through drama, often portraying the lives of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama.
  • His inaugural dramatic piece was 'Chihnajatra,' followed by others like 'Kaliya Daman' and 'Patni Prasad.'
• Remarkably, at the age of twelve, when he commenced formal education, he crafted a poem extolling Lord Vishnu titled 'Karatala Kamala Kamala Dala Nayana.'
  • Notably, during this early phase, he composed the poem using only consonants, having not yet learned about vowels.

Why is it in the News?

The first meeting of the Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB) was held last week at the conference hall, Dr Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.

What is the Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB)?

• Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB) is a first-of-its-kind advisory body in India.
• It is set up under the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD), which functions under the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• It will guide the Ministry as it institutionalizes social audits for each of its programs.
• It will support the Social Justice Cell of the Social Audit Unit members in developing their abilities.

What is a Social Audit:?

• A social audit is a procedure that involves looking over and evaluating a plan or program.
• People actively participate in the process, which involves comparing government data with actual ground realities.
• Important tenets of SA include:
  • Protection of citizens (Suraksha)
  • Participation (Bhagidari), and
  • Information access (Jaankari).

Implementation of Social Audit:

• The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), among other hallmark programs, now include the provision of Social Audit (SA) with the efforts of the Union Government.
• In order to guarantee SA through specialized Social Audit Units at the state level, DoSJE developed the National Resource Cell for Social Audit (NRCSA).
• The first state to put a social audit statute into effect was Meghalaya.

Significance: Promote transparency and accountability,

• • strengthen institutions at the grassroots level etc.

Challenges: Lack of awareness among stakeholders, apathetic attitude of implementing agency etc.

Steps for SocialAudit:

• Orientation and Sensitization:: Conducted by the implementing agency.
• Presentation: Creating a social audit team.
• Verification: Verifying information with beneficiaries, inmates, stakeholders, and institution staff.
• Validation: Presenting the initial report for validation.
• Presentation and Action: Sharing findings at the district level with all stakeholders present.

Why is it in the News?

Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa and the world’s second-largest faces numerous environmental challenges that demand collective efforts for restoration and conservation.

About Lake Victoria:

Geography:

• Located in East Africa and bordered by Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya.
• Africa's largest lake by area (approximately 59,947 km²) and the world's second-largest freshwater lake after Lake Superior.
• Lies in a shallow depression within the East African Rift Valley.
• The average depth of 40 meters, maximum depth of 80-81 meters.

Hydrology:

• The main source of water is rainfall, supplemented by rivers like the Kagera.
• The only outlet is the Victoria Nile, which flows into the White Nile and ultimately the Nile River.
• Plays a crucial role in the water supply and livelihoods of millions of people in East Africa.

Ecology:

• Supports a diverse ecosystem with over 200 fish species, including the Nile perch and Nile tilapia.
• Important habitat for birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
• Facing challenges like pollution, overfishing, and invasive species.

History and Culture:

• Named after Queen Victoria by British explorer John Hanning Speke in 1858.
• Has been a vital source of transportation, trade, and food for centuries.
• Plays a significant role in the cultural traditions and folklore of the surrounding communities.

Why is it in the News?

A new landmark of India — both structural and spiritual — rose on Ayodhya's horizon on January 22 in the form of a new-age architectural marvel of elegant sandstones, diligently carved by craftspeople with dedication and devotion to Lord Ram.

Major Features of the Ram Temple:

• No iron or steel has been used in the construction of the grand structure.
• Stones have been sourced from Rajasthan's Bansi Paharpur area.
• The entire temple superstructure will eventually be three storeys — ground plus two floors.
• Nagara style: The temple complex, built in the traditional Nagara style, will be 380 feet long from the east to the west, 250 feet wide and 161 feet high.
  • Each floor of the temple will be 20 feet high and have a total of 392 pillars and 44 gates.
• Images of Lord Hanuman, other deities, peacocks and flower patterns have been carved onto the stones, lending the structure a divine look.
• Unique feature: Around the grand temple is a rectangular periphery called percota, a feature found in temples in south India, but not generally in north India.
  • The percota will be 14 feet wide and the periphery span 732 metres.
  • The temple will be nestled within the percota periphery.
• Ornate statues of elephants, lions, Lord Hanuman and Garuda were installed at the main entrance leading to the temple.
  • These statues have also been made using sandstone brought from Bansi Paharpur.
• An ancient Shiva temple that exists on the Kuber Tila has also been revitalised.
• Green Complex: About 70 per cent of the complex will be a green area.
  • "The green area includes portions which are very dense and, in some segments, even sunlight hardly filters through.
• The complex will have two sewage treatment plants — a water treatment plant and a dedicated electricity line from the powerhouse.
  • The fire brigade post will be able to source water from an underground reservoir.

Additional Architectural Aspects:

• A time capsule, located approximately 2,000 feet below the ground beneath the temple, houses a copper plate inscribed with pertinent information about the Ram Mandir, Lord Rama, and Ayodhya.
• The objective of this time capsule is to preserve the temple's identity for posterity, preventing it from fading into obscurity in the years to come.
• Engineered as an earthquake-resistant structure, the temple boasts an estimated age of 2500 years.

Why is it in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas on 23rd January.

Why Parakram Diwas is Celebrated?

• The government officially announced on January 19, 2021, that January 23 be observed as Parakram Diwas in order to pay tribute to Netaji’s relentless pursuit of India’s freedom.
• The government of India has decided to celebrate his birthday on the 23rd day of January every year as “PARAKRAM DIWAS” to inspire people of the country, especially the youth, to act with fortitude in the face of adversity as Netaji did, and to infuse in them a spirit of patriotic fervour,” the Centre had said in a notification.
• Parakram Diwas, which translates to “Day of Valour”.
• In 2021, the first event took place at Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata.
• In 2022, a hologram statue of Netaji was unveiled at India Gate, and in 2023, the 21 largest unnamed islands of Andaman & Nicobar Islands were named after the 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees and a model of National Memorial dedicated to Netaji which was supposed to be built on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, was unveiled.

Key Facts About Subhas Chandra Bose:

• Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Orissa.
• In 1920, he successfully passed the civil service examination but resigned from his position in April 1921 after learning about the nationalist turmoil in India.
• A prominent Indian nationalist leader, he played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule.
• Joined the Indian National Congress and actively participated in the struggle for independence.
• Elected president of the Indian National Congress for two consecutive terms but resigned due to ideological conflicts with Mahatma Gandhi.
• In 1939, Bose founded the Forward Bloc, an organization aimed at unifying anti-British forces in India.
• Fled from India at the beginning of World War II, travelling to the Soviet Union, Germany, and Japan in pursuit of an alliance against British forces in India.
• With Japanese assistance, reorganized and led the Indian National Army, comprising Indian prisoners-of-war and plantation workers from Southeast Asia.
• Established the Azad Hind Government in exile with Japanese support, leading the Indian National Army in battles against the allies in Imphal and Burma.

Why is it in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced the 'Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana' under which one crore households will get rooftop solar across the nation.

What is 'Pradhan Mantri Suryodaya Yojana'?

• The scheme aims to equip one crore poor to middle-class households with rooftop solar panels in a bit to provide electricity from solar energy.
• The scheme would not only reduce the electricity bill of the poor and middle class but would also make India self-reliant in the energy sector.
  • Rooftop solar panels are the photovoltaic panels installed on the roof of a building which is connected to the main power supply unit.
  • Thus, it reduces the consumption of grid-connected electricity and saves electricity costs for the consumer.
  • In a solar rooftop system, there is only an upfront capital investment and minimal cost for maintenance.
• Under this scheme, one crore households will get solar rooftops.
• Moreover, it will offer additional income for surplus electricity generation.
• The consumer can choose any vendor on the national portal and after installation, the subsidy is sent directly to the bank account of the consumer.
• The Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana is a new scheme but very similar to the previously announced Rooftop Solar Programme in 2014.
  • The previous scheme had aimed to produce 40,000 megawatts (MW) or 40 gigawatts (GW) of solar power by 2022.

India's Advancements in Solar Energy:

• At the end of last year, 2023, India’s solar power generation stood at 73.31 GW, up from 2022’s 63.3 GW.
  • However, rooftop solar power generation only stands at around 11.08 GW as of December 2023.
• The total solar power generated in the nation, Rajasthan leads the pack with 18.7 GW while Gujarat follows with 10.5 GW.
  • However, when talking about rooftop solar power, Gujarat is at peak position — with 2.8 GW — followed by Maharashtra at 1.7 GW.
• India has more than 300 million households and an average of 300 sunny days each year, which has tremendous potential for rooftop solar installations in residential spaces.
• However, experts note that despite several measures, India’s rooftop solar power generation is not where it should be, listing reasons for the situation.
  • The primary reason for rooftop solar not becoming popular is that it is still an expensive option for many.
  • There is also a lack of awareness.

Importance of Solar Power to India:

• Harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity is important to India for multiple reasons.
• If India wants to achieve its aim of becoming net zero by 2070, it has to look towards the sun.
• In fact, at COP26, in November 2021, India committed to meet 50 per cent of its electricity requirements from renewable energy sources by 2030.
  • For these aims to be met, India has to harness the full capacity of the sun.
• Moreover, India’s share of global energy demand is predicted to double to 11 per cent in 2040, making it imperative to enhance energy security and self-sufficiency in power generation without increasing environmental costs.
  • This increase in power demand is likely to increase India’s reliance on coal, oil and natural gas as a source of energy.
• However, additional imports of oil and increased domestic production of coal will not only fall short of energy demand but will also entail economic and environmental costs.
  • The expansion of solar power units and increased reliance on solar power allow India to enhance energy security in the face of rising demand.
• Furthermore, India is already facing depleting groundwater levels, owing to which the nation must shift its energy resources away from water.

Why is it in the News?

This year’s edition of the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting was held from January 15 to January 19.

Key Highlights from Davos Meeting 2024:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): The focal point of discussion at this year's World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting was Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • Conversations delved into its transformative potential for human welfare, addressing concerns such as the necessity for regulation, apprehensions about job losses, risks associated with impersonation and misinformation, and the potential exacerbation of inequalities.
  • Despite acknowledging these challenges, participants generally agreed that the positive aspects of AI outweigh the negatives, with no substantial threat to human intelligence.
• War and Uncertainty: The summit underscored the risks emanating from a delicate geopolitical landscape, ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe, threats to global supply chains, and uncertainties surrounding food security.
  • Notably, the head of the Palestine Investment Fund estimated a requirement of at least $15 billion solely for the reconstruction of houses in Gaza.
  • However, Arab states asserted their reluctance to fund reconstruction without a guarantee of lasting peace.
• Climate: The imperative for businesses to adapt to climate change and nations to collaborate despite differences in combating it emerged as another key theme.
  • Discussions emphasized the necessity for developed countries to assist in financing climate action in developing nations to prevent a widening inequality that could result in winners and losers.
• China's Economy: Against the backdrop of a slowing economy, China sought increased investment from the West, which has experienced some cooling.
  • With a GDP growth of 5.2% in 2023, still below pre-pandemic levels, China grappled with efforts by the United States to isolate it, particularly evident in the semiconductor trade standoff.
• India-Specific Observations: McKinsey and Company's assessment of Davos 2024 highlighted India's rapid transformation as one of the fastest-growing large economies globally.
  • The summit marked the launch of the Global Good Alliance for Gender Equity and Equality, endorsed by the WEF and the Government of India.
  • Originating from the G20 Leaders' Declaration, the alliance aims to bring together global best practices, knowledge sharing, and investments in women's health, education, and enterprise.
  • Supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the alliance will be hosted by the CII Centre for Women Leadership, with the World Economic Forum as a 'Network Partner' and Invest India as an 'Institutional Partner.'

About the World Economic Forum:

• The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation.
• The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.
• It was established in 1971 by German engineer and economist Klaus Schwab.
• It is a not-for-profit foundation and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
• The Forum strives in all its efforts to demonstrate entrepreneurship in the global public interest while upholding the highest standards of governance.

Reports released by WEF:  

• • Global Gender Gap Index 
  • Global Risks Report 
  • Fostering Effective Energy Transition Report 
  • Global Cyber Security Outlook 
  • Global Competitiveness Report
  • Travel and Tourism Development Index

About Davos Meet:

• The World Economic Forum (WEF) organizes a meeting annually at the end of January in Davos, a mountain resort in Graubünden, in the eastern Alps region of Switzerland.
• The Annual Meeting, also known as the Davos Agenda, has the objective of orienting global leaders on the imperatives of the year ahead.
• This year's theme for the Annual Meeting in Davos is 'From Lab to Life: Science in Action'.

Why is it in the News?

India and Cuba have signed an MoU for cooperation in the field of sharing successful digital solutions implemented at the population scale for digital transformation.

India and Cuba Bilateral Relations:

• India and Cuba share a robust and longstanding diplomatic camaraderie, marked by warmth and amity.
  • In a gesture of early support, India was among the first nations to acknowledge and establish relations with the new Cuban government post the revolutionary events in January 1959.
• Trade Dynamics: The bilateral trade engagement, while moderate, exhibits a diverse array of commodities.
  • India exports pharmaceutical products, organic chemicals, plastic goods, medical equipment, engineering items, textiles, metal products, mineral oil products, and tools to Cuba.
  • Conversely, Cuba primarily imports pharmaceuticals and tobacco products from India.
• Energy Partnership: A pivotal facet of India-Cuba relations is their collaboration in the energy sector.
  • As a member country and Vice-President of the Latin America & the Caribbean region at the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Cuba plays a significant role in fostering energy cooperation between the two nations.
• Advancements in Science & Technology, Biotechnology, and Health: The bilateral relations in the domains of science, technology, and health have been fortified through ministerial-level visits from both nations.Development Collaboration: Prioritizing development assistance has been a cornerstone of their bilateral ties.
  • India has extended disaster relief assistance to Cuba in the aftermath of hurricanes that have afflicted the region over the years.
• Cultural Relations: Cuban appreciation for Indian culture and civilization is evident, with figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Rabindranath Tagore holding a special place in Cuban hearts.
• Indian Diaspora: Although the Indian community in Cuba is relatively small, it includes descendants of Indians who migrated to Cuba in the early twentieth century from Jamaica and other parts of the West Indies to contribute to sugarcane plantations.

What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)?

• DPI is a digital network that enables countries to safely and efficiently deliver economic opportunities and social services to all residents.
• DPI can be compared to roads, which form a physical network that connects people and provides access to a huge range of goods and services.??
• DPI allows people to open bank accounts and receive wages faster and more easily.
• It allows governments to support citizens more quickly and efficiently, especially during emergencies.
  • And it enables entrepreneurs to reach customers far and wide.??
• A strong DPI has three foundational systems—identity, payments, and data exchange—that together can make life easier in important ways.?
• When the three core systems—identity, payments, and data exchange—exist simultaneously and can talk to one another, people, businesses, and governments can reap the full benefits of DPI.
  • Over time, safe and inclusive DPI creates vibrant and competitive economies.?

Why is it in the News?

An Indigenous mobile hospital at the 'Pran Pratishta' event in Ayodhya played a life-saving role as 65-year-old Dharmacharya Pramukh and VHP member Ramkrishna Srivastava, experiencing a heart attack and sudden medical emergency, collapsed unconscious.

What is Aarogya Maitri Aid Cube?

• It is India’s first portable hospital that can be airlifted to a disaster area and assembled in an hour.
• This “flatpack” field hospital consists of 72 small cubes equipped with tents and customised medical equipment.
• It is built under the Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri (BHISHM) and the hospital is reportedly designed to treat up to 200 patients.
• The cubes, each of which weighs below 15kg and measures 38cm x 38cm x 38cm, are resilient enough to be dropped from a plane or helicopter.
• The ‘Aarogya Maitri Cube Cage’ has three frames containing 12 mini-cubes.
  • A single cage can fit a total of 36 mini-cubes.
• At least five trained people are needed to assemble the cubes into a functional hospital in an hour.
  • These cubes can be flown to a war zone or a remote area hit by natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods.
• The product was developed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious ‘Project BHISHM’ which aims to support developing countries affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises.

How the portable hospital will help?

• The portable hospital is capable of facilitating life-saving surgery on remote and tough terrains.
• The 72 cubes contain different equipment such as portable ventilators, solar panel-based generators, ultrasound machines, digital imaging radiography machines, defibrillators, high-mounted OT lights, stretchers, modern surgical devices, and portable laboratories.
• A line of Ayurvedic products was added to the list of items in the cubes at the suggestions of PM Modi.
• “HLL Life Care is the government’s nodal agency for sourcing the Aarogya Maitri Cube, whereas the manufacturing has been undertaken by multiple sellers as it includes a variety of products.
• Billed as the “world’s first portable disaster hospital”, the kit is waterproof and corrosion-proof.
  • A tablet computer is installed inside the cube pack to prevent mistakes while setting up the structure.
• If the immediate need at the site is for life-saving surgery, then the operating theatre can be assembled first. This takes just 10 minutes. The doctors can start surgery while the remaining cubes are assembled.”
• The portable hospital can “provide critical medical care to 100 survivors for up to 48 hours, making it a lifeline on remote and tough terrains where immediate medical attention is needed. The cubes [which are self-sustained healthcare units] can handle bullet, burn, head, spinal and chest injuries, fractures, and major bleeding.
  • India is now equipped and ready to supply this to any country in need.
• t can also be utilised in regions across India that need medical support due to epidemics, high elevations, or challenging landscapes.
  • This could play a significant role in the management of public health.
• As a goodwill gesture, India has already given two Aarogya Maitri Cubes to Myanmar and one is being prepared for Sri Lanka.

Why is it in the News?

In its pursuit of extensively exploring Mars to find signs of water, Nasa is considering a proposed idea to send a giant fixed-wing plane to the Red Planet.

What is Ingenuity Mars Helicopter?

• The Ingenuity Mars Helicopter is a small, autonomous aircraft that is part of NASA's Mars 2020 mission.
• It was deployed to the surface of Mars on April 3, 2021, and made its first powered, controlled flight on another planet on April 19, 2021.
• Ingenuity is a technology demonstration mission, and its main goal is to show that powered flight is possible on Mars.
  • The helicopter has four carbon-fiber blades creating enough lift to overcome the thin Martian atmosphere.
  • It is powered by solar cells and can fly for up to 90 seconds at a time.
• Since its first flight, Ingenuity has completed 72 flights, far exceeding its original planned five flights.
  • It has flown a total of 17 km and reached an altitude of 24 m.
  • The helicopter has also helped to scout ahead for the Perseverance rover, taking images and collecting data from areas that the rover cannot reach.
• Ingenuity's success has paved the way for future aerial exploration of Mars.
  • Future helicopters could be used to scout for landing sites, study the Martian surface in more detail, and even carry small payloads of scientific instruments.

About Perseverance Rover:

• Perseverance is a robotic rover exploring Jezero Crater on Mars as part of NASA's Mars 2020 mission.
• Launched on July 30, 2020, it successfully landed on February 18, 2021, making it the most sophisticated and heaviest rover ever sent to Mars.

Mission Highlights:

• Seeking signs of ancient microbial life: Perseverance is equipped with several instruments to analyze Martian rocks and soil for potential signs of past life.
• Collecting rock samples: The rover drills and collects rock samples that will be cached on Mars for potential return to Earth by future missions.
• Testing technology for future missions: Perseverance is demonstrating new technologies that will be crucial for future human exploration of Mars, such as the MOXIE instrument that produces oxygen from the Martian atmosphere and the Ingenuity helicopter, the first powered aircraft to fly on another planet.
• Perseverance Achievements:
  • Finding evidence of an ancient lake in Jezero Crater that may have been habitable for microbial life.
  • Collecting the first rock samples from Mars that will be returned to Earth.
  • Demonstrating the feasibility of using a helicopter on Mars (the Ingenuity helicopter hitched a ride with Perseverance).

Why is it in the News?

Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) recently announced that it has launched India’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine, Havisure.

About Havisure Vaccine:

• The vaccine is effective in preventing the disease and is recommended for children in routine immunization.
• It is a two-dose vaccine wherein the first dose is administered at above 12 months of age and the second dose is given at least after 6 months of the first dose.
• The vaccine is also recommended for individuals who are at risk of exposure or travel to the regions with high hepatitis A prevalence.
• In addition to this people with occupational risk of infection and suffering from chronic liver diseases also need Hepatitis A vaccination.

Key Facts About Hepatitis A:

• Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV).
• The virus is primarily spread when an uninfected (and unvaccinated) person ingests food or water that is contaminated with the faeces of an infected person.
• The disease is closely associated with unsafe water or food, inadequate sanitation, poor personal hygiene and unprotected sex.
  • Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease but it can cause debilitating symptoms and rarely fulminant hepatitis (acute liver failure), which is often fatal.
• Hepatitis A occurs sporadically and in epidemics worldwide, with a tendency for cyclic recurrences.
  • Epidemics related to contaminated food or water can erupt explosively, such as the epidemic in Shanghai in 1988 that affected about 300,000 people.
• They can also be prolonged, affecting communities for months through person-to-person transmission.
  • Hepatitis A viruses persist in the environment and can withstand food production processes routinely used to inactivate or control bacterial pathogens.
• Geographical distribution: Infection is common in low- and middle-income countries with poor sanitary conditions and hygienic practices, and most children (90%) have been infected with the hepatitis A virus before the age of 10 years, most often without symptoms.
• Transmission: The hepatitis A virus is transmitted primarily by the fecal-oral route; that is when an uninfected person ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected person.
  • In families, this may happen through dirty hands when an infected person prepares food for family members.
  • Waterborne outbreaks, though infrequent, are usually associated with sewage-contaminated or inadequately treated water.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of hepatitis A range from mild to severe and can include fever, malaise, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark-coloured urine and jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin).
  • Not everyone who is infected will have all the symptoms.
• Treatment: There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A.
  • Recovery from symptoms following infection may be slow and can take several weeks or months.
• Prevention: Improved sanitation, food safety and immunization are the most effective ways to combat hepatitis A.

Why is it in the News?

The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) has warned users of different scams perpetrated through messaging platform WhatsApp.

About the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD):

• The Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D) was set up in 1970 under the Ministry of Home Affairs to identify the needs and problems of the police in the country.
• It was also mandated to keep abreast of the latest developments in the fields of science and technology, both in India and abroad, to promote the use of appropriate technology in police work.
• Over the years, the BPR&D has also been entrusted with the responsibility of monitoring the training needs and quality of training in the States and Central Police Organisations and assisting the same, as also assisting the States in modernization of the State Police Forces and Correctional Administration.
• In the process, the BPR&D has also been tasked to assist the Ministry of Home Affairs and the CPFs, etc., in the development of Standards, Quality Requirements (QRs), etc., concerning various types of equipment and items about infrastructure.
  • More recently, the BPR&D has also been entrusted with the responsibility of anchoring and coordinating the work of the National Police Mission.

BPRD's Roles and Responsibilities:

• The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) plays a crucial role in elevating the functioning of police forces across the nation:
• Policy Formulation and Guidance: Assists in formulating policies and strategies for police development.
  • Guides to enhance the efficiency of police forces.
• Interdepartmental Interface: Acts as a bridge between the police and other government departments for efficient resource and technology sharing.
• Financial Assistance: Offers financial support to state governments for surveys, studies, and the development of specialized infrastructure and training.
• Training and Awareness: Conducts seminars and workshops to educate police personnel on crime prevention and effective policing.
  • Promotes awareness of policing importance and public order maintenance.
• Development of Systems: Works towards developing systems like Community Policing, modern investigations, and effective technology and data management.

BPRD's Vision and Mission:

• Vision: To facilitate the optimal deployment of police forces and related activities, enabling them to meet contemporary challenges.
• Mission: To enhance police capabilities and those of stakeholders by providing resources and research-based knowledge, bridging gaps between evidence-based practice, policy formulation, and public outreach.
• Focus Areas: BPRD prioritizes innovation, knowledge initiatives, and research in policing, public order, security, and related fields, creating models relevant to contemporary needs.
• Overall Objective: BPRD is committed to developing capacity, fostering police professionalism, and promoting safety and public order in India through research, innovation, and strategic initiatives.

Why is it in the News?

Taking cognisance of coaching centres charging exorbitant fees from students, promoting unhealthy competition and stress among students, and a rise in student suicides and other malpractices, a set of new guidelines were released by the Education Ministry.

Guidelines for Registration and Regulation of Coaching Centers 2024:

• The guidelines define a 'coaching centre' as an establishment providing coaching for study programs, competitive exams, or academic support to more than 50 students at the school, college, and university levels, established, run, or administered by any person.

Key aspects of the guidelines include:

• Registration Process: Coaching centres must apply for registration within their local jurisdiction, adhering to specified forms, fees, and document requirements.
  • Each branch of a coaching centre is considered a separate entity, requiring individual registration.
• Marketing Standards: Coaching centres are prohibited from making misleading promises or guarantees regarding ranks or marks.
  • Transparency is mandated, with centres required to maintain an updated website containing detailed information.
• Student Enrollment: Students below the age of 16 are not permitted for enrolment, and entry is allowed only after the completion of secondary school examinations.
• Fee Structure: Tuition fees must be fair, with detailed receipts provided.
  • A comprehensive prospectus must include information on courses, duration, facilities, fees, and refund procedures. Any fee increase during the course is prohibited.
• Exit Policy: Pro-rata refunds are mandated within 10 days for mid-course withdrawals.
• Infrastructure Requirements: Coaching centres must allocate a minimum of one square meter per student.
  • Compliance with fire safety and building codes is essential, along with proper electrification, ventilation, lighting, security measures, and medical assistance.
• Study Hours: Classes should not coincide with school hours, and weekly off for students and tutors is mandatory.
  • Class sizes must align with a healthy teacher-student ratio.
• Mental Wellbeing: Centers should establish mechanisms for immediate intervention and counselling for students in distress.
• Complaint Mechanism: Students, parents, or tutors/employees can file complaints, to be resolved within thirty days by the competent authority or an inquiry committee.
• Penalties: Penalties for violations include ?25,000 for the first offence, ?1 lakh for the second, and registration revocation for subsequent breaches.

Why is it in the News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently declared the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 open at the Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai.

What is Khelo India?

• The Khelo India programme has been introduced to revive the sports culture in India at the grassroots level by building a strong framework for all sports played in our country and establishing India as a great sporting nation.
• Talented players identified in priority sports disciplines at various levels by the High-Powered Committee will be provided annual financial assistance of INR 5 lakh per annum for 8 years.

About the Khelo India Youth Games 2023:

• The 6th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games is being hosted by Tamil Nadu, marking the first occurrence of the Games in South India.
• Spanning from January 19th to 31st, 2024, the event will unfold across four cities in Tamil Nadu – Chennai, Madurai, Trichy, and Coimbatore.
• With over 5600 athletes participating in more than 275 competitive events spanning 26 sports disciplines and one demo sport, this edition introduces Silambam, a traditional sport of Tamil Nadu, as a demo sport and includes Squash for the first time.
  • Archery, athletics, badminton, and squash have been introduced first time in this edition.
• The mascot, 'Veera Mangai,' pays tribute to Rani Velu Nachiyar, an Indian queen who courageously resisted British colonial rule.
• The logo integrates the image of the poet Thiruvalluvar.
• Objectives: The overarching objective of the Khelo India Youth Games is to rejuvenate India's grassroots sports culture, aiming to build a robust framework for all sports and position the nation as a prominent sporting entity.
• Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the Games have been an annual tradition since their inception in 2018 in Delhi.

Why is it in the News?

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will be inaugurated on January 22. Chandrakant Sompura, 81, and his son Ashish, 51, have designed the complex in the Nagara style of temple architecture.

What is the Nagara style?

• Originating around the 5th century AD, the Nagara style influenced temple architecture in several regions of India, from Northern India to Karnataka to parts of Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Gujarat, giving it its pan-India appeal.
• Given that the temple will attract Hindu devotees from across the country, this is the most "inclusive" architectural style of Hinduism in that respect.
• The word “Nagara” means “city,” and the style's close association with urban architectural principles made it suitable for a bustling town like Ayodhya while retaining Hindu temple elements that are familiar to devotees.
• With carved pillars and towering spires, it seeks to echo the magnificent craftsmanship of the Khajuraho temples of Madhya Pradesh and the Sun Temple in Odisha’s Konark.
• The Nagara style is not confined to a specific period — it flourished during the Gupta dynasty but continued to evolve through various regional kingdoms and empires that ruled over the northern parts of India.
• The temple's architecture is characterised by its tower-like structures, known as 'shikhara' or spires, which rise vertically, symbolising the sacred mountain, Mount Meru, considered to be the centre of the physical, metaphysical and spiritual dimensions in Hindu, Jain and Buddhist cosmology.
  • This temple architecture is also closely associated with both the Shaivite and Vaishnavite sects of Hinduism and known for its sculptural elements that echo scenes from Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata.

The typical Nagara temple layout:

• The layout of Nagara-style temples follows a distinct pattern, reflecting the cosmic order and the journey of the soul towards liberation

The typical plan of the Nagara-style temple:

• Vastu Purusha Mandala: At the core of Nagara temple design is the concept of Vastu Purusha Mandala, a sacred diagram representing the cosmic man.
  • The temple’s plan is aligned with this mandala, ensuring that the deity’s sanctum aligns with the cosmic forces.
  • This alignment reflects the belief that the temple is a microcosm of the universe, establishing a cosmic resonance.
• Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum): The sanctum sanctorum, or garbhagriha, is the innermost and holiest chamber where the principal deity resides and is always located directly below the highest Sikhara.
  • Often square, this chamber is a symbol of the womb of creation.
  • The placement of the deity within this sacred space is meticulously calculated to maintain harmony with cosmic energies.
• Pradakshina Patha (Circumambulation): Around the garbhagriha, there is a circumambulatory path called the pradakshina patha.
  • This path allows devotees to walk in a clockwise direction around the deity, as a symbolic act of paying respect, seeking blessings, and expressing devotion.
  • The pradakshina patha may be enclosed within the temple or form an outer pathway surrounding the main temple complex.
  • It is believed that circumambulation harmonizes the individual with the divine and creates a spiritual connection.
• Vimana (Tower): The Vimana, or tower, is the crowning glory of Nagara temples.
  • The shikhara, as the main spire, represents Mount Meru, the mythical abode of the gods, meant to symbolize the ascent from the earthly realm to the celestial plane, creating a visual narrative of the soul’s journey towards spiritual awakening.
• Mandapa (Congregation Hall): The mandapa, or congregation hall, serves as a communal space for rituals, gatherings, and celebrations. Supported by intricately carved pillars, the mandapa’s design is often open, allowing devotees to participate in ceremonies.
  • The pillars themselves are adorned with sculptures depicting deities, mythological narratives, and celestial beings, contributing to the immersive spiritual experience.
• Antarala (Vestibule): The antarala acts as a transitional space between the garbhagriha and the mandapa.
  • It serves functional and symbolic purposes, symbolising the journey from the material to the divine.
  • The antarala may house additional deities or intricate sculptures, further enhancing the spiritual ambience.
• Ardhamandapa (Entrance Porch): The ardhamandapa, or entrance porch, serves as the threshold between the external world and the sacred interior.
  • Often featuring ornate pillars and intricate carvings, the ardhamandapa is a visual prelude to the architectural splendour within.
  • Devotees traverse this space as they enter the sanctified realm of the temple.
• Peripheral Structures: Surrounding the central shrine are often smaller shrines and subsidiary structures, creating a complex architectural ensemble.
  • These structures, known as subsidiary shrines or parivara devatas, pay homage to various deities associated with the main deity.
  • The arrangement of these structures follows a harmonious pattern, contributing to the overall visual appeal of the temple complex.

Regional variations:

• As a pan-India style, the Nagara architecture has regional variations that reflect the cultural ethos of where it is built.
• Odisha: The Nagara style in the state is characterised by its exquisite stone carvings and towering spires.
  • The temples of Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark in the state of Odisha exemplify this style.
  • The temples showcase carvings of deities, mythical creatures, dancers, and musicians, evoking a sense of dynamic movement.
• Gujarat: Known for its elegance and simplicity, the Gujarati Nagara style is epitomised by the Sun Temple in Modhera and the famous Somnath Temple.
  • The main 'shikhara' in the state's temples are relatively modest in height compared to northern iterations.
  • The emphasis is on the overall harmony of the temple’s complex measurements and the sculptural beauty.
• Rajasthan: The style in this state has been noticeably influenced by distinctive elements of Rajput architecture — from fortified walls and ornate entryways.
  • Look no further than the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu and the Sun Temple of Ranakpur for examples of this style.
  • Distinct features include marble carvings and delicate detailing.
• Karnataka: Nagara temples in the South have subdued shikharas compared to their northern temples.
  • What is more, the emphasis is on pillar carvings and the subject matter is often famous scenes from mythology.
  • The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi and the Lepakshi Veerabhadra Temple are notable Nagara-style temples in the south.
• Madhya Pradesh: Central Indian temples often feature a variety of spires, emphasising the stepped shape.
  • The sculptures focus on a wide range of themes, including mythological narratives, daily life, and spiritual pursuits.
  • The Khajuraho complex, including the Lakshmana Temple, exemplifies the Nagara style in Central India.
• Combining spiritual principles with aesthetics and craftsmanship, the Nagara style is an indelible part of India’s cultural and religious legacy.
• The Ram temple draws from this same architectural legacy of Hinduism to create a religious monument that seeks to inspire the same awe that the centuries-old Indian temples continue to do.

Comparison to Dravida style:

• The Dravida counterpart to the shikhara is the vimana. There exists, however, a fundamental difference.
• In the Dravida-style temples, vimanas are typically smaller than the great gatehouses or gopurams, which are the most immediately striking architectural elements in a temple complex.
  • Moreover, while shikharas are mentioned in southern Indian architectural sources, they refer to only the dome-shaped crowning cap atop the vimana.
• The existence of gopurams also points to another unique feature of the Dravida style — the presence of a boundary wall.
  • A few Nagara-style temple complexes are lined with distinctive boundary walls that are a part of the temple’s design.
• This is one of Ayodhya’s Ram temple’s ‘hybrid’ features — although no elaborate gopuram has been built (citing paucity of space), a 732m long wall runs around the temple compound.