UPSC Daily Current Affairs – 03rd Aug 2024 – Edukemy

Today’s daily current affairs briefing for UPSC aspirants explores the latest developments relevant to the upcoming civil services examination. Our focus today includes a critical analysis of recent policy changes, international affairs, and national developments, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping India’s socio-political and economic landscape. Stay informed and stay ahead in your UPSC preparations with our daily current affairs updates, as we provide you with concise, well-researched insights to help you connect the dots between contemporary events and the broader canvas of the civil services syllabus. 

India Drowning Disaster 

Tags: GS Paper – 3, Disaster Management– EIA– Drowning– Disaster Management in India– Environmental Pollution & Degradation 

Why in the news? 

• Drowning is a significant public health issue, having resulted in over 2.5 million deaths over the past decade, predominantly affecting low- and middle-income countries.  

Factors Contributing to Incidents of Drowning in India: 

• Access to Water Bodies:  
  • Many residents in India live near rivers, ponds, and wells, where safety measures and supervision are often inadequate, particularly for children.  
  • In 2022, accidental falls into water bodies resulted in 28,257 deaths. 
  • Additionally, ‘Other Cases’ accounted for 9,962 deaths, including various unclassified drowning incidents and 284 deaths from boat capsizes. 

• Flooding: The monsoon rains cause flooding, which is worsened by poor drainage systems. This exacerbates the risk of drowning for communities affected by these events. 
• Cultural Perceptions: In certain communities, drowning is perceived as an inevitable occurrence, which hampers the implementation of safety measures and awareness campaigns. 
• Economic Constraints: Poverty restricts access to essential safety equipment, swimming lessons, and emergency services, particularly affecting low-income families residing in high-risk areas. 
• Inadequate Safety Regulations: The lack of stringent safety regulations for public water bodies contributes to higher drowning rates. The enforcement of safety measures, such as lifeguards at beaches and swimming pools, is often insufficient. 

Statistics Related to Drowning Deaths: 

• Global Data: 
  • Global Mortality: According to the WHO Report on Drowning 2014, drowning claims 372,000 lives annually worldwide, marking it as a significant yet neglected public health threat. 
• Regional Disparities:  
  • Over 90% of unintentional drowning deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. This figure is nearly two-thirds of the deaths from malnutrition and over half of those from malaria.  
  • The WHO Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions account for more than half of global drowning incidents, with drowning death rates in these regions being 27–32 times higher than in the UK or Germany. 

• Scenario for India: 
  • Data: Approximately 38,000 Indians die from drowning each year. 
• Drowning as a Significant Concern: The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report for 2022 highlights drowning as a major public safety issue, accounting for 9.1% of all accidental deaths in India, with 38,503 fatalities. 
• State-wise Data: Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of drowning deaths at 5,427, followed by Maharashtra (4,728) and Uttar Pradesh (3,007), indicating a widespread issue across various states. 
• Age and Gender-wise Distribution: Children aged 1-14 are particularly at risk, with drowning being a leading cause of death in this age group. 

Role of WHO in Addressing Drowning Incidents: 

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes drowning as a leading cause of injury-related death and disability globally.  
• The WHO’s first Global Report on Drowning Prevention in 2014 brought international attention to the issue.  
• WHO Resolution WHA76.18 emphasises the need for coordinated, multi-sectoral action to address drowning effectively. 

Recommendations for the Prevention of Drowning Accidents 

• Installation of Barriers: Physical barriers around water bodies, such as pools, wells, and ponds, can significantly limit access, especially for young children. Fencing and secure covers act as primary preventive measures. 
• Safe Areas Away from Water: Designated safe zones for children and adults away from water bodies should be created. These areas should include engaging activities to distract attention from water. 
• Training in Rescue Techniques: Educating bystanders in safe rescue and resuscitation techniques, such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and mouth-to-mouth breathing, can save lives. Community programs should focus on training individuals to respond effectively in emergencies. 
• Integration into Education Curriculums: Water safety education should be incorporated into school curriculums to ensure children learn preventive measures from an early age. 
• Enforcement of Boating Regulations: Strict regulations for boating and shipping, including mandatory life jacket use, regular vessel maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols, should be enforced to prevent accidents on water. 
• Flood Risk Management: Developing flood-resistant infrastructure and early warning systems can reduce drowning incidents during flood events. Investment in such systems by local authorities is essential for enhancing community resilience. 

Conclusion 

Drowning is a preventable tragedy requiring urgent attention in India. Collaborative efforts among government bodies, NGOs, and local communities are crucial in creating a safer environment for all, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children. A comprehensive approach is essential to ensure that no life is lost to drowning. 

Source: DTE 

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)  Mains:  Q:1 Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Government of India departing from the earlier reactive approach. (2020)  Q:2 Vulnerability is an essential element for defining disaster impacts and its threat to people. How and in what ways can vulnerability to disasters be characterised? Discuss different types of vulnerability with reference to disasters. (2019)  Q:3 Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after signing ‘Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-30)’. How is this framework different from ‘Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005’? (2018)

The ethics of hunger strikes as a mode of protest 

Tags: GS Paper – 4, Ethics and Human Interface, GS Paper – 2, Polity & Governance- Fundamental Rights 

Why in the News? 

• Hunger strikes have recently gained attention due to their complex ethical implications, such as whether it is appropriate to provide medical treatment against the will of someone on strike or if force-feeding could be harmful. 

What Are Hunger Strikes? 

• About: 
  • Definition: Hunger strikes involve the voluntary abstention from food, and sometimes water, as a form of protest. 
  • Purpose: They aim to inspire change, dissuade, or apply pressure by highlighting perceived injustices or demanding reform. 
  • Usage: Often considered a last resort when other forms of protest have been ineffective or unavailable. 

Historical Context of Hunger Strikes: 

• Ancient Practices: 
  • Pre-Christian Ireland: The practice of troscad (fast) was used to protest unpayable debts, intending to shame the creditor. 
  • Ancient Kashmir: Kalhana’s Rajatarangini records instances of hunger strikes against undesirable royal decrees or taxes. 
• Modern Development: 
  • Russian Political Prisoners (1870s): Utilised hunger strikes to protest prison conditions. 
  • Irish Republicans (1917-1920): Figures such as Thomas Ashe and Terence MacSwiney died during hunger strikes, drawing attention to the Irish independence movement. 
• Indian Freedom Fighters: 
  • Mahatma Gandhi: Described fasting as a crucial tool in the armoury of Satyagraha, employing it over 20 times during the Independence movement. 
  • Jatin Das (1929): Died after a 63-day hunger strike, highlighting the inhumane treatment of political prisoners. 
  • Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt: Their hunger strikes against poor prison conditions garnered significant support and media coverage. 

Modern Context of Hunger Strikes in Independent India: 

• Potti Sriramulu (1952): His hunger strike led to the creation of the state of Andhra Pradesh. 
• Irom Sharmila (2000-2016): Protested the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Manipur, highlighting human rights issues and continuing her strike for 16 years while being force-fed. 
• Anna Hazare (2011): Used a hunger strike to pressure the Indian government to enact a stringent anti-corruption law. 

Recent Examples: 

• Manoj Jarange-Patil: Fasted to demand reservations for the Maratha community. 
• Sonam Wangchuk: Undertook a 21-day hunger strike for Constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. 
• Khader Adnan: Palestinian prisoner who died after an 87-day hunger strike in 2023. 

What Are the Arguments in Favour of Hunger Strikes? 

• Personal Autonomy and Freedom of Choice: 
  • Autonomy: Hunger strikes represent an individual’s right to make personal decisions and protest in a manner of their choosing. 
  • Freedom of Expression: They serve as a form of peaceful protest and free speech, aligning with democratic values. 
• Non-Violent Resistance: 
  • Non-Violence: Hunger strikes are a non-violent form of protest, ethically preferable to violent methods. 
  • Moral High Ground: By choosing personal suffering over harming others, hunger strikers can claim moral superiority. 
• Drawing Attention to Injustices: 
  • Awareness: Hunger strikes can bring public and media focus to issues that may otherwise be overlooked. 
  • Symbolic Power: The act itself symbolises deep conviction and seriousness, potentially mobilising public support. 
• Historical and Cultural Significance: 
  • Historical Precedent: Effective use of hunger strikes in movements like the suffragette movement and Indian independence adds ethical weight. 
  • Cultural Resonance: In some cultures, hunger strikes resonate as a powerful form of protest, evoking community sympathy. 
• Power Dynamics: 
  • Challenging Power Dynamics: Hunger strikes can pressure authorities to address grievances, leading to negotiations and resolutions. 

What Are the Arguments Against Hunger Strikes? 

• Self-Harm and Preservation of Life: 
  • Self-Harm: Hunger strikes involve self-starvation, leading to serious health consequences or death, raising ethical concerns about intentional self-harm. 
  • Preservation of Life: Ethical frameworks and traditions prioritise preserving life, conflicting with hunger strikes that deteriorate health or result in death. 
• Coercion and Manipulation: 
  • Coercion: Hunger strikes can exert undue pressure on authorities or the public, raising questions about the fairness and legitimacy of the demands. 
  • Manipulation: They may exploit empathy and guilt to influence decisions, potentially leading to irrational outcomes. 
• Impact on Others: 
  • Emotional Burden: Family, friends, and supporters may experience significant emotional distress due to the hunger strike. 
  • Responsibility: Others may feel obligated to intervene to save the striker’s life, conflicting with the striker’s autonomy. 
• Effectiveness: 
  • Questionable Effectiveness: There is no guarantee that hunger strikes will achieve their goals, raising concerns about the proportionality and rationality of the protest. 
  • Moral Outcomes: Even if successful, the outcomes may not always be morally justifiable. 
• Exploitation and Vulnerability: 
  • Exploitation: Vulnerable individuals may be coerced into hunger strikes by more powerful actors, raising concerns about exploitation and informed consent. 
• Legal and Medical Ethics: 
  • Legal Obligations: Authorities face dilemmas about their duty of care, balancing between respecting autonomy and ensuring safety. 
  • Medical Ethics: Healthcare professionals may confront conflicts between respecting patient autonomy and their duty to preserve life, challenging the principle of “do no harm.” 

What Are the Other Dimensions of Hunger Strikes? 

• Significant Views on Hunger Strikes: 
  • Mahatma Gandhi: Preferred ‘fasting’ as a non-violent protest method, aiming to reform rather than extort rights. 
  • Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Criticised hunger strikes as “unconstitutional methods” and advocated for legal approaches to social and economic goals. 
• Legal Framework for Hunger Strikes: 
  • Geneva Convention: Standards for treating combatants are unclear regarding hunger strikers, complicating the role of health professionals. 
• Indian Context:  
  • The Madras High Court ruled that hunger strikes do not constitute an attempt to commit suicide under Section 309 of the IPC.  
  • However, Section 224 of BNS punishes attempts to force public servants with up to one year in jail, a fine, or community service.  

Source: TH 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)   Prelims:   Q:1 Under the Indian Constitution, concentration of wealth violates (2021)  a) the Right to Equality   b) the Directive Principles of State Policy   c) the Right to Freedom   d) the Concept of Welfare   Ans: (b)   Q:2 Which one of the following categories of Fundamental Rights incorporates protection against untouchability as a form of discrimination? (2020)  a) Right against Exploitation   b) Right to Freedom   c) Right to Constitutional Remedies   d) Right to Equality   Ans: (d)  Mains:   Q:1 Analyse the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. (2021)

Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor 

Tags: GS – 3, Science & Technology- Nuclear Technology– Government Policies & Interventions 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) granted official permission for the “First Approach to Criticality” of the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, India’s first indigenous PFBR. 

Fission Vs Fusion: 

What is India’s FBR Programme? 

• India’s Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) Programme is a critical component of the country’s strategy to develop a comprehensive nuclear fuel cycle and enhance its energy security. Here are the key aspects: 
• Initiation and Goals:  
  • This programme is part of India’s broader objective to establish a robust nuclear energy infrastructure that spans the entire fuel cycle, including electricity generation from uranium in nuclear reactors. 
• Nuclear Power Expansion:  
  • The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) aims to significantly increase the share of nuclear power in the national energy mix by 2032, targeting a generation capacity of 22,400 MWe from nuclear power plants.  
  • The DAE has approved the construction of 10 new Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) in a ‘fleet mode,’ where each plant is expected to be built within five years of starting construction. 
• FBR Characteristics:  
  • Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) are designed to generate more nuclear fuel than they consume.  
  • This is achieved by converting fertile isotopes into fissile material, thereby sustaining a cycle of fuel production and consumption. 
• BHAVINI:  
  • In 2003, the Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI) was established to build and operate India’s advanced nuclear reactor, the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).  
  • Upon commissioning, India will become the second country, after Russia, to operate a commercial FBR. 

What are the Three Stages of India’s Nuclear Energy Program? 

• The First Stage: 
  • Technology: Involves the use of Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). 
  • Fuel and Coolant: PHWRs use natural uranium as fuel and heavy water as coolant and moderator. 
• The Second Stage: 
  • Objective: Establishing Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) with supporting reprocessing and plutonium fabrication plants. 
  • Purpose: To multiply the inventory of fissile material, which is crucial for developing a higher power base needed for the third stage involving thorium. 
• The Third Stage: 
  • Cycle: Focuses on the Thorium and Uranium Cycle. 
  • Technology: An Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) is proposed for producing Uranium-233 (U233) by irradiating thorium in PHWRs and FBRs. 
  • Long-Term Goal: To commercialise thorium utilisation on a significant scale, contingent on the availability of abundant U233 or Plutonium-239 (Pu239). 

Source: PIB 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)  Prelims:  Q:1 Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the “Fractional Orbital Bombardment System” often talked about in the media?  a) A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space.  b) A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions.  c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.  d) A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface.  Ans: (c)  Q:2 In the context of Indian news in recent times, what is MCX-SX? (2009)  a) A kind of supercomputer  b) Title of Moon Impact Probe  c) Stock exchange  d) Nuclear-powered submarine  Ans: (c)  Q:3 Which among the following has the world’s largest reserves of Uranium? (2009)  a) Australia  b) Canada  c) Russian Federation  d) USA  Ans: (a)

Two Indian Astronauts Selected for Axiom-4 Mission 

Tags: GS-3, Science & Technology- Space technology- India achievement in Space  

Why in the news? 

• Recently, India has announced the selection of two astronaut-designates, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). 

About Axiom-4 Mission: 

• Basics: 
  • Mission Overview: Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is a private spaceflight to the ISS, operated by Axiom Space. The mission will use a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket. 
  • Scheduled Launch: The flight is scheduled for 2024 and will be the fourth Axiom mission following Axiom Mission 1, 2, and 3. 
  • Objective: Continue efforts to establish a sustainable human presence in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). 

Mission Objectives: 

• Commercial Space Endeavours: 
  • Facilitate commercial activities such as scientific research, technological development, and space tourism.
  • Demonstrate the viability of commercial space stations as platforms for business and innovation. 
• International Collaboration: 
  • Carry a diverse crew from various countries, highlighting international interest in space exploration. 
  • Strengthen global partnerships and contribute to international space initiatives. 
• Research and Development: 
  • Support scientific experiments and technological tests in microgravity. 
  • Focus on materials science, biology, Earth observation, and other research areas with potential for groundbreaking discoveries. 

Key Features: 

• Spacecraft and Crew: Utilises SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The crew will include professional astronauts and private individuals who have undergone extensive training. 
• Duration and Activities: Expected to last approximately 14 days. Activities include conducting scientific experiments, technology demonstrations, and educational outreach. 
• Commercial Space Station Development: Part of Axiom Space’s broader vision to develop the world’s first commercial space station and eventually transition from the ISS to an independent orbital outpost. 

About the International Space Station (ISS) 

• Launch and Structure: The ISS is a modular space station launched in 1998, allowing for flexibility in module addition and removal. 
• Function: Serves as a large laboratory in space for experiments in microgravity, with the first crew arriving on November 2, 2000. 
• Objective: Conduct scientific research in fields such as astrobiology, astronomy, meteorology, and physics. 
• Orbit and Power: Circles Earth every 93 minutes, completing 15.5 orbits per day. Equipped with eight solar arrays generating about 160 kilowatts of power. 
• Altitude: Approximately 400 km above Earth. 

Participating Space Agencies: 

• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – USA 
  • Roscosmos State Corporation for Space Activities – Russia 
    • Note: Russia announced withdrawal after 2024 but agreed to extend joint flights to 2025. 
  • Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) – Japan 
  • European Space Agency (ESA) – Europe 
  • Canadian Space Agency (CSA) – Canada 
• The ISS is divided into two segments: 
  • Russian Orbital Segment (ROS) – Operated by Russia. 
  • United States Orbital Segment (USOS) – Operated by the US and other nations. 

Two Indian Astronauts Selected for Axiom-4 Mission: 

• About: 
  • Selected Astronauts: India has chosen Group Captains Shubhanshu Shukla and Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). 
  • Mission Details: The Axiom-4 mission is part of a collaborative effort between ISRO and NASA, formalised through a Space Flight Agreement with Axiom Space Inc. 
• Roles: 
  • Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla: Prime mission pilot. 
  • Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair: Backup pilot. 
• Training and Contribution: 
  • Training: Both astronauts will begin their training in the United States starting in August 2024. 
• Mission Impact:  
  • Their participation aims to contribute significantly to scientific research, technological advancements, and the overall enhancement of India’s human spaceflight program.  
  • It also seeks to fortify the collaborative efforts between ISRO and NASA. 

Source: TH 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)  Prelims:  Q:1 What is the purpose of the US Space Agency’s Themis Mission, which was recently in the news? (2008)  a) To study the possibility of life on Mars  b) To study the satellites of Saturn  c) To study the colourful display of high latitude skies  d) To build a space laboratory to study the stellar explosions  Ans: (c)  Q:2 Consider the following statements: (2016)  1. The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission  2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA  3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt  Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  a) 1 only  b) 2 and 3 only  c) 1 and 3 only  d) 1, 2 and 3  Ans: (c)

Conservation and Protection of Western Ghats 

Tags: GS-3, Ecology & Environment- Conservation- Biodiversity- Western Ghats 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, The Union Environment Ministry (MoEFCC) has issued a draft notification to declare the Western Ghats an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA).  
• This comes in the wake of recent devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, which resulted in the loss of over 210 lives and left hundreds missing. 

About the Western Ghats: 

• Geography:  
  • The Western Ghats is a mountain range stretching approximately 1,600 km parallel to the western coast of the Indian peninsula. 
• Significance:  
  • It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the 36 biodiversity hotspots in the world.  
  • The region is known for its high mountain forests, which are critically endangered due to human activities like deforestation for plantations. 

Conservation Efforts: 

• Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) 2010: 
  • Chair: Dr. Madhav Gadgil. 
  • Recommendations: Designate the entire region as an ESA and classify it into ESZ 1, ESZ 2, and ESZ 3. Proposals included halting mining, construction, and decommissioning outdated projects in ESZ 1. Establish a Western Ghats Ecology Authority for sustainable management. 
• Resistance and Alternate Panel: 
  • High-Level Working Group 2012: Led by Dr. K. Kasturirangan, it proposed designating only 37% of the area as ESA, distinguishing between cultural and natural regions. This was aimed at balancing conservation with developmental needs. 
• Implementation Status: 
  • 2017: MoEFCC demarcated 56,825 sq km as ESA, slightly less than the Kasturirangan recommendation. 

The Sixth Draft Western Ghats Notification: 

• Background: 
  • The latest draft notification, reissued due to the expiration of the previous draft and possibly in response to recent landslides, aims to address both conservation and developmental concerns in the Western Ghats. 
• Details of the Draft Notification: 
  • Coverage: The proposal includes six states and 59,940 sq km of the Western Ghats, roughly 37% of the range. 
• Restrictions:
  • Prohibits new and expansion projects of building and construction over specified thresholds.
  • Bans mining, quarrying, sand mining, thermal power plants, and polluting industries in the designated areas. 
  • Regulates hydropower projects and less polluting industries, with a monitoring mechanism to be established. 
• Impact of the Latest Draft: 
  • Conservation: If finalised, the notification will impose significant restrictions on industrial activities and construction, aiming to preserve the ecological integrity of the region. 
  • Development: It may impact ongoing and planned developmental projects, including agriculture and hydro-electricity plans. 

Major Concerns of Declaring Eco-Sensitive Areas (ESAs) 

• Balancing Conservation and Development: 
  • Conflict: ESAs are often located in regions with significant economic potential, leading to conflicts between conservation efforts and development projects. 
  • Economic Impact: Restrictions in ESAs can limit local economic opportunities, affecting communities’ livelihoods. 
• Impact on Local Livelihoods: 
  • Restrictions: Conservation regulations can restrict traditional practices, such as agriculture and fishing, leading to resentment and reduced cooperation from local communities. 
  • Economic Displacement: Affected communities may face economic hardship due to limitations imposed by ESA regulations. 
• Inconsistent Policies and Implementation: 
  • Regional Variations: Policies for ESAs can vary between regions and states, causing confusion and enforcement challenges. 
  • Regulatory Gaps: Inconsistencies in policy implementation may create loopholes that allow harmful activities to continue. 
• Lack of Awareness and Participation: 
  • Limited Knowledge: Local communities may not fully grasp the importance of ESAs, leading to resistance against conservation measures. 
  • Involvement Deficit: Inadequate involvement of stakeholders in decision-making processes can undermine the effectiveness of ESA initiatives. 

Way Forward 

• Balanced Approach: 
  • Zoning Strategy: Implement a balanced approach with strict conservation measures in core areas and allow controlled, low-impact development in designated zones. 
• Scientific Impact Assessment: 
  • Evidence-Based Decisions: Conduct thorough, independent scientific assessments to determine appropriate ESA boundaries and minimise unnecessary restrictions on development. 
• Stakeholder Engagement: 
  • Inclusive Process: Foster open communication and collaboration among central and state governments, local communities, and environmental groups to ensure all interests are considered in ESA management. 
• Alternative Livelihood Options: 
  • Economic Alternatives: Develop alternative livelihood opportunities for those affected by ESA regulations, such as promoting eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture. 
• Transparent Monitoring: 
  • Effective Oversight: Establish clear, transparent monitoring mechanisms to track the effectiveness of ESA measures and adjust policies as needed to ensure responsible development practices. 

Conclusion: 

The conservation of the Western Ghats involves navigating complex trade-offs between environmental protection and developmental aspirations. The outcome of this long-standing effort remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions and resistance from various stakeholders.

Source: TOI 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question  Prelims:  Q:1  In which one among the following categories of protected areas in India are local people not allowed to collect and use the biomass? (2012)  a) Biosphere Reserves  b) National Parks  c) Wetlands declared under Ramsar Convention  d) Wildlife Sanctuaries  Ans: (b)  Mains:  Q:1 “Policy contradictions among various competing sectors and stakeholders have resulted in inadequate ‘protection and prevention of degradation’ to the environment.” Comment with relevant illustrations. (2018)

Axis of resistance 

Tags: GS-2, IR- International regional grouping conflict – Defence & Security 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, the Hamas leader was assassinated in an airstrike in Tehran and experts believe that Iran could hike up attacks against Israel through its allies – Axis of resistance. 

About Axis of Resistance: 

• Coalition: The Axis of Resistance is a coalition of Iranian-backed groups. 
• Inspiration: The coalition’s name is said to be inspired by former US President George W. Bush’s use of the term ‘axis of evil’ — referring to Iran, Iraq, and North Korea. 

Formation: 

• Origins: The roots of the ‘Axis of Resistance’ go back to the Iranian Revolution of 1979, which paved the way for radical Shia Muslim clerics to come to power. 
• Political and Military Influence: To expand its influence in a region where most powers, such as US-ally Saudi Arabia, are Sunni-majority nations, Iran’s new regime began to support non-state actors. 
• Strategic Deterrence:  
• Another reason for this support was to deter threats from Israel and the US. 
• Iran has viewed Israel’s creation in 1948 as a means for the US (and the West) to influence the region for its strategic interests. 

Group Members: 

• Hezbollah: Shiite militant organisation. 
• Hamas: Palestinian Sunni militant group in Gaza. 
• Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ): Sunni Islamist militant group in Palestine. 
• Houthis: Zaydi Shia militant group in Yemen 

Source: IE 

Mozambique 

Tags: GS-3, Economy- Transport- Port  

Why in the news? 

• Recently, the shipments of Tur/Pigeon peas from Nacala Port in Mozambique, disrupted by an “anti-India” group, have resumed after the Ministry of Consumer Affairs raised the issue with the Ministry of External Affairs. 

About Mozambique: 

• Location: 
  • Mozambique is a country in Southern Africa, situated in the Southern and Eastern Hemispheres of the Earth. 
  • The country has a coastline on the Indian Ocean to the east. 
  • The island countries and territories of Madagascar, Comoros, and Mayotte are separated from Mozambique by the Mozambique Channel. 
• Bordering Countries: 
  • North: Tanzania 
  • Northwest: Zambia and Malawi 
  • West: Zimbabwe 
  • Southwest: South Africa and Eswatini 
• Rivers: 
  • Mozambique is drained by several significant rivers, with the Zambezi being the largest. 
  • Other important rivers include Limpopo, Licungo, Lurio, and Rovuma. 
• Major Lakes: 
  • Lake Malawi (Nyasa), and Kariba. 
• Highest Peak: 
  • Monte Binga (at 2,435 m) 
• Capital: 
  • Maputo is the capital city of Mozambique. 
  • The largest city is Matola. 
• Natural Resources: 
  • Mozambique’s principal natural resources include natural gas, coal, mineral sands, hydropower, and potentially oil. 

Source: IE 

Women Entrepreneurship Program 

Tags: GS Paper – 2, Government Policies & Interventions, Issues Related to Women, Gender 

Why in the news? 

• Recently, The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) unveiled the Women Entrepreneurship Program to empower women entrepreneurs and spur economic growth. 

About Women Entrepreneurship Program: 

• Objective: 
  • Designed to address the distinct challenges women face when starting and growing businesses. 
  • Aims to empower approximately 25 lakh women across India by providing skills, knowledge, and resources needed for successful business ventures. 
• Partnership: 
  • Launched in partnership with Britannia Industries Limited. 
• Support and Features: 
  • The initiative will offer financial grants and feature products and services on the Skill India Digital Hub. 
  • Reflects a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for women entrepreneurs. 
• Educational Resources: 
  • NSDC, supported by the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), will offer free online self-learning entrepreneurship courses through the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH). 
  • Courses will be available in multiple languages and cover topics such as entrepreneurial skills, enterprise setup, finance basics, digital skills, and market analysis. 

Key Facts about the National Skill Development Corporation: 

• Establishment: 
  • Established on July 31, 2008, as a not-for-profit public limited company under section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956. 
• Operational Model: 
  • Operates as a unique Public Private Partnership (PPP) model under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE). 

Source: PIB 

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs):  Prelims  Q:1 What does venture capital mean? (2014)  a) A short-term capital provided to industries  b) A long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs  c) Funds provided to industries at times of incurring losses  d) Funds provided for replacement and renovation of industries  Ans: (b)  Q:2 With reference to ‘Stand Up India Scheme’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)  1. Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women entrepreneurs.  2. It provides for refinancing through SIDBI.  Select the correct answer using the code given below:  a) 1 only  b) 2 only  c) Both 1 and 2  d) Neither 1 nor 2  Ans: (C)  Q:3 Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at (2016)  a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system  b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops  c) providing pensions to old and destitute persons  d) funding the voluntary organisations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation  Ans: (a)

Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) 

Tags: GS-1, Geography-  Hydropower  

Why in the news? 

• The Budget 2024-25 announced that a policy for promoting pumped storage projects will be introduced for electricity storage. 

About Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH): 

• Definition: 
  • A type of hydroelectric energy storage system. 
• System Overview: 
  • Consists of two water reservoirs located at different elevations. 
• Working Mechanism: 
  • Energy Storage: During periods of excess electricity (e.g., off-peak hours or from renewable sources like solar and wind), electricity is used to pump water from the lower reservoir to the upper reservoir. 
  • Energy Generation: When there is high electricity demand, water is released from the upper reservoir back down to the lower reservoir, passing through turbines that generate electricity. 
  • Recharge: The system also requires power to pump water back into the upper reservoir, effectively recharging the system. 
• Functionality: 
  • PSH plants operate similarly to conventional hydropower plants but can reuse the same water repeatedly. 
  • The technology absorbs surplus energy during low demand periods and releases it when demand is high. 
• Capacity and Power Generation: 
  • The energy storage capacity depends on the size of the two reservoirs. 
  • The amount of power generated is linked to the size of the turbines. 

Types of PSH: 

• Open-loop: 
  • Features an upper or lower reservoir connected to a naturally flowing water source, such as a river. 
• Closed-loop: 
  • Operates at an ‘off-river’ site, producing power from water pumped to an upper reservoir without significant natural inflow. 

Source: TH 

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